Song of the Day - 2nd February

Today is the festival of Imbolc, a Gaelic traditional festival. It marks the beginning of spring, and for Christians, it is the feast day of Saint Brigid, Ireland's patroness saint. Historically, its traditions were widely observed throughout Ireland, Scotland and the Isle of Man. Imbolc is one of the four Gaelic seasonal festivals, along with Bealtaine, Lughnasadh and Samhain.

The poem I have set for today's song is a departure from my usual choices. I have tried in the main to select poems in the public domain, but this poem I found with no attribution on a website. On enquiry, I found it was written by the website's owner, Ralph Schwartz. It spoke to me so deeply that I requested, and received permission to set his words to music. It was a good thing too as, by the time I received permission, I had already written half the song! It is a beautiful entreaty to Brigid, asking for her protection and abundance in the coming spring.

This song is being Beta tested by the City of Canterbury Chamber Choir.


Brigid’s blessing

by Ralph Schwartz (used with permission)


Sacred light in the darkest night

Our beacon in the cold of winter

Our guide to the dawning of spring

We hold vigil on this sacred day

Welcoming the Goddess Brigid

Welcoming the return of the sun

Asking for protection and abundance

To our hearth, our homes, our fields, and family

On this night and every night thereafter

Bless us Brigid, the keeper of the flame

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