SAINT PATRICK

 You may have heard all this but I hope you enjoy reading it once more.

Saint Patrick

The patron saint of Ireland was born in Britain around 385 to a Christian family. At 16, Patrick was kidnapped by Irish pirates and sold into slavery. He was forced to work as a solitary shepherd in brutal conditions for six years, but it was during this time that his fiery love for God came alive. One night, he heard a voice in a dream telling him to escape, and he immediately fled over 200 miles to the coast, where he found a ship and returned home.  

After becoming a priest, Patrick had a vision in which the Irish people called him back to teach them about Christ. He was ordained a bishop and returned to Ireland, where he preached tirelessly and converted thousands to Christianity. He baptized chieftains, ordained priests and established churches and monasteries across the island. Legend credits him with using the three-leaf shamrock to explain the mystery of the Holy Trinity. Despite facing constant threats to his life, Patrick’s missionary work only grew more intense.

Saint Patrick is said to have died on March 17, 461. His work transformed Ireland into a center of Christian faith and learning for centuries. This Saint Patrick’s Day, let’s honor him by praying for his intercession!

"Saint Patrick help us.  Let there be warm sun in our face, a cool breeze to our rear, and a friend in the pub with a beer waiting for us when we get there."

Yes, I made that up!