The Tradition of Shielding Prayers

Prayers for protection are perhaps the oldest of prayers. When we feel that we are in danger, when we feel hopeless and helpless, we raise our voices to God. The tradition of "shielding prayers" have been attributed to the Celts: prayers that are constructed to surround us with God's strength and saving power — as typified in St. Patrick's Shield: "Christ above us, Christ below us, Christ to our left and our right, Christ before us, Christ beneath us, Christ by day and by night."

Courage, Clarity and Peace

There is a saying attributed to Meister Eckart, "If your only prayer is 'Thank you,' that is enough." I think it is equally true, in times of trouble, if your only prayer is "Help!" — that's enough, too. On the other hand, you may find comfort and a quieting of your spirit by drawing on prepared prayers.

Photo of a flower

~ A Prayer
for Protection ~

About This Prayer

This prayer was written for a friend who was setting out on a new and different path, after many years of "safe and same" routine. It calls upon the best and brightest of our heavenly helpers, and asks for strength, for wisdom, for courage, and calm confidence. May it bless all who read it.

The Prayer

the Good ShepherdMay peace and strength surround you
through the power of the blessed Trinity:
Creator, Redeemer, and Holy Spirit,
in daylight, moonlight, and all times in between.

May peace and strength surround you
through the power of darling Mary,
sweet mother of holy Lord Christ,
fearless follower of God our King.

May peace and strength surround you
through the power of dearest Brigid,
protectress of the innocent,
encourager of the brave.

May peace and strength surround you:
a gentle flowing stream —
washing away your worries,
and relaxing you down to your bones.

May peace and strength surround you:
a warm and fragrant breeze —
chasing away all fretful thoughts,
calming your troubled mind.

May peace and strength surround you
in a loving embrace,
steady, reliable, and tender,
a sweetness that will not let you go.

May peace and strength be yours
this night, this day, this year:
wherever you walk, whoever you meet
may peace and strength be yours.

May peace and strength surround you
through the power of dearest Brigid,
protectress of the innocent,
encourager of the brave.

May peace and strength surround you
through the power of darling Mary,
sweet mother of holy Lord Christ,
fearless follower of God our King.

May peace and strength surround you
through the power of the blessed Trinity:
Creator, Redeemer, and Holy Spirit,
in daylight, moonlight, and all times in between.
Amen!