‹ The Bishops
Apostolic & Patristic · Saint
St Patrick of Ireland
Bishop of Armagh
MissionaryConfessor
c. 385 – c. 461
c. 432
Ordained
c. 432
Consecrated Bishop
Armagh
Diocese
Ireland
Country
The Life
Born c. 385 into a Romano-British Christian family, Patrick was seized by Irish raiders at about sixteen and enslaved in Ireland for six years, during which his faith deepened. After escaping he returned home, was ordained, and felt called back to evangelize the land of his captivity.
Returning as a bishop, he spent nearly forty years preaching across Ireland, baptizing thousands and establishing the Church there. Traditionally he founded his principal see at Armagh; he died c. 461 and is honored as the Apostle of Ireland.
Notable Actions
- Returned as a missionary bishop to Ireland (traditionally c. 432)
- Evangelized the Irish over roughly forty years, baptizing thousands and ordaining clergy
- Established his principal church and episcopal see at Armagh
- Introduced organized monastic and ecclesiastical life to Ireland
- Left the autobiographical 'Confessio' and the 'Letter to Coroticus'
I am Patrick, a sinner, most unlearned, the least of all the faithful, and utterly despised by many.
Confessio, opening linePortrait: Andreas F. Borchert / Wikimedia Commons