St Malachy Triduum Day Two: Angel of Peace

As we continue our Triduum in honour of St Malachy, I thought we might look at one of the titles in the prayer.  Called the Angel of Peace by St Bernard in his biography of his friend, Malachy was one who richly deserved that title.  Ireland was a country at war with itself at the time (as it is today). The Church in Ireland had many problems.  As he sought to introduce reform, he also sought to bring peace to the Church and his country.   Malachy knew that as long as even one person was at war either with others, with God or with themselves, then there would never be peace.

True peace emerges from reconciliation - with God, our neighbour and with ourselves.  The key to this reconciliation is fidelity, which itself emerges from love.  He could tinker with the structures all he wanted, but his efforts would fail if he did not address this personal problem.  He did address it - through his personal holiness.  He did have enemies, but more admirers - the people of his land recognised that here was one who loved God and inspired others to love him: in this, then, he was truly an Angel of Peace.  As we pray this Triduum may Malachy, Angel of Peace, help us be reconciled with God, our neighbour and ourselves, through fidelity and love.

Triduum Prayer to St Malachy

Glorious Saint Malachy,

ardent yet gentle shepherd of God’s people,

we come before you seeking your

intercession and protection

in this time of trial.

Malachy, angel of peace,

who brought those in conflict

to be reconciled

in the name of Christ,

grant lasting peace and reconciliation

to our country.

Mighty pillar of the Church,

who banished error

by the truth of your preaching,

obtain for each of us the grace

of sincere repentance and renewal

that we may serve the Lord in holiness

all our days.

Most fatherly Archbishop of Armagh,

enkindle the hearts of bishops and priests

that, aided by your patronage and example,

they may labour to form a holy people

            strong in faith

            constant in prayer

            abounding in charity

            devoted to the Sacraments

            and loyal to the See of Peter.

O saint rich in mercy and compassion,

look upon all who are suffering or in need

and obtain for them support, healing and hope.

St Malachy, ablaze with heavenly fire,

be a light to guide us on our pilgrim way

to the Kingdom of Heaven.

There may we be united with you

in singing the praises of God

for ever and ever.

Amen.