St. Patrick’s Day is coming soon. But most Protestants will just call it “Monday.” Such is disappointing as Patrick was a significant figure in missions history.
Since there is a wealth of misunderstanding about the man, I want to provide a brief post with some helpful resources to remove mystery and get closer to reality.
Here is a video I produced for my YouTube channel a few years ago that summarizes his biography, missionary motivations and methods in Ireland:
Video “Patrick: Man, Motives, Methods”
One of my early Strike the Match episodes was an interview with Ed Smither. As a missiologist, Ed provides an excellent perspective on Patrick:
Interview with mission historian, Ed Smither on Patrick
The only two known writings believed to have come from Patrick are Confession and Letter to Coroticus. Both of these are brief works and may be read quickly. There is no substitute for primary source material. Take time this month to add these free significant works to your reading list:
Pastors, do not just call it “Monday.” Rather, take this time and use the holiday to educate your church about missions and re-cast that Great Commission vision for the nations.