Belfast, Northern Ireland, Mar 17, 2025 / 13:40 pm (CNA).
Inspired by St. Patrick’s “Confessions,” in which the patron of Ireland states “I arose as many as 100 times at night to pray,” a group of Christians gathered at dawn on March 17 around St. Patrick’s grave in Downpatrick, County Down, in Ireland to pray the Our Father 100 times for peace and unity.
It was the third year in a row that friends and strangers from all walks of life joined together in prayer to honor St. Patrick’s legacy.
Event organizer Siobhán Brennan told CNA that parts of the Lorica of St. Patrick — a prayer also known as St. Patrick’s Breastplate — were recited in chorus between each set of 10 Our Fathers.
“The words of the Lorica are ancient and St. Patrick’s own; they serve as a strong and powerful protection against evil, a protection which is greatly needed today,” Brennan said. “Jesus promises us in Matthew 18:20 for where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I among them. The Lord and his holy presence among this group of dedicated Christians is indeed palpable.”
The offering of 100 Our Fathers formed the backbone of this prayer initiative, but the inclusion of Scripture, hymns, and the lorica gave it a distinctive Celtic flavor.
“This is our way of paying fitting tribute to the great St. Patrick, to all the Irish missionaries, and to all the faithful throughout the world who form part of his Patrician legacy on this feast day,” Brennan said.
“Standing shoulder to shoulder with fellow believers, in the darkness of a crisp, early, Irish spring morning while reverently repeating the Lord’s Prayer in harmony with nature is a profoundly moving, spiritual experience,” she added.
It has also become a tradition during this event to sing “Light the Fire: St. Patrick’s Song” by Irish singer Dana at the beginning of the prayer gathering.
The morning prayers were held against the backdrop of Down Cathedral overlooking St. Patrick’s Roman Catholic Church. The organizers said they hope other groups from across the world will join in this simple offering of prayer in the future.
“We have been joined spiritually from other parts of Ireland and Albuquerque in New Mexico,” Brennan said. “It is inspiring; our hearts are filled with new hope and the possibility that, someday soon, we will all be fully united in Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.”
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