Equal-to-the-Apostles Patrick of Ireland

CATEGORY NOTE: the ROC Synodal decision of March 9, 2017 (Journal No. 14) itself styles the saint "hierarch" and "Enlightener of Ireland," not formally "Equal-to-the-Apostles." However, in Western Orthodox and diaspora iconographic tradition (including ROCOR) — which exactly matches the "Equal-to-the-Apostles" inscription on one of the icons on file — he is widely venerated precisely under that title; the category is kept in line with the iconography.

Saint Patrick of Ireland, apostle and enlightener of Ireland, was born around 385–390 in Roman Britain (traditionally at a place called Bannavem Taberniae) to Calpurnius, a deacon. At around sixteen he was captured by Irish raiders and spent six years enslaved as a herdsman, during which he developed a deep personal faith and a habit of constant prayer.

After escaping by ship to Britain and receiving religious training in Gaul, he was ordained bishop and, obedient to a vision in which the Irish called him back, returned to Ireland around 432 to preach the Gospel. Over decades of missionary work he baptized thousands of Irish, including members of royal families, founded numerous churches and monasteries, ordained local clergy, and converted the pagan island largely through peaceful means.

He left behind an autobiographical "Confession" and a "Letter to the Soldiers of Coroticus." He died at Saul (modern Downpatrick) in 461 (some annals give 493). By decision of the Holy Synod of the Russian Orthodox Church on March 9, 2017 (Journal No. 14), Patrick — who lived before the schism between East and West — was added to the general church calendar with a commemoration of March 17/30.