Biography
Born in Roman Britain to a Christian deacon, Patrick was captured by Irish pirates at age 16 and enslaved as a shepherd in pagan Ireland. During his six years of captivity, he underwent a profound spiritual conversion. After hearing a voice telling him his ship was ready, he escaped and returned to Britain. However, he had a vision of the 'Voice of the Irish' begging him to return. After studying and being ordained a bishop, he returned to Ireland as a missionary. He fiercely opposed slavery, battled the pagan Druids, converted kings, baptized thousands, and established churches across the island. His famous breastplate prayer reflects his deep Christocentric mysticism.
Miracles & Signs
- ✦Lighting the Paschal fire on the Hill of Slane which the druids could not extinguish
- ✦Driving the snakes (often symbolic of paganism) out of Ireland
- ✦Using the three-leafed shamrock to explain the mystery of the Holy Trinity
Wisdom & Quotes
“Christ with me, Christ before me, Christ behind me, Christ in me...”
“I am Patrick, a sinner, most unlearned, the least of all the faithful, and utterly despised by many.”