Saint Patrick was born in present-day Britain, but at age 14, was captured by Irish pirates and taken to Ireland as a slave. At the time, Ireland was a land of Druids and pagans. He escaped captivity at age 20 and returned to Britain. A few years later, after visions from God, he studied for the priesthood and eventually became bishop where he took on the mission of bringing the Gospel to Ireland. Legend has it that he met with the chieftan of the druids who tried to kill him, but through God’s intervention, was able to convert him. He then set off and converted thousands and built many churches. He used the shamrock to explain the trinity. He converted all of Ireland in 40 years. Another legend attributed Patrick to banishing all snakes out of Ireland. Many celebrate St. Patrick’s Day annually.
