Cross of St. Brigid Ireland

St Brigid also known as “Mary of the Gael” is an abbess and patroness of Ireland, and she is also the founder of the first Irish monastery in Kildare. Born in Dundalk in 450 A.D, St Brigid is accredited with first creating the unique cross that bears her name, which is normally made from woven rushes but occasionally from straw.The distinctive St Brigid’s Cross design is thought to keep evil, fire and hunger from the homes in which it is displayed, however the tale of its creation is somewhat confused, and there is not one definitive version.

Traditional prayer when hanging the Brigid’s Cross:

“May the blessing of God and the Trinity be on this cross
and be on the home where it hangs
and on everyone who looks at it.”