Title: The Life of St. Patrick

Death: March 17, 461

Executive Summary:

St. Patrick is credited with bringing Christianity to Ireland and played a significant role in spreading the faith among the Picts and Anglo-Saxons. His story is known primarily through two key texts — the Confessio, a spiritual autobiography, and the Letter to Coroticus, a condemnation of British mistreatment of Irish Christians.

Key Provisions:

• Early Life and Captivity:

• St. Patrick was born in Britain to a Romanized family.
• At age 16, he was captured by Irish raiders and taken into slavery in Ireland.
• He spent six years as a herdsman, during which he developed a deep faith.
• He eventually escaped after dreaming that a ship was ready for him to leave.

• Missionary Work in Ireland:

• After returning to Britain, Patrick experienced a dream in which the Irish people called him back to Ireland.
• Despite initial reluctance and self-doubt, Patrick eventually returned to Ireland to spread Christianity.
• Patrick traveled extensively across Ireland, baptizing and confirming converts with relentless dedication.
• His work involved significant personal risk. On at least one occasion, Patrick was imprisoned. On another, he wrote a heartfelt farewell to his followers who had been killed or captured by Coroticus's soldiers.

• Writings and Spiritual Legacy:

• Patrick’s most well-known writings are the Confessio, his spiritual autobiography, and the Letter to Coroticus, a stern condemnation of British mistreatment of Irish Christians.
• In the Confessio, Patrick reflects on his spiritual journey, his struggles, and his gratitude for being chosen as God’s servant.
• The Letter to Coroticus reflects Patrick's strong moral conviction, as he denounces the violence inflicted on his Irish converts.