St Patrick's Day

St Patrick's Day had to be today’s blog. So you are going to celebrate, and watch the parades? But what do you know about St Patrick? Here are a few facts.

He was born in Britain and taken to Ireland when he was sixteen by Irish raiders who had kidnapped him. His father was a churchman so naturally he was acquainted and knowledgeable about the Christian Church. Although he left Ireland he returned in 432 AD intending to convert all to the Christian religion. And he was successful, but other missions were sent by Rome, and these were equally as good, and often more successful. But St Patrick was held in the highest esteem by the church. He died on the 18^th March 461 AD and was buried at Downpatrick in County Down, just south of Belfast. His resting place is believed to be in the grounds of the Cathedral.

St Patrick’s Day is now celebrated on the 17^th March all over the world wherever Irish people are. The first parade was in Boston on the 17^th March 1737, held by the Irish Society of Boston. The dominant colour of the festivities is now traditionally green, although originally it was blue. It was very welcome occurring as it did during lent, and it gave an opportunity for a party. It is traditional to consume alcohol on that day!

Why the traditional colour became green is uncertain, but it is commonly believed that this was because of the green shamrock. The shamrock? The shamrock is said to have been used by St Patrick to explain the Holy Trinity, and now the wearing of shamrock is another tradition. However the wearing of the shamrock was actually a more recent tradition and started in the late eighteenth century. The words ‘wearing of the green’ stems from an Irish street ballad sung on the streets during, and since, the Irish Rebellion of 1798. Shamrock would be worn, most noticeably fixed to the carbeen (hat), or anywhere on your clothing.

So now you know a little of St Patricks day, and today the celebration will be continued in the traditional manner. A lot of Irish Whisky and Guinness will be consumed. The fountain in front of the White House may turn green, as may some rivers, it will be:-

ST PATRICKS DAY

And in England a lot of Irish horses will win at Cheltenham Race Course this year, so if you’re a gambling man follow St Patrick and favour the Irish.