Celebrating Saint Patrick
As we approach the traditional feast day of Ireland’s patron Saint, Patrick, on March 17, it is interesting to note that in 2008 the religious celebration of it was moved by the Church to Saturday, March 15 to avoid a conflict with the start of Holy Week. Arguably one of the most famous saints (along with probably Saint Nicholas and Saint Valentine), Saint Patrick’s Day is celebrated worldwide in both religious and secular fashion. Even though Patrick is the patron saint of Ireland, the first public celebration of his feast day was actually organized by the Charitable Irish Society in Boston and held in 1737. Today, celebration of the day has turned into a week long affair in Dublin with parades, parties, dancing and much more. Indeed, most of the world has embraced the day and added to it in their own special way. Nevertheless, it remains the quintessential Irish day of celebration by the Irish, Ireland’s diaspora and the Irish for a day.
Add comment March 16th, 2008
