On several occasions today, I heard Saint Patrick referred to as the Apostle of Ireland. I could not help but pause and ponder. In my curriculum, I emphasize the importance and role of the twelve apostles. These men were chosen by Jesus and each one decided to follow Him. We know them by name.
In his Latin autobiography, Confessio, he describes the dream in which he heard the voice of the Irish people. He wrote: “They called out as it were with one voice: ‘We beg you, holy boy, to come and walk again among us’.” Soon after, St. Patrick returned to Ireland where he travelled far and wide baptising local people.
Land of Saints and Scholars.
First, let's look at the Spiritual GOATs. If this title is to be well deserved, the number of Irish saints must be viable.
The answer: According to The Hunt Museum, "There are 150 known Irish saints, and their lives are recorded in significant Irish manuscripts (Ganley, n.d.)." Indeed, Saint Patrick's work—establishing monasteries and converting the Irish to Christianity—laid the groundwork for Ireland’s reputation as a “Land of Saints”.
Ireland has a rich history of Christian missionaries and saints who played a crucial role in spreading Christianity throughout the country and beyond its shores. Ireland rose to prominence as a centre of learning and monasticism during the early medieval period, between the 5th and the 9th centuries.I once had a poster that profiled Irish authors. Given that context, I had to wonder if the term "scholar" was for the purpose of alliteration or is the academic impact notable. The Hunt Museum weighs in again.
From the early medieval period onwards, Ireland became known for its vibrant scholarship and learning. Monasteries and other religious institutions served as hubs of learning and scholarship, drawing academics from all over Europe. Irish monks and scholars were renowned for their commitment to learning, and during the Dark Ages when much of Europe saw a decline in education and literacy, they were instrumental in preserving and transmitting classical knowledge and manuscripts. Irish scholars also made significant contributions to various fields, including theology, philosophy, history, poetry, and law. Ireland earned the moniker “Island of Scholars” thanks to its intellectual prowess and scholarly endeavours.Thus, the combination of these two aspects—holiness associated with saints and intellectual pursuits associated with scholars—led to Ireland being fondly referred to as the “Island of Saints and Scholars.” It reflects the historical significance of Ireland as a place of both religious and academic excellence. This reputation has left a lasting impact on Ireland’s cultural heritage and continues to be celebrated and remembered to this day.
So What About Sportsmen and Sportswomen?
Before class, I took a mental inventory of great Irish athletes. While I have written about Conor McGregor before, I was disappointed that he was the first sportsman that came to mind. I know popular sports in Ireland include hurling, soccer, rugby and track and field. I recalled memories of watching Eamonn Coughlan compete in the 5000m; my Dad was always a fan. And then I realized, the Irish had found great success in golf. How could I possibly forget?!
From Darren Clarke to Padraig Harrington, Graeme McDowell to Shane Lowry—Irish impact on the game is impressive. In fact, on St. Patrick's own feast day, Rory McIlroy won the Players Championship in a three hole aggregate playoff over J.J. Spaun. No luck of the Irish necessary, Rory came out, sans green, completely locked in. In fact, McIlroy who won is 2019 and now in 2025 has joined Jack Nicklaus, Tiger Woods and Scottie Scheffler, as the only four golfers in history to win multiple majors and multiple Players Championships. At the age of 35, he is playing some of the best golf of his life. Congratulations Rory!
There is an entertaining list of athletes who are Irish American have found success in sports. It's amazing just how many people celebrate their Irish ancestry, near and far. Saint Patrick's day offers those of us who have Irish heritage and even those who don't—a day to recognize and celebrate the Irish people—their culture, values, impact, gifts and so much more. It's amazing that one man because of with faith in Christ was able to shape a nation to open its heart to love and serve God, and one another. Saint Patrick, Apostle of Ireland—Pray for us.