PRAYER BEFORE THE OFFICE
Open, O Lord, my mouth to bless Thy Holy Name: cleanse also my heart from all vain, perverse and distracting thoughts; enlighten my understanding, inflame my will , that I may worthily, attentively, and devoutly recite this Office, and deserve to be heard in the presence of Thy divine Majesty. Through Christ, our Lord.
R: Amen.
O Lord, in union with that divine intention wherewith Thou didst offer praises on earth to God. I offer these Hours to Thee.
Matins
The first Hour of the Office is called Matins, or Morning Offices, because it seems to be the continuation of the Vigils or Night Watches of the primitive Christians, who were accustomed to spend the time from midnight till dawn in prayers and meditations as a preparation for the great feasts. A suitable intention for the recitation of Matins is preparation for the coming of Our Lord, whether in Holy Communion on the following day, or in His judgment at the hour death.
V: Hail Mary,full of grace, the Lord is with thee.
R: Blessed art thou amongst women, and blessed is the Fruit of thy womb, Jesus.
V: O Lord, open my lips.
R: And my mouth shall announce thy praise.
V: Incline unto my aid O God.
R: O Lord make haste to help me.
V:Glory be to the Father, and to the Son: and to the Holy Ghost.
R:as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, * world without end, Amen. Alleluia.
So Alleluia is said at all hours, from the Vespers of Easter eve, unto the Compline of the Saturday before the Sunday of Septuagesima. For then unto the Vespers of Easter eve is said: Praise be to thee O Lord, King of eternal glory.
Invitatory:
Our King, a Virgin's Son: * Come, let us adore.
In the time of Easter is added Alleluia, and in like manner in the end of the Antiphons, Versicles, and Responses.
Psalm [94]:
An invitation to adore and serve God and to hear his voice
Come let us praise the Lord with joy: let us joyfully sing to God our Saviour: let us approach to his presence in confession, and in Psalms let us make joy unto him.
R. Our King, a Virgin's Son: * Come, let us adore.
V. For God is a great Lord, and a great King above all Gods: because our Lord repelleth not his people: for that in his hand are all the bounds of the earth, and he beholdeth the heights of the mountains.
R. Come, let us adore.
V. For the sea is his, and he made it: and his hands founded the dry land: come let us adore, and fall down before God: let us weep before our Lord, that made us: because he is the Lord our God: we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture.
R. Our King, a Virgin's Son: * Come, let us adore.
V. Today if ye shall hear his voice, harden not your hearts, as in the provocation according to the day of temptation in the wilderness: where your fathers tempted me: proved, and saw my works.
R. Come, let us adore.
V. Forty years was I nigh unto this generation: and said, they always err in heart: and they have not known my ways, to whom I swear in my wrath, if they shall enter into my rest.
R. Our King, a Virgin's Son: * Come, let us adore.
V. Glory be to the Father, and to the Son: and to the Holy Ghost.
as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, * world without end, Amen.
R. Come, let us adore.
Our King, a Virgin's Son: * Come, let us adore.
Hymn:,
Whom earth, and sea, and sky proclaim,
The ruler of the triple frame,
He unto Whom their praises,
Within the womb of Mary lies.
Her womb, the seat of every grace,
Is now the Lord's abiding place, -
That Lord's to Whom the sun by day,
The moon by night, their service pay.
O Happy Mother that thou art,
Close underneath thy beating heart,
Lies thy Creator-God, who plann'd,
The world He holds within His hand.
Blest by herald angel's tongue,
O'er thee God's shadowing Spirit hung,
And fill'd thy womb which issued forth,
The long-desir'd of all the earth.
O Mary, Mother of all grace,
Mother of Mercy to our race,
Protect us now from Satan's power,
And own us at life's closing hour.
All glory be Thee, O Lord,
The Virgin's son, by all ador'd,
And equal praise forever greet,
The Father and the Paraclete. Amen.
Psalm [8]:
God is wonderful in His works: especially in mankind, singularly exalted by the Incarnation of Christ
O Lord our Governour, * how excellent is thy Name in all the world!
2 For thou hast set thy glory * above the heavens.
3 Out of the mouth of very babes and sucklings hast thou perfected praise, because of thine enemies, * that thou mightiest destroy the enemy and the avenger.
4 For I will consider thy heavens, even the works of thy fingers; * the moon and the stars which thou hast ordained;
5 What is man, that thou art mindful of him? * and the son of man, that thou visitest him?
6 Thou madest him lower than the Angels, thou hast crowned him with glory and worship : * thou makest him to have dominion over the works of thy hands.
7 Thou hast put all things in subjection under his feet : * all sheep and oxen, yea, and the beasts of the field;
8 The fowls of the air, and the fishes of the sea; * and whatsoever walketh through the paths of the seas.
9 O Lord our Governour, * how excellent is thy Name in all the world!
2 For thou hast set thy glory * above the heavens.
3 Out of the mouth of very babes and sucklings hast thou perfected praise, because of thine enemies, * that thou mightiest destroy the enemy and the avenger.
4 For I will consider thy heavens, even the works of thy fingers; * the moon and the stars which thou hast ordained;
5 What is man, that thou art mindful of him? * and the son of man, that thou visitest him?
6 Thou madest him lower than the Angels, thou hast crowned him with glory and worship : * thou makest him to have dominion over the works of thy hands.
7 Thou hast put all things in subjection under his feet : * all sheep and oxen, yea, and the beasts of the field;
8 The fowls of the air, and the fishes of the sea; * and whatsoever walketh through the paths of the seas.
9 O Lord our Governour, * how excellent is thy Name in all the world!
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, * and to the Holy Ghost: as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, * world without end. Amen.
Psalm [18]:
The works of God show forth His glory: His law is to be greatly esteemed and loved
The heavens declare the glory of God; * and the firmament sheweth his handy-work.
2 Day to day uttereth speech; * and night to night sheweth knowledge.
3 There is neither speech nor language; * where their voices are not heard.
4 Their sound is gone out into all lands; * and their words into the ends of the world.
5 In the sun hath he set his tabernacle; * and he, as a bridegroom coming out of his chamber,
6 Hath rejoiced as a giant to run his course, * his going forth is from the uttermost part of the heaven.
7 And his circuit even unto the end thereof; * and there is no one that can hide himself from his heat.
8 The law of the Lord is an undefiled law, converting the soul; * the testimony of the Lord is sure, and giveth wisdom unto the simple.
9 The statutes of the Lord are right, and rejoice the heart; * the commandment of the Lord is pure, and giveth light unto the eyes.
10 The fear of the Lord is holy, and endureth for ever; * the judgments of the Lord are true, justified in themselves.
11 More to be desired are they than gold, yea, than much precious stone; * sweeter also than honey, and the honeycomb.
12 For thy servant keepeth them; * and in keeping of them there is great reward.
13 Who can tell how oft he offendeth? O cleanse thou me from my secret faults : * save thy servant also from the sins of others.
14 If they get not the dominion over me, so shall I be undefiled, * and innocent from the great offence.
15 And the words of my mouth shall be such as may please, * and the meditation of my heart be alway in thy sight.
16 O Lord, my strength * and my redeemer.
2 Day to day uttereth speech; * and night to night sheweth knowledge.
3 There is neither speech nor language; * where their voices are not heard.
4 Their sound is gone out into all lands; * and their words into the ends of the world.
5 In the sun hath he set his tabernacle; * and he, as a bridegroom coming out of his chamber,
6 Hath rejoiced as a giant to run his course, * his going forth is from the uttermost part of the heaven.
7 And his circuit even unto the end thereof; * and there is no one that can hide himself from his heat.
8 The law of the Lord is an undefiled law, converting the soul; * the testimony of the Lord is sure, and giveth wisdom unto the simple.
9 The statutes of the Lord are right, and rejoice the heart; * the commandment of the Lord is pure, and giveth light unto the eyes.
10 The fear of the Lord is holy, and endureth for ever; * the judgments of the Lord are true, justified in themselves.
11 More to be desired are they than gold, yea, than much precious stone; * sweeter also than honey, and the honeycomb.
12 For thy servant keepeth them; * and in keeping of them there is great reward.
13 Who can tell how oft he offendeth? O cleanse thou me from my secret faults : * save thy servant also from the sins of others.
14 If they get not the dominion over me, so shall I be undefiled, * and innocent from the great offence.
15 And the words of my mouth shall be such as may please, * and the meditation of my heart be alway in thy sight.
16 O Lord, my strength * and my redeemer.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, * and to the Holy Ghost: as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, * world without end. Amen.
Psalm [23]:
Who are they that shall ascend into heaven: Christ's triumphant ascension thither.
The earth is the Lord's, and all the fulness thereof; * the compass of the world, and they that dwell therein.
2 For he hath founded it upon the seas, * and stablished it upon the rivers.
3 Who shall ascend into the mountain of the Lord? * or who shall stand in his holy place?
4 Even he that hath clean hands, and a pure heart; * and that hath not lift up his soul unto vanity, nor deceitfully sworn to his neighbour.
5 He shall receive a blessing from the Lord, * and mercy from God his saviour.
6 This is the generation of them that seek him; * even of them that seek the face of the God of Jacob.
7 Lift up your gates, O ye princes; and be ye lift up, ye everlasting gates; * and the King of glory shall come in.
8 Who is this King of glory? * It is the Lord strong and mighty, even the Lord mighty in battle.
9 Lift up your gates, O ye princes; and be ye lift up, ye everlasting gates; * and the King of glory shall come in.
10 Who is this King of glory? * Even the Lord of hosts, he is the King of glory.
2 For he hath founded it upon the seas, * and stablished it upon the rivers.
3 Who shall ascend into the mountain of the Lord? * or who shall stand in his holy place?
4 Even he that hath clean hands, and a pure heart; * and that hath not lift up his soul unto vanity, nor deceitfully sworn to his neighbour.
5 He shall receive a blessing from the Lord, * and mercy from God his saviour.
6 This is the generation of them that seek him; * even of them that seek the face of the God of Jacob.
7 Lift up your gates, O ye princes; and be ye lift up, ye everlasting gates; * and the King of glory shall come in.
8 Who is this King of glory? * It is the Lord strong and mighty, even the Lord mighty in battle.
9 Lift up your gates, O ye princes; and be ye lift up, ye everlasting gates; * and the King of glory shall come in.
10 Who is this King of glory? * Even the Lord of hosts, he is the King of glory.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, * and to the Holy Ghost: as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, * world without end. Amen.
V: Blessed art thou amongst women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb.
V: Grace is poured forth on thy lips.
R: Therefore God hath blessed thee forever.
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth, as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us.
V: And lead us not into temptation.
R: But deliver us from evil. Amen.
V: We pray thee, vouchsafe us a blessing.
Blessing
May the tender Virgin of virgins intercede for us with the Lord.
R: Amen.
The first lesson:
O Holy Mary, Virgin of virgins, Mother and daughter of the King of Kings! bestow upon us thy consolation, that through thee we may deserve the reward of the heavenly kingdom, and reign with the elect of God unto all eternity. But thou, O Lord, have mercy on us.
O Holy Mary, Virgin of virgins, Mother and daughter of the King of Kings! bestow upon us thy consolation, that through thee we may deserve the reward of the heavenly kingdom, and reign with the elect of God unto all eternity. But thou, O Lord, have mercy on us.
R: Thanks be to God.
R: O holy and immaculate Virginity, with what praises to extol thee, I know not for thou gavest from thy bosom Him Whom the heavens could not contain.
V: Blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb.
R:For thou gavest from thy bosom Him, Whom the heavens could not contain.
