Form: 3D By: Ed

Ireland Downpatrick County Antrim Croagh Patrick

St Patrick really existed Born in Britain (probably in Wales) in 5th century AD His father, Calpornius, was a Roman official St Patrick was originally a pagan, not a Christian Taken to Ireland as a slave at age 16 Escaped after 6 years Became a Christian priest, and later a Bishop Returned to Ireland as a missionary Played a major part in converting the Irish to Christianity Facts in Brief

Born in 387 AD at Banwen in Wales. His original name was Maewyn Succat, he became Patrick when he became a bishop. Studied in France at the monastery of St Martin's in Tours. Went to Ireland in 432 AD. Died in 461 AD. Taught by Saint Germaine Doubtful Extra Facts

Patrick’s family lived near the village of Bannavem Taburniae. Although his father was a deacon, Patrick was not a believer; "I did not, indeed, know the true God". The Life of Saint Patrick

Enslaved by Pirates °In his teens, Patrick was captured by a gang of Irish pirates and taken as a slave to Ireland. Patrick came to believe that this was a punishment for his lack of faith. °He was put to work for six years herding sheep and pigs on Slemish mountain in County Antrim. ° While he was a shepherd, Patrick spent much of his time praying.

He escaped after six years He stowed away on a boat bound for Britain, which landed near to his parent’s home. He followed his vocation and became a priest and after a dream was inspired to return to Ireland. Escape

Return to Ireland He returned to Ireland as a Missionary. He became the country’s second bishop. He brought the message to many who had never heard it. As a missionary Patrick baptised many thousands of people.

Return to Ireland It was not easy! Patrick was in great risk. He was sometimes imprisoned by local pagan chiefs. At points he was desperate to return home, but he knew his duty and remained in Ireland

Patrick’s Education He understood Latin and English. As a priest he also had to be able to speak and understand Irish. Patrick’s Mission Patrick believed that when every nation had heard the Gospel, Christ would return. He believed this to be the final step in God’s plan.

The Truth St. Patrick was Irish? No he was British St. Patrick was Irish? No he was British St. Patrick brought Christianity to Ireland? Probably not, there’s good evidence that there were believers in the country before-hand. St. Patrick brought Christianity to Ireland? Probably not, there’s good evidence that there were believers in the country before-hand. St. Patrick drove the snakes out of Ireland? No, he didn’t, there was no evidence of snakes two centuries before his arrival.

St. Patrick’s Legacy St. Patrick’s day 2000, there was a pilgrimage from Saul Church, where he reputedly built his first church, to Downpatrick's magnificent Church of Ireland Cathedral. There are also many Holy Wells associated with St. Patrick. People go there to make wishes for good health or to pray for cures for diseases.

Skellig Isles

Situated 8 miles off the western coast of Ireland. Originally called Sceilig Mhichíl It's monastic remains have been declared a World Heritage Site It ranks with the likes of the Pyramids, the Great Wall of China. Skellig Isles

Croagh Patrick One of the great pilgrimages in honour of St. Patrick. Croagh Patrick is a mountain overlooking Clew Bay in County Mayo. On March 17th, up to 40,000 people climb it. Many walk barefoot! It is also known as “The Reek.” 2,150 feet high.

The tradition stretches back over 5,000 years from the stone age. On the summit, St. Patrick fasted for 40 days in 441 AD. Individuals and groups come from all over the world. Participants include, pilgrims, hill climbers, historians, archaeologists and nature lovers. Croagh Patrick

St. Patrick’s Legacy There are three good-luck traditions associated with St. Patrick's Day: Finding a four leaf clover, Druids believed that they helped them to spot witches. Wearing Green, it represents the shamrock and the spring. Kissing the Blarney stone, brings the “kisser” persuasive eloquence. (Blarney)

St. Patrick’s day in America St. Patrick's Day is traditionally a religious holiday in Ireland, but in America, it has become a day of fun and celebration. Over 100 U.S. cities now hold Saint Patrick's Day parades