Happy St. Patty's Day!

Saint Patrick - Enlightener of Ireland

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Saint Patrick was an ascetic and missionary in the land of Ireland during the 3rd & 4th centuries.  His feastday is celebrated on March 17th, the day of his repose in the Lord.  While this day has been transformed into a modern secular holiday associated with Irish culture, such as green clothing and beer, as well as parades, it is important to remember Who the celebration should focus on - GOD!

St. Patrick traveled and endured much hostility as he preached the "good news" of the Christian Faith in the Irish land of pagans.  The life of St. Patrick can be found HERE.

St. Patrick is often depicted holding a shamrock.  He used the shamrock to illustrate the doctrine of the Holy Trinity. Its three leaves growing out of a single stem helped explain the concept of one God in three Persons.

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Rarely due we get to sing/hear the liturgical hymnography for St. Patrick in our Orthodox churches, but due to the Liturgy for the Pre-Sanctified Gifts last night, we certainly did.  It was a great reminder of those who have the zeal, humility, and desire to spread the Gospel to people who do not know the Risen Lord, such as the early Apostles and St. Patrick a few centuries later.

Orthodox Christian Fellowship (OCF) has set up a program for local chapters to spread the word about the "real" St. Patrick; find out more HERE.

Our Holy Father among the Saints, Patrick, pray unto God for us!

- A Day in the Life of the Youth Director