Saint Patrick
The patron saint of Ireland, remembered for missionary courage, endurance, and evangelization.
- Feast day: March 17
- Life and era: 5th century; Britain and Ireland
- Role in the Church: Missionary bishop and evangelizer
- Common titles: Patron saint of Ireland, Missionary bishop, National apostle of Ireland
- Often asked for: mission, courage, endurance
When is Saint Patrick's feast day?
Saint Patrick's feast day is March 17.
For a broader explanation of how feast days work in Catholic life, read the feast day guide.
Biography and witness
Patrick was born in Britain, captured by raiders, and enslaved in Ireland as a young man. After escaping and returning home, he eventually went back to Ireland as a missionary bishop. Tradition remembers him for preaching the gospel in Ireland with endurance, courage, and pastoral zeal.
Why Catholics remember Saint Patrick
Saint Patrick is known for missionary courage and persevering faith after hardship.
What is Saint Patrick the patron saint of?
Saint Patrick is often associated with mission, courage, endurance.
Why people ask for the intercession of Saint Patrick
People turn to Saint Patrick when they need spiritual resilience and courage to stay faithful in difficult surroundings.
Common situations
- renewing faith after hardship
- needing courage in witness
- staying faithful in hostile settings
Short prayer
Saint Patrick, pray for me when I need strength to stay faithful and courage to witness clearly.