V: We pray thee, vouchsafe us a blessing.
Blessing
May the holy Mother of God be our helper.
R: Amen.
The second lesson:
O Holy Mary, most compassionate of all the compassionate, and holiest of all the holy, make intercession for us. Through thee, O Virgin, may He receive our prayers, Who, born for us of thee, reigneth above the skies; that so, by His loving-kindness, our sins may be cleansed away. But Thou, O Lord, have mercy on us.
O Holy Mary, most compassionate of all the compassionate, and holiest of all the holy, make intercession for us. Through thee, O Virgin, may He receive our prayers, Who, born for us of thee, reigneth above the skies; that so, by His loving-kindness, our sins may be cleansed away. But Thou, O Lord, have mercy on us.
R: Thanks be to God.
R: Blessed art thou, O Virgin Mary, who didst bear the Lord, the Creator of the world. Thou gavest birth unto Him Who made thee, and remainest a virgin evermore.
V: Hail Mary,full of grace, the Lord is with thee.
R:Thou gavest birth unto Him Who made thee, and remainest a virgin evermore.
R:Thou gavest birth unto Him Who made thee, and remainest a virgin evermore.
V: We pray thee, vouchsafe us a blessing.
May the Virgin Mary, with her loving Child, bless us.
R: Amen.
The third lesson:
O holy Mother of God, who didst worthily deserve to conceive Him Whom the whole world cannot contain, cleanse away our sins by thy loving intercession that we who have been redeemed may through thee be able to ascend to the seat of perpetual glory, where, with Him, thy Son, thou reignest forever. But Thou, O Lord, have mercy on us
O holy Mother of God, who didst worthily deserve to conceive Him Whom the whole world cannot contain, cleanse away our sins by thy loving intercession that we who have been redeemed may through thee be able to ascend to the seat of perpetual glory, where, with Him, thy Son, thou reignest forever. But Thou, O Lord, have mercy on us
R: Thanks be to God.
R: Happy thou, O sacred Virgin Mary, and most worthy of all praise, for out of thee arose the Sun of Justice, Christ our God.
V: Pray for the people, plead for the clergy, make intercession for the devout female sex; let all feel thy helping power who celebrate thy blessed memory.
R: For out of thee arose the Sun of Justice, Christ our God.
V: Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, * and to the Holy Ghost:
R:Christ our God.
R: Happy thou, O sacred Virgin Mary, and most worthy of all praise, for out of thee arose the Sun of Justice, Christ our God.
STAND
TE DEUM
CALLED THE CANTICLE OF STS. AMBROSE AND AUGUSTINE
TE DEUM
CALLED THE CANTICLE OF STS. AMBROSE AND AUGUSTINE
We praise thee, O God, * we acknowledge thee to be the Lord.
All the earth doth worship thee, * the Father everlasting.
To thee all Angels cry aloud, * the Heavens, and all the Powers therein.
To thee Cherubim and Seraphim * continually do cry.
During the following Tersanctus all make a profound reverence:
Holy,
Holy,
Holy, * Lord God of Sabaoth;
Heaven and earth are full * of the Majesty of thy glory.
The glorious company of the Apostles * praise thee.
The goodly fellowship of the Prophets * praise thee.
The noble army of Martyrs * praise thee.
The holy Church throughout all the world * doth acknowledge thee;
The Father, * of an infinite Majesty.
Thine honourable, true, * and only Son;
Also the Holy Ghost, * the Comforter.
Thou art the King of Glory, * O Christ.
Thou art the everlasting * Son of the Father.
During the following verse all make a profound reverence:
When thou tookest upon thee to deliver man, * thou didst not abhor the Virgin's womb.
When thou hadst overcome the sharpness of death, * thou didst open the Kingdom of Heaven to all believers.
Thou sittest at the right hand of God, * in the glory of the Father.
We believe that thou shalt come * to be our Judge.
Here all genuflect.
We therefore pray thee, help thy servants, * whom thou hast redeemed with thy precious Blood.
Here all rise.
Make them to be numbered with thy Saints, * in glory everlasting.
O Lord, save thy people, * and bless thine heritage.
Govern them, * and lift them up for ever.
Day by day * we magnify thee;
During the following verse by local custom a profound reverence is made:
And we worship thy Name * ever, world without end.
Vouchsafe, O Lord, to keep us * this day without sin.
O Lord, have mercy upon us, * have mercy upon us.
O Lord, let thy mercy lighten upon us, * as our trust is in thee.
O Lord, in thee have I trusted, * let me never be confounded.
V. Pray for us, O Holy Mother of God.
R. That we may be made worthy of the promises of Christ.
All the earth doth worship thee, * the Father everlasting.
To thee all Angels cry aloud, * the Heavens, and all the Powers therein.
To thee Cherubim and Seraphim * continually do cry.
During the following Tersanctus all make a profound reverence:
Holy,
Holy,
Holy, * Lord God of Sabaoth;
Heaven and earth are full * of the Majesty of thy glory.
The glorious company of the Apostles * praise thee.
The goodly fellowship of the Prophets * praise thee.
The noble army of Martyrs * praise thee.
The holy Church throughout all the world * doth acknowledge thee;
The Father, * of an infinite Majesty.
Thine honourable, true, * and only Son;
Also the Holy Ghost, * the Comforter.
Thou art the King of Glory, * O Christ.
Thou art the everlasting * Son of the Father.
During the following verse all make a profound reverence:
When thou tookest upon thee to deliver man, * thou didst not abhor the Virgin's womb.
When thou hadst overcome the sharpness of death, * thou didst open the Kingdom of Heaven to all believers.
Thou sittest at the right hand of God, * in the glory of the Father.
We believe that thou shalt come * to be our Judge.
Here all genuflect.
We therefore pray thee, help thy servants, * whom thou hast redeemed with thy precious Blood.
Here all rise.
Make them to be numbered with thy Saints, * in glory everlasting.
O Lord, save thy people, * and bless thine heritage.
Govern them, * and lift them up for ever.
Day by day * we magnify thee;
During the following verse by local custom a profound reverence is made:
And we worship thy Name * ever, world without end.
Vouchsafe, O Lord, to keep us * this day without sin.
O Lord, have mercy upon us, * have mercy upon us.
O Lord, let thy mercy lighten upon us, * as our trust is in thee.
O Lord, in thee have I trusted, * let me never be confounded.
V. Pray for us, O Holy Mother of God.
R. That we may be made worthy of the promises of Christ.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Lauds
In the early Christian Night Watches, the meditations and readings that had lasted from midnight gave place, at the break of the dawn of the expected feast-day, to songs of praise and gladness, which continued till sunrise; and it is these Morning Praises that gave rise to the present Hour of Lauds. The chief thought of Lauds, then is that of praise and thanksgiving offered to God at the opening of a new day.
PRAYER BEFORE THE OFFICE
Open, O Lord, my mouth to bless Thy Holy Name: cleanse also my heart from all vain, perverse and distracting thoughts; enlighten my understanding, inflame my will , that I may worthily, attentively, and devoutly recite this Office, and deserve to be heard in the presence of Thy divine Majesty. Through Christ, our Lord.
R: Amen.
O Lord, in union with that divine intention wherewith Thou didst offer praises on earth to God. I offer these Hours to Thee.
V: Incline unto my aid O God.
R: O Lord make haste to help me.
V:Glory be to the Father, and to the Son: and to the Holy Ghost.
R:as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, * world without end, Amen. Alleluia.
R: O Lord make haste to help me.
V:Glory be to the Father, and to the Son: and to the Holy Ghost.
R:as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, * world without end, Amen. Alleluia.
Psalm 92.
The glory and stability of the kingdom: that is, of the Church of Christ
The glory and stability of the kingdom: that is, of the Church of Christ
The Lord hath reigned, and hath put on glorious apparel; * the Lord hath put on his apparel, and girded himself with strength.
2 For he hath stablished the round world, * that it cannot be moved.
3 Thy throne is prepared from of old : * thou art from everlasting.
4 The floods have lift up, O Lord, * yea, the floods have lift up their voice.
5 The floods have lift up their waves, * with the noise of many waters.
6 The waves of the sea are mighty, * glorious is the Lord, who dwelleth on high.
7 Thy testimonies are become exceeding credible: * holiness becometh thine house, O Lord, unto length of days.
2 For he hath stablished the round world, * that it cannot be moved.
3 Thy throne is prepared from of old : * thou art from everlasting.
4 The floods have lift up, O Lord, * yea, the floods have lift up their voice.
5 The floods have lift up their waves, * with the noise of many waters.
6 The waves of the sea are mighty, * glorious is the Lord, who dwelleth on high.
7 Thy testimonies are become exceeding credible: * holiness becometh thine house, O Lord, unto length of days.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, * and to the Holy Ghost: as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, * world without end. Amen.
Psalm 99.
All are invited to rejoice in God, the Creator of all
All are invited to rejoice in God, the Creator of all
O be joyful in the Lord, all ye lands: * serve the Lord with gladness.
2 Come before his presence * with exceeding great joy.
3 Know ye that the Lord he is God; * it is he that hath made us, and not we ourselves.
4 We are his people, and the sheep of his pasture : * O go your way into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise; be ye thankful unto him.
5 Give praises unto his Name: for the Lord is gracious, his mercy is everlasting; * and his truth endureth from generation to generation.
2 Come before his presence * with exceeding great joy.
3 Know ye that the Lord he is God; * it is he that hath made us, and not we ourselves.
4 We are his people, and the sheep of his pasture : * O go your way into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise; be ye thankful unto him.
5 Give praises unto his Name: for the Lord is gracious, his mercy is everlasting; * and his truth endureth from generation to generation.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, * and to the Holy Ghost: as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, * world without end. Amen.
Psalm 62.
The prophet aspireth after God
The prophet aspireth after God
O God, thou art my God; * to thee do I watch at break of day.
2 My soul hath thirsted for thee, * my flesh also in many different ways.
3 In a barren and dry land where no water is: * so in the sanctuary have I come before thee, that I might behold thy power and thy glory.
4 For thy mercy is better than the life itself : * my lips shall praise thee.
5 Thus will I bless thee as long as I live : * and I will lift up my hands in thy Name.
6 My soul shall be filled as with marrow and fatness, * and my mouth shall praise thee with joyful lips.
7 If I have remembered thee in my bed, I will think upon thee in the morning : * because thou hast been my helper.
8 And under the shadow of thy wings will I rejoice, my soul hath hung upon thee; * thy right hand hath upholden me.
9 But they have sought my soul in vain, they shall go down into the nether parts of the earth : * they shall be delivered into the hands of the sword, they shall be a portion for foxes.
10 But the king shall rejoice in God; all they also that swear by him shall be commended; * for the mouth of them that speak wicked things shall be stopped.
2 My soul hath thirsted for thee, * my flesh also in many different ways.
3 In a barren and dry land where no water is: * so in the sanctuary have I come before thee, that I might behold thy power and thy glory.
4 For thy mercy is better than the life itself : * my lips shall praise thee.
5 Thus will I bless thee as long as I live : * and I will lift up my hands in thy Name.
6 My soul shall be filled as with marrow and fatness, * and my mouth shall praise thee with joyful lips.
7 If I have remembered thee in my bed, I will think upon thee in the morning : * because thou hast been my helper.
8 And under the shadow of thy wings will I rejoice, my soul hath hung upon thee; * thy right hand hath upholden me.
9 But they have sought my soul in vain, they shall go down into the nether parts of the earth : * they shall be delivered into the hands of the sword, they shall be a portion for foxes.
