Patrick
![[Saint Patrick holy card]](http://www.catholic-forum.com/Saints/saintp01.jpg "21kb jpg Saint Patrick holy card, artist unknown; if you have information on this image, please email me; please do not write to ask about the image")
- Also known as
- Apostle of Ireland; Maewyn Succat; Patricius; Patrizio
- Memorial
- 17 March
- Profile
- Kidnapped from the British mainland around age 16, and shipped to Ireland as a slave. Sent to the mountains as a shepherd, he spent his time in prayer. After six years of this life, he received had a dream in which he was commanded to return to Britain; seeing it as a sign, he escaped. He studied in several monasteries in Europe. Priest. Bishop. Sent by Pope Saint Celestine to evangelize England, then Ireland, during which his chariot driver was Saint Odran, and Saint Jarlath was one of his spiritual students. In 33 years he effectively converted the Ireland. In the Middle Ages Ireland became known as the Land of Saints, and during the Dark Ages its monasteries were the great repositories of learning in Europe, all a consequence of Patrick's ministry.
- Born
- 387-390 at Scotland as Maewyn Succat
- Died
- 461-464 at Saul, County Down, Ireland
St. Patrick is the patron saint of those who fear snakes. Do you think that might be the link to the Protestants?