Confession and other writings

A zealous evangelist of Ireland, Saint Patrick bequeathed the iconic symbol of the shamrock to the country, wishing through it to explain the concept of the Trinity. This speaks to his influence on Ireland, of which he would naturally become the patron saint. Patrick was of British origin. He was kidnapped by pirates and sold into slavery at the age of 16. Little religious before his abduction, he managed to escape thanks to a divine dream. This event marked a turning point in his life, and he would never cease to proclaim the greatness and love of God until the end of his days. He left behind only two writings. His Confessions—a spiritual autobiography in which he gives an account of his activities as the first bishop of Ireland. This document is a true hymn of praise—and his Letter to Coroticus, a British chieftain by name, who had massacred and kidnapped several new converts. In it, the bishop excommunicates the Briton and invites him to repent and make amends.

ISBN: 9782916539799