St. Patrick
Although he was born nearly 1600 years ago, St. Patrick's presence is still felt today around the world. St. Patrick is the patron saint of Ireland. He was actually Scottish, most of the story I've mentioned in another post (he was captured in England and made a slave in Ireland at about age 16, studied religion and when he escaped 6 years later, he brought Christianity to most of Ireland over the next 33 years.) The biggest celebrations for St. Patrick in Ireland outside Dublin are in Downpatrick, Northern Ireland, where Saint Patrick was buried following his death on March 17, 493. (Some say he was buried in Scotland...who knows)
St. Patrick's Day
We celebrate this day on March 17th to celebrate the day of St. Patrick’s death. As the Irish immigrated throughout the world, they took their history, beliefs and traditions with them – especially the celebration of St. Patrick’s Day. Even George Washington let his Army have a holiday on March 17th. It is known as the St. Patrick's Day Encampment of 1780.
Saint Patrick's Day has come to be associated with all things Irish, including luck, rainbows, leprechauns, shamrocks, and anything green or gold. It is celebrated by those who merely want an excuse for excessive partying. Traditionally, those who are caught not wearing green are pinched. We celebrate this holiday by wearing green, eating Irish food, imbibing Irish drink, and attending parades and parties.
As the Irish...Sláinte!
May the road rise up to meet you.
May the wind be always at your back.
May the sun shine warm upon your face;
the rains fall soft upon your fields
and until we meet again,
may God hold you in the palm of His hand.
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