I know it's hard for some people to understand, but Jesus Christ does trump St. Patrick, and Holy Week is one of the most sacred times of the church year. Back before Vatican Council II, they wouldn't have moved St. Patrick's Day - they would have cancelled it outright.

My Irish pastor is quite happy about the change. He gave up booze for Lent - except on St. Patrick's Day. Now he gets to break his abstinence a few days early. The parish will be happy about it too - he's been a bit ornery duing Lent.

-Joe-