The Roman Catholic Church will commemorate on March 17, the Feast of Saint Patrick (San Patricio), the well-loved patron saint of Ireland, and one of the most popular saints of the Catholic faith.
Special masses are traditionally held in his honor on his feast day in many parts of the world including the Philippines.
Known as the Apostle of Ireland, he converted all of Ireland to Christianity in a span of four decades. St. Patrick’s Day in Ireland is observed as a public holiday. It is celebrated both as a cultural and religious event to commemorate the arrival of Christianity in Ireland.
Regarded as one of the earliest Christian missionaries, St. Patrick was born in Scotland in the year 387. He grew up to be a humble, pious, and deeply religious man. After Pope Celestine I ordained him bishop in 432, he was sent to Ireland the following year, where he worked miracles, preached, built churches, and converted thousands to the faith. The Church said, “St. Patrick converted all of Ireland in a span of 40 years.”
Also known for his spiritual writings, he wrote about his deep faith and love for God in “Confessions.” St. Patrick died in 461 and has been venerated in many parts of the world since the 9th century.