Once upon a time (cause that’s how all good stories begin) long ago and far across the sea, there was a land called Inisfail, which we now call the Emerald Isle or Ireland. It was a lush green area with soft rolling hills, glistening lakes and meandering streams, bordered round by a rough and rocky coastline. Legend has it that a people known as the Tuatha de Danann settled there, and made this place their own.
Over the years the land was ruled by many different kings. All of whom made their home on Tara, a hill within County Meath. Because of this, Tara grew in importance and became the political and spiritual heart of Inisfail. A point of contact with the Otherworld. And so it was for 5,000 years.
However, in time this slowly began to change. People migrating to and fro across the land, brought with them differing ways and practices. Local folklore and customs began to be challenged by new thoughts and traditions.
It was during the reign of King Loegaire that things came to a head. Loegaire was a fierce and mighty King descended from the great Niall of the Nine Hostages. He was a strong believer in the ancient religious practices so prevalent here, in the land of his fathers.
It was around this time that Patrick (who was not yet a saint) began preaching a ‘new’ form of religion. One which King Loegaire took great exception to.
And so, it was demanded that Patrick present himself before the King at the High Seat of Tara. As you can well imagine, this was not going to end in peaceful discussion. Ever respectful of the laws and manners of Inisfail, Patrick and a few of his disciples set out as ordered by the King.
However, hidden along the road to Tara were a small contingent of the King’s men, with plans to ambush Patrick and his disciples. And so out of sight, they waited… and waited… and time went on. All they ever saw were some deer and a fawn pass by. Never were there any sign of Patrick and his small company of friends.
For Patrick had invoked the practice of fith-fath (fee-fawh), an ancient charm of protection that rendered him and his disciples into a different shape – or disguise – than what they were. The deer and fawn that the King’s men saw pass by them were really Patrick and his friends. And so, they escaped being killed by the kings’ men.
That ‘charm’ was a prayer known as a Lorica. It is recited in times of distress and trouble, when protection from harm is needed. There are many different lorica prayers across the Celtic lands, but none quite as famous as this one that Patrick prayed.
Our days are full of disturbing events, to say the least. They are worrisome, upending the lives of many who are innocent and without fault. Causing feelings of great uncertainty and anguish for everyone. We could all use a little added protection right now, and the comfort this can bring.
And so, like St. Patrick we recite…
The Cry of the Deer
(Saint Patrick’s Breastplate)
I bind unto myself today
…the Strength of Heaven;
Light of the sun… Splendor of fire,
Speed of lightning… Swiftness of the wind,
Depth of the sea… Stability of the earth,
Firmness of the rock…
I rise with the power of God to pilot me,
God’s strength to sustain me… God’s wisdom to guide me,
God’s eye to look ahead for me… God’s ear to hear me,
God’s word to speak for me… God’s hand to protect me,
God’s way before me… God’s shield to defend me,
God’s hosts to deliver me,
From snares of devils… From evil temptations,
From nature’s failings… From all who wish to harm me,
Afar and or near… Alone or in a crowd.
Blessings of Peace this Saint Patrick’s Day… 3-17-2026
