The Lorica (loh-RYE-kah) is a long prayer believed to be written by Saint Patrick. It is also called “The Breastplate of Saint Patrick.” A lorica or breastplate is piece of armor, like a mail coat, worn by soldiers. The prayer is called a “Lorica” because it is asking for God’s protection.

Saint Patrick came to bring the good news of Jesus to people that did not know him. Many people were converted and became Christians. Others were not happy that Saint Patrick had come and wanted to stop him. Patrick prayed to God for protection from all who wished to harm him.

Here is part of Saint Patrick’s prayer. It reminds us that Jesus Christ is always close to us.

I arise today, through
God's strength to pilot me,
God's might to uphold me,
God's wisdom to guide me.
Christ be with me,
Christ be before me,
Christ be behind me,
Christ be in me,
Christ be beneath me,
Christ be 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 be in the heart of everyone who thinks of me,
Christ be in the mouth of everyone who speaks of me,
Christ be in every eye that sees me,
Christ be in every ear that hears me.