Prayer to St Oliver Plunkett

Glorious Martyr, Oliver, who willingly
gave your life for your faith,
help us also to be strong in faith.
May we be loyal like you
to the See of Peter.
By your intercession and example
may all hatred and bitterness
be banished from the hearts
of Irish men and women.
May the peace of Christ reign
in our hearts,
as it did in your heart,
even at the moment of your death.

Pray for us and Ireland. Amen.

Hymn To St Oliver Plunkett

Holy Primate, blessed martyr,
joyously thy praise we sing;
hero of our race we hail thee,
soldier of the heavenly King.

Martyr blest our country’s story
holds enshrined thy noble name,
oh, may we who sing thy glory,
ever one true faith proclaim.

Like to Christ, oh loving shepherd,
Thou did’st labour to the end;
fearing not the tyrant’s anger,
braving death thy flock to tend.

Dearer far than wealth or kindred,
dearer than all earthly fame;
Was to thee the Master’s portion,
cruel torments, death of shame.

Guard us still, for pow’rs of evil.
Strive against our holy faith.
Keep us true to Christ and Mary,
as our fathers, unto death.