St Patrick and Christianity in Ireland
I can describe why Christianity grew stronger in Ireland in the 5th century.
St Patrick and Christianity in Ireland
I can describe why Christianity grew stronger in Ireland in the 5th century.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- Although Christianity declined in Britain after the Romans left, it grew stronger in Ireland.
- Some people in Ireland had become Christian through contact with Roman Britain by the early 5th century.
- The actions of the Roman-British missionary, St Patrick, some time in the 5th century, spread the religion more widely.
- Risking martyrdom, he preached to the kings of north-east Ireland and set up churches.
- He recorded his life and missionary activities in his 'Confession' which is the main evidence we have for his life.
Common misconception
It is widely believed that St Patrick brought Christianity to Ireland.
Christianity had reached Ireland through contact with Roman Britain and as a result some Irish people converted to the religion.
Keywords
Missionary - a missionary is a person sent on a religious mission, especially one sent to promote Christianity in a foreign country
Convert - to convert means when someone changes their religious faith or other belief
Martyr - a martyr is a person who is killed because of their religious or other beliefs
Content guidance
- Depiction or discussion of violence or suffering
Supervision
Adult supervision recommended
Licence
This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2024), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0 except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions (Collection 2).
Video
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Starter quiz
6 Questions
Exit quiz
6 Questions
a person sent on a religious mission
When someone changes their religious faith.
a person who is killed because of their religious or other beliefs