Early Life
Return to Ireland
St. Patrick is credited with creating the Celtic cross, today an iconic symbol of Christianity in Ireland. Photo Source: Colleen Hughes As a missionary in Ireland, Patrick performed baptisms, celebrated the Eucharist, ordained priests, and instituted orders of nuns and monks. Additionally, perhaps because of his familiarity with the Irish language and culture, Patrick often sought to incorporate traditional Irish pagan beliefs and rituals into his teachings on Christianity rather than trying to completely change them. For example, he celebrated Easter through the use of bonfires because the Irish were already accustomed to honoring their gods with fire. In perhaps his most famous example of incorporating native Irish beliefs with Christian practices, Patrick combined the Irish pagan symbol of the sun with the Christian symbol of the cross, creating what is today known as the Celtic cross, an iconic symbol of Ireland and Irish faith.
Legends of St. Patrick
A popular legend has it that St. Patrick used the shamrock’s three leaves to explain the Christian Holy Trinity. Photo Source: Pixaby/jeonsango What is likely the most famous legend of St. Patrick, however, is the story that he explained the concept of the Christian Trinity through the Irish shamrock. Much as the shamrock is made up of three leaves, as do the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit make up the singular Christian God, he allegedly explained to the Irish pagans. Even though this story likely never happened, the shamrock metaphor remains strong in Irish Christianity, and St. Patrick is often depicted holding a shamrock.
Why March 17?
Although the exact dates of his birth and death are uncertain, some scholars believe St. Patrick died on March 17, ca. 460 CE, and this is why we celebrate his feast day each year on March 17. St. Patrick died in the townland of Saul and is buried in nearby Downpatrick, in County Down. St. Patrick was never formally canonized by a pope, but he was declared a Saint in Heaven by many Catholic churches. Today, St. Patrick’s Day is celebrated in Ireland and around the world as both a holy day and as a secular celebration of Irish heritage and culture. Featured Photo Source: Wikimedia Commons/Lyricmac
