Can St Patrick take his place among the Church Fathers?

Recognised and celebrated throughout the world, St Patrick is Ireland's most famous ambassador. Yet we know little to nothing about him, other than that he was no friend to snakes. His writings, long scoured for historical information on dates and places, prove elusive in that respect. However, argues a new book on the saint, this very focus on the historiography of the writings has led to their neglect as an insight into his inner life and spirituality. And that their rich spiritual and theological content, well-versed in patristic theology, merits Patrick's inclusion among that august group of theologians who established the intellectual and doctrinal foundations of the Church - the Church Fathers.

Aidan Larkin SSC, building on the work of Columban priests before him, opens up new perspectives and presents a complete re-evaluation of Patrick as a true Father of the Irish Church. Reproducing his Letter to Coroticus and the Confession in their entirety, he offers a wealth of patristic resonances. This reading of his letters affords insights into Patrick's values, his inspirations, his spiritual journey as well as his spiritual doctrine that links him to the Fathers. Here indeed is compelling argument for a reevaluation and recognition of Patrick's profound spiritual legacy.

Fr Aidan J Larkin SSC (1946-2019) was an SDLP representative for Mid Ulster, a barrister appointed to the legal service of the European Council and a Columban priest serving in Chile. He is the author of Saint Columbanus: Pilgrim for Christ (Cumann Seanchais Arc Mhaca, 2012).
The Spiritual Journey of Saint Patrick by Aidan J Larkin SSC and with a foreword by Archbishop Eamon Martin is published in Ireland and the UK by Messenger Publications. It is priced at €14.95/£12.95

For further information see: www.messenger.ie/product/the-spiritual-journey-of-st-patrick/