St. Patrick’s Day Prayers

The Irish seem to never be at a loss for words. Both their written and oral tradition of passing along their stories shows us a picture of people and a country with a deep literary history.  They have woven a rich history complete with blessings, toasts, jokes, stories and prayers. True to the Irish nature there are several prayers that are used to commemorate St. Patrick’s Day. Whether humorous or heartfelt these prayers are part of a rich literary tradition. These blessings and prayers give valuable insight into a people with a long and interesting history. Whether you just have an interest in Irish literature or want to create some beautiful cards to send to family and friends here are some St. Patrick’s Day Prayers-

Many of these shorter prayers are referred to as blessings. These would make a great reading that could be memorized by children.

• May your blessings outnumber the shamrocks that grow, and may trouble avoid you wherever you go…
• May St. Patrick guard you wherever you go, and guide you in whatever you do, and may his loving protection be a blessing to you always.
• May the Irish hills caress you. May her lakes and rivers bless you. May the luck of the Irish enfold you. May the blessings of Saint Patrick behold you.
• May your thoughts be as glad as the shamrocks, May your heart be as light as a song, May each day bring you bright, happy hours, That stay with you all the year long.
• For each petal on the shamrock, this brings a wish your way-Good health, good luck, and happiness, for today and every day.

There are also many Irish prayers that mention St. Patrick by name. These prayers are more historical and religious, but are just as lovely.

• God, by whose providence the blessed Patrick was chosen to be the apostle of the Irish; that thus the people of Hibernia, who had gone astray in darkness and in the errors of the Gentiles, might be made children of the Most High by the laver of regeneration: Grant, we beseech thee, that by his intercession, we may hasten without delay to the paths of justice. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.
• Almighty God, who in your providence chose your servant Patrick to be the apostle of the Irish people, to bring those who were wandering in darkness and error to the true light and knowledge of you: Grant us so to walk in that light, that we may come at last to the light of everlasting life; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and ever.

There are also St. Patrick’s Day prayers in more modern language. Here is one of them.

• “God of faith, You brought Your servant Patrick to Ireland to spread Your love, and You brought the Irish to other countries to share their culture and traditions, including St. Patrick’s Day. Be with all who celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with [insert ways of celebrating St. Patrick’s Day, such as attending a parade, enjoying a drink, or attending church], and bless all Your people who, like St. Patrick, seek You no matter where they go. Amen.”

Finally, there is a an old and ancient Irish blessing that is often repeated on St. Patrick’s Day.

• May the road rise up to meet you, May the wind be always at your back, May the sun shine warm upon your face, And the rain fall soft upon your fields, And until we meet again, May God hold you in the palm of his hand.