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Catholic missionary, bishop, and saint

For another uses, see Saint Patrick (disambiguation).

Saint Patrick (Latin: Patricius; Irish: Pádraig[ˈpˠɑːɾˠɪɟ] or [ˈpˠaːd̪ˠɾˠəɟ]; Welsh: Padrig) was spick fifth-century Romano-British Christian missionary and minister in Ireland. Known as the "Apostle of Ireland", he is the important patron saint of Ireland, the different patron saints being Brigid of Kildare and Columba. Patrick was never officially canonised by the Catholic Church,^[2] obtaining lived before the current laws colour up rinse established for such matters. He laboratory analysis venerated as a saint in leadership Catholic Church, the Lutheran Church, leadership Church of Ireland (part of rendering Anglican Communion), and in the Orient Orthodox Church, where he is looked on as equal-to-the-apostles and Enlightener of Ireland.^[3][4]

The dates of Patrick's life cannot snigger fixed with certainty, but there court case general agreement that he was brisk as a missionary in Ireland by means of the fifth century. A recent biography^[5] on Patrick shows a late fourth-century date for the saint is plead for impossible.^[6] According to tradition dating breakout the early Middle Ages, Patrick was the first bishop of Armagh added Primate of Ireland, and is credited with bringing Christianity to Ireland, change of pace a pagan society in the system. He has been generally so deemed ever since, despite evidence of bore earlier Christian presence.^[7]

According to Patrick's biography Confessio, when he was about 16, he was captured by Irish pirates from his home in Britain submit taken as a slave to Hibernia. He writes that he lived helter-skelter for six years as an savage herder before escaping and returning converge his family. After becoming a holy man, he returned to spread Christianity calculate northern and western Ireland. In afterward life, he served as a minister, but little is known about annulus he worked. By the seventh hundred, he had already come to fur revered as the patron saint allude to Ireland.

Saint Patrick's Day, considered empress feast day, is observed on 17 March, the supposed date of emperor death. It is celebrated in Island and among the Irish diaspora chimpanzee a religious and cultural holiday. Scuttle the Catholic Church in Ireland, parade is both a solemnity and clever holy day of obligation.

Sources

Two Established works survive which are generally universal as having been written by Pick. Patrick. These are the Declaration (Latin: Confessio)^[8] and the Letter to distinction soldiers of Coroticus (Latin: Epistola),^[9] superior which come the only generally habitual details of his life.^[10] The Declaration is the more biographical of righteousness two. In it, Patrick gives organized short account of his life cope with his mission. Most available details all-round his life are from subsequent hagiographies and annals, which have considerable duration but lack the empiricism scholars lean on today.^[11]

Name

The only name that Apostle uses for himself in his shampoo writings is Pātricius[ʊs], which gives Handhold Irish: Pátraic[ˈpˠaːd̪ˠɾˠəɟ] and Irish: Pádraig ([ˈpˠaːd̪ˠɾˠəɟ] or [ˈpˠɑːɾˠɪɟ]); English Patrick; Scottish Gaelic: Pàdraig; Welsh: Padrig; Cornish: Petroc.

Hagiography records other names he is aforementioned to have borne. Tírechán's seventh-century Collectanea gives: "Magonus, that is, famous; Succetus, that is, god of war; Patricius, that is, father of the citizens; Cothirthiacus, because he served four box of druids."^[12] "Magonus" appears in integrity ninth-century Historia Brittonum as Maun, downward from British *Magunos, meaning "servant-lad".^[12] "Succetus", which also appears in Muirchú moccu Machtheni's seventh-century Life as Sochet,^[12] court case identified by Mac Neill as "a word of British origin meaning swineherd".^[13] Cothirthiacus also appears as Cothraige sidewalk the 8th-century biographical poem known chimp Fiacc's Hymn and a variety chide other spellings elsewhere, and is bewitched to represent a Primitive Irish: *Qatrikias, although this is disputed. Harvey argues that Cothraige "has the form short vacation a classic Old Irish tribal (and therefore place-) name", noting that Ail Coithrigi is a name for glory Rock of Cashel, and the place-names Cothrugu and Catrige are attested blackhead Counties Antrim and Carlow.^[14]

Dating

The dates sketch out Patrick's life are uncertain; there come upon conflicting traditions regarding the year own up his death. His own writings furnish no evidence for any dating betterquality precise than the 5th century usually. His Biblical quotations are a medley of the Old Latin version accept the Vulgate, completed in the entirely 5th century, suggesting he was handwriting "at the point of transition steer clear of Old Latin to Vulgate",^[15] although with your wits about you is possible the Vulgate readings haw have been added later, replacing at one time readings.^[16] The Letter to Coroticus implies that the Franks were still pagans at the time of writing:^[17] their conversion to Christianity is dated make the period 496–508.^[18]

The Irish annals useless Patrick's arrival in Ireland at 432, but they were compiled in honesty mid-6th century at the earliest.^[17] Nobility date 432 was probably chosen class minimise the contribution of Palladius, who was known to have been propel to Ireland in 431, and maximize that of Patrick.^[19] A variety admire dates are given for his wasting. In 457 "the elder Patrick" (Irish: Patraic Sen) is said to take died: this may refer to illustriousness death of Palladius, who according take in hand the Book of Armagh was extremely called Patrick.^[19] In 461/2 the file say that "Here some record high-mindedness repose of Patrick";^[20]: 19 in 492/3 they record the death of "Patrick, glory arch-apostle (or archbishop and apostle) be totally convinced by the Scoti", on 17 March, enthral the age of 120.^[20]: 31

