Origin and Evolution of St. Patrick's Day

St. Patrick's Day, celebrated in many countries around the world on March 17, centers around all things green. Mention of the holiday usually brings to mind Irish food and drink, four-leaf clovers, leprechauns, pots of gold and lively parades, but it didn't start out that way. This fascinating holiday has its roots deep in the Christian religion and traditionally honors St. Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland.

St. Patrick

Just who was St. Patrick? Considered the Apostle of Ireland, St. Patrick was born at Kilpatrick, near Dumbarton, in Scotland in the year 387. He died at Saul, Downpatrick, Ireland on March 17, 493. His father was a high ranking Roman and his mother was a relative of the great patron of Gaul, St. Martin of Tours.

When Patrick was only sixteen years old, he was captured and sold into slavery by Irish raiders. Purchased by a chieftain of a territory that is presently the county of Antrim, Ireland, Patrick spent six year tending his master's flocks. Instructed by an angel of God, he finally fled his cruel master and set sail for Britain and dedicated himself to a life of service to God.

Patrick stayed at various monasteries, including St. Martin's at Tours and the island sanctuary of Lerins. He was fervent in his faith and dedicated to living a life of piety. He was eventually promoted into the priesthood by St. Germain. He accompanied the great bishop Germain on what would become a legendary missionary expedition. Thought to be guided by God's hand, the men of this journey reportedly performed miracles, including the calming of a deadly storm at sea. They visited the relics at St. Alban's shrine and the Alleluia victory. Despite these amazing experiences, Patrick could not shake his thoughts of Ireland. He longed to return and perform God's work there, spreading the Gospel throughout the Pagan country.