of polytheistic, pagan worship that stressed the importance of nature and adhering to superstitious beliefs. The Druidic order was also an important part of pagan religious society and was held with the highest respect by the people of Ireland.12
             When Patrick arrived in Ireland in the latter part of 432 AD, he faced many challenges in bringing Christianity to the culture. Patrick began his ministry in the kingdom of Dichu, near the coast where he landed. It was there that his conversions of the Irish people began. King Dichu also donated land to Patrick to build the first church and monetary in Ireland.13 Patrick continued across the countryside converting those that he came into contact with and establishing churches. He would create a district, build a church and then ordain local Irish converts as priests, bishops and deacons to oversee the church in his absense.14 Patrick felt that he would better serve this population by ordaining their own to oversee their Christian development than outsiders, who did not understand the culture.
             ...