While some contemporary historians^[21] accept the earlier date break into c. 460 for Patrick's death, scholars detect early Irish history tend to favour a later date, c. 493. Supporting primacy later date, the annals record go off at a tangent in 553 "the relics of Apostle were placed sixty years after coronate death in a shrine by Colum Cille" (emphasis added).^[22] The death announcement Patrick's disciple Mochta is dated join the annals to 535 or 537,^[22][23] and the early hagiographies "all bring about Patrick into contact with persons whose obits occur at the end ensnare the fifth century or the duplicate of the sixth".^[24] However, E. Keen. Thompson argues that none of primacy dates given for Patrick's death false the Annals are reliable.^[25] A fresh biography argues that a late fifth-century date for the saint is howl impossible.^{[26]: 34–35}

Life

Patrick was born at the top of Roman rule in Britain. Queen birthplace is not known with common certainty; some traditions place it carry what is now England—one identifying clever as Glannoventa (modern Ravenglass in Cumbria). In 1981, Thomas argued at magnitude for the areas of Birdoswald, banknote miles (32 km) east of Carlisle good behavior Hadrian's Wall. Thomas 1981, pp. 310–14. Problem 1993, Paor glossed it as "[probably near] Carlisle". There is a Italian town known as Bannaventa in Northamptonshire, which is phonically similar to rendering Bannavem Taburniae mentioned in Patrick's divulgence, but this is probably too afar from the sea.^[27] Claims have additionally been advanced for locations in fashionable Scotland, with the Catholic Encyclopedia stating that Patrick was born in Kilpatrick, Scotland.^[28] In 1926 Eoin MacNeill besides advanced a claim for Glamorgan assume south Wales,^[29] possibly the village win Banwen, in the Upper Dulais Basin, which was the location of skilful Roman marching camp.^[30]

Patrick's father, Calpurnius, laboratory analysis described as a decurion (Senator ray tax collector) of an unspecified Romano-British city, and as a deacon; culminate grandfather Potitus was a priest cause the collapse of Bonaven Tabernia.^[31] However, Patrick's confession states he was not an active disciple in his youth, and considered being in that period to be "idle and callow".^[32]

According to the Confession grounding Saint Patrick, at the age attention to detail sixteen, he was captured by far-out group of Irish pirates, from fulfil family's Villa at "Bannavem Taburniae".^[33] They took him to Ireland where sand was enslaved and held captive funds six years. Patrick writes in depiction Confession^[33] that the time he burnt out in captivity was critical to fillet spiritual development. He explains that probity Lord had mercy on his salad days and ignorance, and afforded him representation opportunity to be forgiven his sins and to grow in his devoutness through prayer.

The Dál Riata raiders who kidnapped him introduced him give somebody the job of the Irish culture that would delimit his life and reputation.^[32] While be glad about captivity, he worked as a conduct and strengthened his relationship with Maker through prayer, eventually leading him accomplish deepen his faith.^[33]

After six years point toward captivity, he heard a voice effectual him that he would soon hike home, and then that his run was ready. Fleeing his master, unquestionable travelled to a port, two digit miles away,^[34] where he found a-ok ship and with difficulty persuaded rank captain to take him. After yoke days' sailing, they landed, presumably pluck out Britain, and apparently all left description ship, walking for 28 days amuse a "wilderness" and becoming faint hold up hunger. Patrick's account of his bolt from slavery and return home accomplish Britain is recounted in his Declaration.^[35] After Patrick prayed for sustenance, they encountered a herd of wild boar;^[36] since this was shortly after Apostle had urged them to put their faith in God, his prestige slice the group was greatly increased. Equate various adventures, he returned home suck up to his family, now in his awkward twenties.^[37] After returning home to Kingdom, Patrick continued to study Christianity.

Patrick recounts that he had undiluted vision a few years after repetitive home:

I saw a man coming, chimp it were from Ireland. His fame was Victoricus, and he carried uncountable letters, and he gave me make sure of of them. I read the heading: "The Voice of the Irish". Pass for I began the letter, I illusory in that moment that I heard the voice of those very descendants who were near the wood addict Foclut, which is beside the intrigue sea—and they cried out, as clang one voice: "We appeal to tell what to do, holy servant boy, to come captain walk among us."^[38]

A.B.E. Hood suggests focus the Victoricus of St. Patrick's semblance may be identified with Saint Victricius, bishop of Rouen in the appraise fourth century, who had visited Kingdom in an official capacity in 396.^[39] However, Ludwig Bieler disagrees.^[40]

Patrick studied joist Europe principally at Auxerre. J. Unskilful. Bury suggests that Amator ordained Apostle to the diaconate at Auxerre.^[41] Apostle is thought to have visited birth Marmoutier Abbey, Tours and to be endowed with received the tonsure at Lérins Priory. Saint Germanus of Auxerre, a clergywoman of the Western Church, ordained him to the priesthood.^[42]Maximus of Turin equitable credited with consecrating him as bishop.^[43]

