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'''Saint Patrick''', known as the '''Apostle of Ireland''', is one of Christianity's most celebrated figures, credited with the conversion of Ireland to Christianity in the fifth century. Born in Roman Britain, he was kidnapped at the age of sixteen and taken as a slave to Ireland, where he eventually escaped but returned years later as a missionary. His mission was centered around teaching the Irish about Christianity, founding numerous churches, and ordaining clergy. Legends about Patrick include driving all the snakes from Ireland and using the shamrock to explain the Holy Trinity. His writings, including the "Confessio" and "Letter to Coroticus," provide some of the few firsthand accounts of life in that period. ==Biography== === Birth === Patrick was born around 385 AD in Roman Britain, though the exact location is debated, possibly near modern-day Carlisle or in Scotland. === Early Life === Originally named Maewyn Succat, he was captured by Irish raiders and spent six years in slavery before escaping back to Britain. === Occupation === After becoming a priest and later a bishop, his main occupation was missionary work in Ireland. === Vocation === Inspired by a vision, he returned to Ireland to spread Christianity, baptizing thousands, ordaining priests, and establishing monasteries. === Death === Patrick died on March 17, 461, in Saul, County Down, Ireland, where he had built his first church. ==Significant events== * His capture and enslavement in Ireland, followed by his escape and subsequent return as a missionary. * The use of the shamrock to explain the concept of the Trinity to the Irish. * Founding of the see at Armagh, which became the ecclesiastical capital of Ireland. == Death == He died peacefully, having significantly impacted the spread of Christianity in Ireland. ==Parishes== {{Saint parish map|Where=Saint Patrick|zoom=7|Saint=Saint Patrick}} ==Canonization== === Servant of God === His recognition as a saint was traditional, based on his missionary work and the miracles attributed to him. === Venerable === Not applicable; the title was formalized later. === Beatification === Not formally beatified; his sanctity was recognized through widespread veneration. === Canonization === Patrick was not formally canonized but is universally recognized as a saint due to his contributions to Christianity. ==Miracles== === Miracle for beatification === Not applicable; his recognition was traditional. === Miracle for canonization === Not applicable; however, his life was surrounded by legendary accounts: * Banishing snakes from Ireland - symbolic of eradicating paganism. * Using the shamrock to explain the Holy Trinity. === Other notable miracles === - Numerous legends of healings and conversions attributed to his intercession. ==Patronage== Patrick is the patron saint of Ireland, Nigeria, Montserrat, engineers, excluded people, and snake-catchers. ==Feast day== Saint Patrick's feast day is celebrated on March 17, known worldwide as St. Patrick's Day. ==Veneration== His veneration includes parades, festivals, and wearing green, especially in Irish communities worldwide. His relics are believed to be at Down Cathedral in Downpatrick, though their exact location is uncertain. ==Books== === Written about the saint === * Numerous biographies and historical accounts, including "The Life of Saint Patrick" by Muirchú moccu Machtheni. === Written by the saint === * "Confessio" - his autobiography. * "Letter to Coroticus" - condemning the slave trade and the murder of newly baptized Christians. ==External links== * [https://www.catholic.org/saints/saint.php?saint_id=89 Catholic Online - Saint Patrick] * [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saint_Patrick Wikipedia - Saint Patrick] * [https://www.britannica.com/biography/Saint-Patrick Britannica - Saint Patrick] ==References== {{Reflist}}