The stories of St Patrick are full of miraculous trials by ordeal with druids, where the God of the Christians proved victorious.  The most famous tale is that which occurred on the Hill of Slane.  It is said that Saint Patrick came to the Hill of Slane early in his attempt to convert pagan Ireland to the light of Christianity. On the eve of the Christian feast of Easter, 433 A.D. St. Patrick lit a bonfire upon the Hill of Slane. The law in force at the time stated that no fire should be lit in the vicinity when a great festival fire blazed at the Royal seat of power on the Hill of Tara near by.
The King rode off in a war chariot with his entourage to arrest the mystery rebel. As the kings horses thundered up the Hill Patrick calmed his few disciples assuring them all would be okay.  St Patrick is said to have held up a shamrock and he convinced the King of his earnest intent and belief in the power of the Holy Trinity. The King took Patrick and his disciples’ prisoner and they were marched to the Hill of Tara, chanting prayers. By morning light, Patrick and his men were spared and allowed to preach Christianity to the pagan army.
Churches and monasteries were swiftly founded all over Ireland filled with newly converted celtic peoples and irish monks.