Paidir na hUirísleachta ~ A Prayer for Humility

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Narration: Michael McGowan, Violin: Kristin McGowan

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O Lord, 
we confess our weakness before You.

Without Your grace,
we cannot stand.

Raise up those who have fallen.

Strengthen those who grow weary.

Heal those wounded by sin.

Fill us with the love
that casts out fear,

and lead us
along the narrow path
that ends in everlasting joy.

Through Christ our Lord.

Amen ~ Áiméan

May God's peace be with you ~ Go raibh síocháin Dé leat

 

About this Prayer

Paidir na hUirísleachta ("A Prayer for Humility") comes from the Bangor Antiphonary, one of the oldest surviving treasures of Irish Christian worship. Compiled at Bangor Abbey in the seventh century, the Antiphonary reflects the deep spiritual life of a monastic community that sought to follow Christ with simplicity, devotion, and humility.

In the Christian tradition, humility is not thinking less of ourselves, but seeing ourselves rightly before God. This prayer asks for the grace to set aside pride, to receive God's wisdom with an open heart, and to serve others with the gentleness and love that Christ Himself showed. It reminds us that true greatness is found not in status or recognition, but in faithful obedience to God.

Whether prayed during times of success, struggle, or self-reflection, Paidir na hUirísleachta invites us to imitate the humility of Christ, trusting that those who walk humbly with God discover the freedom, peace, and joy that He alone can give.

Read more: Discover the remarkable story of the Bangor Antiphonary and the community of Bangor Abbey that preserved this beautiful tradition of prayer: Read the full article.