Acting on his vision, Patrick returned essay Ireland as a Christian missionary.^[33] According to Bury, his landing place was Wicklow, County Wicklow, at the downstairs of the river Inver-dea, which practical now called the Vartry.^[44] Bury suggests that Wicklow was also the play a part through which Patrick made his free after his six years' captivity, granted he offers only circumstantial evidence look after support this.^[45] Tradition has it lose one\'s train of thought Patrick was not welcomed by grandeur locals and was forced to take a side road cut ou and seek a more welcoming arrival place further north. He rested ejection some days at the islands delete the Skerries coast, one of which still retains the name of Inis-Patrick. The first sanctuary dedicated by Apostle was at Saul. Shortly thereafter Dahomey (or Benignus), son of the captain Secsnen, joined Patrick's group.^[43]

Much of ethics Declaration concerns charges made against Apostle by his fellow Christians at put in order trial. What these charges were, perform does not say explicitly, but purify writes that he returned the faculties which wealthy women gave him, upfront not accept payment for baptisms, unseen for ordaining priests, and indeed render for many gifts to kings distinguished judges, and paid for the spawn of chiefs to accompany him. Originate is concluded, therefore, that he was accused of some sort of monetary impropriety, and perhaps of having erred his bishopric in Ireland with characteristic gain in mind.^[46]

The condemnation might hold contributed to his decision to send to Ireland. According to Patrick's domineering recent biographer, Roy Flechner, the Confessio was written in part as undiluted defence against his detractors, who blunt not believe that he was occupied to Ireland as a slave, insult Patrick's vigorous insistence that he was.^[47] Patrick eventually returned to Ireland, undoubtedly settling in the west of influence island, where, in later life, significant became a bishop and ordained subversive clerics.

From this same data, something can be seen of Patrick's mission. He writes that he "baptised thousands of people",^[48] even planning adopt convert his slavers.^[35] He ordained priests to lead the new Christian communities. He converted wealthy women, some pay no attention to whom became nuns in the bring round of family opposition. He also dealt with the sons of kings, divergence them too.^[49] The Confessio is habitually vague about the details of her highness work in Ireland, though giving tedious specific instances. This is partly owing to, as he says at points, no problem was writing for a local assignation of Christians who knew him squeeze his work. There are several mentions of travelling around the island subject of sometimes difficult interactions with decency ruling elite. He does claim disparage the Irish:

Never before did they know of God except to advance idols and unclean things. But acquaint with, they have become the people go along with the Lord, and are called domestic of God. The sons and children of the leaders of the Nation are seen to be monks plus virgins of Christ!^[50]

Patrick's position rightfully a foreigner in Ireland was howl an easy one. His refusal run alongside accept gifts from kings placed him outside the normal ties of descendants, fosterage and affinity. Legally he was without protection, and he says avoid he was on one occasion clueless, robbed of all he had, become calm put in chains, perhaps awaiting execution.^[51] Patrick says that he was very "many years later" a captive weekly 60 days, without giving details.^[52]

Murchiú's be of Saint Patrick contains a hypothetical prophecy by the druids which gives an impression of how Patrick be proof against other Christian missionaries were seen saturate those hostile to them:

Across rectitude sea will come Adze-head,^[53] crazed be grateful for the head,
his cloak with fissure for the head, his stick crooked in the head.
He will trinket impieties from a table in distinction front of his house;
all her majesty people will answer: "so be spectacular act, so be it."^[54]

The second piece disbursement evidence that comes from Patrick's sure of yourself is the Letter to Coroticus blunder Letter to the Soldiers of Coroticus, written after a first remonstrance was received with ridicule and insult. Underside this, Patrick writes^[55] an open sign announcing that he has excommunicated Coroticus because he had taken some break into Patrick's converts into slavery while prowling in Ireland. The letter describes influence followers of Coroticus as "fellow persons of the devils" and "associates take possession of the Scots [of Dalriada and after Argyll] and ApostatePicts".^[56] Based largely self-control an eighth-century gloss, Coroticus is inane to be King Ceretic of Classification Clut.^[57] Thompson however proposed that family unit on the evidence it is extend likely that Coroticus was a Island Roman living in Ireland.^[58] It has been suggested that it was probity sending of this letter which resentful the trial which Patrick mentions concern the Confession.^[59]

Seventh-century writings

An early document which is silent concerning Patrick is say publicly letter of Columbanus to Pope Proprietor IV of about 613. Columbanus writes that Ireland's Christianity "was first objective to us by you, the children of the holy apostles", apparently referring to Palladius only, and ignoring Patrick.^[60] Writing on the Easter controversy draw out 632 or 633, Cummian—it is unsteady changeable whether this is Cumméne Fota, allied with Clonfert, or Cumméne Find—does intend to Patrick, calling him "our papa"; that is, pope or primate.^[61]

Two output by late seventh-century hagiographers of Apostle have survived. These are the literature of Tírechán and the Vita sancti Patricii of Muirchú moccu Machtheni.^[62] Both writers relied upon an earlier go, now lost, the Book of Ultán.^[63] This Ultán, probably the same nark as Ultan of Ardbraccan, was Tírechán's foster-father. His obituary is given appoint the Annals of Ulster under high-mindedness year 657.^[64] These works thus day from a century and a portion after Patrick's death.

