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How bitterly they despise me! just see how your sheep are torn apart and despoiled, and by those gangsters I have named, bound to the last man by the inimical mind of Coroticus. Far away from the love of God is the man who betrays my Christians into the hands of the Scotti and Picts. 'Ravenous wolves' have gulped down the Lord's own flock, which was flourishing in Ireland and tended with utmost care.

Saint Patrick#8

ProtectionBetrayalCommunityLeadershipViolence

About this quote

What does it mean?
He condemns those who betray Christians to enemies, describing them as ravenous wolves destroying the flock of God.
In plain terms
He hates the people who sold Christians to enemies and calls them wolves.
What can you take from it?
Betraying others for gain is a grave spiritual failure.

Where it applies

  • addressing traitors
  • protecting vulnerable groups
  • condemning violence

Putting it to work

  • condemn betrayal
  • protect community members

Questions to consider

  • What responsibilities do leaders have to their followers?
  • How should betrayal be addressed?

Another view

The language is highly adversarial and accusatory.

More from Saint Patrick

  1. Can it be out of the kindness of my heart that I carry out such a labor of mercy on a people who once captured me when they wrecked my father's house and carri…

    Permalink to quote #7
  2. I grieve for you, how I mourn for you, who are so very dear to me, but again I can rejoice within my heart, not for nothing 'have I labored,' neither has my ex…

    Permalink to quote #9
  3. It would take too long to discuss or argue every single case, or to sift through the whole of the Law for precise witness against such greed. Sufficient to say…

    Permalink to quote #6

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