"All-Heal" Breaks Loose

July 12

Ancient Druids had a great reverence for mistletoe, believing it held great healing powers. Their name for it was "All-Heal," for they believed it could heal wounds, act as a poison antidote, bring luck, and even cause enemies to lay down their arms for a day should they meet beneath the mistletoe. Perhaps that led to the kiss under the mistletoe tradition. The early English Christian church banned it from their celebrations as it was such a powerful symbol in Druid worship. However, at the Cathedral of York, prior to the reformation, there are records of mistletoe being placed on the altar, affirming the all-healing power of Jesus Christ.

Christmas in Killarney

March 17
Feast of St. Patrick

"The holly green, the ivy green
The prettiest picture you've ever seen
Is Christmas in Killarney
With all of the folks at home

It's nice, you know, to kiss your beau
While cuddling under the mistletoe
And Santa Claus you know, of course
Is one of the boys from home

The door is always open
The neighbors pay a call
And Father John before he's gone
Will bless the house and all

How grand it feels to click your heels
And join in the fun of the jigs and reels
I'm handing you no blarney
The likes you've never known
Is Christmas in Killarney
With all of the folks at home!"

-Lyrics to Christmas in Killarney by by John Redmond, James Cavanaugh and Frank Weldon