Bury published his landmark commentary on St Patrick in 1905. Sweeney has left the original text as is, but has added a useful Introduction, as well as a whole lot of side-bars, in which he explains the historical background, political context, and quotes other biographers and historians, as well as quoting St Patrick's Confession (a brief reflection on his life published by him just before his death).
Patrick was born in the English village of Bannaventa in 389. As a young man Patrick was kidnapped by Irish invaders, and carried off to Northern Dalaradia in Ireland. Having escaped, he spent several years in France, where he became a monk. Returning to England he asked permission to return to Ireland, as he felt God wanted him to bring his captors to salvation in Christ. Patrick served in Ireland for the rest of his life, establishing the Church in several areas. Of course, the legendary story we all know is that he chased all snakes out of Ireland (which can't be proved either way). He died in the late 5th century (the traditional date is 493, which would make him 120 years old, the same age as Moses!), and was buried in Saul.
I really enjoyed the book, although Bury's strange English was a bit tiring at times. Interesting to see a different take on evangelising and "church planting", from another era. Found Patrick's commitment and stick-ability inspiring.
"There is a sun we see that rises for us each day, but it will not rule or continue its splendour for ever, and all who adore it alone shall suffer miserably. But we who believe in and adore the true sun, Christ, who will never perish, and do His will, know that Christ will abide forever, reigning with God the Father Almighty and with the Holy Spirit, before the ages, and now, and for ever and ever. Amen." The conclusion to St Patrick's Confession (pg. 189).
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