He put on righteousness as a breastplate. – Isaiah 59:17 RSV
What’s that in St. Patrick’s hand, a green beer??
Ohhh, nevermind. It’s the clover, which this infamous first Bishop of Ireland is believed to have used to explain the Trinity.
In his other hand we see a shepherd’s crook. When stolen from western Britain by a band of Irish pirates, Patrick was enslaved for six years. His job in captivity: a shepherd. He escaped to freedom, having already gained spiritual freedom through a deepening relationship with God.
Patrick later returned to Ireland as a missionary – a shepherd once again, but this time of people’s souls. Pray along with me the following words, known as "The Lorica of St. Patrick."
Christ be with me, Christ within me, Christ behind me, Christ before me, Christ beside me, Christ to win me, Christ to comfort and restore me. Christ beneath me, Christ above me, Christ in quiet,
Christ in danger, Christ in hearts of all that love me, Christ in mouth of friend and stranger.
*View the full lyrics of St. Patrick’s Breastplate as a special prayer this St. Patrick’s Day.
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