Cry of the Deer, for St. Patrick

The Cry of the Deer


Patrick of Ireland




I arise today:
in the might of heaven,
in the splendor of the sun,
in whiteness of snow;
irresistibleness of fire,
swiftness of lightning;
absoluteness of the deep;
in speed of wind,
rock’s durability…

Eye of God for my foresight,
ear of God for my hearing;
word of God for my word,
hand of God for my guard,
shield of God for my protection,
against any demon’s snare,
against all vice’s lure,
against ill-wishes far and near...