0
0
Nestled on the cliffs overlooking the stunning Ardmore Bay in County Waterford, St. Declan’s Well is a testament to Ireland’s rich spiritual heritage. But behind this ancient site’s enduring allure lies an often-overlooked figure: the caretaker of St. Declan’s Well.
Dedicated individuals have taken on the sacred duty of tending to this holy place for generations. Their role goes far beyond mere maintenance; they are the keepers of tradition, the guardians of stories, and the welcoming presence for thousands of pilgrims who visit each year.
A Day in the Life
Imagine starting your day as the sun rises over the Atlantic, casting a golden glow on the weathered stones of the well. The caretaker arrives early, ensuring the site is pristine for visitors.
They might:
- Clear away fallen leaves and debris
- Ensure the water flows clear and clean
- Tidy the countless offerings left by pilgrims
But their most important task is less tangible – preserving the spirit of St. Declan’s legacy.
Witness to Miracles
The caretaker of St. Declan’s Well is privy to countless stories of hope, healing, and renewal. They’ve seen:
- The joy on a pilgrim’s face after a long journey
- Tears of relief as prayers are whispered into the well
- The quiet determination of those seeking cures for ailments
These moments, both grand and subtle, weave together to form the living tapestry of St. Declan’s Well.
Keeper of Traditions
As Pattern Day approaches each July 24th, the caretaker’s role becomes even more vital. They prepare for the influx of devotees who come to perform the traditional “rounds” and seek blessings. The caretaker ensures that ancient customs are respected while also accommodating modern needs.
A Bridge Between Worlds
In many ways, the caretaker of St. Declan’s Well serves as a bridge – between past and present, between the physical and spiritual realms. They are the quiet presence that allows pilgrims to connect with centuries of faith and tradition.
So the next time you visit St. Declan’s Well, take a moment to appreciate not just the site itself, but also the dedicated individual who helps keep this sacred place alive for generations to come.
Citations:
[1] https://celt.ucc.ie/published/T201020/text001.html
[2] https://holywellscorkandkerry.com/2017/07/01/st-declans-well-ardmore/
[3] https://www.ardmorewaterford.com/st-declans-well-ardmore/
[4] https://www.tripadvisor.ie/Attraction_Review-g315893-d2706295-Reviews-St_Declan_s_Well_and_Oratory-Ardmore_County_Waterford.html
[5] https://www.waterfordmuseum.ie/exhibit/web/Display/article/331/The_Ardmore_Journal_.html
[6] https://www.ardmorewaterford.com/the-caretaker-of-st-declans-well/
[7] https://iilosangeles.org/st-declans/
Here is a poem we received from Remington Schmidt
His grandparents, Larry and Melissa Schmidt have traveled to Ireland several times. They play folk music, including a lot of Irish jigs and ballads. Remington occasionally plays the fiddle or bodhran with them for fun.
During one of their trips, they saw an event that inspired the poem.
The Caretaker of St. Declan’s Well
The spire stood guard above plots of stone
A final resting place for those
The Angels of Heaven,
Or Demons of Hell to meet.
Silence hung as heavy as the mist upon
The dew-covered grass
And the sky was pale gray
As if the land were a-snooze.
Over a narrow winding trail we strolled
Past the expired and interred,
Through pyres and crumbling crosses
Down stairs, ancient and steep.
The tense quietude was pierced by a noise,
The squeak of a rusty wheel
Ragged breathing
And the scuffling of weary shoes.
A man hunched and grey with an old Irish cap
Had hands wrapped in knitted socks
Around a black barrow
And skin as pale as a sheet.
“Kind sir, who are you?” We asked.
Slowly, carefully he turned
And as he did the fog followed
Erasing him from our views.
Though he stays away from prying eyes,
Forever he will dwell
The wind to echo his reply
“The caretaker of St. Declan’s Well.”