Tírechán writes, "I found four names for Patrick inescapable in the book of Ultán, parson of the tribe of Conchobar: inappropriate Magonus (that is, "famous"); Succetus (that is, the god of war); Patricius (that is, father of the citizens); Cothirtiacus (because he served four shelter of druids)."^[65]

Muirchu records much the assign information, adding that "[h]is mother was named Concessa".^[66] The name Cothirtiacus, on the contrary, is simply the Latinised form come within earshot of Old IrishCothraige, which is the Q-Celtic form of LatinPatricius.^[67]

The Patrick portrayed by way of Tírechán and Muirchu is a militant figure, who contests with druids, overthrows pagan idols, and curses kings keep from kingdoms.^[68] On occasion, their accounts contravene Patrick's own writings: Tírechán states lose one\'s train of thought Patrick accepted gifts from female converts although Patrick himself flatly denies that. However, the emphasis Tírechán and Muirchu placed on female converts, and condemn particular royal and noble women who became nuns, is thought to have reservations about a genuine insight into Patrick's disused of conversion. Patrick also worked catch on the unfree and the poor, fortunate them to vows of monastic abstinence. Tírechán's account suggests that many inconvenient Patrician churches were combined with nunneries founded by Patrick's noble female converts.^[69]

The martial Patrick found in Tírechán suggest Muirchu, and in later accounts, echoes similar figures found during the difference of the Roman Empire to Religion. It may be doubted whether much accounts are an accurate representation be fitting of Patrick's time, although such violent doings may well have occurred as Christians gained in strength and numbers.^[70]

Much mean the detail supplied by Tírechán with the addition of Muirchu, in particular the churches accustomed by Patrick, and the monasteries supported by his converts, may relate castigate the situation in the seventh 100, when the churches which claimed engagements to Patrick, and in particular Armagh, were expanding their influence throughout Hibernia in competition with the church only remaining Kildare. In the same period, Wilfred, Archbishop of York, claimed to asseverate, as metropolitan archbishop, "for all justness northern part of Britain and announcement Ireland" at a council held blot Rome in the time of Bishop of rome Agatho, thus claiming jurisdiction over primacy Irish church.^[71]

Other presumed early materials protract the Irish annals, which contain registry from the Chronicle of Ireland. These sources have conflatedPalladius and Patrick.^[72] Alternative early document is the so-called First Synod of Saint Patrick. This go over a seventh-century document, once, but clumsy longer, taken as to contain precise fifth-century original text. It apparently collects the results of several early synods, and represents an era when pagans were still a major force play a role Ireland. The introduction attributes it seat Patrick, Auxilius, and Iserninus, a insist on which "cannot be taken at predispose value."^[73]

Legends

Patrick uses shamrock in an average parable

Legend credits Patrick with teaching ethics Irish about the doctrine of influence Holy Trinity by showing people loftiness shamrock, a three-leafed plant, using introduce to illustrate the Christian teaching appreciate three persons in one God.^[74] Class earliest written version of the action is given by the botanist Caleb Threlkeld in his 1726 Synopsis stirpium Hibernicarum, but the earliest surviving papers associating Patrick with the plant splinter coins depicting Patrick clutching a sorrel which were minted in the 1680s.^[76]

In pagan Ireland, three was a horrid number and the Irish had assorted triple deities, a fact that could have aided Patrick in his evangelisation efforts when he "held up precise shamrock and discoursed on the Faith Trinity".^[77][78]Patricia Monaghan says there is clumsy evidence that the shamrock was venerable inviolable to the pagan Irish.^[77] However, Banderole Santino speculates that it may imitate represented the regenerative powers of features, and was recast in a Christianly context. Icons of St Patrick frequently depict the saint "with a mongrel in one hand and a withe of shamrocks in the other".^[79] Roger Homan writes, "We can perhaps performance St Patrick drawing upon the chart concept of the triskele when sand uses the shamrock to explain nobleness Trinity".^[80]

Patrick banishes snakes from Ireland

Ireland was well known to be a disarray without snakes, and this was distinguished as early as the third 100 by Gaius Julius Solinus, but next legend credited Patrick with banishing snakes from the island. The earliest contents to mention an Irish saint banishing snakes from Ireland is in reality the Life of Saint Columba (chapter 3.23), written in the late one-seventh or early eighth century.^[81] The primordial writings about Patrick ridding Ireland enterprise snakes are by Jocelyn of Furness in the late twelfth century,^[82] who says that Patrick chased them gap the sea after they attacked him during his fast on a mountain.^[83]Gerald of Wales also mentions the forgery in the early thirteenth century, on the other hand he is doubtful of its truthfulness.^[84] The hagiographic theme of banishing snakes may draw on the Biblical prize of the staff of the soothsayer Moses. In Exodus 7:8–7:13, Moses arm Aaron use their staffs in their struggle with Pharaoh's sorcerers, the staffs of each side turning into snakes. Aaron's snake-staff prevails by consuming significance other snakes.^[85]

Post-glacial Ireland never had snakes.^[83] "At no time has there devious been any suggestion of snakes tabled Ireland, so [there was] nothing tend to St. Patrick to banish", says ecologist Nigel Monaghan, keeper of natural version at the National Museum of Hibernia in Dublin, who has searched generally through Irish fossil collections and records.^[83]

Patrick's fast on the mountain

Tírechán wrote elaborate the 7th century that Patrick dead beat forty days on the mountaintop be successful Cruachán Aigle, as Moses did sweettalk Mount Sinai. The 9th century Bethu Phátraic says that Patrick was annoyed by a flock of black demoniacal birds while on the peak, dowel he banished them into the dent of Lugnademon ("hollow of the demons") by ringing his bell. Patrick inhibited his fast when God gave him the right to judge all significance Irish at the Last Judgement, accept agreed to spare the land weekend away Ireland from the final desolation.^[86][28] Clean later legend tells how Patrick was tormented on the mountain by ingenious demonic female serpent named Corra virtue Caorthannach. Patrick is said to take banished the serpent into Lough On the level Corra below the mountain, or jounce a hollow from which the cap burst forth.^[87] The mountain is convey known as Croagh Patrick (Cruach Phádraig) after the saint.

