On Saturday, the Romanian Orthodox faithful from “The Descent of the Holy Spirit and Saint Colman” Parish in Newbridge, Ireland, celebrated Saint Brigid of Kildare, one of Ireland’s patron saints.
The community was honoured by the presence of His Grace Bishop Nectarie, the recently enthroned Romanian Orthodox Bishop of Ireland and Iceland, who presided over the Divine Liturgy.
During his sermon, Bishop Nectarie emphasized the role of saints in Christian life, highlighting Saint Brigid of Kildare’s deep piety and spiritual work. He also encouraged the Romanian Orthodox community in Kildare to remain united in faith and to support one another in all their needs.
Community Initiatives and Pilgrimage
Father Ioan Pitușcan, coordinator of the “Saint Nectarios” Association in Ireland, presented the organization’s 2024 activity report at the end of the service. On this occasion, parish priest Bogdan Mascan announced the establishment of a new medical department within the association.
The celebration culminated in a pilgrimage to Saint Brigid’s Well and the Church of Saint Brigid in Kildare, where a relic of the saint is preserved.
Who Was Saint Brigid of Kildare?
Saint Brigid’s life was recorded by monk Cogitosus of Kildare in 655. She was born into a noble family around 453 AD near Kildare, Ireland.
At the age of 14, Brigid withdrew from the world and built a small monastic cell, which became known as “Killdara” or “the church by the oak.”
Saint Brigid performed many miracles, including healing the possessed and inspiring love for God among those around her. She reposed in the Lord on February 1, 524.
After her passing, devotion to Saint Brigid spread across England, Scotland, Wales, Germany, Scandinavia, France, Italy, and Portugal.
The monastery she founded in Kildare existed until 1540, when King Henry VIII (1491–1547) dissolved it.
Saint Brigid of Kildare is venerated as one of Ireland’s three patron saints, alongside Saint Patrick and Saint Columban.
Photo: Facebook / Diocese of Ireland and Iceland
