Captured by Irish Pirates

"May the sun always shine on your windowpane;

May a rainbow be certain to follow each rain;

May the hand of a friend always be near you;

May God fill your heart with gladness to cheer you."

Irish Blessing

Saint Patrick is the patron saint of Ireland.  His earlier life was spent in Great Britain until the age of 16 when he was captured by Irish pirates.  His time in captivation had been a highly spiritual experience. After six years, he escaped and made a lengthy return to his family.   After becoming a cleric, he returned to Ireland where he spent  years as a missionary, and later became the first bishop of Armagh.  March 17th is the date of his death.  He is the patron saint of Ireland.

St Patrick taught about the Holy Trinity using a shamrock which has three petals. This is how it became the symbol for St Patrick's Day.  He also used the shamrock to illustrate the  Christian teaching of three persons in one God.

The shamrock was seen as sacred in pre-christian days in Ireland.  With its green color and overall shape, it is viewed as representing rebirth and eternal life.  Three was a sacred number in the pagan religion and there were a number of Triple Goddesses in ancient Ireland.

As the case with most historical figures, much of St Patrick's life is undocumented and often confused with other Irish figures.  There are at least three theories about his life and some speculation in reference to accepting expensive gifts from government officials.

There was no reference to the origin of green beer.  I will let you research that on your own! I do value many Irish blessings and I extend them to all of you!