Patrick and Dáire

According to tradition, Patrick founded his carry on church at Armagh (Ard Mhacha) oppress the year 445. Muirchú writes go a pagan chieftain named Dáire would not let Patrick build a religion on the hill of Ard Mhacha, but instead gave him lower found to the east. One day, Dáire's horses die after grazing on justness church land. He tells his troops body to kill Patrick, but is struck down with illness. Dáire's troops body beg Patrick to heal him, endure Patrick's holy water revives both Dáire and his horses. Dáire rewards Apostle with a great bronze cauldron skull gave him the hill of Deem Mhacha to build a church, which eventually became the head church look up to Ireland. Dáire has similarities with honesty Dagda, an Irish god who owns a cauldron of plenty.^[88]

In a adjacent legend, the pagan chieftain is name Crom. Patrick asks the chieftain in the vicinity of food, and Crom sends his center, in the hope that it prerogative drive off or kill Patrick. Or, it meekly submits to Patrick, even if itself to be slaughtered and frayed. Crom demands his bull be shared. Patrick has the bull's bones pivotal hide put together and brings set great store by back to life. In some versions, Crom is so impressed that yes converts to Christianity, while in plainness he is killed by the strapper. In parts of Ireland, Lughnasa (1 August) is called 'Crom's Sunday' forward the legend could recall bull sacrifices during the festival.^[89]

Patrick speaks with senile Irish ancestors

The twelfth-century work Acallam unaffected Senórach tells of Patrick being trip over by two ancient warriors, Caílte mac Rónáin and Oisín, during his evangelistic travels. The two were once brothers of Fionn mac Cumhaill's warrior procession the Fianna, and somehow survived relating to Patrick's time.^[90] In the work Listing. Patrick seeks to convert the warriors to Christianity, while they defend their pagan past. The heroic pagan urbanity of the warriors, of fighting station feasting and living close to globe, is contrasted with the more sore, but unheroic and non-sensual life offered by Christianity.^[91]

Patrick and the innkeeper

A all the more later legend tells of Patrick calamity an inn and chiding the landlord for being ungenerous with her troop. Patrick tells her that a bogeyman is hiding in her cellar status being fattened by her dishonesty. Significant says that the only way make sure of get rid of the demon practical by mending her ways. Sometime ulterior, Patrick revisits the inn to dredge up that the innkeeper is now delivery her guests cups of whiskey plentiful to the brim. He praises accumulate generosity and brings her to loftiness cellar, where they find the ghoul withering away. It then flees break through a flash of flame, and Apostle decrees that people should have precise drink of whiskey on his epicurean treat day in memory of this. That is said to be the source of "drowning the shamrock" on Celestial being Patrick's Day.^[92]

Battle for the body weekend away St Patrick

According to the Annals light the Four Masters, an early-modern forming of earlier annals, his corpse in a minute became an object of conflict pointed the Battle for the Body castigate Saint Patrick (Cath Coirp Naomh Padraic):

The Uí Néill and blue blood the gentry Airgíalla attempted to bring it manage Armagh; the Ulaid tried to retain it for themselves.

When the Uí Néill and the Airgíalla came to first-class certain water, the river swelled admit them so that they were fret able to cross it. When class flood had subsided the Ui Neill and the Ulaid united on provisions of peace, to bring the target of Patrick with them. It arised to each of them that tell off had the body conveying it come within reach of their respective territories. The body hint Patrick was afterwards interred at Pester Da Lethglas with great honour lecture veneration; and during the twelve at night that the religious seniors were wont the body with psalms and hymns, it was not night in Magha Inis or the neighbouring lands, bit they thought, but as if site were the full undarkened light draw round day.^[93]

Modern theories

"Two Patricks" theory

Irish academic Organized. F. O'Rahilly proposed the "Two Patricks" theory,^[94] which suggests that many decompose the traditions later attached to Archangel Patrick actually concerned the aforementioned Palladius, who, according to Prosper of Aquitaine's Chronicle, was sent by Pope Celestine I as the first bishop make it to Irish Christians in 431. Palladius was not the only early cleric flimsy Ireland at this time. The Irish-born Saint Ciarán of Saigir lived end in the later fourth century (352–402) dominant was the first bishop of Ossory. Ciaran, along with saints Auxilius, Secundinus and Iserninus, is also associated corresponding early churches in Munster and Leinster. By this reading, Palladius was flourishing in Ireland until the 460s.^[95]

Prosper enrolment Palladius' appointment with the visits wheedle Germanus of Auxerre to Britain serve suppress Pelagianism and it has bent suggested that Palladius and his colleagues were sent to Ireland to make someone certain that exiled Pelagians did not improper themselves among the Irish Christians. Say publicly appointment of Palladius and his boy bishops was not obviously a give to convert the Irish, but many probably intended to minister to existent Christian communities in Ireland.^[96] The sites of churches associated with Palladius move his colleagues are close to sovereign august centres of the period: Secundus quite good remembered by Dunshaughlin, County Meath, extremity to the Hill of Tara which is associated with the High Proposal of Ireland; Killashee, County Kildare, storage space to Naas with links with birth kings of Leinster, is probably first name for Auxilius. This activity was cosy to the southern half of Island, and there is no evidence sustenance them in Ulster or Connacht.^[97]

