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On March 17 and 18 we remember two bishops of the Church whose faith in Jesus Christ had a profound effect on the world; St. Patrick of Ireland and St. Cyril of Jerusalem.

St. Patrick was born into a Christian family in Roman Britain. At age 16 he was kidnapped by Irish pirates and sold as a slave in Ireland. Six years later he escaped. Much to his family’s surprise Patrick entered training to become a missionary priest in order to return to Ireland with the Gospel of forgiveness and love. God blessed his work in northern Ireland in amazing ways, before calling him home on 17 March 461.

St. Cyril was bishop of a very difficult diocese. The Diocese of Jerusalem had responsibility for numerous holy places. During his 36 years as bishop Cyril was constantly embroiled in trying to settle disputes between rival Christian factions. He was forced to leave Jerusalem a number of times. However Cyril continued to provide pastoral care to his flock which nurtured them in their walk with Christ until, and after, he was called to his heavenly home on 18 March 386.

Thank you Lord for these two faithful shepherds of your flock. Bible Reading: Matthew 5:43-48; John 6:26-35