St. Patrick's Prayer

St. Patrick's day is a special day in our family. Our son was born on this day. My wife has an Irish heritage. So this day gets a lot of attention! But it's not just personal. St. Patrick gave his life for the sake of the gospel of Jesus Christ.Born in England in 389 he was captured by pirates and taken to Ireland as a slave at the age of sixteen. After six years he escaped and made his way back to England only to feel the call to return to Ireland as a missionary. From 432 to 462 he worked among the Celts of Ireland and, despite the efforts of Druid priests God used him to make the island a strong center of Celtic Christianity.Most mornings my wife and I read and pray together. One of our favorite prayers to recite is one attributed to St. Patrick. It is worth memorizing.

Christ, as a light

illumine and guide me.

Christ, as a shield

overshadow me.

Christ under me;

Christ over me;

Christ beside me

on my left and my right.

This day be within and without me,

lowly and meek, yet all-powerful.

Be in the heart of each to whom I speak;

in the mouth of each who speaks unto me.

This day be within and without me,

lowly and meek, yet all-powerful.

Christ as a light;

Christ as a shield;

Christ beside me

on my left and my right. Amen.

Happy St. Patrick's Day