The History of Irish Catholicism
Many Catholics trace their religious ancestry to Ireland, where the fervent faith of Irish Catholics has often led to social unrest. Irish Catholics today still deal with both the spiritual and political implications of their religion.
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History
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In the fifth century, St. Patrick was so successful at converting the pagan Irish, that by the 16th century, they chose confiscation of their lands rather than renounce their Roman Catholic faith.
Significance
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If not for the persistence of the Irish Catholics and their refusal to join Henry VIII's Anglican Church, the Republic of Ireland today might very well be part of the British Isles (like Scotland).
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Effects
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In 1948, Ireland was divided into two separate countries, Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland, with primarily Catholics in the South and Protestants in the North.
Misconceptions
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Many people think that if the British just pulled out of Northern Ireland completely, the country would be unified and happily Catholic. The problem is that many Protestants in Ireland think of themselves as British.
Potential
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There are many existing programs that attempt to bring the Catholics and Protestants of Ireland (particularly the children) together in peace. The hope is that, with time, the Emerald Isle will once again be one country.
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