St. Patrick and His Legend
bishop, missionary (c. 389-461)
by Mia Cronan
http://MainStreetMom.com

Celebrating St. Patrick's Day for many folks in our era means hearty festivities, the wearing o' the green, and lots of luck o' the Irish.  We all know, however, that there is a much more to the day than meets the eye.

Born to Calpurnius and Conchessa, Patrick was later abducted by Druid raiders along with the servants from his family's farm in Britain and brought to Ireland to serve as a slave and tend sheep at the age of 16.  He did this for six lonely years.  He suffered from isolation, and he missed his family terribly.  During this period of loneliness, Patrick found solace in God's love through prayer.  At last, he managed to escape his slavery and return to his home in Britain.  He became a monk and resolved to return to Ireland as a missionary when his studies at the schools of Tours and Lerins were through.  

By the year 433, Patrick had become a respected bishop.  He returned to Ireland and traveled throughout the land, spreading the news of Jesus Christ and teaching the Irish people about the one, true God.  He had learned the Irish language during his years in slavery, so he was able to communicate with them well.  Twenty-five years later, Patrick died and left behind him a majority of Irish people who were baptized, thanks to his efforts.  Since then, monasteries in Ireland have become centers of learning, and missionaries sent out from Ireland have played a large role in bringing Christianity back into Europe after many European cities had been destroyed by invading tribes.

St. Patrick is remembered well for using the shamrock to represent the Trinity during his teachings.  He died on March 17, 461, in the monastery of Saul, in Down in Ulster.

This year, try something new in celebration!  These family traditions might just make St. Patrick's Day more meaningful for you all:

1.  Design, draw, and color a Celtic Cross.

2.  St. Patrick found something common to symbolize the mystery of the Trinity -- the shamrock. Think of other things your family could use for symbols of the Trinity.  See how many things you see right in your own environment.  The children will amaze you at how much they will find!

3.  Take time to look at the beautiful Trinitarian artwork in your own church.  Without explaining it away, ask your children, "What do you think this artwork could mean?"  If they say they don't know, just wonder about it.  Meditate upon it each time you go to your church.  Again you will be in awe of how insightful your children, even the young ones, really are!  They will be able to see much more than you think.

4.  There is wonderful, peaceful Celtic music available at most record stores.  Buy a CD of Celtic music to play and have some quiet time instead of watching TV this month.

5.  There are books of Celtic prayers and Irish blessings.  Find one for your family to read from during evening prayer time.

Send a bit o' greeting to your loved ones on St. Patrick's Day!  Click here.

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