St. Patrick of Ireland is one of the world's most popular saints. He was born in Roman Britain and when he was fourteen, he was captured by Irish pirates and taken to Ireland as a slave to herd and tend sheep. At the time, Ireland was a land of Druids and pagans, but Patrick turned to God and wrote his memoir, The Confession.
In The Confession, he wrote: “The love of God and his fear grew in me more and more... I prayed in the woods and on the mountain even before dawn. I felt no hurt from the snow or ice or rain.”
Patrick's captivity lasted until he was twenty, when he escaped after a dream from God instructing him to go to the coast. There, he found sailors who took him back to Britain where he reunited with his family.
A few years later, Patrick saw a vision of the people of Ireland calling him back: “We appeal to you, holy servant boy, to come and walk among us.”
He then began studying for the priesthood under St. Germanus, was ordained a bishop, and sent to proclaim the Gospel in Ireland. Patrick arrived in Slane, Ireland, on March 25, 433. Over the years, he converted thousands, built churches, and used the shamrock to teach the Holy Trinity.
Patrick ministered for 40 years, enduring poverty, hardships, and persecution. He died on March 17, 461, in Saul, where he built the first Irish church. He is believed to be buried in Downpatrick.
Patrick was humble, courageous, and fully devoted to God. His absolute trust in God made him fearless and strong in the face of challenges.
“Christ be within me, Christ behind me, Christ before me, Christ beside me, Christ to win me, Christ to comfort and restore me, Christ beneath me, Christ above me, Christ inquired, Christ in danger, Christ in hearts of all that love me, Christ in mouth of friend and stranger.”