10 But the king shall rejoice in God; all they also that swear by him shall be commended; * for the mouth of them that speak wicked things shall be stopped.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, * and to the Holy Ghost: as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, * world without end. Amen.
CANTICLE OF THE THREE YOUTHS
Dan. 3, 56,57-88
Dan. 3, 56,57-88
O all ye Works of the Lord, bless ye the Lord : * praise him, and magnify him for ever.
2 O ye Angels of the Lord, bless ye the Lord : * O ye Heavens, bless ye the Lord.
3 O ye Waters that be above the Firmament, bless ye the Lord: * O all ye Powers of the Lord, bless ye the Lord.
4 O ye Sun and Moon, bless ye the Lord: * O ye Stars of Heaven, bless ye the Lord.
5 O ye Showers and Dew, bless ye the Lord: * O ye winds of God, bless ye the Lord.
6 O ye Fire and Heat, bless ye the Lord: * O ye Winter and Summer, bless ye the Lord.
7 O ye Dews and Frosts, bless ye the Lord: * O ye Frost and Cold, bless ye the Lord.
8 O ye Ice and Snow, bless ye the Lord: * O ye Nights and Days, bless ye the Lord.
9 O ye Light and Darkness, bless ye the Lord: * O ye Lightnings and Clouds, bless ye the Lord.
10 O let the Earth bless the Lord; * yea, let it praise him, and magnify him for ever.
11 O ye Mountains and Hills, bless ye the Lord: * O all ye Green Things upon the earth, bless ye the Lord.
12 O ye Wells, bless ye the Lord: * O ye Seas and Floods, bless ye the Lord.
13 O ye Whales, and all that move in the waters, bless ye the Lord: * O all ye Fowls of the Air, bless ye the Lord.
14 O all ye Beasts and Cattle, bless ye the Lord: * O ye Children of Men, bless ye the Lord.
15 O let Israël bless the Lord; * praise him, and magnify him for ever.
16 O ye Priests of the Lord, bless ye the Lord: * O ye Servants of the Lord, bless ye the Lord.
17 O ye Spirits and Souls of the Righteous, bless ye the Lord: * O ye holy and humble Men of heart, bless ye the Lord.
18 O Ananias, Azarias, and Misael, bless ye the Lord: praise him and magnify him for ever:
(During the following verse, all bow:)
19 Let us bless the Father and the Son, with the Holy Ghost; * let us praise him and magnify him for ever.
20 Blessed art thou, O Lord, in the firmament of heaven; * and to be praised and exalted above all for ever.
Here is not said Amen or Glory be.
2 O ye Angels of the Lord, bless ye the Lord : * O ye Heavens, bless ye the Lord.
3 O ye Waters that be above the Firmament, bless ye the Lord: * O all ye Powers of the Lord, bless ye the Lord.
4 O ye Sun and Moon, bless ye the Lord: * O ye Stars of Heaven, bless ye the Lord.
5 O ye Showers and Dew, bless ye the Lord: * O ye winds of God, bless ye the Lord.
6 O ye Fire and Heat, bless ye the Lord: * O ye Winter and Summer, bless ye the Lord.
7 O ye Dews and Frosts, bless ye the Lord: * O ye Frost and Cold, bless ye the Lord.
8 O ye Ice and Snow, bless ye the Lord: * O ye Nights and Days, bless ye the Lord.
9 O ye Light and Darkness, bless ye the Lord: * O ye Lightnings and Clouds, bless ye the Lord.
10 O let the Earth bless the Lord; * yea, let it praise him, and magnify him for ever.
11 O ye Mountains and Hills, bless ye the Lord: * O all ye Green Things upon the earth, bless ye the Lord.
12 O ye Wells, bless ye the Lord: * O ye Seas and Floods, bless ye the Lord.
13 O ye Whales, and all that move in the waters, bless ye the Lord: * O all ye Fowls of the Air, bless ye the Lord.
14 O all ye Beasts and Cattle, bless ye the Lord: * O ye Children of Men, bless ye the Lord.
15 O let Israël bless the Lord; * praise him, and magnify him for ever.
16 O ye Priests of the Lord, bless ye the Lord: * O ye Servants of the Lord, bless ye the Lord.
17 O ye Spirits and Souls of the Righteous, bless ye the Lord: * O ye holy and humble Men of heart, bless ye the Lord.
18 O Ananias, Azarias, and Misael, bless ye the Lord: praise him and magnify him for ever:
(During the following verse, all bow:)
19 Let us bless the Father and the Son, with the Holy Ghost; * let us praise him and magnify him for ever.
20 Blessed art thou, O Lord, in the firmament of heaven; * and to be praised and exalted above all for ever.
Here is not said Amen or Glory be.
Psalm 148.
All creatures are invited to praise their creator
All creatures are invited to praise their creator
O praise ye the Lord from the heavens: * praise ye him in the height.
2 Praise him, all ye Angels of his: * praise him, all his host.
3 Praise ye him, O sun and moon: * praise him, all ye stars and light.
4 Praise him, all ye heavens of heavens, * and ye waters that are above the heavens, praise the Name of the Lord.
5 For he spake the word, and they were made; * he commanded, and they were created.
6 He hath established them for ever, yea, unto ages of ages : * he hath set forth a law, and it shall not pass away.
7 Praise the Lord from the earth, * ye dragons and all deeps;
8 Fire and hail, snow and ice, wind and storm, * fulfilling his word;
9 Mountains and all hills; * fruitful trees and all cedars;
10 Beasts and all cattle; * creeping things and flying fowls;
11 Kings of the earth, and all people; * princes, and all judges of the world;
12 Young men and maidens, old men and children, praise the Name of the Lord: * for his Name only is exalted.
13 His praise is above heaven and earth : * and he shall exalt the horn of his people.
14 A hymn unto all his saints : * even unto the children of Israel, a people that draw nigh unto him.
2 Praise him, all ye Angels of his: * praise him, all his host.
3 Praise ye him, O sun and moon: * praise him, all ye stars and light.
4 Praise him, all ye heavens of heavens, * and ye waters that are above the heavens, praise the Name of the Lord.
5 For he spake the word, and they were made; * he commanded, and they were created.
6 He hath established them for ever, yea, unto ages of ages : * he hath set forth a law, and it shall not pass away.
7 Praise the Lord from the earth, * ye dragons and all deeps;
8 Fire and hail, snow and ice, wind and storm, * fulfilling his word;
9 Mountains and all hills; * fruitful trees and all cedars;
10 Beasts and all cattle; * creeping things and flying fowls;
11 Kings of the earth, and all people; * princes, and all judges of the world;
12 Young men and maidens, old men and children, praise the Name of the Lord: * for his Name only is exalted.
13 His praise is above heaven and earth : * and he shall exalt the horn of his people.
14 A hymn unto all his saints : * even unto the children of Israel, a people that draw nigh unto him.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, * and to the Holy Ghost: as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, * world without end. Amen.
Ant. After childbirth thou didst still remain a virgin undefiled: Mother of God, intercede for us.
Little Chapter
ECCL. 24
ECCL. 24
Like a vine, I gave forth an odor of sweetness:
and my flowers are the fruits of honor and riches.
and my flowers are the fruits of honor and riches.
R: Thanks be to God.
Hymn:,
O glorious Lady, throned in light,
Sublime above the stary height,
Thine arms thy great Creator pressed,
A suckling at thy sacred breast.
Through the dear Blossom of thy womb,
Thou changest hapless Eva's doom:
Through thee to contrite souls is given
An opening to their home in heaven
Thou art the great King's portal bright,
With perls and stones of living light,
Come then, ye ransomed nations, sing
The life diveine 'twas hers to bring.
O Mary, Mother of all grace,
Mother of Mercy to our race,
Protect us now from Satan's power,
And own us at life's closing hour.
All glory be Thee, O Lord,
The Virgin's son, by all ador'd,
And equal praise forever greet,
The Father and the Paraclete. Amen.
O glorious Lady, throned in light,
Sublime above the stary height,
Thine arms thy great Creator pressed,
A suckling at thy sacred breast.
Through the dear Blossom of thy womb,
Thou changest hapless Eva's doom:
Through thee to contrite souls is given
An opening to their home in heaven
Thou art the great King's portal bright,
With perls and stones of living light,
Come then, ye ransomed nations, sing
The life diveine 'twas hers to bring.
O Mary, Mother of all grace,
Mother of Mercy to our race,
Protect us now from Satan's power,
And own us at life's closing hour.
All glory be Thee, O Lord,
The Virgin's son, by all ador'd,
And equal praise forever greet,
The Father and the Paraclete. Amen.
V: God hath chosen her, and preferred her.
R: And He maketh her dwell in His tabernacle.
THE CANTICLE OF ZACHARY
Luke 1. 68-79
Blessed † be the Lord God of Israel; * for he hath visited and redeemed his people ;
2 And hath raised up a mighty salvation for us, * in the house of his servant David ;
3 As he spake by the mouth of his holy Prophets, * which have been since the world began ;
4 That we should be saved from our enemies, * and from the hand of all that hate us.
5 To perform the mercy promised to our forefathers, * and to remember his holy Covenant ;
6 To perform the oath which he sware to our forefather Abraham, * that he would give us ;
7 That we being delivered out of the hand of our enemies * might serve him without fear ;
8 In holiness and righteousness before him, * all the days of our life.
9 And thou, child, shalt be called the Prophet of the Highest: * for thou shalt go before the face of the Lord to prepare his ways ;
10 To give knowledge of salvation unto his people * for the remission of their sins,
11 Through the tender mercy of our God; * whereby the Day-Spring from on high hath visited us ;
12 To give light to them that sit in darkness, and in the shadow of death, * and to guide our feet into the way of peace.
13 Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, * and to the Holy Ghost.
14 As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, * world without end. Amen.
During Advent
Ant. The Holy Ghost shall come down upon thee, O Mary: fear not, thou shalt bear within thy womb the Son of God, alleluia
2 And hath raised up a mighty salvation for us, * in the house of his servant David ;
3 As he spake by the mouth of his holy Prophets, * which have been since the world began ;
4 That we should be saved from our enemies, * and from the hand of all that hate us.
5 To perform the mercy promised to our forefathers, * and to remember his holy Covenant ;
6 To perform the oath which he sware to our forefather Abraham, * that he would give us ;
7 That we being delivered out of the hand of our enemies * might serve him without fear ;
8 In holiness and righteousness before him, * all the days of our life.
9 And thou, child, shalt be called the Prophet of the Highest: * for thou shalt go before the face of the Lord to prepare his ways ;
10 To give knowledge of salvation unto his people * for the remission of their sins,
11 Through the tender mercy of our God; * whereby the Day-Spring from on high hath visited us ;
12 To give light to them that sit in darkness, and in the shadow of death, * and to guide our feet into the way of peace.
13 Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, * and to the Holy Ghost.
14 As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, * world without end. Amen.
During Advent
Ant. The Holy Ghost shall come down upon thee, O Mary: fear not, thou shalt bear within thy womb the Son of God, alleluia
V: O Lord, hear my prayer.
R: And let my cry come unto Thee.
Let us pray
O God, Who wast please that, at the message of an angel, Thy Word should take flesh from the womb of the Blessed Virgin Mary, grant that we, Thy suppliants, who truly believe her to be the Mother of God, may be helped by her intercession with Thee. Through the same Christ our Lord.
R: Amen.
From Christmas to the Purification
Ant. A Women in childbirth brought forth a King Whose name is eternal; and, possessing a mother's joy with a virgin's honor, her like hath not appeared before nor since.
V: O Lord, hear my prayer.
