Weekly Newsletter Fourth Sunday in Ordinary / Time Feast of St. Brigid / Sunday February 1st, 2026

Scripture Readings for the Fourth Sunday in Ordinary Time

Zeph 2:3, 3:12-13. The “remnant of Israel,” a people humble and lowly, who trust in the name of the Lord – will escape the severity of divine judgement at the end of time.

1 Cor 1:26-31. Paul reminds his community in Corinth that their first converts came from among the poorer, socially deprived classes. They ought not now be arrogant and rebellious.

Mt 5:1-12. The Beatitudes give the basic charter of the Christian life and challenge our worldly sense of values.

Feast of St. Brigid

              In ancient Ireland, a beacon of kindness, compassion, and spirituality shone brightly in the form of Saint Brigid, a   legendary figure whose legacy continues to captivate hearts to this day. Born around 451 AD in the province of Leinster, Brigid’s life was a testament to the transformative power of faith, generosity, and determination.

As a child, Brigid was exposed to the harsh realities of poverty and hardship, yet her innate empathy and strong sense of justice drove her to care for the marginalised and the outcast. Her selflessness and devotion to the poor, the sick, and the downtrodden earned her the admiration and respect of the community, and her reputation as a healer, teacher, and leader soon spread far and wide.

According to legend, Brigid’s piety and miracle-working abilities were evident from an early age. She was said to have possessed the power to heal the sick, to bring prosperity to the land, and to protect the vulnerable from harm. Her extraordinary gifts were matched only by her humility and kindness, as she travelled the countryside, establishing            monasteries, schools, and hospitals, and providing comfort and solace to those in need.

One of the most enduring symbols of Saint Brigid’s legacy is the iconic cross that bears her name. According to     tradition, Brigid created the cross from rushes she found on the ground, using it to explain the teachings of Christianity to a dying pagan chieftain. The Saint Brigid’s Cross, with its intricate woven design, has become an enduring emblem of Irish heritage and a powerful reminder of the saint’s boundless love and compassion.

Throughout her long and storied life, Saint Brigid remained a steadfast champion of the poor, the oppressed, and the environment. Her commitment to social justice, education, and the arts continues to inspire generations of artists, activists, and spiritual seekers. As we reflect on the remarkable life and legacy of Saint Brigid, we are reminded of the profound   impact one person can have on the world, and the enduring power of kindness, compassion, and faith to transform lives and shape the course of history.