St. Patrick's Day in Celtia
Éireann go Brách! (Ireland forever.) Beannachtaí na Féile Pádraig oraibh! (St. Patrick's Day blessing upon you.)
Born Maewyn Succat in Britain circa 385 CE, St. Patrick was a follower of the old ways until becoming closer with God during his six years of slavery. After escaping from slavery he studied for approximately twelve years under St. Germain (Bishop of Auxerre) at a monastery in Gaul. Patrick was appointed as the second Bishop of Ireland after the first bishop, St. Palladius
left for Scotland, and his goal was to convert pagans to Christianity. He also established monasteries, churches and schools. Patrick was arrested a number of times for the work he was doing but always managed to escape. After thirty years in
Ireland, Patrick retired and his death on March 17, 461 CE, is observed as St. Patrick's Day.
One of the stories surrounding St. Patrick is the one in which a sermon he gave cursed all the snakes in Ireland and drove them
from the land. Since there have never been any snakes native to Ireland, many believe this folktale is a metaphor of Patrick's conversion of pagans to Christians.
Another famous tale about St. Patrick, and one that is probably true, has Patrick using a shamrock to explain the Holy Trinity as being separate yet one. Today, many wear a shamrock in honor of St. Patrick as part of the St. Patrick's Day observance.
The wearing of green so one doesn't get pinched on St. Patrick's Day was begun by school children. It's possible the tradition was started because green is the color of the shamrock, it is a color of spring, and it symbolizes hope and nature.
When you lift a glass on St. Patrick's Day to honor both St. Patrick and Ireland keep these toasts and blessings in mind.
May the love and protection St. Patrick can give
Be yours in abundance as long as you live.
I drink to your health when I'm with you,
I drink to your health when I'm alone,
I drink to your health so often,
I'm starting to worry about my own!
May the Irish hills caress you.
May her lakes and rivers bless you.
May the luck of the Irish enfold you.
May the blessings of Saint Patrick behold you.
Helpful 'Newbie' links
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A toast to your coffin. May it be made of 100 year old oak. And may we plant the tree together, tomorrow. Happy St. Patrick's Day!
