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Patrick (ST or PATRICIUS the apostle)

ST., or PATRICIUS, the apostle or patron saint of Ireland; said to have been born near the site of Kilpatrick, Scotland. His zeal prompted him to cross the channel for the conversion of the pagan Irish, probably between 440-460. His endeavors were crowned. with great success, and he established there a number of schools and monasteries. Nennius states that his missions continued 40 years and various miracles are attributed to him, particularly the expulsion of all venomous creatures from Ireland. The order of St. Patrick, the third in rank of British orders, was instituted in 1783.