Saint Brigid's Well and God's Beauty in Ireland

On a recent trip to Ireland, David and Mercedes Rizzo and their family combined visits to holy sites with more typical sightseeing.

Recently, we took a trip to Ireland and made it a point to stop at one of the many wells dedicated to Saint Brigid. She was an important and loved Irish saint. Her feast day is celebrated on February 1. The well we visited, in Liscannor, County Clare, was very close to the iconic Cliffs of Moher. It is one of the wells visited by many during their travels in Ireland.

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Visiting Saint Brigid’s Well

The well made an impression on us. On the day we visited it was pouring rain, but we were determined to stop and visit. As we descend the stairs to the cave-like well, photos of those seeking healing or those who have departed cover every inch of the walls.

When our eyes scanned the photos, we couldn't help but wonder what the lives of those photographed were like. Many of the photos showed people happy and in the prime of their life. The pilgrims who traveled to the well seeking healing for their loved ones have also left behind rosaries, votive candles, and other items.

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We were no different. We brought ribbons decorated with the names of family and friends for whom we were asking for intercession and healing. When the rain lessened somewhat, we exited the cave and followed the instructions that were posted underneath the statue of Saint Brigid: Walk around the statue numerous times, praying. Circle the cross five times, then pray at the well. For us this was a peaceful, prayerful, and yet mysterious experience.

Appreciating the beauty of God’s creation

After the visit to the well, we headed onto the spectacular Cliffs of Moher. These cliffs are truly a sight to see as they rise hundreds of feet above the Atlantic Ocean. During our visit to the Cliffs, the weather did not cooperate. It was windy and wet, but God’s magnificence was not obscured. On the same day, just minutes apart, we went from seeing God’s beauty displayed in humanity and in nature.

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The following day we continued to see more of God’s glory on our ride around Slea Head Drive. This is a winding road that is part of the Wild Atlantic Way. Slea Head Drive begins and ends in Dingle. The drive is hilly and ascends upward.

There is much to see on the drive, but one of our favorite spots was the Cross at Slea Head, which is a life-sized white crucifix carved out of alabaster. The cross is a bit tricky to access. By now on your drive, you are high above sea level, your car pulled over to the side of the road and the ocean waves crashing below you. It is both scary and breathtaking at the same time.

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God’s beauty and presence can be found in so many places. We found many such places in Ireland. Our trip there was an opportunity to uncover a treasure trove of experiences that our family can look back on and remember God’s presence wherever we are at any time.

What places make you appreciate the beauty of God's creation?

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