KILDARE: Brigid 1500 programme officially launched

The highly-anticipated Brigid 1500 programme was officially launched at Saint Brigid’s Cathedral on Monday last.

According to leading Brigidine experts, 2024 marks the 1500th anniversary of the death of St Brigid and thus, St Brigid’s Day, February 1, 2024 will be a key date in the programme.

Organisers have said that the main aim of Brigid 1500 is 'to create a meaningful cultural and societal legacy that appeals to a diverse contemporary audience.'

Brigid 1500 is being delivered by Kildare County Council (KCC) supported by a Steering Committee of leading experts across a number of fields, including: arts and culture, academia, tourism, industry, spirituality and faith, community, education and more.

Speaking at the launch, Cathaoirleach of County Kildare, Fine Gael Councillor Fintan Brett, said "Brigid 1500 is a great opportunity for County Kildare and Ireland.

Marian Higgins A/Director of Services - Economic, Community, & Cultural Development, Cathaoirleach of the County of Kildare Councillor Fintan Brett, Bishop Pat Storey and Sonya Kavanagh, Chief Executive of Kildare County Council pictured with students 12-year-old Chelsea Morrissey, Pierce Phelan (age 11) and 10-year-old Charlie Carey at the launch of ‘Brigid 1500’ at St. Brigid’s Cathedral in Kildare Town. Photo: Conor Healy / Picture It Photography

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"It gives us an opportunity to celebrate and commemorate all the different facets of St Brigid including her love of nature and biodiversity, her affiliation with agriculture and food, her love of the arts and culture, her passion for peace and justice for all and her lasting links to migration."

Sonya Kavanagh, Chief Executive of KCC, also said: "St Brigid was a driving force for her generation and for her County.

"Through the Brigid 1500 programme, Kildare and Ireland will tell the world of this unique saint and her legacy, which should resonate with people from all walks of life."

She concluded: "The new national holiday associated with St Brigid also gives us an opportunity to create something spectacular for Kildare Communities and for visitors to our County."

Bishop Pat Storey who is the first ever female Bishop in the Church of Ireland, was also in attendance on the day.

She added: "It is an honour to host the launch of Brigid 1500 at St. Brigid’s Cathedral, which is built on the grounds of St. Brigid’s most famous foundation a dual convent and monastery."

Details of two grant schemes for Brigid 1500 have been announced by KCC: in addition, applications are now open for community groups, organisations and artists across all genres to celebrate Brigid 1500.

Full details of the Brigid 1500 Grant Schemes for 2023 are now available at www.brigid1500.ie. 

The closing date for applications is Tuesday, December 13, 2022.