We invoke holy Patrick, Ireland’s chief apostle.
Glorious is his wondrous name, a flame that baptized heathen;
He warred against hard-hearted wizards.
He thrust down the proud with the help of our Lord of fair
heaven.
He purified Ireland’s meadow-lands, a mighty birth.
We pray to Patrick chief apostle; his judgment hath delivered
    us in Doom from the malevolence of dark devils.
God be with us, together with the prayer of Patrick, chief
    apostle.

--Ninine (8th Century)
        Trans. By Whitley Stokes & John Strachan