March 1st is a day to remember Wales and its patron saint. In anticipation of that other Celtic saint venerated in March, it’s easy for David to get lost in the hoopla, but here at the Celtic Ranch – we give every saint his or her due.
In honor of President’s Day, we are peering into the family trees of some of America’s most influential leaders to find those with Celtic roots. This is tricky business as some of the connections are tenuous, at best. But as I always say, “Never let the facts stand in the way of a good story!”
Lambswool was the name of a popular drink during the dark days leading up to Imbolc. It was often enjoyed during Wassailing or “Apple Howling” as it was called in orchard country.
Brighid (BREE’yid) or Brigit is also the patron saint of Ireland, second only to Saint Patrick. She represents a powerful presence in the land and Celtic lore. As goddess, she was Brid (or Bride – the inspiration of our word for a woman in a marriage ceremony) daughter of the Dagda (the Good God) of the sacred Tuatha de Dannan. Her influence shines through time and has not been dimmed with the coming of Christianity. The new faith embraced her as the nursemaid and foster mother of Christ himself, sometimes calling her “Mary of the Gael.”
St Dwynwen’s feast day is January 25, and in Wales, a day devoted to lovers. Get a jump on St Valentine’s Day and let your beloved know how much they mean to you. Whether romance, deep friendship, or kith and kin, you can find a little Celtic something to warm the heart of your dear ones.