Today’s reading begins with an excerpt from The Life of St. Declan of Ardmore, an ancient saint’s life translated by Michael O’Clery early in the 17th century and republished by Charles Plummer in the 20th century. Today’s excerpt is found on pages 16 and 17 of Patrick: A Devotional History:
“‘St. Declan, who possessed the discretion of the serpent and the modesty of the dove, reached Ireland and began to sow the seed of life there…There were four most saintly bishops who were in Ireland with their disciples before Patrick, preaching there and converting many to Christ. They were Ailbe, Declan, Ibar, and Ciarán. And these drew many to Christ with the net of the Gospels, but nevertheless it was Saint Patrick who converted most (and the most important) of the people of Ireland to the faith; and in time he held the supreme archbishop’s see of Ireland…[These four] were not of one mind with Patrick, but differed—although in the end they all made their peace with him’
“As we will see, neither Patrick nor his contemporary Sechnall acknowledged any debt or deference to Rome. Pope Celestine had sent Palladius to Ireland early in the 5th century, but we have no record describing his ministry or its fruits.
“But it may be that his mission was more effective than is commonly reported. Various Lives from later in the period of the Celtic Revival (ca. 430-800) bear witness to faithful preachers in Ireland prior to Patrick’s arrival. Ailbe, Declan, Ibar, and Ciarán (of Saighir) worked diligently, sowing the seed of the Gospel and calling the Irish to repentance. They enjoyed a measure of success in their efforts. So it may well have been the case, once Patrick began his ministry, that they found reasons not to be ‘of one mind with Patrick’.
“However, as Patrick’s work unfolded among them, they saw the hand of God in it and readily submitted to his overall leadership.
“We will be considering the greatness of Patrick and the mighty ways God blessed his efforts. But we must not neglect to appreciate the good work of men like Ailbe, Declan, Ibar, and Ciarán, who ploughed the hard soil of Ireland and laid a solid foundation for Patrick to build upon in his ministry.”
For reflection or discussion
1. Who are the people who were instrumental in your coming to the Lord? Have you thanked them lately?
2. Who would you describe as co-workers with you in your calling as a disciple? Who helps you? With whom do you do Gospel work?
We do not do the work of the Kingdom alone. Teachers, soul friends, and co-workers in ministry are important for us to fulfill our calling. Let us not fail to give thanks for these friends, and to thank them often, for having a part with us in advancing the Kingdom of God. Share today’s podcast with a friend, then spend some time praying together about the work God has given you to do. Go to The Ailbe Bookstore and download the free PDF of Patrick: A Devotional History, and learn more about this great saint.
T. M. Moore
