Saint Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland and the man that is honored with the largest Irish celebration, was not actually born in Ireland. When Patrick was 14, he was kidnapped by Irish raiders who brought him to Ireland. While there, he was enslaved by a warlord and worked as a Sheppard for six years until he was able to escape. He made his way back to Brittan and his family. Shortly after, he joined the Priesthood. Although the details of the Saint’s life are uncertain and peppered with myth, it is certain that he returned to Ireland as a Bishop to become a beloved member of the community he served.
There are two legends that are strongly associated with Saint Patrick. The first is that he drove the snakes out of Ireland. Most see this as just a story that could have another meaning altogether. Quite possibly the snakes are a reference to Druids. The second legend is that Saint Patrick use to teach about the trinity by using a three leaf clover, also know as the shamrock. This legend is possible and is not strongly disputed.
The feast day, also known as St. Patrick’s Day, occurs on March 17th. This is also the widely accepted date of his death in the year 493. So when you are enjoying the green beer, corned beef and cabbage, and bragging that you are Irish (even if it may be for just one day), please take a moment to remember the saint that started it all through his selfless return to a country that he first knew as a slave. Then go back to the festivities…remember it is a feast day!
There are two legends that are strongly associated with Saint Patrick. The first is that he drove the snakes out of Ireland. Most see this as just a story that could have another meaning altogether. Quite possibly the snakes are a reference to Druids. The second legend is that Saint Patrick use to teach about the trinity by using a three leaf clover, also know as the shamrock. This legend is possible and is not strongly disputed.
The feast day, also known as St. Patrick’s Day, occurs on March 17th. This is also the widely accepted date of his death in the year 493. So when you are enjoying the green beer, corned beef and cabbage, and bragging that you are Irish (even if it may be for just one day), please take a moment to remember the saint that started it all through his selfless return to a country that he first knew as a slave. Then go back to the festivities…remember it is a feast day!