R: And let my cry come unto Thee.
Let us pray
O God, Who through the fruitful virginity of blessed Mary, hast given to mankind the reward of eternal salvation, grant, we beseech Thee that we may feel the intercession she makes for us, through whom we have been made worthy the Author of Life ,Christ our Lord.
R: Amen.
From the Purification to Easter Sunday
Same as Trinity Sunday to Advent
During Paschal Time
Ant. O blessed Mary, Mother of God, perpetual virgin, temple of the Lord, sanctuary of the Holy Ghost, thou alone without equal wast pleasing to our Lord Jesus Christ: pray for the people, plead for the clergy, make intercession for the devout female sex. Alleluia, Alleluia.
V: O Lord, hear my prayer.
R: And let my cry come unto Thee.
Let us pray
.
Grant, we beseech Thee, O Lord God, that we, Thy servants, may enjoy continual health of mind and body; and that, through the glorious intercession of blessed Mary, ever virgin, we may be delivered from present sorrow, and enjoy eternal happiness. Through Christ our Lord.
R: Amen.
From Trinity Sunday to Advent
Ant. O glorious Mother of God, Mary, ever virgin, who alone wast found worthy to bear the Lord of all, and though a virgin, to nurse the King of angels, be graciously mindful of us, we beseech thee, and pray to Christ for us, that we, being upheld by thy care, may deserve to attain to heavenly kingdoms.
V: O Lord, hear my prayer.
R: And let my cry come unto Thee.
Let us pray
Grant, we beseech Thee, O Lord God, that we, Thy servants, may enjoy continual health of mind and body; and that, through the intercession of blessed Mary, ever virgin, we may be delivered from present sorrow, and enjoy eternal hapiness. Through Christ our Lord.
R: Amen.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Prime
At the time of Our Lord, the day, from sunrise until evening, was divided into four hours; the first hour (6-9 A.M.), the third hour (9 A.M to noon), the sixth hour (noon to 3 P.M), the ninth hour (3 P.M. to 6 P.M.). Wishing to consecrate all these divisions of the day to God, the Church appointed a prayer appropriate for each hour. Prime is the prayer of the first hour of daylight, and its purpose is to offer all the works of the day to God and obtain for them His protection and blessing
PRAYER BEFORE THE OFFICE
Open, O Lord, my mouth to bless Thy Holy Name: cleanse also my heart from all vain, perverse and distracting thoughts; enlighten my understanding, inflame my will , that I may worthily, attentively, and devoutly recite this Office, and deserve to be heard in the presence of Thy divine Majesty. Through Christ, our Lord.
R: Amen.
O Lord, in union with that divine intention wherewith Thou didst offer praises on earth to God. I offer these Hours to Thee.
V: Hail Mary,full of grace, the Lord is with thee.
R: Blessed art thou amongst women, and blessed is the Fruit of thy womb, Jesus.
V: Incline unto my aid O God.
R: O Lord make haste to help me.
V:Glory be to the Father, and to the Son: and to the Holy Ghost.
R:as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, * world without end, Amen. Alleluia.
So Alleluia is said at all hours, from the Vespers of Easter eve, unto the Compline of the Saturday before the Sunday of Septuagesima. For then unto the Vespers of Easter eve is said: Praise be to thee O Lord, King of eternal glory.
Hymn:,
Author of grace, sweet Saviour mine,
Remember that Thy flesh divine,
From the unsullied Virgin came,
Made like unto our mortal frame.
O Mary, Mother of all grace,
Mother of Mercy to our race,
Protect us now from Satan's power,
And own us at life's closing hour.
All glory be Thee, O Lord,
The Virgin's son, by all ador'd,
And equal praise forever greet,
The Father and the Paraclete. Amen.
Psalm 119.
A prayer in tribulation
A prayer in tribulation
When I was in trouble, I called upon the Lord, * and he heard me.
2 Deliver my soul, O Lord, from lying lips, * and from a deceitful tongue.
3 What shall be given unto thee, or what shall be added unto thee, * to a deceitful tongue?
4 Even the sharp arrows of the mighty, * with hot burning coals.
5 Woe is me, that I sojourning is prolonged; I have dwelt with the inhabitants of Kedar : * my soul hath long dwelt among them.
6 With them that hated peace I was peaceable : * when I spake unto them, they fought against me without cause.
2 Deliver my soul, O Lord, from lying lips, * and from a deceitful tongue.
3 What shall be given unto thee, or what shall be added unto thee, * to a deceitful tongue?
4 Even the sharp arrows of the mighty, * with hot burning coals.
5 Woe is me, that I sojourning is prolonged; I have dwelt with the inhabitants of Kedar : * my soul hath long dwelt among them.
6 With them that hated peace I was peaceable : * when I spake unto them, they fought against me without cause.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, * and to the Holy Ghost: as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, * world without end. Amen.
Psalm 120.
God is the keeper of his Servant
God is the keeper of his Servant
I have lifted up mine eyes unto the hills; * from whence cometh my help.
2 My help cometh even from the Lord, * who hath made heaven and earth.
3 May he not suffer thy foot to be moved; * neither let him slumber that keepeth thee.
4 Behold, he that keepeth Israel * shall neither slumber nor sleep.
5 The Lord is thy keeper, the Lord is thy defence * upon thy right hand.
6 The sun shall not burn thee by day, * neither the moon by night.
7 The Lord shall preserve thee from all evil; * yea, it is even he that shall keep thy soul.
8 The Lord shall preserve thy going out, and thy coming in, * from this time forth for evermore.
2 My help cometh even from the Lord, * who hath made heaven and earth.
3 May he not suffer thy foot to be moved; * neither let him slumber that keepeth thee.
4 Behold, he that keepeth Israel * shall neither slumber nor sleep.
5 The Lord is thy keeper, the Lord is thy defence * upon thy right hand.
6 The sun shall not burn thee by day, * neither the moon by night.
7 The Lord shall preserve thee from all evil; * yea, it is even he that shall keep thy soul.
8 The Lord shall preserve thy going out, and thy coming in, * from this time forth for evermore.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, * and to the Holy Ghost: as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, * world without end. Amen.
Psalm 121.
The desire and hope of the just for the coming of the kingdom of God, and the peace of His Church
The desire and hope of the just for the coming of the kingdom of God, and the peace of His Church
I rejoiced at the things that were said unto me, * We will go into the house of the Lord.
2 Our feet shall stand * in thy gates, O Jerusalem.
3 Jerusalem is built as a city * that is at unity in itself.
4 For thither did the tribes go up, even the tribes of the Lord, * to testify unto Israel, to give thanks unto the Name of the Lord.
5 For their seats have sat in judgment, * even the seats upon the house of David.
6 O pray for the peace of Jerusalem; * they shall prosper that love thee.
7 Peace be within thy walls, * and plenteousness within thy palaces.
8 For my brethren and companions' sakes, * I spake peace of thee.
9 Yea, because of the house of the Lord our God, * I have sought to do thee good.
2 Our feet shall stand * in thy gates, O Jerusalem.
3 Jerusalem is built as a city * that is at unity in itself.
4 For thither did the tribes go up, even the tribes of the Lord, * to testify unto Israel, to give thanks unto the Name of the Lord.
5 For their seats have sat in judgment, * even the seats upon the house of David.
6 O pray for the peace of Jerusalem; * they shall prosper that love thee.
7 Peace be within thy walls, * and plenteousness within thy palaces.
8 For my brethren and companions' sakes, * I spake peace of thee.
9 Yea, because of the house of the Lord our God, * I have sought to do thee good.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, * and to the Holy Ghost: as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, * world without end. Amen.
Ant. Vouchsafe that I may praise thee, O sacred Virgin: give me strength against thine enemies.
V: O Lord, hear my prayer.
R: And let my cry come unto Thee.
Little Chapter
ECCL. 24
ECCL. 24
From the beginning and before the world, was I created, and unto the world to come I shall not cease to be; and in the holy dwelling-place I ministered before Him.
R: Thanks be to God.
R: After childbirth, a virgin, * thou still didst remain undefiled.
Repeat:After childbirth, a virgin, * thou still didst remain undefiled.
Repeat:After childbirth, a virgin, * thou still didst remain undefiled.
V: Mother of God, intercede for us.
Repeat:Thou still didst remain undefiled.
V: Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost.
Repeat:After childbirth, a virgin, * thou still didst remain undefiled.
Repeat:After childbirth, a virgin, * thou still didst remain undefiled.
V:Blessed art thou amongst women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb.
R: And blessed is the fruit of thy womb.
V: O Lord, hear my prayer.
R: And let my cry come unto Thee.
R: And let my cry come unto Thee.
Let us pray
Pour forth, we beseech thee, O Lord, thy grace into our hearts, that we to whom the Incarnation of Christ thy Son was made known by the message of an Angel, may by his Passion and Cross be brought to the glory of the Resurrection. Through the same Christ our Lord.
R: Amen.
V: O Lord, hear my prayer.
R: And let my cry come unto Thee.
R: And let my cry come unto Thee.
R: Thanks be to God.
V: Hail Mary,full of grace, the Lord is with thee.
R: Blessed art thou amongst women, and blessed is the Fruit of thy womb, Jesus.
V: Hail Mary,full of grace, the Lord is with thee.
R: Blessed art thou amongst women, and blessed is the Fruit of thy womb, Jesus.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Terce
The third hour (9 A.M) was sacred as a time of prayer to the Jews and the early Christians; and it was for long spoken of as " the holy hour," as it was the time when the Holy Ghost came upon Our Lady and the disciples in the Cenacle, and was later appointed as the hour for the celebration of the Holy Sacrifice. As the sun begins to diffuse warmth upon the earth at this time of the day, it is appropriate that at Terce we would especially ask for an increase of the fire of divine charity.
PRAYER BEFORE THE OFFICE
Open, O Lord, my mouth to bless Thy Holy Name: cleanse also my heart from all vain, perverse and distracting thoughts; enlighten my understanding, inflame my will , that I may worthily, attentively, and devoutly recite this Office, and deserve to be heard in the presence of Thy divine Majesty. Through Christ, our Lord.
R: Amen.
O Lord, in union with that divine intention wherewith Thou didst offer praises on earth to God. I offer these Hours to Thee.
V: Hail Mary,full of grace, the Lord is with thee.
R: Blessed art thou amongst women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus.
R: Blessed art thou amongst women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus.
V: Incline unto my aid O God.
R: O Lord make haste to help me.
V:Glory be to the Father, and to the Son: and to the Holy Ghost.
R:as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, * world without end, Amen. Alleluia.
Hymn:,
Author of grace, sweet Saviour mine,
Remember that Thy flesh divine,
From the unsullied Virgin came,
Made like unto our mortal frame.
O Mary, Mother of all grace,
Mother of Mercy to our race,
Protect us now from Satan's power,
And own us at life's closing hour.
All glory be Thee, O Lord,
The Virgin's son, by all ador'd,
And equal praise forever greet,
The Father and the Paraclete. Amen.
Psalm [122]:
A prayer in affliction with confidence in God
R: O Lord make haste to help me.
V:Glory be to the Father, and to the Son: and to the Holy Ghost.
R:as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, * world without end, Amen. Alleluia.
Hymn:,
Author of grace, sweet Saviour mine,
Remember that Thy flesh divine,
From the unsullied Virgin came,
Made like unto our mortal frame.
O Mary, Mother of all grace,
Mother of Mercy to our race,
Protect us now from Satan's power,
And own us at life's closing hour.
All glory be Thee, O Lord,
The Virgin's son, by all ador'd,
And equal praise forever greet,
The Father and the Paraclete. Amen.
