Saint Patrick (5th Century)

In the middle of the 5th century, a British teenager named Patrick was abducted and taken to Ireland where he was forced to labour for six years. In the distress of losing everything he held dear, Patrick encountered the love of Jesus, and found a reason to live as he awaited his chance for escape. 1500 years later, Patrick is still remembered for his sacrificial service to the very people who once held him in slavery, and his Christ-centred ‘Morning Prayer’ is regularly used to encourage Christians of all denominations around the world. We honour Patrick, Patron Saint of Ireland, and thank God for the courageous faith he inspires to love our enemies, and boldly step into shadowed places that need the liberation of Christ.

Andreas F. Borchert, CC BY-SA 3.0 DE, via Wikimedia Commons