St. Patrick's Lorica {Breastplate}

St. Patrick's Lorica or Breastplate for liturgical reading ~ St-Patricks-Lorica

with sung video background by Angelina ~St. Patrick's Lorica {The Deer's Cry}
Suggestions for the use of this liturgical reading and videosong:

I have chosen this creative expression in response to our Essentials in Worship History. Having focused on fresh expressions of worship i have created this worship piece to incorporate each of the lessons discussed.

As this course focused on the History of Worship, i have chosen an ancient example of worship from the patron saint of Ireland whom we celebrate this week on his day of remembrance, St. Patrick's Day, March 17th.

As a liturgical reading, St. Patrick's Lorica {Breastplate} may be read responsively with celebrant introducing and leading, followed by corporate responses . It may be read corporately with individuals making key statements throughout the hymn. It may also be read silently and reflectively while the video plays projected onto an appropriate and creative background. This is my response to week 2 on liturgy as 'the work of the people'.

Week 4 was directed toward creating fresh expressions of worship in art and music. St. Patrick's Lorica is also a fresh candidate for this category of worship as well. It may be sung traditionally by soloist, or again, responsively as with the reading. A worship team leading with congregational response would be beautiful, particularily as it is personal declaration. The beauty of vj'ing the video i've attached is the incorporation of art with music. Beautiful scenes from the Irish hill where St. Patrick made his stand for Christianity enhance the song and it's message. As does the simplicity of the vocals in not distracting from the message. Choosing an attractive medium on which to project the video will also increase impact of music and message as art.

Adding opps for symbolic action in response to the song would be a welcome addition. Possibly prayer stations that would allow parishioners to write out their own 'breastplate' prayers, declarations, or requests for self or others. Lighting a candle for their prayers submitted - all increase the worship value for those choosing to participate. The idea is to allow time for the message to go deeper as time and space is provided for reflection and contemplation. A week 3 response.

May you find it of value in your own expression of worship.