Psalm [122]:
A prayer in affliction with confidence in God
Unto thee have I lift up mine eyes, * O thou that dwellest in the heavens.
2 Behold, even as the eyes of servants * look unto the hand of their masters,
3 And as the eyes of a maiden are on the hands of her mistress, * even so our eyes wait upon the Lord our God, until he have mercy upon us.
4 Have mercy upon us, O Lord, have mercy upon us; * for we are utterly despised.
5 Our soul is greatly filled; * we are a reproof to the wealthy, and contempt to the proud.
2 Behold, even as the eyes of servants * look unto the hand of their masters,
3 And as the eyes of a maiden are on the hands of her mistress, * even so our eyes wait upon the Lord our God, until he have mercy upon us.
4 Have mercy upon us, O Lord, have mercy upon us; * for we are utterly despised.
5 Our soul is greatly filled; * we are a reproof to the wealthy, and contempt to the proud.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, * and to the Holy Ghost: as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, * world without end. Amen.
Psalm [123]:
The Church giveth glory to God for her deliverance from the hands of her enemies
If the Lord himself had not been on our side, let Israel now say; * if the Lord himself had not been on our side,
2 When men rose up against us; * perchance they had swallowed us up alive.
3 When they were so wrathfully displeased at us, * perchance their waters had drowned us.
4 Our soul hath passed through the torrent : * perchance our soul had passed through a water insupportable.
5 Blessed be the Lord, * who hath not given us over for a prey unto their teeth.
6 Our soul is escaped even as a bird * out of the snare of the fowler.
7 The snare is broken, * and we are delivered.
8 Our help is in the Name of the Lord, * who hath made heaven and earth.
2 When men rose up against us; * perchance they had swallowed us up alive.
3 When they were so wrathfully displeased at us, * perchance their waters had drowned us.
4 Our soul hath passed through the torrent : * perchance our soul had passed through a water insupportable.
5 Blessed be the Lord, * who hath not given us over for a prey unto their teeth.
6 Our soul is escaped even as a bird * out of the snare of the fowler.
7 The snare is broken, * and we are delivered.
8 Our help is in the Name of the Lord, * who hath made heaven and earth.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, * and to the Holy Ghost: as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, * world without end. Amen.
Psalm [124]:
The just are always under God's protection
They that put their trust in the Lord shall be even as the mount Sion, * he shall stand fast for ever, that dwelleth in Jerusalem.
2 Mountains stand round about; * even so standeth the Lord round about his people, from this time forth for evermore.
3 For the Lord shall not leave the sceptre of the ungodly to abide upon the lot of the righteous; * that the righteous may not stretch forth their hand unto wickedness.
4 Do well, O Lord, unto those that are good * and true of heart.
5 But such as turn aside unto bonds, the Lord shall lead them forth with the evil doers; * peace upon Israel.
2 Mountains stand round about; * even so standeth the Lord round about his people, from this time forth for evermore.
3 For the Lord shall not leave the sceptre of the ungodly to abide upon the lot of the righteous; * that the righteous may not stretch forth their hand unto wickedness.
4 Do well, O Lord, unto those that are good * and true of heart.
5 But such as turn aside unto bonds, the Lord shall lead them forth with the evil doers; * peace upon Israel.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, * and to the Holy Ghost: as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, * world without end. Amen.
Ant. Rejoice, O Virgin Mary, thou alone hast destroyed all heresies throughout the whole world.
Little Chapter
ECCL. 24
ECCL. 24
And so in Sion was I established, and in the holy city likewise did I rest, and in Jerusalem was my power.
R: Thanks be to God.
V: Holy Mary, Mother of Christ, * hear thy servants imploring thee.
Repeat:Holy Mary, Mother of Christ, * hear thy servants imploring thee.
Repeat:Holy Mary, Mother of Christ, * hear thy servants imploring thee.
V: And bring to us from heaven the pardon thou obtainest.
Repeat:Hear thy servants imploring thee.
V: Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost.
Repeat:Holy Mary, Mother of Christ, * hear thy servants imploring thee.
Repeat:Holy Mary, Mother of Christ, * hear thy servants imploring thee.
V. Pray for us, O Holy Mother of God.
R. That we may be made worthy of the promises of Christ.
V: O Lord, hear my prayer.
R: And let my cry come unto Thee.
The prayer varies according to the season
During Advent
Let us pray
R. That we may be made worthy of the promises of Christ.
V: O Lord, hear my prayer.
R: And let my cry come unto Thee.
The prayer varies according to the season
During Advent
Let us pray
O God, Who wast pleased at the message of an angel, Thy Word should take flesh from the womb of the Blessed Virgin Mary, grant that we, Thy suppliants, who believe her to be truly the Mother of God, may be helped through her intercession with Thee. Throught the same Jesus Christ our Lord, Thy Son, Who with Thee liveth and reigneth in the unity of the Holy Ghost, God world without end .
R: Amen.
From Christmas to Purification
Let us pray
O God, Who through the fruitful virginity of Blessed Mary, hast given to mankind the reward of eternal salvation, grant, we beseech Thee, that we may feel the intercession she makes for us, through whom we have been made worthy to receive the Author of life, our Lord Jesus Christ our Lord, Thy Son, Who with Thee liveth and reigneth in the unity of the Holy Ghost, God world without end .
R: Amen.
From Purification to Advent
Let us pray
Grant, we beseech Thee, O Lord God, that we, Thy servants, may enjoy continual health of mind and body; and that through the glorious intercession of blessed Mary, ever virgin, we may be delivered from present sorrow and enjoy eternal happiness through our Lord Jesus Christ our Lord, Thy Son, Who with Thee liveth and reigneth in the unity of the Holy Ghost, God world without end .
R: Amen.
V: O Lord, hear my prayer.
R: And let my cry come unto Thee.
R: And let my cry come unto Thee.
R: Thanks be to God.
V: Hail Mary,full of grace, the Lord is with thee.
R: Blessed art thou amongst women, and blessed is the Fruit of thy womb, Jesus.
V: Hail Mary,full of grace, the Lord is with thee.
R: Blessed art thou amongst women, and blessed is the Fruit of thy womb, Jesus.
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Sext
The sixth hour of the day (noon) is hallowed as being the time when our Lord was nailed to the Cross and later ascended into heaven. The special blessings that may suitably be asked for in Sext, the Prayer of the Sixth Hour, are charity towards our neighbor, health of body and peace of mind amidst the occupations in which we are engaged.
PRAYER BEFORE THE OFFICE
Open, O Lord, my mouth to bless Thy Holy Name: cleanse also my heart from all vain, perverse and distracting thoughts; enlighten my understanding, inflame my will , that I may worthily, attentively, and devoutly recite this Office, and deserve to be heard in the presence of Thy divine Majesty. Through Christ, our Lord.
R: Amen.
O Lord, in union with that divine intention wherewith Thou didst offer praises on earth to God. I offer these Hours to Thee.
V: Hail Mary,full of grace, the Lord is with thee.
R: Blessed art thou amongst women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus.
R: Blessed art thou amongst women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus.
V: Incline unto my aid O God.
R: O Lord make haste to help me.
V:Glory be to the Father, and to the Son: and to the Holy Ghost.
R:as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, * world without end, Amen. Alleluia.
Hymn:,
Author of grace, sweet Saviour mine,
Remember that Thy flesh divine,
From the unsullied Virgin came,
Made like unto our mortal frame.
O Mary, Mother of all grace,
Mother of Mercy to our race,
Protect us now from Satan's power,
And own us at life's closing hour.
All glory be Thee, O Lord,
The Virgin's son, by all ador'd,
And equal praise forever greet,
The Father and the Paraclete. Amen.
Psalm [125]:
The people of God rejoice at their delivery from captivity
R: O Lord make haste to help me.
V:Glory be to the Father, and to the Son: and to the Holy Ghost.
R:as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, * world without end, Amen. Alleluia.
Hymn:,
Author of grace, sweet Saviour mine,
Remember that Thy flesh divine,
From the unsullied Virgin came,
Made like unto our mortal frame.
O Mary, Mother of all grace,
Mother of Mercy to our race,
Protect us now from Satan's power,
And own us at life's closing hour.
All glory be Thee, O Lord,
The Virgin's son, by all ador'd,
And equal praise forever greet,
The Father and the Paraclete. Amen.
Psalm [125]:
The people of God rejoice at their delivery from captivity
When the Lord brought back the captives of Sion, * then we became like men comforted.
2 Then was our mouth filled with gladness, * and our tongue with joy.
3 Then shall they say among the heathen, * The Lord hath done great things for them.
4 Yea, the Lord hath done great things for us; * whereof we rejoice.]: 5 Turn again our captivity, O Lord, * as the rivers in the south.
6 They that sow in tears * shall reap in joy.
7 Going they went and wept, * casting their seed.
8 But coming they shall come again with joyfulness, * carrying their sheaves.
2 Then was our mouth filled with gladness, * and our tongue with joy.
3 Then shall they say among the heathen, * The Lord hath done great things for them.
4 Yea, the Lord hath done great things for us; * whereof we rejoice.]: 5 Turn again our captivity, O Lord, * as the rivers in the south.
6 They that sow in tears * shall reap in joy.
7 Going they went and wept, * casting their seed.
8 But coming they shall come again with joyfulness, * carrying their sheaves.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, * and to the Holy Ghost: as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, * world without end. Amen.
Psalm [126]:
Nothing can be done without God's grace and blessing
Except the Lord build the house, * they labour in vain that build it.
2 Except the Lord keep the city, * the watchman waketh but in vain.
3 It is vain for you to rise up before the light : * rise ye after ye have sitten, ye that eat the bread of sorrow. 4 When he giveth his beloved sleep : * behold, children are the heritage of the Lord: the reward, and the fruit of the womb.
5 Like as the arrows in the hand of the mighty, * even so are the children of the them that have been shaken.
6 Blessed is the man that hath filled the desire with them; * he shall not be confounded when he shall speak with his enemies in the gate.
2 Except the Lord keep the city, * the watchman waketh but in vain.
3 It is vain for you to rise up before the light : * rise ye after ye have sitten, ye that eat the bread of sorrow. 4 When he giveth his beloved sleep : * behold, children are the heritage of the Lord: the reward, and the fruit of the womb.
5 Like as the arrows in the hand of the mighty, * even so are the children of the them that have been shaken.
6 Blessed is the man that hath filled the desire with them; * he shall not be confounded when he shall speak with his enemies in the gate.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, * and to the Holy Ghost: as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, * world without end. Amen.
Psalm [127]:
The fear of God is the way to happiness.
Blessed are all they that fear the Lord, * and walk in his ways.
2 For thou shalt eat the labours of thine hands: * blessed art thou, and it shall be well with thee.
3 Thy wife shall be as the fruitful vine * upon the walls of thine house;
4 Thy children like the olive-branches * round about thy table.
5 Lo, thus shall the man be blessed * that feareth the Lord. 6 The Lord bless thee out of Sion, * that thou shalt see Jerusalem in prosperity all the days of thy life.
7 Yea, that thou shalt see thy children's children, * and peace upon Israel.
2 For thou shalt eat the labours of thine hands: * blessed art thou, and it shall be well with thee.
3 Thy wife shall be as the fruitful vine * upon the walls of thine house;
4 Thy children like the olive-branches * round about thy table.
5 Lo, thus shall the man be blessed * that feareth the Lord. 6 The Lord bless thee out of Sion, * that thou shalt see Jerusalem in prosperity all the days of thy life.
