St. Patrick, the patron saint of the Irish people, is one of the best-loved but least known of the patriarchs of Christianity.  His life and work have become the stuff of legend, myth, and tall tales – Patrick drove the snakes out of Ireland, taught the doctrine of the Trinity using a shamrock, and bested the high king’s druids at Tara.  Few, however, have ever taken the time to look into the heart of the great saint as this is revealed in his own writings.  In Celtic Flame: The Burden of Patrick, theologian and poet T. M. Moore provides a look at the soul of the man – his calling to and love for the Irish people, his courage and determination in the face of obstacles and trials, and his profoundly personal faith in God.  Using ancient documents, in particular, those from Patrick’s own hand, the author allows the saint to speak for himself in a lively verse paraphrase supported by scholarly research, Scripture references, and a study guide for group or personal use.  The lessons from Patrick’s life and work – his piety, sense of calling, courage and conviction, and love for the people under his care – can be of much encouragement to those seeking a deeper and more meaningful experience of God today.