The Early Celtic Church

The heroic figure St. Patrick, the father of Irish Christianity, has been associated with so much legend and fiction that one is almost led to believe that there were two individuals—the real Patrick and the fictitious Patrick. It may be surprising to know that the actual Patrick was not a Catholic saint. In fact, he was not Catholic at all but belonged to the Church in the Wilderness.

Patrick belonged to the Celtic race, which includes the British, Scottish, and Irish. The vivacity of the Celtic temperament is equaled by noble courage under danger and a deep love for learning. The Celts also possess a religious fervor making them devoted to their faith. Patrick was no exception.

At the age of 16, Patrick was carried captive to Ireland. He was not converted at this time but was to learn obedience through suffering. Here he surrendered his life to God and