Revival in the 4th century A QUICK WAY TO EVANGELIZE A CITY or-

How St. Patrick won Dublin (Patrick A.D.389-461)

By: Kathryn Walters Kathie's email:kathiewalters@mindspring.com March 15, 2001

As Patrick came near to Dublin, at that time a small village, he prophesied, "That village which is now very small shall hereafter become very eminent. It shall be enlarged in riches and dignity." Neither shall it cease to grow until it has become the principal seat of all the kingdom."

When the people of Dublin heard of the great signs and miracles that were done through Patrick, and when they saw that he was coming to that village, they went out to meet him.

STANDING BEFORE KINGS

At this time, Alphinus was the king over Dublin. He and all the citizens were in great sorrow, for the death of the kings two children. The kings only son, called Eochadh had died a natural death, in his bedroom. The king's daughter, and a sister to the young prince, had just been drowned, in the adjoining river, now known as the Liffey.

She had ventured into the deep part, for the purpose of bathing. Her name was Dublinia, and from her Dublin is thought to have derived its name. (Joceylyn note) The young lady's body was drawn out of the waters after some considerable search, and laid by her brother's corpse, in order that their funeral rites might be solemnized together.

"THE REVIVER OF DEAD PERSONS"

According to the superstition of the pagans, the tombs were prepared. In the meantime, news was spread over all the city, that "St. Patrick, the potent reviver of many dead persons", (What a reputation !!) had been seen in the town. For He, who burst asunder the gates of death and of hell, smoothed the path for his servant.

The king and the people, who before had said to the Lord, "depart from us, we will not knowledge any of thy ways," were so cast down, saddened with grief, that all of their rebellion and all their barbarous rudeness, and all the pride of their idolatry, were utterly subdued.

HE SAID IF GOD RESTORED HIS CHILD TO LIFE . . .

The king, hearing of St. Patrick's arrival, greatly rejoiced, and caused him to come in, where his two children lay dead. He then promised, with all those present, if God restored his children to life, that he and all the citizens would become Christians. Seeing such a gain of souls, in the sight of the king, his nobles, and all the common people, Patrick raised from death to life those princely children, whose bodily resurrection cooperated much towards the spiritual resurrection of their father, with the rest of his people. The king and all his subjects, being astonished at this great miracle, turned away from the worship of idols, and they were baptized in the well (spring).

From that day the King and all the people worshipped God and gave liberally to Patrick, so that he was able to give to the poor in that place and other places and have enough to build churches.

From the book, "Celtic Flames" by Kathie Walters Ref. Lives of the Irish Saints -O Hanlon. Ecclesiastical History of Ireland, Rev. Dr. Lanigan. Sexta Vita S. Patricii, Joycelin notes.

Kathie Walters Kathie's books and tapes: www.goodnews.netministries.org/kathie.htm