Born in Scotland to Roman parents, St. Patrick was kidnapped and taken to Ireland at just sixteen years old. He was sold as a slave to a farm owner, where he was sent out to the mountain side to tend to the sheep. During the next six years, he turned to Jesus in prayer for comfort. One night, in a dream, he was commanded to return to Britain.
After successfully returning to his homeland, Patrick studied to become a priest, and was soon ordained. He felt as if he was called to return to Ireland, and with the permission of Pope St. Celestine, he was sent as a missionary to the people of Ireland.
It wasn’t easy for him to spread the message of Christ throughout Ireland. In fact, there were many tribes who wanted to kill him. However, God protected him for 33 years. Over time, he was able to convert much of Ireland and is credited with setting up much of the foundation of the towns and cities in Ireland today.
St. Patrick, pray for us!