St. Patrick: Sunset, Fish

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Saint Patrick’s Sunset & the Fish

The sun did not set for 12 days and nights when Saint Patrick died. Legend has it each year on March 17th fish rise from the sea and pass before Saint Patrick’s altar. (1)

Saint Patrick’s Breastplate: Fáeth Fiada

A 7th century incantation called the Breastplate that will invoke the elements of light, sea, birds and animals to come to one’s aid if needed. It is a lorica or protective charm. ‘Spiritual wholeness is from the trinity of cràbhadh- trust of the soul or devout observance, creideamh- heart’s consent, and iris- mind’s faith.’ (4, 14)

I arise today through the strength of Heaven
the rays of the sun,
the radiance of the moon,
the splendor of fire,
the speed of lightening,
the swiftness of the wind,
the depth of the sea,
the stability of the earth
the firmness of rock.

I arise today through the power of God:
God’s might to comfort me,
God’s wisdom to guide me,
God’s eye to look before me,
God’s ear to hear me,
God’s word to speak for me,
God’s hand to lead me,
God’s way to lie before me,
God’s shield to protect me,
God’s Heavenly Host to save me
from the snares of the devil,
from temptations to sin,
from all who wish me ill,
from near and afar,
alone and with others

May Christ shield me today
against poison and fire,
against drowning and wounding,
so that I may fulfill my mission
and bear fruit in abundance.
Christ behind and before me,
Christ behind and above me,
Christ with me and in me,
Christ around and about me,
Christ on my right and on my left,
Christ when I lie down at night,
Christ when I rise in the morning,
Christ in the heart of every man who thinks of me,
Christ in the mouth of everyone that speaks of me,
Christ in every eye that sees me,
Christ in every ear that hears me.

I arise today through the might of the trinity,
through faith in threeness,
through trust in oneness,
of the maker of heaven and the maker of earth.(6)