Saint Patrick's Day History  

Saint Patrick History

Each March 17^th we each proudly sport our green colors and often prepare Irish food for St. Patrick’s Day. However, have you ever wondered the background of the holiday and why we celebrate it? Who is Saint Patrick? Why do we commemorate his name each year? Look no further for all of your Saint Patrick history.

The Story of Saint Patrick

Saint Patrick is a patron saint of Ireland. His celebrity is known widely throughout the Christian faith. Born in Great Britain at the end of the third century, Saint Patrick is thought to have been born to a wealthy family. His family’s religious background has been debated amongst historical researchers. Patrick’s father had a strong role in the church but has been accused of holding the position for purposes of tax incentives. When Patrick was sixteen, a group of Irish raiders attacked his family’s wealthy estate and took young Saint Patrick as prisoner. He was taken by the raiders back to Ireland and was held in captivity for more than six years. Both friendless and fearful, Saint Patrick found his only solace within the religion of Christianity. It was during this time that he became a devout Christian and first dreamed of converting the Irish people to Christianity.

                              

By trailing divine powers, Patrick found the strength and insight to escape the raiders. He was thought to have wandered the desert until finally making his way back to Britain. Through a steady rise within the church, Saint Patrick eventually returned to Ireland with a steadfast mission: to convert the Irish people toward Christianity. It was recorded that Saint Patrick had a dream where the Irish people were calling to him to convert them into Christianity.

Why Celebrate Saint Patrick's Day?

Patrick lived the last half of his life as a missionary in Ireland. Popular legends evolve around Saint Patrick’s endeavors—most being myths without strong factual basis. A popular legend is Saint Patrick banished all snaked from Ireland. Outside of fable, Saint Patrick is a central piece Christian history because he serves to be an example of the missionary legacy of the Christian Church. Patrick also served as a prime model for later missionaries to replicate. He laid the groundwork for hundreds of churches and missionaries all around Ireland. Patrick met mighty antagonism throughout his stay against a various opposition. However, it is his bravery and courage to continue onward to serve the mission of Christianity that is remembered today. Saint Patrick’s missionary task in Ireland lasted for 30 years. March 17^th is believed to be his death date, the day in which we all commemorate his name through Saint Patrick’s Day.