Longford heritage: Crafting St Brigid’s Crosses in Boherquill

The crafting of St Brigid’s Crosses to celebrate St Brigid's Day February 1 proved very popular in St Mary’s Church, Boherquill.
Fr Pierre Pepper invited his parishioners to take rushes in hand in a demonstration of this age-old craft. A great turnout of locals came out to take part and learn the traditional skill of cross-making.
Fr Pierre, Parish Priest of Streete, Rathowen, explained St Brigid’s connections to Longford and especially the local parish of Ardagh which is not widely known.

His lighthearted speech on the life of Brigid from birth to sainthood and her time spent in Ardagh, captivated the crowd who were eager to get started making crosses.
Local woman Geraldine Keary demonstrated the art of crossing the rush, and in a few single moves the formation of the cross was clear to be seen, when asked how she learned this great skill, “I can’t remember who taught me, it’s so long ago!” she laughed.

Gerry Gilchrist from Legan explained there are a number of different types of crosses, the traditional Pagan cross as we know it along with the triskels and Bridógs and a Wexford cross.
Sylvia Farrell from Poland, now living in Rathaspic, said Ireland has many wonderful traditions and learning the art of making this cross reminds her of basket making with her dear dad as a child.

Another pioneer in his golden years, John Kane, from Rathowen, said he saw a lot of crosses made in his time but what he loved best, is St Brigid’s Day marks the first of spring and it’s lovely to see children here taking the knowledge in and making memories.
Fr Pierre said there are many traditions and customs associated with this feast day, which is now a dedicated bank holiday in honour of Ireland's only female patron saint. He said it’s a pleasure to share this time here in God’s house keeping this tradition alive in memory of Lá Fhéile Bríde, or St Brigid’s Day. ”By making these iconic crosses we are sharing this valuable time with family and friends as he blessed the hand-made crosses proudly made to bring home and display.”