Celtic prayers have always inspired me. One that has always brought me comfort and encouragement is attributed to St. Patrick. It is knows as The Deer’s Cry or St Patrick’s Breastplate and was written in the 5th Century. It is a type of lorica, which is a prayer recited in unison that calls on the power of God for protection from evil. The Latin lorica translates into breastplate or armor.

The Deer’s Cry celebrates the God who guides, shelters, and strengthens us daily. Two of the phrases in the prayer are appropriate for us during this time of pandemic.

Alone and in a multitude.
Against every cruel merciless power that may oppose my body and soul

You can hear this prayer portrayed as a hymn in this video.

The Deer’s Cry

Through the strength of heaven:
Light of sun,
Radiance of moon,
Splendor of fire,
Speed of lightning,
Swiftness of wind,
Depth of sea,
Stability of earth,
Firmness of rock.

I arise today
Through God’s strength to pilot me:
God’s eyes to look before me,
God’s wisdom to guide me,
God’s way to lie before me,
God’s shield to protect me,
From all who shall wish me ill,
Afar and anear,
Alone and in a multitude.
Against every cruel merciless power that may oppose my body and soul.

Christ with me, Christ before me, Christ behind me,
Christ in me, Christ beneath me, Christ above me,
Christ on my right, Christ on my left,
Christ when I lie down,
Christ when I sit down,
Christ when I arise,
Christ to shield me,
Christ in the heart of everyone who thinks of me,
Christ in the mouth of everyone who speaks of me.

I arise today.