Page 32 - History of Christianity - Student Textbook

Following his escape from Ireland, Patrick went to France where he joined the monastery at Lerins. In Lerins,
Patrick became a priest. Through this experience, Patrick became involved in the mission of the Church to
combat paganism in Great Britain. Patrick spent several years studying at Auxerre and eventually became a
bishop. During this long period of study, Patrick felt a strong calling to return to Ireland.

When Patrick arrived in Ireland, his mission seemed simple enough: Bring the Gospel to the people of Ireland.
Having been a slave in Ireland, he was familiar with the language and culture of the Irish. However, the primary
difficulty he faced was the opposition of the Druid priests. Contrary to what some believe, Patrick’s mission was
not entirely peaceful. As Morgan explains, "he was subject to frequent trials at the hands of the Druids. . .no
fewer than twelve times he and his companions were seized and carried off as captives, and on one occasion in
particular. . .his death was decreed".

Despite the clear opposition from the Druids, Patrick moved through Ireland preaching the good news to the
Irish, who for the first time were hearing it in their own language. He preached the Good News of redemption.
While Patrick continued to preach the gospel, the Druids continued to oppose him, until Patrick appeared before
the high king of Ireland, King Laoghaire. After disproving the Druids in the king’s court, many of the king’s
followers, including his brother, became Christians within the next few days. Legend says that it was here that
Patrick used the shamrock to teach the idea of the Holy Trinity.

Patrick did not stop here, though. Bolstered by his success at the king’s court, he continued to spread the
gospels throughout the provinces of Ulster, Munster, Meath, Leinster, planting churches. By the time of Patrick’s
death in 461 he converted almost the entire island to Christianity, and he also consecrated over 350 bishops.
Patrick made the gospel something that the Irish people were receptive to. Perhaps it was because he spoke of
it in their native tongue or because he disproved the Druids, whatever the case may be, Patrick brought
Christianity to Ireland in a way no one else had done before him.

In honor of him, St. Patrick’s feast is celebrated on March 17, the anniversary of his death, and it is an Irish
national holiday. (http: //www.thenagain.info/WebChron/WestEurope/StPatrick.html)

Someday in heaven, we will meet thousands of people who came to Christ because of the
faithfulness of Patrick. He was a true missionary. Notice how God prepared him to become a
missionary in Ireland? He was captured and made a slave for six years. During those difficult years,
Patrick learned the customs and language of the Celtics. It was because of his experiences in slavery
that God prepared him to evangelize these people.

Often God brings us through difficult times. God always has a purpose and plan. If you ever go
through such times, remember, God might be preparing you for an amazing ministry in the future.
While in the valley, learn what you can as God prepares you for His service!

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