Saint Patrick: Apostle of Ireland

Saint Patrick is remembered across the Christian world as the missionary who brought Christianity to Ireland. Born in Britain around the late fourth century, likely in the year 385 AD, Patrick was not originally a missionary but the son of a Roman official and a deacon. His early life changed dramatically when, as a teenager, he was captured by Irish raiders and taken as a slave to Ireland. For six years, he worked as a shepherd, enduring hardship and isolation. During this time, Patrick turned deeply to prayer and his faith in God strengthened. Eventually, he escaped captivity and returned home to his family. But his time in Ireland had left a permanent mark on his soul.