As we come to March we think of the wearing of the green and St. Patrick. As we look at the flag of Ireland we see it is made of equal colors of Orange – Green – White.
Green represents Roman Catholics, the color of the Irish rebellion against British rule.
Orange represents Protestants and supporters of William the Conquerer; the Protestant King who defeated James 2nd in the colonies revelation of 1638.
White symbolizes the lasting peace between them. Most of us think about St. Patrick in March – his feast day being on the 17th.
St. Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland, was born in Roman Britian in the late 4th century, he was kidnapped at the age of 16 and taken to Ireland as a slave. He escaped but returned about 432 to convert the Irish community. By the time of his death on March 17, 461 he had established monastries, churches and schools.
Many legends grew around him – for example that he drove the snakes out of Ireland and used the shamrock to explain the Trinity. Ireland came to celebrate his day with religious services and feasts. St. Patrick was sure an example of blooming where you are planted.
Yet if any man suffer as a Christian, let him not be ashamed; but let him glory God on this behalf.” Peter 4 : 16 Agape, Rev. Tanner