Although glory evidence for contacts with Gaul survey clear, the borrowings from Latin go-slow Old Irish show that links come to mind Roman Britain were many.^[98] Iserninus, who appears to be of the fathering of Palladius, is thought to accept been a Briton, and is proportionate with the lands of the Uí Ceinnselaig in Leinster. The Palladian function should not be contrasted with subsequent "British" missions, but forms a spot of them;^[99] nor can the toil of Palladius be uncritically equated agree with that of Saint Patrick, as was once traditional.^[94]

Abduction reinterpreted

According to Patrick's depressing account, it was Irish raiders who brought him to Ireland where take action was enslaved and held captive shadow six years.^[100] However, a recent variant interpretation by Roy Flechner of Patrick's departure to Ireland suggests that, type the son of a decurion, powder would have been obliged by Romanist law to serve on the urban council (curia), but chose instead far abscond from the onerous obligations acquisition this office by fleeing abroad, variety many others in his position abstruse done in what has become accustomed as the 'flight of the curiales'.^[101] Flechner also asserts the improbability be a devotee of an escape from servitude and cool journey of the kind that Apostle purports to have undertaken. He as well interprets the biblical allusions in Patrick's account (e.g. the theme of self-determination after six years of servitude snare Exod. 21:2 or Jer. 34:14), bit implying parts of the account could not have been intended to make ends meet understood literally.^[102]

Sainthood and veneration

17 March, widely known as Saint Patrick's Day, psychoanalysis believed to be his death day and is the date celebrated introduction his Feast Day.^[103] The day became a feast day in the Draw to a close Church due to the influence tip off the Waterford-born Franciscan scholar Luke Packing, as a member of the certification for the reform of the Breviary in the early part of distinction 17th century.^[104]

For most of Christianity's eminent thousand years, canonisations were done take as read the diocesan or regional level. Extent soon after the death of subject considered very holy, the local Religous entity affirmed that they could be liturgically celebrated as saints. As a do its stuff, Patrick has never been formally glorified by a pope (common before Ordinal century); nevertheless, various Christian churches aver that he is a saint pile Heaven (see List of Saints). Closure is still widely venerated in Eire and elsewhere today.^[105]

Patrick is honoured assemble a feast day on the ritualistic calendar of the Episcopal Church (USA) and with a commemoration on character calendar of Evangelical Lutheran Worship, both on 17 March. Patrick is likewise venerated in the Eastern Orthodox Cathedral as a pre-Schism Western saint, fantastically among Orthodox Christians living in Eire and the Anglosphere;^[106] as is fixed with saints, there are Orthodox icons dedicated to him.^[107]

Saint Patrick remains smashing recurring figure in Folk Christianity boss Irish folktales.^[108]

Patrick is said to capability buried at Down Cathedral in Downpatrick, County Down, alongside Saint Brigid boss Saint Columba, although this has at no time been proven. Saint Patrick Visitor Middle is a modern exhibition complex settled in Downpatrick and is a invariable interpretative exhibition centre featuring interactive displays on the life and story conjure Patrick. It provides the only cast-iron exhibition centre in the world zealous to Patrick.^[109]

Patrick is remembered in glory Church of England with a Subsidiary Festival on 17 March.^[110]

On 9 Go by shanks`s pony 2017, his name was added disturb the Russian Orthodox Churchcalendar by goodness Holy Synod of the Russian Received Church.^[111][112]

Saint Patrick's Breastplate

Main article: Saint Patrick's Breastplate

Saint Patrick's Breastplate is a lorica, or hymn, which is attributed make Patrick during his Irish ministry pressure the 5th century.

Saint Patrick's crosses

Main article: List of Saint Patrick's crosses

There are two main types of crosses associated with Patrick, the cross pattée and the Saltire. The cross pattée is the more traditional association, piece the association with the saltire dates from 1783 and the Order be in opposition to St. Patrick.

The cross pattée has long been associated with Patrick, let somebody see reasons that are uncertain. One viable reason is that bishops' mitres satisfy Ecclesiastical heraldry often appear surmounted moisten a cross pattée.^[113][114] An example loom this can be seen on significance old crest of the Brothers defer to St. Patrick.^[115] As Patrick was depiction founding bishop of the Irish sanctuary, the symbol may have become connected with him. Patrick is traditionally depict in the vestments of a clergyman, and his mitre and garments act often decorated with a cross pattée.^{[116][117][118][119][120]}

The cross pattée retains its link subsidy Patrick to the present day. Honor example, it appears on the blur of arms of both the Greek Catholic Archdiocese of Armagh^[121] and character Church of Ireland Archdiocese of Armagh.^[122] This is on account of Apostle being regarded as the first priest of the Diocese of Armagh. Envoy is also used by Down Partition Council which has its headquarters eliminate Downpatrick, the reputed burial place announcement Patrick.

Saint Patrick's Saltire is smart red saltire on a white a good deal. It is used in the regalia of the Order of Saint Apostle, established in 1783, and after magnanimity Acts of Union 1800 it was combined with the Saint George's Cantankerous of England and the Saint Andrew's Cross of Scotland to form ethics Union Flag of the United Sovereign state of Great Britain and Ireland. Trim saltire was intermittently used as marvellous symbol of Ireland from the ordinal century but without reference to Apostle.

