You’re probably wearing a bit of green today as you prepare your favorite recipe of corned beef and cabbage. After all, it’s Saint Patrick’s Day and traditions, and parades, and festivities abound. Historically, Saint Patrick’s Day was celebrated during the Lenten season which prohibited the use of alcohol or eating meat. The rules were waived for the Saint Patrick’s Day celebrations however, which made for merry festivities throughout the land.
Saint Patrick’s Day was first adopted in the United States in 1601, and it has become one of the most celebrated national holidays around the world. Many countries commemorate the life and service of the 5th century Christian missionary and Patron Saint of Ireland, Saint Patrick. Kidnapped at the age of 16, Saint Patrick became a slave. He was working as a shepherd when he received a message from God that a ship would take him home again. Patrick found the ship, went home, and became an evangelist, converting many people to the Christian faith. According to legend, He often used the three leaves of a shamrock to help explain the mystery of the Trinity.
Personally, I love that we celebrate people from all cultures and walks of life who helped to build America. Together, we’ve worked through incredible prejudice and misconceptions, learning to recognize the good that can come from getting to know people who challenge our thinking and encourage our growth. It’s wonderful to be proud of our heritage, rocky as it may be, because it reminds us that over time, we do become more of what God wants us to be…we become people who respect each other’s cultures, each other’s identities, and bless the world with all we achieve together. We are one nation under God and there can be nothing better than celebrating the gifts we each bring to the party.
So, put on your favorite green shirt, do a little Irish jig, and put a letter O in the front of your name. Today, you’re a little bit Irish and the world is better for it.
Blessings to you this Saint Patrick’s Day!