Feast of St. Brigid of Ireland

Today is the Feast of St. Brigid of Ireland.  My niece Bridget was named after this Irish Saint who lived from 451-525 BC.   Even as a child it was already apparent that Brigid had a calling as she showed a special love for the poor. She kept a secret store of clothes and food for them, and on one occasion when her mother sent her to collect butter, the child gave it all away. She even makes gifts to the poor from her father's property when there is nothing else available. Dubhthach and his wife are less than tolerant of this behavior, and together they seek ways to make Brigid someone else's responsibility.  Their schemes of trying to get her married did not work.  Beautiful Brigid consecrated herself to God at a young age, choosing a life of virginity, dedication to God and service to the poor.

Prayer to St. Brigid

Brigid, You were a woman of peace. You brought harmony where there was conflict.
You brought light to the darkness. You brought hope to the downcast. May the mantle of your peace cover those who are troubled and anxious, and may peace be firmly rooted in our hearts and in our world. Inspire us to act justly and to reverence all God has made. Brigid you were a voice for the wounded and the weary. Strengthen what is weak within us. Calm us into a quietness that heals and listens. May we grow each day into greater wholeness in mind, body and spirit.
Amen

http://www.communityofhopeinc.org/Prayer%20Pages/Saints/bridgid.html
http://allsaintsbrookline.org/celtic_saints/brigid.html