7 Yea, that thou shalt see thy children's children, * and peace upon Israel.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, * and to the Holy Ghost: as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, * world without end. Amen.
Ant. In offspring a mother, in childbirth a virgin, rejoice and be glad, O Virgin, Mother of the Lord.
Little Chapter
ECCL. 24
ECCL. 24
And I took root in an honorable people, and in the portion of my God is his inheritance, and my abode is in the full assembly of the saints.
R: Thanks be to God.
V: Pray for us, * O holy Mother of God.
Repeat:Pray for us, * O holy Mother of God.
Repeat:Pray for us, * O holy Mother of God.
V: That we may be made worthy of the promises of Christ.
Repeat:O holy Mother of God.
V: Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost.
Repeat:Pray for us, * O holy Mother of God.
Repeat:Pray for us, * O holy Mother of God.
V. God hath chosen her and preferred her.
R. And He maketh her to dwell in His tabernacle.
V: O Lord, hear my prayer.
R: And let my cry come unto Thee.
Let us pray
R. And He maketh her to dwell in His tabernacle.
V: O Lord, hear my prayer.
R: And let my cry come unto Thee.
Let us pray
Protect Thy servants, O Lord, by granting them the gift of peace, and as they have confidence in the patronage of blessed Mary, ever virgin, so do Thou make them safe from all enemies. Through our Lord Jesus Christ our Lord, Thy Son, Who with Thee liveth and reigneth in the unity of the Holy Ghost, God world without end .
R: Amen.
V: O Lord, hear my prayer.
R: And let my cry come unto Thee.
R: And let my cry come unto Thee.
R: Thanks be to God.
V: Hail Mary,full of grace, the Lord is with thee.
R: Blessed art thou amongst women, and blessed is the Fruit of thy womb, Jesus.
V: Hail Mary,full of grace, the Lord is with thee.
R: Blessed art thou amongst women, and blessed is the Fruit of thy womb, Jesus.
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None
At the ninth hour (3 P. M.) when the sun begins to decline in the heavens, Our Lord expired on the Cross. The Prayer of the Ninth Hour, therefore, commemorates the death of the Redeemer; and it bids us look forward to the decline of our own days and beg the grace of a happy death.
PRAYER BEFORE THE OFFICE
Open, O Lord, my mouth to bless Thy Holy Name: cleanse also my heart from all vain, perverse and distracting thoughts; enlighten my understanding, inflame my will , that I may worthily, attentively, and devoutly recite this Office, and deserve to be heard in the presence of Thy divine Majesty. Through Christ, our Lord.
R: Amen.
O Lord, in union with that divine intention wherewith Thou didst offer praises on earth to God. I offer these Hours to Thee.
V: Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee.
R: Blessed art thou amongst women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus.
R: Blessed art thou amongst women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus.
V: Incline unto my aid O God.
R: O Lord make haste to help me.
V:Glory be to the Father, and to the Son: and to the Holy Ghost.
R:as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, * world without end, Amen. Alleluia.
Hymn:,
Author of grace, sweet Saviour mine,
Remember that Thy flesh divine,
From the unsullied Virgin came,
Made like unto our mortal frame.
O Mary, Mother of all grace,
Mother of Mercy to our race,
Protect us now from Satan's power,
And own us at life's closing hour.
All glory be Thee, O Lord,
The Virgin's son, by all ador'd,
And equal praise forever greet,
The Father and the Paraclete. Amen.
Psalm [128]:
The Church of God is invincible: her persecutors come to nothing
R: O Lord make haste to help me.
V:Glory be to the Father, and to the Son: and to the Holy Ghost.
R:as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, * world without end, Amen. Alleluia.
Hymn:,
Author of grace, sweet Saviour mine,
Remember that Thy flesh divine,
From the unsullied Virgin came,
Made like unto our mortal frame.
O Mary, Mother of all grace,
Mother of Mercy to our race,
Protect us now from Satan's power,
And own us at life's closing hour.
All glory be Thee, O Lord,
The Virgin's son, by all ador'd,
And equal praise forever greet,
The Father and the Paraclete. Amen.
Psalm [128]:
The Church of God is invincible: her persecutors come to nothing
Many a time have they fought against me from my youth up, * let Israel now say;
2 Yea, many a time have they fought against me from my youth up; * but they have not prevailed against me.
3 The ungodly have wrought upon my back, * they have lengthened their iniquity. 4 The righteous Lord hath hewn the necks of the ungodly * let them be confounded and turned backward, as many as hate Sion.
6 Let them be even as the grass upon the housetops, * which withereth afore it be grown up;
7 Whereof the mower filleth not his hand, * neither he that bindeth up the sheaves his bosom.
8 And they who go by say not: The blessing of the Lord be upon you; * we have blessed you in the Name of the Lord.
2 Yea, many a time have they fought against me from my youth up; * but they have not prevailed against me.
3 The ungodly have wrought upon my back, * they have lengthened their iniquity. 4 The righteous Lord hath hewn the necks of the ungodly * let them be confounded and turned backward, as many as hate Sion.
6 Let them be even as the grass upon the housetops, * which withereth afore it be grown up;
7 Whereof the mower filleth not his hand, * neither he that bindeth up the sheaves his bosom.
8 And they who go by say not: The blessing of the Lord be upon you; * we have blessed you in the Name of the Lord.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, * and to the Holy Ghost: as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, * world without end. Amen.
Psalm [129]:
A prayer of a sinner trusting in mercies of God
Out of the depths I have cried unto thee, O Lord; * Lord, hear my voice.
2 O let thine ears be attentive * to the voice of my supplication.
3 If thou, O Lord, shalt observe our iniquities, * Lord, who may endure it?
4 For with thee there is merciful forgiveness : * and by reason of thy law, I have waited for thee, O Lord.
5 My soul hath relied on his word * my soul hath hoped in the Lord.
6 From the morning watch even until night : * let Israel hope in the Lord.
2 O let thine ears be attentive * to the voice of my supplication.
3 If thou, O Lord, shalt observe our iniquities, * Lord, who may endure it?
4 For with thee there is merciful forgiveness : * and by reason of thy law, I have waited for thee, O Lord.
5 My soul hath relied on his word * my soul hath hoped in the Lord.
6 From the morning watch even until night : * let Israel hope in the Lord.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, * and to the Holy Ghost: as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, * world without end. Amen.
Psalm [130]:
The prophet's humility.
O Lord, mine heart is not exalted; * nor are mine eyes raised up high.
2 Neither have I walked in great matters * nor in wondrous things above me.
3 If I was not humbly minded, * but exalted my soul.
4 Like as a child that is weaned is towards his mother: * even so is the reward in my soul.
4 Let Israel hope in the Lord * from this time forth for evermore.
2 Neither have I walked in great matters * nor in wondrous things above me.
3 If I was not humbly minded, * but exalted my soul.
4 Like as a child that is weaned is towards his mother: * even so is the reward in my soul.
4 Let Israel hope in the Lord * from this time forth for evermore.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, * and to the Holy Ghost: as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, * world without end. Amen.
Ant. Blessed Mother and Virgin undefiled, glorious Queen of the world, intercede for us with the Lord.
Little Chapter
ECCL. 24
ECCL. 24
I was exalted like the cedar in Libanus, and like a cypress on Mount Sion. Like a palm tree in Cades was I exalted, and like a rose plant in Jericho.
R: Thanks be to God.
V: God hath chosen her * and preferred her.
Repeat:God hath chosen her * and preferred her.
Repeat:God hath chosen her * and preferred her.
V: And He maketh her to dwell in His tabernacle.
Repeat:And preferred her.
V: Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost.
Repeat:God hath chosen her * and preferred her.
Repeat:God hath chosen her * and preferred her.
V. O ever virgin, Mary, holy Mother of God.
R. Intercede for us with Lord our God.
V: O Lord, hear my prayer.
R: And let my cry come unto Thee.
Let us pray
R. Intercede for us with Lord our God.
V: O Lord, hear my prayer.
R: And let my cry come unto Thee.
Let us pray
Forgive, we beseech Thee, O Lord, the sins of Thy servants, that we who cannot be pleasing to Thee by our deeds, may be saved by the intercession of the Mother of Thy Son, our Lord, Who with Thee liveth and reigneth in the unity of the Holy Ghost, God world without end .
R: Amen.
V: O Lord, hear my prayer.
R: And let my cry come unto Thee.
R: And let my cry come unto Thee.
R: Thanks be to God.
V: Hail Mary,full of grace, the Lord is with thee.
R: Blessed art thou amongst women, and blessed is the Fruit of thy womb, Jesus.
V: Hail Mary,full of grace, the Lord is with thee.
R: Blessed art thou amongst women, and blessed is the Fruit of thy womb, Jesus.
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Vespers
When the sun has set and Vesper, the evening star, has appeared, the Church offers up another Canonical Hour to God, that of Vespers or Evening Praises. The hour for the evening sacrifice of incense in the Temple was 6 P.M. and it was also at this time that Our Lord at the Last Supper instituted the Sacrifice of the Mass. The prayers of Vespers are said very appropriately, therefore, as praises of Our Lord in the Blessed Sacrament.
PRAYER BEFORE THE OFFICE
Open, O Lord, my mouth to bless Thy Holy Name: cleanse also my heart from all vain, perverse and distracting thoughts; enlighten my understanding, inflame my will , that I may worthily, attentively, and devoutly recite this Office, and deserve to be heard in the presence of Thy divine Majesty. Through Christ, our Lord.
R: Amen.
O Lord, in union with that divine intention wherewith Thou didst offer praises on earth to God. I offer these Hours to Thee.
V: Hail Mary,full of grace, the Lord is with thee.
R:Blessed art thou amongst women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus.
V: Incline unto my aid O God.
R: O Lord make haste to help me.
V:Glory be to the Father, and to the Son: and to the Holy Ghost.
R:as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, * world without end, Amen. Alleluia.
V: Incline unto my aid O God.
R: O Lord make haste to help me.
V:Glory be to the Father, and to the Son: and to the Holy Ghost.
R:as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, * world without end, Amen. Alleluia.
Psalm 109.
God is to be praised for His regard to the poor and humble
God is to be praised for His regard to the poor and humble
The Lord said unto my Lord, * Sit thou on my right hand:
2 Until I make thine enemies * thy footstool.
3 The Lord shall send the rod of thy power out of Sion: * be thou ruler, even in the midst among thine enemies.
4 Thine shall be the dominion in the day of thy power, amid the brightness of the saints : * from the womb before the day star have I begotten thee.
5 The Lord sware, and will not repent, * Thou art a priest for ever after the order of Melchisedech.
6 The Lord upon thy right hand * shall wound even kings in the day of his wrath.
7 He shall judge among the heathen; he shall fill the places with the dead bodies: * and smite in sunder the heads over divers countries.
8 He shall drink of the brook in the way; * therefore shall he lift up his head.
2 Until I make thine enemies * thy footstool.
3 The Lord shall send the rod of thy power out of Sion: * be thou ruler, even in the midst among thine enemies.
4 Thine shall be the dominion in the day of thy power, amid the brightness of the saints : * from the womb before the day star have I begotten thee.
5 The Lord sware, and will not repent, * Thou art a priest for ever after the order of Melchisedech.
6 The Lord upon thy right hand * shall wound even kings in the day of his wrath.
7 He shall judge among the heathen; he shall fill the places with the dead bodies: * and smite in sunder the heads over divers countries.
8 He shall drink of the brook in the way; * therefore shall he lift up his head.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, * and to the Holy Ghost: as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, * world without end. Amen.
Psalm 112.
