Shepherding Lessons from the Shepherd Saint Himself — St. Patrick

Welcome my friends to a special edition of Olde Stone Well Farm! What’s the occasion? It’s St. Patrick’s Day! They say everyone is Irish on March 17.

This year, though, I found myself thinking about St. Patrick’s early life as a shepherd. I often forget about his humble start. But it was the very vocation of shepherding that enabled Patrick to hear God’s voice and, thus, hear God’s call in his life to serve and proclaim the good news of Christ.

Shepherding is a solitude job and it can be quite harsh. But it is in such wilderness that we can see and hear the Divine.

As a shepherd, I am sure Patrick found himself anointing many a sheep’s head, too. I’ll explain more about that act of pouring oil on a sheep and the powerful meaning of it has for us today.

I also invite you to join me in one of my favorite Lenten activities — making pretzels, which have so many meanings and legends attached to them. I also share with you how beaver — yes, beaver — was once a Lenten delicacy!

And so, welcome!!

Pull up a chair, pour some tea or coffee, and join me at the old farm table — where there is always room for you and your friends.

I’m curious to hear from you as to what shepherding can teach you in your walk of faith today?

And the burning question is this: Do you like corned beef and cabbage? (My husband dislikes this St. Patrick’s day dinner. So I will need a place to a takeout order for my celebration!)

Drop me a note. I love hearing from you. Blessings!