St. Patrick

St. Patrick was born between 387 and 390 in Scotland. His birth name was Maewyn Succat. Kidnapped from the British mainland around age 16, he was shipped to Ireland as a slave, and then sent to the mountains as a shepherd. After six years of this life, he 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, and was ordained a priest and then a Bishop. He was sent by Pope Saint Celestine to evangelize England, then Ireland.  He and his disciples preached and converted thousands and began building churches all over the country. Kings, their families, and entire kingdoms converted to Christianity when hearing Patrick's message. 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 as a consequence of Patrick's ministry.

Patrick died in 461 at Saul, County Down, Ireland. His Feast Day is March 17.