Lumcloon National School

Saint Patrick

The Deer's Cry

I arise today
Through the strength of heaven
Light of sun, radiance of moon
Splendour of fire, speed of lightening
Swiftness of wind, depth of the sea
Stability of earth, firmness of rock.

I arise today
Through God's strength to pilot me
God's eye 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

This prayer is better known as "St. Patrick's Breastplate".
The prayer is actually a translation of an 8th century poem which Medieval travellers said for protection when setting out on their journey. The prayer has been set to music by Shaun Davey and the background sound is part of the song.
We used it during the First Confession ceremony in our school.