Brigidine History
“Nothing is as strong as gentleness. Nothing is as gentle as real strength.”
Daniel Delany Confronted by poverty, violence, crime and illiteracy, Bishop Daniel Delany became convinced that the best way forward was to begin providing basic education to the people of Ireland. Bishop Delany saw women as his allies in this mission and so, on 1 February, 1807, founded the Congregation of St Brigid at Tullow, the centre of the Diocese of Kildare and Leighlin. Daniel Delany chose St Brigid as the patroness, thereby linking the Congregation to the spiritual heritage of St Brigid, Patroness of Ireland, and to the ancient Order of St Brigid of Kildare which existed in Ireland from the fifth until the sixteenth century. From the onset Brigid’s ministry was associated with deeds of hospitality and compassion. Down through the centuries, St Brigid has become a figure of wisdom to the Irish people.The Brigidines came to Australia in 1883 to continue the work inspired by their patroness.
Significance of the Tullow crest
Building futures
Tullow House is named after the town in Ireland where the Brigidine Sisters began.
The shape is reflective of the episcopal shield of Bishop Delany, whose motto was Strength and Gentleness.
The shield symbolises the Celtic cross of St Brigid, based on a simple cross of reeds which, tradition says, St Brigid used when teaching the gospel.
Strength through gentleness and gentleness through strength is what grace is about.
Tullow House Day
Tullow Charity
Brigidine Asylum Seeker Project
The Brigidine Asylum Seekers Project (BASP) was established in 2001 to work for a humane, just and inclusive approach for people seeking asylum in Australia. The main work of the Brigidine Sisters for over a century in Australia has been education but over the years this has broadened to include work for more vulnerable people in society.
What we do
The Brigidine Asylum Seekers Project (BASP) aims to:
- Provide hospitality and practical support for people seeking asylum;
- Actively network with like-minded individuals and groups who are working for justice for asylum seekers;
- Promote advocacy for the rights of people seeking asylum;
- Engage in education about asylum seekers’ issues.
The Project works with, and for, people seeking asylum both in detention and in the community. Concerned and compassionate women and men across cultures and generations contribute to the work of the Project. The BASP community believes Australia is both richer and stronger for welcoming those seeking asylum.
Tullow House Prayer
“Gentleness and self-control. There are no laws against such things” – Galatians 5:23
A Christian reveals true humility by exemplifying Jesus’ strength and kindness by always being ready to help others, speaking kind words and performing unselfish acts.
All:
Loving God,
guide us in our endeavours to succeed during
our time at Merici College.
May you empower us as young women to display strength of courage and
gentleness of heart as shown by Saint Brigid.
Caring God, open our hearts to work together and be considerate of others.
May you encourage us to celebrate our strengths and learn from our weaknesses.
Compassionate God, may we be active members of the
Tullow community and assist those who are troubled, particularly the most vulnerable.
May we continue to display the virtues of kindness and compassion expressed by Saint Brigid as she guides us on our spiritual journey.
“Let your gentleness be known to everyone. The Lord is near” – Philippians 4:5
Amen
Tullow Acrostic Poem