God is to be praised for His regard to the poor and humble
God is to be praised for His regard to the poor and humble
Praise the Lord, O ye his servants; * O praise the Name of the Lord.
2 (all bow) Blessed be the Name of the Lord * from this time forth for evermore.
3 From the rising up of the sun unto the going down of the same, * the Lord's Name be praised.
4 The Lord is high above all nations, * and his glory above the heavens.
5 Who is like unto the Lord our God, that hath his dwelling on high, * and beholdeth what is lowly in heaven and in the earth?
6 He raiseth up the poor out of the dust, * and lifteth the needy out of the dung hill.
7 That he may set him with the princes, * even with the princes of his people.
8 He maketh the barren woman to keep house, * and to be a joyful mother of children..
2 (all bow) Blessed be the Name of the Lord * from this time forth for evermore.
3 From the rising up of the sun unto the going down of the same, * the Lord's Name be praised.
4 The Lord is high above all nations, * and his glory above the heavens.
5 Who is like unto the Lord our God, that hath his dwelling on high, * and beholdeth what is lowly in heaven and in the earth?
6 He raiseth up the poor out of the dust, * and lifteth the needy out of the dung hill.
7 That he may set him with the princes, * even with the princes of his people.
8 He maketh the barren woman to keep house, * and to be a joyful mother of children..
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, * and to the Holy Ghost: as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, * world without end. Amen.
Psalm 121.
The desire and hope of the just for coming of the kingdom of God, and the peace of His Church
The desire and hope of the just for coming of the kingdom of God, and the peace of His Church
I was glad † at the things that were said unto me, * †† We will go into the house of the Lord.
2 Our feet shall stand * in thy gates, O Jerusalem.
3 Jerusalem is built as a city * that is at unity in itself.
4 For thither did the tribes go up, even the tribes of the Lord, * to testify unto Israel, to give thanks unto the Name of the Lord.
5 For their seats have sat in judgment, * even the seats upon the house of David.
6 O pray for the peace of Jerusalem; * they shall prosper that love thee.
7 Peace be within thy walls, * and plenteousness within thy palaces.
8 For my brethren and companions' sakes, * I spake peace of thee.
9 Yea, because of the house of the Lord our God, * I have sought to do thee good.
2 Our feet shall stand * in thy gates, O Jerusalem.
3 Jerusalem is built as a city * that is at unity in itself.
4 For thither did the tribes go up, even the tribes of the Lord, * to testify unto Israel, to give thanks unto the Name of the Lord.
5 For their seats have sat in judgment, * even the seats upon the house of David.
6 O pray for the peace of Jerusalem; * they shall prosper that love thee.
7 Peace be within thy walls, * and plenteousness within thy palaces.
8 For my brethren and companions' sakes, * I spake peace of thee.
9 Yea, because of the house of the Lord our God, * I have sought to do thee good.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, * and to the Holy Ghost: as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, * world without end. Amen.
Psalm 126.
Nothing can be done without God's grace and blessing.
Nothing can be done without God's grace and blessing.
Except the Lord build the house, * they labour in vain that build it.
2 Except the Lord keep the city, * the watchman waketh but in vain.
3 It is vain for you to rise up before the light : * rise ye after ye have sitten, ye that eat the bread of sorrow.
4 When he giveth his beloved sleep : * behold, children are the heritage of the Lord: the reward, and the fruit of the womb.
5 Like as the arrows in the hand of the mighty, * even so are the children of the them that have been shaken.
6 Blessed is the man that hath filled the desire with them; * he shall not be confounded when he shall speak with his enemies in the gate.
2 Except the Lord keep the city, * the watchman waketh but in vain.
3 It is vain for you to rise up before the light : * rise ye after ye have sitten, ye that eat the bread of sorrow.
4 When he giveth his beloved sleep : * behold, children are the heritage of the Lord: the reward, and the fruit of the womb.
5 Like as the arrows in the hand of the mighty, * even so are the children of the them that have been shaken.
6 Blessed is the man that hath filled the desire with them; * he shall not be confounded when he shall speak with his enemies in the gate.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, * and to the Holy Ghost: as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, * world without end. Amen.
Psalm 147.
The Church is called upon to praise for His peculiar graces and favors to His people
The Church is called upon to praise for His peculiar graces and favors to His people
Praise the Lord, O Jerusalem; * praise thy God, O Sion.
2 For he hath made fast the bars of thy gates, * and hath blessed thy children within thee.
3 Who hath placed peace in thy borders, * and filleth thee with the fat of the crops.
4 Who sendeth forth his commandment upon earth, * and his word runneth swiftly.
5 Who giveth snow like wool, * and scattereth the mist like ashes.
6 He sendeth his ice like morsels: * who is able to abide before the face of his frost?
7 He shall send out his word, and shall melt them: * his spirit shall breathe forth, and the waters shall flow.
8 Who declareth his word unto Jacob, * his statutes and judgments unto Israel.
9 He hath not dealt so with every nation; * neither hath he given them knowledge of his judgments.
2 For he hath made fast the bars of thy gates, * and hath blessed thy children within thee.
3 Who hath placed peace in thy borders, * and filleth thee with the fat of the crops.
4 Who sendeth forth his commandment upon earth, * and his word runneth swiftly.
5 Who giveth snow like wool, * and scattereth the mist like ashes.
6 He sendeth his ice like morsels: * who is able to abide before the face of his frost?
7 He shall send out his word, and shall melt them: * his spirit shall breathe forth, and the waters shall flow.
8 Who declareth his word unto Jacob, * his statutes and judgments unto Israel.
9 He hath not dealt so with every nation; * neither hath he given them knowledge of his judgments.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, * and to the Holy Ghost: as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, * world without end. Amen.
Ant. Holy Mother of God, Mary ever virgin, intercede for us with the Lord our God. Mother of God, intercede for us.
Little Chapter
ECCL. 24
ECCL. 24
Like a vine, I gave forth a sweet perfume like cinnamon and aromatical balm:
I yielded an odor of sweetness, like the choicest myrrh.
I yielded an odor of sweetness, like the choicest myrrh.
R: Thanks be to God.
Hymn:,
Kneel for the first stanza
Hail, O star of ocean,
God's own Mother blest,
Ever sinless Virgin,
Gate of heaven's rest.
Taking that sweet Ave,
Which from Gabriel came.
Peace confirm within us,
Changing Eva's name.
Break the sinners fetters,
To the blind give day,
Ward all evils from us,
For all blessings pray.
Show thyself a mother,
May the Word Divine,
Born for us thine infant,
Hear our pray'rs through thine.
Virgin all excelling,
Mildest of the mild,
Free from sin preserve us,
Meek and undefil'd.
Keep our lives all spotless,
Make our way secure,
Till we find in Jesus,
Joys that shall endure.
Praise to God the Father,
Honor to the Son,
Be the glory one. Amen.
Kneel for the first stanza
Hail, O star of ocean,
God's own Mother blest,
Ever sinless Virgin,
Gate of heaven's rest.
Taking that sweet Ave,
Which from Gabriel came.
Peace confirm within us,
Changing Eva's name.
Break the sinners fetters,
To the blind give day,
Ward all evils from us,
For all blessings pray.
Show thyself a mother,
May the Word Divine,
Born for us thine infant,
Hear our pray'rs through thine.
Virgin all excelling,
Mildest of the mild,
Free from sin preserve us,
Meek and undefil'd.
Keep our lives all spotless,
Make our way secure,
Till we find in Jesus,
Joys that shall endure.
Praise to God the Father,
Honor to the Son,
Be the glory one. Amen.
V: Pray for us, O holy Mother of God.
R: That we may be made worthy of the promises of Christ.
CANTICLE OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
The Magnificat
The Magnificat
Luc. 1. 46-55
My soul * doth magnify the Lord.
2 And my spirit hath rejoiced * in God my Saviour.
3 For he hath regarded the lowliness of his handmaiden : * for behold, from henceforth * all generations shall call me blessed.
4 For he that is mighty hath magnified me; * (Here all make a profound reverence) and holy is his Name.
5 And his mercy is on them that fear him * throughout all generations.
6 He hath shewed strength with his arm; * he hath scattered the proud in the imagination of their hearts.
7 He hath put down the mighty from their seat, * and hath exalted the humble and meek.
8 He hath filled the hungry with good things; * and the rich he hath sent empty away.
9 He remembering his mercy * hath holpen his servant Israel.
10 As he promised to our forefathers, * Abraham and his seed for ever.
11 Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, * and to the Holy Ghost.
12 As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, * world without end. Amen.
During Advent
Ant. O Virgin of virgins, how will this be done! For thou art seen to have none like thee either before or after. Ye daughters of Jerusalem, why look ye at me in wonder? This mystery which ye see is all divine.
2 And my spirit hath rejoiced * in God my Saviour.
3 For he hath regarded the lowliness of his handmaiden : * for behold, from henceforth * all generations shall call me blessed.
4 For he that is mighty hath magnified me; * (Here all make a profound reverence) and holy is his Name.
5 And his mercy is on them that fear him * throughout all generations.
6 He hath shewed strength with his arm; * he hath scattered the proud in the imagination of their hearts.
7 He hath put down the mighty from their seat, * and hath exalted the humble and meek.
8 He hath filled the hungry with good things; * and the rich he hath sent empty away.
9 He remembering his mercy * hath holpen his servant Israel.
10 As he promised to our forefathers, * Abraham and his seed for ever.
11 Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, * and to the Holy Ghost.
12 As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, * world without end. Amen.
During Advent
Ant. O Virgin of virgins, how will this be done! For thou art seen to have none like thee either before or after. Ye daughters of Jerusalem, why look ye at me in wonder? This mystery which ye see is all divine.
V: O Lord, hear my prayer.
R: And let my cry come unto Thee.
Let us pray
O God, Who wast please that, at the message of an angel, Thy Word should take flesh from the womb of the Blessed Virgin Mary, grant that we, Thy suppliants, who truly believe her to be the Mother of God, may be helped by her intercession with Thee. Through the same Christ our Lord.
R: Amen.
From first Vespers of Christmas to first Vespers of Purification
Ant. O wonderful intercourse! the Creator of human kind, taking unto Himself a living body, vouchsafed to be born of a virgin; and coming forth amongst us, a man without human generation bestowed upon us His divinity.
V: O Lord, hear my prayer.
R: And let my cry come unto Thee.
Let us pray
O God, Who through the fruitful virginity of blessed Mary, hast given to mankind the reward of eternal salvation, grant, we beseech Thee that we may feel the intercession she makes for us, through whom we have been made worthy the Author of Life ,Christ our Lord.
R: Amen.
From the Purification to Easter Sunday
During Paschal Time
Ant. O Queen of heaven, rejoice , alleluia; for He Whom thou didst merit to bear, alleluia, hath risen as He said alleluia; pray to God for us, alleluia.
V: O Lord, hear my prayer.
R: And let my cry come unto Thee.
Let us pray
.
Grant, we beseech Thee, O Lord God, that we, Thy servants, may enjoy continual health of mind and body; and that, through the glorious intercession of blessed Mary, ever virgin, we may be delivered from present sorrow, and enjoy eternal happiness. Through Christ our Lord.
R: Amen.
From Trinity Sunday to Advent
Ant. Holy Mary, succor the miserable, help the faint hearted, comfort the sorrowful, pray for the people, plead for the clergy, make intercession for the devout female sex.
V: O Lord, hear my prayer.
R: And let my cry come unto Thee.
Let us pray
Grant, we beseech Thee, O Lord God, that we, Thy servants, may enjoy continual health of mind and body; and that, through the intercession of blessed Mary, ever virgin, we may be delivered from present sorrow, and enjoy eternal hapiness. Through Christ our Lord.
