I bet you didn’t know how far back the story of Saint Patrick’s Day goes. The feast day of March 17 is the speculated date of the death of St. Patrick, patron saint of Ireland. We don’t know for certain the dates of Patrick’s life but there is much consensus among experts that he was active as a missionary in Ireland during the fifth century.
Pádraig (Irish) was born in Roman occupied Britain and kidnapped at the age of 16 and taken to Ireland as a slave. He was introduced to Christianity during his captivity, and returned after a successful escape in year 432 with a mission to convert the Irish to Christianity.
By the date of his death on March 17, 461, Patrick had built and founded several monasteries, churches, and schools. Legends about Saint Patrick included driving the snakes out of Ireland and using the shamrock to explain the Trinity.
Ireland initially began celebrating his day with religious services and feasts. Immigrants to the United States transformed St. Patrick’s Day into a largely secular holiday with extensive celebrations, including elaborate parades. It’s only recently that Saint Patricks Day became associated with inebriation.
New York City had it’s first Saint Patrick’s Day parade in 1762. Although blue was the color traditionally associated with St. Patrick, green is now associated with the day. Perhaps because to match the shamrock.
It’s important to remember that it’s passion that allows us to move mountains and achieve our dreams. Pádraig had passion to bring salvation to his people. His passion to save the souls of his brethren had a profound impact on his people and on world.
It’s important to remember that Patrick was once, just a guy…but, he had passion. We should never underestimate the power of passion to do what you love and share what you believe has helped you.
“Wishing you a rainbow
Irish Song
For sunlight after showers
Miles and miles of Irish smiles
For golden happy hours
Shamrocks at your doorway
For luck and laughter too,
And a host of friends that never ends
Each day your whole life through!“