IMO, “ridiculous” goes at least a step too far. I would recommend “How the Irish Saved Civilization” as required reading to gain a greater understanding of the importance of St. Patrick not only to the isle of Ireland but to the European continent and Western civilization as a whole.
St. Patrick is credited by many scholars as preserving the cultural and scholarly learning of Rome (read: Western civilization) in Irish monasteries during the Dark Ages. Those monks and scholars who learned under St. Patrick then re-introduced this learning to the continent years later.
For the people and country with whom he is most closely associated (regardless of his Roman/Italian origin) to celebrate St. Patrick is far from ridiculous.
It is a fact, perhaps a sad fact depending on you perspective, that the current celebration of St. Patrick’s Day has little to no relation to his historical and religious importance and 99% of those out drinking have no concept of why he was important. I think it’s in-arguable that the bar crowds on St. Patrick’s Day are the height of disgusting drunkeness - and I’ve been there and done that.
Of course, the Christmas has also been co-opted by commercial interest, they just don’t happen to be the mega breweries.
Sorry everyone, didn’t mean to take the thread down such a serious road. Mr. Sr. you are a well informed man and I would hate to actually have to argue with you about something.
everyone who wished to, have a safe and happy st. paddies,
