March 17

    Saint Patrick, also known as the Apostle of Ireland, is widely known for his missionary work in Ireland and is celebrated every year on March 17th, the day of his death. Patrick was born in the late 4th century in Roman Britain. As a teenager, he was captured by Irish pirates and taken to Ireland as a slave. During his six years in captivity, Patrick turned to Christianity and found solace in prayer. In his Confession, Patrick writes, "And there the Lord opened my mind to an awareness of my unbelief, in order that, even so late, I might remember my transgressions and turn with all my heart to the Lord my God".

    Patrick eventually escaped from Ireland and returned home to Britain, but he felt a calling from God to return to Ireland and preach the gospel to the Irish people. In his Confession, he writes, "I saw a man coming, as it were from Ireland. His name was Victoricus, and he carried many letters, and he gave me one of them. I read the heading: 'The Voice of the Irish.' As I began the letter, I imagined in that moment that I heard the voice of those very people who were near the wood of Foclut, which is beside the western sea—and they cried out, as with one voice: 'We appeal to you, holy servant boy, to come and walk among us'".

    Patrick returned to Ireland as a missionary, and his preaching and teaching had a profound impact on the people of Ireland. He baptized thousands of converts and established churches throughout the country. Patrick's message was simple: "Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out" (Acts 3:19).

    Patrick's missionary work in Ireland was not without its challenges. He faced opposition from pagan rulers and druid priests, and he was even arrested and imprisoned at one point. However, Patrick persevered in his mission, relying on God's strength and guidance. As he writes in his Confession, "But I know that I did not achieve it through my own resources. It was the power of God who worked through me and the resistance of many who opposed me".

    Today, Saint Patrick is remembered as a courageous and faithful servant of God who brought the gospel to the people of Ireland. As we reflect on his life and ministry, we are reminded of the power of God to transform lives and change the course of history. As the apostle Paul writes, "I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me" (Philippians 4:13). May we, like Saint Patrick, be bold and faithful witnesses for Christ, trusting in His strength and guidance as we share the gospel with the world.