We are in the season of LENT, which we know is a Christian season of reflection and repentance. And, we are about to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day! There is a beautiful, historical, Christian meaning behind this holiday as well, one that is often overlooked as we wear green and host parties. Saint Patrick’s Day is celebrated every year on March 17 and honors Saint Patrick and his faithfulness.

As we teach our children, we too can focus on the history and the beautiful story of a man named Patrick, a man born into the Christian Roman Empire, but known for his spreading of the Gospel throughout Ireland.

Saint Patrick (about 402 – March 17, 491) is known as the patron saint of Ireland. He was born to a Christian family in a village in the Roman Empire. When Patrick was about sixteen years old, he was captured by Irish pirates who took him from his home. Then they sold him as a slave in Ireland. Patrick lived in Ireland for six years. During this time, he learned the local language and worked as a shephard. He spent a lot of time praying and grew closer to God.

After six years, Patrick heard a voice. It told him he would soon go home. The voice also said his ship was ready. He ran away from his master. He traveled two hundred miles to a port where he found a ship. After many adventures, he finally returned home when he was in his twenties.

After returning home, Patrick became a church leader. He then went back to Ireland as a missionary! Because he knew the Irish language, he could easily talk to the people. Patrick brought Christianity to Ireland. He helped many pagans become Christians! (KidsKiddle.co/StPatrick).

How does the shamrock fit into this story of the Good News?

The Legend of Saint Patrick and the Shamrock (Saint Patrick by Tomie de Paola): “When St. Patrick was preaching about the Holy Trinity, the people could not understand that there was one God in three Divine Persons: the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Patrick looked down, and growing at his feet was a shamrock. He picked it up, showing that there was one stem but three leaves. The people understood the Holy Trinity at once.‘

I found a sweet book to share with the grands about who Saint Patrick was and why we celebrate this holiday. Let’s be honest, many of us adults don’t know the real story either, right? If we want to BOOK TIME WITH YOUR KIDS and learn a bit of relevant history ourselves, I suggest Saint Patrick by Tomie de Paolo. Again, let’s teach the Biblical perspective and not just the worldly one that so often prevails. This holiday is grounded in the Gospel, and it’s honoree is a man who was an amazing example for us and our precious littles.

Famous quotes from Saint Patrick:

• “If I have any worth, it is to live my life for God.”
• “But I fear nothing, because of the promises of heaven.”

Thanks for reading! Please share and subscribe for ideas of how we can BOOK TIME WITH OUR KIDS!