The prayer quoted below is attributed to Ireland’s patron, Saint Patrick. It is simple, it is beautiful, and it is, at the same time, highly practical and profoundly mystical.
I arise today
Through the strength of heaven;
Light of the sun,
Splendor of fire,
Swiftness of wind,
Depth of sea,
Stability of earth,
Firmness of rock.
I arise today
Through God’s strength to pilot me;
God’s might to uphold me,
God’s wisdom to guide me,
God’s hand to guard me.
Afar or anear,
Alone or in a multitude.
Christ shield me today
Against wounding;
Christ with me,
Christ before me,
Christ behind me,
Christ on my right,
Christ on my left,
Christ beneath me,
Christ above me,
Christ in me.
I arise today
Through the mighty strength
Of the Lord of Creation.
(St. Patrick)
How beautiful I saved this prayer to my computer so I may read it over and over.
Indeed it is a beautiful prayer. Like many prayers, poems, and songs from the Celtic people, it rings true and moves the heart in a mysterious way.
Mick
Thanks for sharing this. What a blessing.
Thanks, I love this prayer and my Irish heritage.I am proud of St. Patrick; what a beautiful and true religion we have in the Catholic Church.