Saint Patrick
December 31, 2021Saint Patrick was a Christian missionary who would later go on to become a bishop in the fifth-century. His birthdate is unknown, but most agree that it was in 385 A.D. He was born in Roman Britain, possibly in England but there is no confirmation. Patrick had a religious family in which his grandfather was a priest and his father was a deacon. Despite the religious upbringing, Patrick was not a nonbeliever.
Patrick’s Capture
At the age of sixteen, a group of Irish pirates captured Patrick and kept him captive for six years. While enslaved, Patrick started to gain a spiritual appreciation for his situation and it was during this time that he became religious. Patrick believed it was the Lord that had mercy on his youth and had given him the opportunity to convert to Christianity. Towards the end of his captivity, Patrick became a shepherd and focused on building a relationship with God through prayer and worship.
Escape From Captivity
Patrick eventually gained the courage to escape after a voice told him that he would go home soon and that a ship was ready. Patrick would then flee from his master where he had to travel over two hundred miles to a port where he convinced a captain to let him ride with them. They sailed for three days before stopping in Britain. Everybody on the ship then walked 28 days through the wilderness. The entire group was struggling with fatigue and hunger but Patrick prayed for food and sustenance - leading to them coming upon a pack of wild boars. This act gained appreciation and prestige within the group. Following this nearly month-long trek, Patrick was able to return home to his family.
Patrick Becomes a Priest
After returning to Britain, Patrick continued his studies on Christianity and eventually became a priest. Patrick would later return to Ireland, where he was once enslaved, this time to spread the word about Christianity.
In an effort to appeal to Irish culture, Patrick incorporated the sun, bonfires, shamrocks, and other symbols into his teaching. Irish culture is deeply rooted in oral legend and myths, as a result, Patrick’s life story over the years has been greatly exaggerated.
Saint Patrick’s Legacy
Although Patrick made a significant contribution to Christianity throughout Ireland, including being known as the patron saint of Ireland, Patrick has never been officially canonized in the Catholic Church. This is primarily due to the time period he practiced in not having a formal canonization process yet. However, the Catholic Church still recognizes Patrick as a saint due to popular acclaim and recognition for his role in spreading the Christian belief all over Ireland.
Saint Patrick died on March 17, 461 A.D. To celebrate Saint Patrick, March 17th is now recognized as Saint Patrick’s Day. It became a feast day in the early 17th century and is still celebrated by the Catholic Church to this day.