R: Amen.
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Compline
The word "Compline" means completion, and the Hour called by this name is the closing prayer of the Office. It was formerly said about 9 P.M, when darkness had spread over the earth and those who had labored throughout the day were preparing to take their repose. Hence it may be called the Night Prayer of the Church. The thoughts that may well inspire our prayers during Compline are the need we have of divine protection against the powers of darkness and the other dangers that encompass us, especially during night and when we shall be entering upon the sleep of death.
PRAYER BEFORE THE OFFICE
Open, O Lord, my mouth to bless Thy Holy Name: cleanse also my heart from all vain, perverse and distracting thoughts; enlighten my understanding, inflame my will , that I may worthily, attentively, and devoutly recite this Office, and deserve to be heard in the presence of Thy divine Majesty. Through Christ, our Lord.
R: Amen.
O Lord, in union with that divine intention wherewith Thou didst offer praises on earth to God. I offer these Hours to Thee.
V: Hail Mary,full of grace, the Lord is with thee.
R: Blessed art thou amongst women, and blessed is the Fruit of thy womb, Jesus.
V: Convert us, O God, our Savior.
R: And turn away Thy wrath from us.
V: Incline unto my aid O God.
R: O Lord make haste to help me.
V:Glory be to the Father, and to the Son: and to the Holy Ghost.
R:as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, * world without end, Amen. Alleluia.
R: Blessed art thou amongst women, and blessed is the Fruit of thy womb, Jesus.
V: Convert us, O God, our Savior.
R: And turn away Thy wrath from us.
V: Incline unto my aid O God.
R: O Lord make haste to help me.
V:Glory be to the Father, and to the Son: and to the Holy Ghost.
R:as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, * world without end, Amen. Alleluia.
Psalm 131.
A prayer for the fulfilling of the promises made to David
A prayer for the fulfilling of the promises made to David
O Lord, remember David, * and all his meekness:
2 How he sware unto the Lord, * and vowed a vow unto the God of Jacob:
3 I will not come within the tabernacle of mine house, * nor go up into the bed wherein I lie;
4 I will not suffer mine eyes to sleep, * nor mine eyelids to slumber;
5 Neither the temples of my head to take any rest : * until I find out a place for the Lord, a tabernacle for the God of Jacob.
6 Lo, we heard of it at Ephratah, * and found it in the fields of the wood.
7 We will go into his tabernacle, * and worship in the place where his feet stood.
8 Arise, O Lord, into thy resting-place; * thou, and the ark which thou hast sanctified.
9 Let thy priests be clothed with righteousness; * and let thy saints rejoice.
10 For the sake of thy servant David, * turn not away the face of thine anointed.
11 The Lord hath made a faithful oath unto David, and he shall not make it void : * of the fruit of thy womb shall I set upon thy throne.
12 If thy children will keep my covenant, * and my testimonies that I shall teach them.
13 Their children also for evermore : * shall sit upon thy throne.
14 For the Lord hath chosen Sion * he hath chosen it to be an habitation for himself.
15 This shall be my rest for ever and ever: * here will I dwell, for I have chosen it.
16 Blessing I will bless her widow : * and will satisfy her poor with bread.
17 I will clothe her priests with salvation, * and her saints shall rejoice with exceeding great joy.
18 There will I bring forth make a horn unto David : * I have prepared a lantern for mine anointed.
19 His enemies will I clothe with confusion; * but upon him shall my sanctification flourish..
2 How he sware unto the Lord, * and vowed a vow unto the God of Jacob:
3 I will not come within the tabernacle of mine house, * nor go up into the bed wherein I lie;
4 I will not suffer mine eyes to sleep, * nor mine eyelids to slumber;
5 Neither the temples of my head to take any rest : * until I find out a place for the Lord, a tabernacle for the God of Jacob.
6 Lo, we heard of it at Ephratah, * and found it in the fields of the wood.
7 We will go into his tabernacle, * and worship in the place where his feet stood.
8 Arise, O Lord, into thy resting-place; * thou, and the ark which thou hast sanctified.
9 Let thy priests be clothed with righteousness; * and let thy saints rejoice.
10 For the sake of thy servant David, * turn not away the face of thine anointed.
11 The Lord hath made a faithful oath unto David, and he shall not make it void : * of the fruit of thy womb shall I set upon thy throne.
12 If thy children will keep my covenant, * and my testimonies that I shall teach them.
13 Their children also for evermore : * shall sit upon thy throne.
14 For the Lord hath chosen Sion * he hath chosen it to be an habitation for himself.
15 This shall be my rest for ever and ever: * here will I dwell, for I have chosen it.
16 Blessing I will bless her widow : * and will satisfy her poor with bread.
17 I will clothe her priests with salvation, * and her saints shall rejoice with exceeding great joy.
18 There will I bring forth make a horn unto David : * I have prepared a lantern for mine anointed.
19 His enemies will I clothe with confusion; * but upon him shall my sanctification flourish..
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, * and to the Holy Ghost: as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, * world without end. Amen.
Psalm 132.
An exhortation to praise God continually
An exhortation to praise God continually
Behold, how good † and joyful a thing it is, * for brethren to dwell together in unity.
2 †† It is like the precious oil upon the head, * that ran down upon the beard, even upon the beard of Aaron.
3 That went down to the skirts of his clothing : * like as the dew of Hermon, which fell upon mount Sion.
4 For there the Lord hath commanded blessing, * and life for evermore.
2 †† It is like the precious oil upon the head, * that ran down upon the beard, even upon the beard of Aaron.
3 That went down to the skirts of his clothing : * like as the dew of Hermon, which fell upon mount Sion.
4 For there the Lord hath commanded blessing, * and life for evermore.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, * and to the Holy Ghost: as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, * world without end. Amen.
Psalm 133.
The prophet aspireth after God
The prophet aspireth after God
Behold now, bless the Lord, * all ye servants of the Lord;
2 Ye that stand in the house of the Lord, * even in the courts of the house of our God.
3 Lift up your hands by night in the sanctuary, * and bless ye the Lord.
4 The Lord that made heaven and earth * give thee blessing out of Sion.
2 Ye that stand in the house of the Lord, * even in the courts of the house of our God.
3 Lift up your hands by night in the sanctuary, * and bless ye the Lord.
4 The Lord that made heaven and earth * give thee blessing out of Sion.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, * and to the Holy Ghost: as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, * world without end. Amen.
Ant. After childbirth thou didst still remain a virgin undefiled: Mother of God, intercede for us.
Little Chapter
ECCL. 24
ECCL. 24
I am the mother of fair love, and of fear, and of knowledge, and of holy hope.
R: Thanks be to God.
R: Intercede for us, O holy Virgin of virgins * Mary, Mother of God.
Repeat:Intercede for us, O holy Virgin of virgins * Mary, Mother of God.
Repeat:Intercede for us, O holy Virgin of virgins * Mary, Mother of God.
V: That we may be made worthy of the promises of Christ.
Repeat:Mary, Mother of God.
V: Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost.
Repeat: Intercede for us, O holy Virgin of virgins * Mary, Mother of God.
Repeat: Intercede for us, O holy Virgin of virgins * Mary, Mother of God.
Hymn:,
Virgin all excelling,
Mildest of the mild,
Free from sin preserve us,
Meek and undefiled.
Keep our lives all spotless,
Make our way secure,
Till we find in Jesus,
Joys that shall endure.
Praise to God the Father,
Honor to the Son,
To the Holy Spirit,
Be glory one. Amen.
Virgin all excelling,
Mildest of the mild,
Free from sin preserve us,
Meek and undefiled.
Keep our lives all spotless,
Make our way secure,
Till we find in Jesus,
Joys that shall endure.
Praise to God the Father,
Honor to the Son,
To the Holy Spirit,
Be glory one. Amen.
THE CANTICLE OF SIMEON
Luke 2.29-32.
† Now Thou dost dismiss Thy servant, O Lord * according to Thy word.
2 Because mine eyes have seen * Thy salvation,
3 Which thou hast prepared * before the face of all people;
4 A light for the revelation of the gentiles, * and to be the glory of Thy people Israel.
5 Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, * and to the Holy Ghost.
6 As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be, * world without end. Amen.
2 Because mine eyes have seen * Thy salvation,
3 Which thou hast prepared * before the face of all people;
4 A light for the revelation of the gentiles, * and to be the glory of Thy people Israel.
5 Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, * and to the Holy Ghost.
6 As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be, * world without end. Amen.
Ant. We fly to they patronage, O holy Mother of God; despise not our petitions in our necessities, but deliver us from all dangers, O ever blessed Virgin.
V: O Lord, hear my prayer.
R: And let my cry come unto Thee.
Let us pray
Grant, O merciful God, protection for our frailty: that we who celebrate the memory of the holy Mother of God may, by the help of her intercession, arise from our sins. Through the same Jesus Christ, our Lord, Thy Son, Who with Thee liveth and reignth in the unity of the Holy Ghost, God, world without end.
R: Amen.
V: O Lord, hear my prayer.
R: And let my cry come unto Thee.
V: Let us bless the Lord.
R: Thanks be to God.
Salve Regina
Hail, holy Queen, Mother of mercy, hail, our life, our sweetness, and our hope! To thee do we cry, poor banished children of Eve, to thee do we send up our sighs, mourning and weeping in this vale of tears. Turn then, most gracious advocate, thine eyes of mercy towards us; and after this our exile, shew unto us the blessed fruit of thy womb, Jesus. O clement, O loving, O sweet Virgin Mary.
V. Make me worthy to praise thee, holy Virgin. P.T. Alleluia.
R. Give me strength against thine enemies.P.T. Alleluia.
R. Give me strength against thine enemies.P.T. Alleluia.
Let us pray
Grant, we beseech Thee, O Lord God, that we, Thy servants, may enjoy continual health of mind and body; and that, through the intercession of blessed Mary, ever virgin, we may be delivered from present sorrow, and enjoy eternal hapiness. Through Christ our Lord.
R: Amen.
O Lumen
O Light of the Church, doctor of truth, rose of patience, ivory of chastity, freely hast thou
dispensed the water of wisdom: preacher of grace, unite us to the blessed.P.T. Alleluia.
dispensed the water of wisdom: preacher of grace, unite us to the blessed.P.T. Alleluia.
V. Pray for us, blessed Father Dominic. P.T. Alleluia. R. That we may be made worthy of the promises of Christ. P.T. Alleluia.
Let us pray
Grant, we beseech Thee, almighty God, that we who are oppressed with the weight of our sins may be relieved
by the intercession of Thy Confessor and our Father, the Blessed Dominic Through Christ our Lord.
R: Amen.
V: Hail Mary,full of grace, the Lord is with thee.
R:Blessed art thou amongst women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus.
Prayer of Saint Bonaventure
To be said at the end of the Office
To the most holy and undivided Trinty,
To the humanity of our cruicified Lord Jesus Christ;
To the fruitful virginity of most blessed and glorious Virgin Mary;
And to the entire Company of the Saints of God, in heaven;
Be praise, honour, power, and glory, from every creature on earth:
And likewise to us sinners may there be full remission of all our sins:
Throughout all ages, world without end.
R. Amen.
V. Blessed is the womb of the Virgin Mary, which bore the Son of the everlasting Father.
R. And blessed are the breasts which nourished Christ the Lord.
R. And blessed are the breasts which nourished Christ the Lord.
Then should be added silently for the welfare of the Sovereign Pontiff and the Church one Our Father
and One Hail Mary
and One Hail Mary
