St. Patrick grew up in the village of Bannavem Taburniae somewhere in Roman Britain at the end of the fourth century or at the beginning of the fifth century. His family enjoyed some influence in Roman society with his father Calpurnius being a deacon in the church and also holding civil office. It is probable that Patrick was educated at home, but this was an area of his life he always struggled with and felt inadequate in compared to others.

In his Confession he tells us that he was captured at the age of sixteen and taken to Ireland. In Ireland he was sold into slavery and may have kept sheep on Slemish Mountain. After six years in Ireland he was summoned in a dream to leave and find a ship that would take him away from his captivity.

Where ever the ship took him and what ever of his adventures with the crew, Patrick found himself back in Britain and trained for the church. It was while in Britain that he had a vision of a man calling him back to Ireland. Patrick responded and established his first mission base at Saul. From here he travelled extensively across the island contending in prayer, making and baptising new converts.

His mission had a profound affect on the Celts of Ireland and beyond. He had a gift from God to communicate the gospel in a way which his hearers could understand; he was profoundly humble, and reliant on God. Patrick’s ministry was not free from controversy of attack, but he undertook his defence with grace and truth.

The faith that St. Patrick had in God needs to be experienced by more and in a greater way in Ireland today. Prayonstpatricksday.com is your opportunity to join in praying for that not only for Ireland and her people but for yourself as well.

Letter to the soilders of Coroticus