Once A Catholic

Assuming I have the same ancestry as Bigbrother, who had the DNA test, our blood is 24% Irish, probably entirely from our mother’s side.

I am using my full Christian names as the story won’t work without it.

From Facebook Archives.

St Patrick’s Day 17 March 2017 at 12:07

Shortly after Mum brought me back from Tidworth Military Hospital (where I was born) the parish priest called, presumably to organise the baptism.

"Hello Mrs B and how is the baby?" 

"She's very well Father"

"And what are you going to call her?"

"Brenda Mary father." 

"Holy Mother of God!  And what's wrong with Bridget Patricia?"

Woolwoman Did you know any Bridget Patricias when you were growing up?

Bentonbag  A couple of Bridgets (one my oldest best friend Henffrind’s gran) and a Patricia but no Bridget Patricia*

Woolerwoman  So the Priest was thwarted!! Well good for your mum!

Bentonbag  I think the Priest was taking the mickey at Mum's overtly RC selection.

Paddington  I like the way you had to explain it was when you were born in case I wasn't sure if it was due to coming out of rehab.

 

* That being said I was brought up in Carmarthenshire where Catholics are thin on the ground, and those Bridgets and Patricia were Methodist or Anglican. 

I’ve encountered more since coming up to university and living in the North East.

I suspect that at the third daughter Mum ran out of inspiration and just plumped on same first name my (Irish) godfather gave his daughter, who is a few months older than me.

 

See also https://bentonbag.blogspot.com/2022/10/whats-in-name.html