On March 17, each year in the United States, St. Patrick would not be a happy man. He may even roll over in his grave. If he’s seriously disturbed by the goings on, perhaps he would rise from the dead and pay us a visit. Wouldn’t that be outrageous? We are not celebrating what he stood for.
St. Patrick was not born in Ireland. In fact, he came to Ireland from Scotland or Brittan (place of birth unknown to the Catholic Church) under duress as he and several of his father’s slaves were kidnapped and taken to Ireland to be sold as slaves. As a slave he was given the responsibility of shepherding. It was a solitary existence and he often went hungry.
According to the American Catholic Church, solitude led St. Patrick to religion and God. He spent more than six years in Ireland as a slave and in that time he was able to pick up the language and learn much of the customs.
After he returned to England he believed that he had been spoken to by God. God told him to become a missionary, to return to Ireland and spread Christianity. The pagans of Ireland were not always happy to receive St. Patrick and his Christian teachings. He met with great opposition. It was said that he took a special interest in the young women of Ireland, encouraging that they remain chaste.
His time in Ireland was fruitful for the Christian faith. He ordained many priests and founded several monasteries. He was adamant in his preachings. It is said that he died on March 17.
So why is it that we in the United States celebrate St. Patrick ’s Day with such wild abandon? It is said that because the religious holiday falls during Lent, restrictions are waived and people are allowed to eat, drink and be merry.
As we have witnessed, people do not hesitate to eat, drink and make merry. There are themed foods (green cupcakes, green beer and green eggs). Many enjoy an Irish stout and for some that leads to extreme behavior.
So St. Patrick need not despair. I am sure some will be praying to God as they are calling Ralph on the big white porcelain throne, provided they make it to the bathroom. And, the next day, they will ask God, “God, why did I do that to myself again?” They may even go so far as to swear not to ever drink again. J
5 comments on The Real St. Patrick
Add a comment
To add comments without entering your email and image verification, you must be logged in. Login or Join Blogster
I came across this site about St. Patrick - beyond the fable. Learned things I didn't know, like his name was actually Maewyn Succat.
Funny name. ha ha
Yes, you have answered "the riddle of St. Patrick's Day" in a clever and interesting way.
Have a happy holiday!
Very nice!! You too.