Top of the mornin to all of my parish families and friends,
Back in the 5th Century a young lad by the name of Patrick was kidnapped by Irish pirates and taken to Ireland. During his captivity, Patrick grew stronger in his faith. He eventually escaped and made his way home to Roman Britain.
One night he had a dream about a man name Victoricus, who came to him with a bundle of letters. One of the letters said: "We beg you, holy youth, to come and walk once more among us." It was then that Patrick realized that his mission was to return to the people of Ireland. After attending monasteries in France, Patrick was eventually ordained a priest and received permission to travel to Ireland.
He taught the pagan Irish about the Holy Trinity through the use of the shamrock. Through simplicity and love he introduced the Irish people to Christianity. Monasteries and churches were built throughout Ireland. Irish missionaries would eventually bring the faith to rest of the world. Christianity was on the move.
St. Patrick eventually became the patron saint of Ireland, our Archdiocese, and Nigeria. Please pray for Fr. David that he will soon return safely home to Red Hook.
Enjoy this St. Patrick's Day with a smile and cheer as I leave you with the following blessing:
May the road rise to meet you,
May the wind be always at you back,
May the sun shine warm upon your faces,
May the rains fall softly upon your fields,
And until we meet again
May God hold you softly in the palm of His hands.
Happy St. Patrick's Day everyone!
Fr. Pat