St. Patricks Day is the patron saint and national apostle of Ireland. He is credited with bringing Christianity to Ireland and was probably responsible in part for the Christianization of the Picts and Anglo-Saxons. He is known only from two short works, the Confessio, his spiritual autobiography, and his Letter to Coroticus, a denunciation of British mistreatment of Irish Christians.

Born in Roman Britain in the late 4th century, he was kidnapped at the age of 16 and taken to Ireland as a slave. He escaped but returned about 432 CE to convert the Irish to Christianity. By the time of his death on March 17, 461, he had established monastries, churches, and schools. Many legends grew up around him—for example, that he drove the snakes out of Ireland and used the shamrock to explain the Trinity. Ireland came to celebrate his day with religious services and feasts.

In conclusion, we continue to celebrate Saint Patricks Day because we honor the patron saint of Ireland, to celebrate Irish culture, and to recognize Irish immigrants. St. Patrick’s Day is a way to celebrate Irish music, language, and heritage.