The Deer's Cry
I arise today through the strength of heaven
Light of sun, radiance of moon
Splendor of fire, speed of lightning
Swiftness of wind, depth of the sea
Stability of earth, firmness of rock

I arise today through God's strength to pilot me
God's eye to look before me
God's wisdom to guide me
God's way to lie before me
God's shield to protect me

From all who shall wish me ill
Afar and a-near
Alone and in a multitude
Against every cruel, merciless power
That may oppose my body and soul

Christ with me, Christ before me
Christ behind me, Christ in me
Christ beneath me, Christ above me
Christ on my right, Christ on my left
Christ when I lie down, Christ when I sit down
Christ when I arise, Christ to shield me

Christ in the heart of everyone who thinks of me
Christ in the mouth of everyone who speaks of me

I arise today. 

-- Recorded on " Lisa" by Lisa Kelly, Celtic Woman Records

The "Deer's Cry" is also known by the name "St. Patrick's Breastplate" and is an  example of a lorica -- a "breastplate" or corslet of  faith recited for the protection of body and soul against all forms of evil...  The name of the hymn derives from a legend...when Loeguire, the High King of Tara, resolved to ambush and kill Patrick and his monks to prevent them from spreading the Christian faith in his kingdom.  As Patrick and his followers approached singing this hymn, the King and his men saw only a herd of wild deer and let them pass by.  The word 'cry' also has the sense of a prayer or petition.  


Click Here to Listen to Audo Recording (.mp3)

Return to Prosperity Pages