The Celtic Saints are of no lasting significance in the history of Christianity. Discuss how far this is true.
‘The Celtic Saints are of no lasting significance in the history of Christianity.’
Discuss how far this is true.
It is arguable that Celtic Christianity has not survived into the twenty first century and therefore neither have the saints, however we was also argue against this view. There is sufficient evidence to suggest both ways, however it is the strength of this evidence that is of most concern.
The Celtic saints are still celebrated today, the most prominent being the patron saint of Ireland, Saint Patrick. Christians of all denominations celebrate his life and impact upon Christianity on the 17th of March every year, Saint Patrick’s day. However our association with the saints does not end here, the symbol of Ireland is the shamrock, the item Saint Patrick is chronicled to have used in order to explain the trinity to the Irish people. The impact that Patrick had on Christianity in Ireland and throughout the rest of the Christian world is quite substantial, even if some of the reasons he is remembered, such as the miracle of driving all the snakes out of Ireland are debated upon scholars. Patrick is the most famous of the Celtic saints and the best remembered, however the others did leave their marks on the church as well. Saint David, Patron saint of Wales is also regarded a Celtic saint and is again a well-known figure head in the church. The conversion of the Welsh people to Christianity and the sustainment of their belief is largely attributed to him and his work. He founded 12 monasteries across England and wales, including ones at Glastonbury and Bath during his life, some of which still stand today.