Turning that calendar page to March and enjoying those gorgeous days we had with it really encouraged me. Winter will end and spring is coming soon!
When I think of spring, I think of the color green because everything slowly becomes some shade of green as it comes back to life. And the color green makes me think of St. Patrick’s Day. Unfortunately, this day has been turned into a very secular celebration that many Christians often just ignore. But I would encourage you to read about St. Patrick, a missionary who was born in the late 4th century A.D. Kidnapped and enslaved at 16, he escaped, was converted, and went to Ireland to preach the Gospel to a people trapped in superstitions and sinful lifestyles. William Federer, and others, have written about the true story of this early missionary.
Saint Patrick: Pioneer Missionary to Ireland
by Michael J. McHugh
Over sixteen hundred years ago, God raised up a man named Patrick to take the gospel of Christ to the people of Ireland. Seldom in church history has any missionary been blessed with a more fruitful ministry. The preaching of Patrick was used by Almighty God to transform many of the Irish people from idol worshiping pagans into servants of the Lord Jesus Christ.
Known as the Emerald Island because it is so green, exploring Ireland itself fits right into the “green” theme. Beautiful Ireland has a turbulent past due to internal and external conflicts. Over 30,000 castles and ruins, works of art in themselves, dot the green countryside and other breathtaking places. A book about Ireland can be fascinating. To really learn about the country as a family, plan a pretend trip using maps and travel books. You will read all about little villages, lodgings, foods, natural wonders, and so much more. Maybe someday that trip will become a reality!
Emerald Isle Adventures
by Robert Plant
Many people have lived there and still, more have left as the real story of Ireland features tragedy as well as triumph. Read about one of the world’s most famous wrecks, the Titanic. Find out about the famines and fighting that have blighted this jewel of an island. It is a homeland that has been divided by man but one that has a lot to teach us about the power and love of God.
Difficult times in Ireland caused many Irish people to relocate to America. They settled in large numbers in New York City and Boston. Hardworking and determined, the Irish people have played a major role in the United States as well. The history of Irish people making new lives in America will lead you down many interesting reading paths. Their arrival grew large cities. Their plight as workers and residents of massive cities led to many developments in labor laws and in health and sanitation practices in large urban populations.
May one of these suggestions set you on a great path to explore. And I hope you are just as happy as I am to see the beginnings of spring.
Reading is Rewarding!
Katie
Want to plan your own adventure to Ireland? We found a free printable map of Ireland for you to create your itinerary on. And check out these fun travel videos on YouTube!
Request the following titles from the Family Vision Library here:
Saint Patrick: Pioneer Missionary to Ireland by Michael J. McHugh
Emerald Isle Adventures by Robert Plant
Not a member of the library? Subscribe online to have books shipped directly to you!
Want to become a local patron? Visit the library to sign-up for free!
As a devout Catholic, I hate seeing this great Saint reduced to either the silliness of leprechauns or the drunkenness of the many parades and events in his name. His life is inspiring to all of us Christians, if we can block all of that out. Thank you for shining a spotlight on his real life and accomplishments! God bless!!
Thank you, Carrie! We are glad to shine a light on the truth and history of the holiday.