St. Patrick's Day

Soldiers Magazine, March, 2004 by Beth Reece

GREEN beer and leprechauns have become American symbols of Saint Patrick's Day. But the real cause for celebration is the patron saint of Ireland, Bishop Patrick, who introduced Christianity to Ireland.

Born in Wales, St. Patrick was taken prisoner by Irish raiders and held captive for six years. Religion became his source of comfort, so St. Patrick joined the St. Germain Monastery after escaping from slavery. He later founded churches, schools and monasteries throughout Ireland.

The first St. Patrick's Day Parade took place not in Ireland, but in New York, and participants have marched down Fifth Ave. every year since 1762.

For a list of 2004 St. Patrick's Day parades check out www.saintpatricksdayparade.com.