Born at the end of the fourth century: died in the mid-fifth century. Founder and first bishop of the Catholic Church in Ireland.

Much of the biographical information about St. Patrick is legend. The historical existence of Patrick himself has been repeatedly disputed. According to information contained in works ascribed to him, Patrick was born in Britain, ordained in Gaul, and began to preach Christianity in Ireland in the 430’s. He was canonized by the Catholic Church (March 17 is St. Patrick’s Day). He is considered Ireland’s apostle and patron saint, and St. Patrick’s Day is a national holiday in Ireland.