About Saint Patrick Orthodox Mission in Ireland
Clifden, County Galway, Ireland, between 1890 and 1900.
How it started
The Saint Patrick Orthodox Mission began with the ordination of Fr. Robert to the priesthood on the Feast of Saint Modomnoc, 2023. Called to serve in West Ireland, Fr. Robert and Matushka Anastasia share a deep love for the Irish Christian Saints, in whom they recognise traces of an ancient, yet familiar Christian faith. As they establish a church community in the Shanakeever Valley near Clifden, they continue to pray and seek support to rekindle the flame of Orthodox worship in the Irish lands which burned so brightly.
Did you know?
The Irish word for Wednesday, Dé Céadaoin, means “day of the little fast.” Thursday, Déardaoin, means “the day between fasts” and Friday, Dé hAoine, “day of the big fast.” This legacy of our early Irish fathers and mothers strikes a chord with Orthodox Christians, who still fast on Wednesdays and Fridays. A well-known early Christian practice, fasting on Wednesday and Friday recalls Christ’s betrayal and crucifixion, and, along with the Eucharistic celebration on Sunday, form the basis of the Orthodox Christian week.
More About Orthodoxy:
Many wonderful resources offer an introduction to the Orthodox Church. Here are some of our favourites:
- Reflections with Bishop Irenei. A series of reflections by his Grace Bishop Irenei.
- Patristic Nectar Films. A YouTube Vlog by Fr. Josiah Trenham.
- A List of Orthodox Books recommended by the Holy Cross Monastery in Wayne, WV, USA.
- White Horse Wares, an Orthodox book and liturgical supply store based in the UK.
The Hierarchy of Saint Patrick Orthodox Mission in Ireland
