Even the Romans feared the Irish. For centuries they avoided the people Julius Caesar called “more savage than any other race.” When the newly Christianized Roman monks finally arrived in the 5th century, they looked down on the Irish barbarians. And in turn, those barbarians looked down on them, while continuing to live in fear of their own vengeful gods.
Then a Roman-British boy of sixteen was captured and came to live among them. During his six years as a slave, he learned their language and their character, and in slavery, oddly enough, found freedom, finally turning his heart toward God.
Patrick escaped, but then wandered restlessly. In his Confession he writes of a vision in which “the Voice of the Irish” cried out to him, “We appeal to you, holy servant boy, come (back) and walk among us.”
And so, after his ordination, the young bishop returned to “walk among” them. They were stunned by this former slave’s embodiment of love and forgiveness. And as a result, not only commoners but warlords and nobles alike surrendered their hearts to God. Faith in the God not of vengeance but of love spread like a flame. Patrick’s simple formula of forgiveness + love had set them free, just as it had him. Just as it has me. And you? If so, pass it on! And have a…
Happy St. Patrick’s Day!
Yayy! Happy Saint Patrick’s Day.
Wishing you a wonderful St. Patrick’s Day!
Thank you!
Thank you for sharing St. Patrick’s bio. I wish you the luck of the Irish today! 🙂
Aw, belated thanks, and likewise, Nancy!
Great story. Blessings on you, brother.
Thank you, you too, Anonymous.
Yes, Mitch,just as Patrick put his faith and love in God he was set free.
It’s our God that helps us to forgive and pray for those who spitefully use and abuse us. Trust me on this I know it’s God that does this in our hearts as I was under heavy bondage for a long time.
Good write up on your part, thank you for all you do.
For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death. Romans 8:2
Amen, Cora.
I never knew the story of St. Patrick. Thank you!
My privilege, Caroll.
Just lovely
Thank you.
Great story.
I wish this story was more well known than the one about the snakes. Happy St. Patrick’s Day! ☘☘
Thank you, Carla!
Me too! Thanks for that great reminder that helps take this holiday beyond green beer and parades.
My privilege, Russell.
Amen!
Wonderful. Thanks.
My pleasure, Maren.
Love this story. First time learning about it!
Mitch, I’m fascinated by the history of Patrick. THANK YOU for sharing it so eloquently and beautifully!…
“Faith in the God not of vengeance but of love spread like a flame. Patrick’s simple formula of forgiveness + love had set them free,” YES! Thank YOU for passing it on! I’m going to do the same, dear friend. You’re a treasure!
Thank you, Karla. You too are a treasure, dear friend!
Aww, You’re welcome, Mitch. Thank you so much! 🥲❣️
Belated happy St. Patrick’s Day and thanks for sharing the story! Didn’t know the history.
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