In September–October, 23 participants from across Kildare Ministries set out on a 13-day pilgrimage through Ireland. Entitled Following in the Footsteps of Brigid and Nano, this sacred journey invited participants to encounter the roots of our heritage, to walk the landscapes that shaped our founders, and to be renewed in spirit for the mission of Kildare Ministries today.
Pilgrims came from across our ministries—Trustees, board members, principals, and staff. Each brought their own story and hopes for the journey, yet all were united by a common desire: to be touched anew by the charism of our founders and to carry their flame into the future of Kildare Ministries. Along the way, pilgrims were nourished by prayer, reflection, and companionship, opening themselves to the stories of St Brigid, Nano Nagle, and Bishop Daniel Delany.
The itinerary took the group to places closely connected to our founders. The pilgrimage began in the monastic valleys of Glendalough, where participants stepped into the early traditions of prayer and learning that shaped Ireland’s Christian story. On the slopes of Croagh Patrick and the cliffs of Inis Mór, they sensed the Celtic spirit that underpinned Brigid’s flame of hospitality and courage. In Ballygriffin, they visited the birthplace of Nano Nagle and walked the Cork laneways where she brought hope, education, and dignity to the poor. In Tullow, where Daniel Delany founded the Sisters of St Brigid in 1807, they honoured his legacy and that of the first Brigidine Sisters. Finally, in Kildare, pilgrims spent time at Solas Bhríde, where the Brigidine Sisters helped them enter more deeply into Brigid’s story, before visiting the site of her monastery and sacred well—places where her legacy of welcome and justice continues to inspire.
The Kildare Ministries pilgrimage to Ireland was a journey into the heart of our story. From the Celtic spirit of Brigid to the lantern of Nano and the vision of Daniel Delany, pilgrims walked the landscapes that shaped our charism and mission. The experience deepened our connection to our founders and enriched our collective understanding of the mission we continue to live today.