The month of March signals the coming of Spring, the Ides of March and of course, St. Patrick’s Day. The festivities in the United States on March 17th often include parades, corned beef & cabbage, green beer & shamrocks. Yet, there is so much more to this 4th century missionary who we celebrate. St. Patrick was born in the-not -yet-Great-Britain, kidnapped as a teenager and enslaved in Ireland. I doubt he was served green beer during his captivity.
After years of hardship, he escaped, only to return later as a missionary, spreading Christianity throughout the land. His story is one of resilience, faith, and transformation, showing how adversity can shape a person’s purpose in unexpected ways.
Spiritual awakening, selfless service, peace, forgiveness and purpose burst into the landscape of the life of St. Patrick. Imagine this transformation AFTER being held in captivity and enslaved. How did he move forward from utter despair to a life of service and love?
The invitation is to reflect on that question while you toast the Irish with a glass of green beer.
