At St. Brigid Parish, we celebrate a number of special days in special ways. In addition to the following celebrations, there are others which occur from time to time such as our Ministry Appreciation which can and often falls in late August as well as receptions given upon the return of our retreatants.
Feast of St. Brigid Celebration
We celebrate, as community, the patroness of our parish on the Saturday nearest her feast day (February 1). Our traditional mode of commemorating her life and example to us begins with the 5:00 p.m. Saturday Mass where we recall her life and legends and praise God. Following the Mass, we gather in the Family Center for a potluck dinner and fellowship. What happens next is open to the creativity of the committee.
St. Brigid Easter Musical
The profound message of our salvation is celebrated by our community in several ways. A recent addition is our annual Easter Musical, presented by members of St. Brigid Community. Through music and drama, the story of Jesus, His adult life, His passion and death, and His glorious resurrection are brought to life. Parishioners of all ages are able to participate in this presentation, utilizing talents on stage or behind the scenes. This event is usually held on a weekend prior to Easter, with preparations and rehearsals beginning in January. Anyone who is interested in becoming involved in the musical should check the bulletin and parish newsletter for announcements concerning sign-ups and auditions.
Parish Retreat/Recreation Weekend
"The Big Family Vacation." A great weekend getaway for your family to relax and vacation with fellow parishioners. Most activities are outdoors and there is time for group activities, as well as the opportunity to relate to God through nature. The location is HEB Camp and sleeping is in cabins. It doesn't matter if you know anyone when you arrive. When you leave, you will have gained many new friends.
Homecoming
It is the anniversary of our first Mass as a parish in 1972. On the first Sunday of October, we take time to remember and give thanks for our past and our present and to ask God's blessings on our future. We do this together through liturgy. Then in the St. Brigid tradition, we celebrate. There is a nominal charge for the dinner. The rest of the day is all without charge. There are kiddie games, bingo for all ages, a cakewalk, attendance prizes, etc. This is a total parish function and all are encouraged to give a little of their time and talent for its success.
Holiday Boutique
Handy work abounds in the parish. Each year in November, the opportunity to show and sell the fruits of your labors is presented in the setting of a Holiday Boutique. It is a two-day event and tables are reserved ahead of time. You won't want to miss this if you are one of those talented people, and you won't want to miss it if you are looking for ideas or items to purchase for special people in your life.
Community Christmas Evening
This annual tradition began in 1984 with an evening dedicated to "Lessons and Carols," a time of scripture and song. Participation by parishioners of all ages increased over the years to include simple drama and liturgical dance. In recent years, members of the St. Brigid Community have teamed up to produce musicals based upon the Christmas story, utilizing talents in acting, music, dance, and all the work needed behind the scenes. This special presentation helps the community to focus on "the reason for the season" and to work together in a very unique and enjoyable way.
St. Brigid Community Christmas Evening is held on the first weekend in December, with preparations beginning in late summer. Those who are interested in participating in this event should watch the parish bulletin and newsletter for announcements concerning sign-ups and auditions for roles.
Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe - December 12th
We celebrate with great love this day in honor of Our Lady. A Mass is offered commemorating her miraculous apparitions. This Mass is rich in indigenous traditions that intermingle with the present rituals of the church. We are reminded that we are her privileged children in that she appeared to one of the inhabitants of these lands in 1531 (only a few years after Columbus discovered America) and that she left her image miraculously imprinted on Juan Diego's tilma - a cloth made of cactus fibers. This she has never done with any other nation.
After the liturgical celebration, a Mexican Dinner follows with Mariachis for entertainment and candies for the children. Preparations begin three to four months in advance. Volunteers are needed for the many details necessary to make this celebration a success.
