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Friday, March 16, 2012

Saint Patrick's Day - Historical Facts

Saint Patrick’s Day is a holiday that is celebrated annually on March 17th. This day represents the death of Saint Patrick in 493 CE. Saint Patrick’s significance was in his bringing Catholicism to Ireland.

Saint Patrick’s Day is celebrated every year by the Roman Catholic Church as a “holy day of obligation.” It is also commemorated by the Church of Ireland and on this day, Lenten fasts are broken.

Symbolism from Saint Patrick that is inherent in the holiday is of widespread recognition in the Irish culture. For example, the shamrock is symbolic of the three leaves that Saint Patrick used to describe the holy trinity of Catholicism to the Irish people.

Today, the Irish celebrate Saint Patrick’s Day in the form of festivals and parades where people arrived decked out in the traditional green attire. Corned beef and Guinness beer serve as popular fare for patrons taking part in the celebration!

As an inspiration from this well reknowned holiday, below is an Irish blessing to brighten your day!

May you always have walls for the winds,
a roof for the rain, tea beside the fire,
laughter to cheer you,
those you love near you,
and all your heart might desire.

For more information on this the history of St. Patrick's Day, visit this link.

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