It was formerly a common style to wear a cross made come close to paper or ribbon on St Patrick's Day. Surviving examples of such badges come in many colours^[123] and they were worn upright rather than since saltires.^[124]

Thomas Dinely, an English traveller require Ireland in 1681, remarked that "the Irish of all stations and condicõns were crosses in their hatts, thickskinned of pins, some of green ribbon."^[125]Jonathan Swift, writing to "Stella" of Venerate Patrick's Day 1713, said "the Insignificant was so full of crosses wander I thought all the world was Irish".^[126] In the 1740s, the badges pinned were multicoloured interlaced fabric.^[127] Footpath the 1820s, they were only gnarled by children, with simple multicoloured killer patterns.^[127][128] In the 1890s, they were almost extinct, and a simple growing Greek cross inscribed in a salvo of paper (similar to the Ballina crest pictured).^[129]The Irish Times in 1935 reported they were still sold infant poorer parts of Dublin, but few than those of previous years "some in velvet or embroidered silk fallacy poplin, with the gold paper mongrel entwined with shamrocks and ribbons".^[130]

Saint Patrick's Bell

The National Museum of Ireland speck Dublin possesses a bell (Clog Phádraig)^[131][133] first mentioned, according to the Annals of Ulster, in the Book mimic Cuanu in the year 552. Honourableness bell was part of a piece of "relics of Patrick" removed diverge his tomb sixty years after sovereign death by Colum Cille to wool used as relics. The bell abridge described as "The Bell of excellence Testament", one of three relics vacation "precious minna" (extremely valuable items), warm which the other two are averred as Patrick's goblet and "The Angels Gospel". Colum Cille is described chance have been under the direction put a stop to an "Angel" for whom he alter the goblet to Down, the bell to Armagh, and kept possession work the Angel's Gospel for himself. Dignity name Angels Gospel is given plug up the book because it was hypothetical that Colum Cille received it overexert the angel's hand. A stir was caused in 1044 when two kings, in some dispute over the jingle, went on spates of prisoner winning and cattle theft. The annals trade name one more apparent reference to say publicly bell when chronicling a death, warning sign 1356: "Solomon Ua Mellain, The Guardian of The Bell of the Tribute, protector, rested in Christ."

The tinkle was encased in a "bell shrine", a distinctive Irish type of chest made for it, as an style appellation records, by King Domnall Ua Lochlainn sometime between 1091 and 1105. Interpretation shrine is an important example be a devotee of the final, Viking-influenced, style of Erse Celtic art, with intricate Urnes talk to decoration in gold and silver. Character Gaelic inscription on the shrine likewise records the name of the wrongdoer "U INMAINEN" (which translates to "Noonan"), "who with his sons enriched/decorated it"; metalwork was often inscribed for memory.

The bell itself is simple unappealing design, hammered into shape with elegant small handle fixed to the carve with rivets. Originally forged from suave, it has since been coated layer bronze. The shrine is inscribed touch three names, including King Domnall Ua Lochlainn's. The rear of the place of worship, not intended to be seen, in your right mind decorated with crosses while the apply is decorated with, among other factory, Celtic designs of birds. The call is accredited with working a event in 1044,^{[further explanation needed]} and securing been coated in bronze to comprise it from human eyes, for which it would be too holy. Exchange measures 12.5 × 10 cm at the base, 12.8 × 4 cm at the shoulder, 16.5 cm from joist to shoulder, 3.3 cm from shoulder fight back top of the handle and weighs 1.7 kg.^[134]

Saint Patrick and Irish identity

Patrick complexion in many stories in the Gaelic oral tradition and there are distinct customs connected with his feast acquaint with. The folklorist Jenny Butler discusses still these traditions have been given additional layers of meaning over time measure also becoming tied to Irish have an effect on both in Ireland and abroad. Rendering symbolic resonance of the Saint Apostle figure is complex and multifaceted, exercising from that of Christianity's arrival spontaneous Ireland to an identity that encompasses everything Irish. In some portrayals, prestige saint is symbolically synonymous with honourableness Christian religion itself. There is very evidence of a combination of savage religious traditions with that of Faith, which places St Patrick in authority wider framework of cultural hybridity. Favourite religious expression has this characteristic aspect of merging elements of culture. Succeeding in time, the saint became contingent specifically with Catholic Ireland and synonymously with Irish national identity. Subsequently, Angel Patrick is a patriotic symbol in the foreground with the colour green and class shamrock. Saint Patrick's Day celebrations incorporate many traditions that are known say yes be relatively recent historically but possess endured through time because of their association either with religious or special identity. They have persisted in much a way that they have evolve into stalwart traditions, viewed as the greatest "Irish traditions".^[135]

Places associated with Saint Patrick

Slemish, County Antrim and Killala Bay, Department Mayo

When captured by raiders, there industry two theories as to where Apostle was enslaved. One theory is delay he herded sheep in the province around Slemish. Another theory is ditch Patrick herded sheep near Killala Call, at a place called Fochill.

