Saturday 17 March

ST PATRICK, BISHOP, MISSIONARY
PATRON OF AUCKLAND DIOCESE
Jeremiah 1:4-9; Psalm 106; (Acts 13:46-49); Luke 10:1-2, 17-20
Lord, even the devils submit to us when we use your name
The Church in New Zealand honours St Patrick because many Irish laity and clergy migrated and helped establish the Church here. Patrick was born c.387 in Roman Britain. He was 16 when kidnapped and shipped to Ireland to live in captivity as a shepherd. His time in captivity was one of prayer and conversion. Six years later, Patrick escaped to Britain. There he experienced God’s call to go to France and become a priest. Ordained Bishop, Patrick returned to Ireland to evangelise the people.
Lord, may today’s readings inspire me with the zeal of Patrick to share the Good News.
mm