Overview

St. Patrick’s Day is celebrated on March 17, and is widely recognized around the globe. It was originally commemorated in Ireland by having religious services and feasts to honor St. Patrick, one of Ireland’s Patron Saints. It celebrates the arrival of Christianity in Ireland, as well as the culture and heritage of the Emerald Isle. While the symbols and celebration practices have evolved over time, the holiday remains a popular way to honor Ireland and in turn Christianity.

Origins

St. Patrick’s Day originated from St. Patrick, a former Irish slave and saint. He was born during the late 4th century in Roman, Britain and was captured and sold into slavery in Ireland at age 16. He was eventually able to escape; however, he returned to Ireland in 432 CE to introduce Christianity to the Irish people. Prior to his death on March 17, 461, St. Patrick was able to establish churches, schools, and monasteries in Ireland. His death date marks what is now St Patrick’s Day. Along with the religious contributions he made, many legends were born surrounding him. Some of these legends include that he took snakes out of Ireland, and he used the shamrock (three-leaf clover), to explain the Holy Trinity. 

Modern Practices

While St. Patrick’s Day used to be considered a holy day of obligation, throughout the years the holiday evolved into a celebration of Irish heritage. Specifically, Irish immigrants are responsible for the transition to a more secular holiday, with a focus on Irish culture as opposed to Christianity. What used to be religious services and feasts, turned into parades, parties, and extreme celebrations of all things Irish. Some current symbols of St. Patrick’s Day includes clovers, leprechauns, rainbows, gold, etc.

Conclusion

To end, St. Patrick’s Day began as a Christian Holiday and eventually transformed into a commemoration for Irish traditions and heritage.