As you may know our chapter is named after the lovely Saint Brigid of Ireland. Born in 451, Brigid is celebrated for her generosity to the poor. Legend has it that starting when she was a young child, Brigid gave away all of her mother’s butter; with prayer it was later replenished. By the age of 10, she began giving away her father’s possessions to anyone who asked. Legend has it that Dad wasn’t thrilled!
Stories of Brigid’s works and miracles are compelling, touching, and some that certainly make you smile. For example, legend says that she changed water into beer for a leper colony and provided enough beer for 18 churches from a single barrel. She’s also known for converting a stingy, land-owning King into a Christian, which resulted in commissioning land that was then used to help the poor, build a convent, grow fruit, and make jam that was loved all over Ireland. Brigid founded the first Irish monastery in County Kildare, Ireland, and is most loved for the great faith and comfort she provided to others.
As Brigid was offering comfort to a dying pagan (who some believed to be her father), they say that she took simple rushes from the floor and began weaving them into a cross. Her small act of kindness brought peace and comfort like nothing else could. Brigid’s Cross is now a much beloved symbol, thought to keep evil, fire, and hunger from the homes in which it’s displayed.
In the spirit of this lovely saint, it is our hope that the work of the Society of St. Vincent De Paul offers comfort and relief to those in need.
