As wars continue to rage around the world, in 2026 our theme is “Brigit’s Blessings: Healing and Peaceweaving”, beginning with a story. Brigit and Feidelm have much in common: the cloak; far-seeing eye; and her distaff. But while Brigit’s cloak and crosses are well known, we seldom hear about her distaff. In Irish Lives of Saints, distaffs are used to protect animals, guard territory, divine water and make wells. Woman Spirit Ireland’s event, next Sunday at Dublin’s Mansion House, Brigit’s Blessings: Healing and Peace-Weaving, looks at these issues and aims to revive the distaff symbol today.

Source: The Irish Times January 25, 2026 12:47 UTC