The Writings of Patrick (12)

Thus many Irish sons and daughters, yes,
and even royal children – thousands bless
the name of Jesus. Many have become
obedient to the Lord, receiving from
Him mercy to become pure virgins and
blessed monks of Jesus Christ. So understand,
it is His faithfulness these many years,
enabling us to overcome our fears
and hardships, that has brought this harvest to
the Lord of glory.

                              Let one instance do
for now: There was an Irish woman who
was of nobility, both lovely to
behold, and most mature, whom I baptized.
She came to us thereafter and apprised
us that she had received a message from
an angel of the Lord, and he had come
to call her to become a virgin of
the Lord, to know and serve Him in His love,
according to this ministry. Thanks be
to God! Just six days after this and she,
in a most excellent and eager way,
embraced this way of life which all obey
who are the virgins of the Lord. This life
they undertake with suffering and with strife,
especially from their parents who do not
believe. For accusations false are brought
against them, and harassment sore, because
they give themselves unto the virgins’ laws
against their fathers’ will. But nonetheless,
their numbers grow, and God is pleased to bless
the British women here among us, too,
as well as many of the widows who
take vows of chastity. But those who slaves
among the pagans are, and whom God saves,
endure the most, for constant fears beset
them, and they suffer from continual threats
from fellow slaves and masters. But the Lord
has given grace that they might walk before
Him bravely, imitating Him in spite
of many prohibitions.

                                  In the light
of this, I could not go to Britain now
to offer my defense, explaining how
the Lord has used my work, and answering those
who criticize me, even if I chose
to go, or if I wished to leave these sheep
(although, within my heart of hearts, I weep
to see my homeland and my kin, and would
go even unto Gaul to see the good
work God has done there, and the brethren greet –
the Lord knows such a journey would be sweet
to me.) But I am by the Spirit bound,
that if I leave this work, I will be found
a guilty servant on that day. And so
I fear this work would suffer should I go
to Britain now. And not just I, but He
Who has commanded me to come and be
among this people for the rest of all
my days: I pray that He Who gave this call
to me will guard me from all evil, so
that I may not against His counsel know
transgression.

For more about Patrick and the impact of his ministry, order a copy of The Legacy of Patrick, by T. M. Moore from our online store.