[I picked the above photo not because of a connection to any prayer walk or encircling prayer we write about today, but because of the beauty of seeing our children praying and giving a situation over to the all powerful God.]
We do not need to be a poet to pray well, or invite God into our every day situations!
We wanted to share the Caim Prayer for those of us who don't alway have the words to pray to God. The word ‘caim’ originates from an old Gaelic word meaning encircling or circle and has been passed down from the ancient Celtic Church. The British Isles have been praying caim prayers and they are a great way to remind us of Gods power.
They are simple prayers of faith and are often called ‘encircling prayers.' The circle symbolises the encircling love and presence of God--surrounding and protecting. Psalm 125:2
The Celtic Christians were very symbolic in their faith and their caim prayer would often include physical actions. Here are a few of things that we could do, although I am usually indoors when I pray a caim prayer personally:
Stand and draw an imaginary circle
Walk a prayer labyrinth (if you can find one in Texas, let us know where)
Walk a peaceful spot, praying
Caim Prayers:
Circle me Lord, Keep protection near,
and danger afar.
Circle me Lord, Keep light near,
and darkness afar.
Circle me Lord, Keep peace within.
Keep evil out.
Circle me Lord, Keep hope within.
Keep doubt without. May you be a bright flame before me.
May you be a guiding star above me. May you be a smooth path below me.
And a loving Guide behind me.
Today, tonight, and forever.
Amen
Christ be with me, Christ within me,
Christ behind me, Christ before me,
Christ beside me, Christ to win me,
Christ to comfort and restore me.
Christ beneath me, Christ above me,
Christ in quiet, Christ in danger,
Christ in hearts of all who love me,
Christ in mouth of friend and stranger.
Amen