For Oonagh+

One of my classmates from seminary died of a heart attack on Pentecost. She had beautiful red hair and a vibrant personality. Her Kenny found her dead and is suffering greatly from his loss. All of my classmates were younger than I and I would guess that Oonagh is in her mid fifties now. We were not close, but her death has shaken me. This prayer is especially for Kenny. It is a Caim (encircling prayer) written as a night prayer for someone recently bereaved from Celtic Daily Prayer. Most appropriate for someone who loved Oonagh+ whose heart was in Ireland.

This night and every night
seems infinite with questions,
and sleep as elusive
as answers.

Pain and longing are always present,
dulled only a little
by the distractions of day.
I am weary; I am angry.
I am confused.

Circle me, Lord.
Keep despair and disillusion wihout.
Bring a glimmer of hope within.

Circle me, Lord;
keep nightmare without.
Bring moments of rest within.

Circle me Lord;
keep bitterness without.
Bring an occasional sense
of Your presence within.

Oonagh+, rest in peace and rise in glory.