Call number
Status
Call number
Pages
Description
The autobiography of one of the most popular saints in history, now available in a new translation. Beyond being recognized as the patron saint of Ireland (perhaps for having chased some nonexistent snakes off the Emerald Isle), little else is popularly known about Saint Patrick.And yet, Patrick left behind a unique document, his Confession, which tells us much about both his life and his beliefs.This autobiography, originally written in the fifth century, and short by modern standards, is nonetheless a work that fascinates with its glimpse into the life of an intriguing man, and inspires with its testament of faith.Here, in this new edition from internationally acclaimed translator John Skinner, the character of Patrick, his era, and his world vividly come to life. Also included in this volume is the only other document known to have been written by Patrick, a letter he wrote to the soldiers of Coroticus--also Christians--who had raided parts of Ireland and taken away prisoners who were then sold into slavery.This letter is a wonderful demonstration of Patrick's rhetorical fire.Quite irate, Patrick harangues his fellow Christians, and the results are every bit as autobiographically revealing as the Confession. John O'Donohue, author of Anam Cara, provides an insightful foreword that re-creates the unique spirituality of Patrick and of the Irish people, and shows how it applies to our lives today.… (more)
Publication
ISBN
User reviews
Patrick's spiritual journey and insights are both fascinating and challenging, and the information he gives on the governing and ecclesiastical authorities in post-roman
The Confession also shows that Christianity was well established in the 5th century, and that British Chrisitians of the period had far more than just a crude and rudimentary grasp of Christianity.
Quite to the contrary, the British clergy had a good knowledge of theology and the Bible, as well as connections with the continent.
Thier 'problem' was that many of them did not like the idea of sharing Christianity to 'barbarians' outside the Empire, and so did not support Patrick's missionary efforts.
If you want to know about British Christianity before Augustine this book is a must-read.