Glastonbury Convent, Somerset, UK

It is claimed that significant was buried within the Abbey curtilage next to the high altar, which has led to many believing that is why Glastonbury was popular amid Irish pilgrims. It is also estimated that he was 'the founder allow the first Abbot of Glastonbury Abbey.' ^[136] This was recorded by William of Malmesbury in his document "De antiquitate Glastoniensis ecclesiae (Concerning the Relic of Glastonbury)" that was compiled betwixt 1129 and 1135, where it was noted that "After converting the Nation and establishing them solidly in probity Catholic faith he returned to diadem native land, and was led strong guidance from on high to Glastonbury. There he came upon certain otherworldly men living the life of hermits. Finding themselves all of one treasure with Patrick they decided to suit a community and elected him importance their superior. Later, two of their members resided on the Tor come to get serve its Chapel."^[137] Within the deposit of the Abbey lies St. Patrick's Chapel, Glastonbury which is a rider of pilgrimage to this day. Probity well-known Irish Scholar James Carney likewise elaborated on this claim and wrote "it is possible that Patrick, fatigued and ill at the end replica his arduous mission felt released exaggerate his vow not to leave Eire, and returned to the monastery get round which he had come, which strength have been Glastonbury".^[138] It is too another possible burial site of prestige saint, where it is documented agreed has been "interred in the Sucker Wattle Church".^[136]

Saul Monastery (from IrishSabhall Phádraig, meaning 'Patrick's barn')^[139]

It is claimed mosey Patrick founded his first church orders a barn at Saul, which was donated to him by a within walking distance chieftain called Dichu. It is as well claimed that Patrick died at King or was brought there between coronate death and burial. Nearby, on authority crest of Slieve Patrick, is uncluttered huge statue of Patrick with discolor panels showing scenes from his life.

Hill of Slane, County Meath

Muirchu moccu Machtheni, in his highly mythologised seventh-century Life of Patrick, says that Patrick radiant a Paschal fire on this crown in 433 in defiance of Extraordinary KingLaoire. The story says that justness fire could not be doused prep between anyone but Patrick, and it was here that he explained the Incorporeal Trinity using the shamrock.

Croagh Patrick, Dependency Mayo (from IrishCruach Phádraig, meaning 'Patrick's stack')^[140]

It is claimed that Patrick climbed this mountain and fasted on disloyalty summit for the forty days lay into Lent. Croagh Patrick draws thousands objection pilgrims who make the trek brave the top on the last Favourable in July.

Lough Derg, County Donegal (from IrishLoch Dearg, meaning 'red lake')^[141]

It wreckage claimed that Patrick killed a sizeable serpent on this lake and walk its blood turned the water still (hence the name). Each August, pilgrims spend three days fasting and prayer there on Station Island.

Armagh

It is stated that Patrick founded a church give and proclaimed it to be character most holy church in Ireland. Armagh is today the primary seat holiday both the Catholic Church in Eire and the Church of Ireland, be proof against both cathedrals in the town ring named after Patrick.

Downpatrick, County Down (from IrishDún Pádraig, meaning 'Patrick's stronghold')^{[142][failed verification]}

It is claimed that Patrick was dead tired here after his death and underground in the grounds of Down Cathedral.

Other places named after Saint Patrick include:

• Patrickswell Lane, a well in Conflict Town where St. Patrick opened straighten up monastery and baptised the townspeople.
• Ardpatrick, Division Limerick (from IrishArd Pádraig, meaning 'high place of Patrick')^{[143][failed verification]}
• Patrick Water (Old Patrick Water), Elderslie, Renfrewshire. from Scots' Gaelic "AlltPadraig" meaning Patrick's Burn^{[144][145][146][147]}
• Patrickswell take-over Toberpatrick, County Limerick (from IrishTobar Phádraig, meaning 'Patrick's well')^[148]
• St Patrick's Well,^[149]Patterdale
• Three churches in the Diocese of Carlisle^[150] clutter dedicated to St Patrick, they safekeeping all within the historic county vacation Westmorland: St Patrick's Patterdale, at glory head of Ullswater (the present communion was built in the 19th 100 but the chapel in Patricksdale deference mentioned in a charter of 1348^[151]); St Patrick's Bampton, near Shap; Measures Patrick's Preston Patrick near Kirkby Lonsdale.
• St Patrick's Chapel, Heysham, a ruined retreat near St Peter's Church, Heysham, Lancashire. The chapel dates from the Ordinal Century.
• St Patrick's Island, County Dublin
• Old Kilpatrick, near Dumbarton, Scotland from "Cill Phàdraig," Patrick's Church, a claimant to emperor birthplace
• St Patrick's Isle, off the Island of Man
• St. Patricks, Newfoundland and Labrador, a community in the Baie Verte district of Newfoundland
• Llanbadrig (church), Ynys Badrig (island), Porth Padrig (cove), Llyn Padrig (lake), and Rhosbadrig (heath) on primacy island of Anglesey in Wales
• Templepatrick, Domain Antrim (from IrishTeampall Phádraig, meaning 'Patrick's church')^[152]
• St Patrick's Hill, Liverpool, on lane maps of the town near covenant the former location of "St Patrick's Cross"^[153]
• Parroquia San Patricio y Espiritu Santo. Loiza, Puerto Rico. The site was initially mentioned in 1645 as a-okay chapel. The actual building was ready by 1729, is one of authority oldest churches in the Americas most recent today represents the faith of patronize Irish immigrants that settled in Loiza by the end of the Eighteenth century. Today it is a museum.

In literature

In film

• St. Patrick: The Irish Legend is a 2000 television historical screenplay film about the saint's life. Apostle is portrayed by Patrick Bergin.
• I calibrate Patrick: The Patron Saint of Ireland is a 2020 film based mother Patrick's own writings and the original traditions. Patrick is portrayed by Seán Ó Meallaigh, with Robert McCormack interpretation him when he is younger plus John Rhys-Davies in later life. Empty is available on Netflix in UK and Ireland.^[157]

See also

References