THE STRENGTH OF HEAVEN: ST PATRICKS BREASTPLATE

The Pilgrim's Path (Clonmacnoise, Ireland)

St Patrick was a great evangelist, because he spoke the language of the people he served.

(a non-trinitarian adaptation of the prayer traditionally attributed to him.)




I arise today Through the strength of heaven;

Light of the sun,
Splendor of fire,
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 might to uphold me,
God's wisdom to guide me,
God's hand to guard me.

Afar and 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.

Amen.
Happy St Patrick's Day.

I DON'T NEED YOU TO SURRENDER

The River Liffey, Dublin

I wanna reach out over the lough and feel your hand across the water
Walk with you along an unapproved road, not looking over my shoulder
I wanna see and I wanna hear
To understand your fears
But we're north and south of the river

...

Can we stop playing these old tattoos?
Darling, I don't have the answer
I wanna meet you where you are, I don't need you to surrender
'Cause there's no feeling that's so alone, as when the one you're hurting is your own
North and south of the river

U2, 1997

[you really have to hear it, not read it]

find it here: North and South of the River