Peaceful Revolutionary, Enduring Symbol: St. Patrick's Life & Powerful Legacy Today

Presenter: Mary C. Kelly

Marking the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence allows us to reflect on the imprint of historical actors and events in our lives today. Why do we look to the past to inform our sense of ourselves, our communities, and our identities? How does commemoration of historical events exert meaning in our lives? Explore themes of faith, freedom, and revolutionary change through St Patrick's life and legacy. Travel historical pathways from Ancient Ireland to today's exuberant annual holiday--when "everyone is Irish" for a day. Experience 5th century Latin, Roman and Irish images and texts that reveal Early Christian Irish worlds of slavery and mysticism, Patrick's transformational revolution in faith, his journey to sainthood and then to national symbol, and the colorful legacy he is associated with today. If you have Irish roots, or just enjoy the festivities on March 17th, this presentation will transport you from Ancient Irish foundations to modern American remembrance forms, and illuminate why St. Patrick's name has endured for more than a millennium and a half.