Evening Prayer I of Feasts Observed as Solemnities
These texts are provided for use in those places where Feasts in the Universal Calendar are celebrated locally as Solemnities or when a choice of texts occurs.
INTRODUCTION
God, + come to my assistance.
— Lord, make haste to help me.
Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit:
— as it was in the beginning, is now, will be for ever. Amen. Alleluia.
The Presentation of the Lord
The Transfiguration of the Lord
The Exaltation of the Holy Cross
The Nativity of Saint John the Baptist
Saints Peter and Paul, Apostles
The Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary
All Saints
The Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary
The Holy Family of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph
HYMN
When Mary brought her treasure
Unto the holy place,
No eye of man could measure
The joy upon her face.
He was but six weeks old,
Her plaything and her pleasure,
Her silver and her gold.
Then Simeon, on him gazing
With wonder and with love,
His aged voice up-raising
Gave thanks to God above:
“Now welcome sweet release!
For I, my savior praising,
May die at last in peace.”
And she, all sorrow scorning,
Rejoiced in Jesus’ fame.
The child her arms adorning
Shone softly like a flame
That burns the long night through,
And keeps from dusk till morning
Its vigil clear and true.
As by the sun in splendor
The flags of night are furled,
So darkness shall surrender
To Christ who lights the world:
To Christ the star of day,
Who once was small and tender,
A candle’s gentle ray.
Tune: Allons, suivons les mages 76.76.676
Music: Traditional French Carol
Text: Jan Struther, 1901-1953
PSALMODY
Ant. 1 The parents of Jesus brought him to Jerusalem to present him to the Lord.
Psalm 113
Praise the name of the Lord
He has cast down the mighty and has lifted up the lowly (Luke 1:52).
Praise, O servants of the Lord, *
praise the name of the Lord!
May the name of the Lord be blessed *
both now and for evermore!
From the rising of the sun to its setting *
praised be the name of the Lord!
High above all nations is the Lord, *
above the heavens his glory.
Who is like the Lord, our God, *
who has risen on high to his throne
yet stoops from the heights to look down, *
to look down upon heaven and earth?
From the dust he lifts up the lowly, *
from his misery he raises the poor
to set him in the company of princes, *
yes, with the princes of his people.
To the childless wife he gives a home *
and gladdens her heart with children.
Glory to the Father, and to the Son, *
and to the Holy Spirit:
as it was in the beginning, is now, *
and will be for ever. Amen.
Psalm Prayer
Lord Jesus, Word of God, surrendering the brightness of your glory you became man so that we may be raised from the dust to share your very being. May there be innumerable children of the Church to offer homage to your name from the rising of the sun to its setting.
Ant. The parents of Jesus brought him to Jerusalem to present him to the Lord.
Ant. 2 Zion, prepare your wedding chamber to receive Christ the King.
Psalm 147:12-20
The restoration of Jerusalem
Come, I will show you the bride of the Lamb (Revelation 21:9).
O praise the Lord, Jerusalem! *
Zion, praise your God!
He has strengthened the bars of your gates, *
he has blessed the children within you.
He established peace on your borders, *
he feeds you with finest wheat.
He sends out his word to the earth *
and swiftly runs his command.
He showers down snow white as wool, *
he scatters hoar-frost like ashes.
He hurls down hailstones like crumbs. *
The waters are frozen at his touch;
he sends forth his word and it melts them: *
at the breath of his mouth the waters flow.
He makes his word known to Jacob, *
to Israel his laws and decrees.
He has not dealt thus with other nations; *
he has not taught them his decrees.
Glory to the Father, and to the Son, *
and to the Holy Spirit:
as it was in the beginning, is now, *
and will be for ever. Amen.
Psalm Prayer
Lord you established peace within the borders of Jerusalem. Give the fullness of peace to your faithful people. May peace rule us in this life and possess us in eternal life. You are about to fill us with the best of wheat; grant that what we see dimly now as in a mirror, we may come to perceive clearly in the brightness of your truth.
Ant. Zion, prepare your wedding chamber to receive Christ the King.
Ant. 3 Blessed are you, good Simeon; you held in your arms Christ the Lord, the Savior of his people.
Canticle: Philippians 2:6-11
Christ, God’s holy servant
Though he was in the form of God, †
Jesus did not deem equality with God *
something to be grasped at.
Rather, he emptied himself †
and took the form of a slave, *
being born in the likeness of men.
He was known to be of human estate, *
and it was thus that he humbled himself,
obediently accepting even death, *
death on a cross!
Because of this, *
God highly exalted him
and bestowed on him the name *
above every other name,
So that at Jesus’ name *
every knee must bend
in the heavens, on the earth, *
and under the earth,
and every tongue proclaim †
to the glory of God the Father: *
JESUS CHRIST IS LORD!
Glory to the Father, and to the Son, *
and to the Holy Spirit:
as it was in the beginning, is now, *
and will be for ever. Amen.
Ant. Blessed are you, good Simeon; you held in your arms Christ the Lord, the Savior of his people.
READING
Hebrews 10:5-7
On coming into the world, Jesus said:
“Sacrifice and offering you did not desire,
but a body you have prepared for me;
Holocausts or sin offerings you took no delight in.
Then I said, ‘As is written in the book,
I have come to do your will O God.’”
RESPONSORY
The Lord has made known his saving power.
– The Lord has made known his saving power.
Which he has prepared in the sight of every people.
– His saving power.
Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
– The Lord has made known his saving power.
GOSPEL CANTICLE
Ant. The old man carried the child, but the child was the old man’s Lord. The Virgin gave birth to the child yet remained a virgin for ever. She knelt in worship before her child.
Canticle of Mary
Luke 1:46-55
The soul rejoices in the Lord
My + soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord, †
my spirit rejoices in God my Savior *
for he has looked with favor on his lowly servant.
From this day all generations will call me blessed: †
the Almighty has done great things for me, *
and holy is his Name.
He has mercy on those who fear him *
in every generation.
He has shown the strength of his arm, *
he has scattered the proud in their conceit.
He has cast down the mighty from their thrones, *
and has lifted up the lowly.
He has filled the hungry with good things, *
and the rich he has sent away empty.
He has come to the help of his servant Israel *
for he has remembered his promise of mercy,
the promise he made to our fathers, *
to Abraham and his children for ever.
Glory to the Father, and to the Son, *
and to the Holy Spirit:
as it was in the beginning, is now, *
and will be for ever. Amen.
Ant. The old man carried the child, but the child was the old man’s Lord. The Virgin gave birth to the child yet remained a virgin for ever. She knelt in worship before her child.
INTERCESSIONS
Today our Savior was presented in the temple. Let us adore him as we say:
Lord, may our eyes see your saving power.
Christ Jesus, you are the light that enlightens all nations,
– shine upon those who do not know you, that they may come to believe in you, the one, true God.
Lord, may our eyes see your saving power.
You are the redeemer and glory of your people Israel,
– may your Church proclaim your salvation to the ends of the earth.
Lord, may our eyes see your saving power.
Jesus, desire of the nations, Simeon, the just man, rejoiced at your coming,
– lead all men to recognize that you still come to them.
Lord, may our eyes see your saving power.
Lord, when you were presented in the temple, Simeon foretold that a sword of sorrow would pierce your mother’s heart,
– strengthen us to accept the sufferings we endure for the sake of your name.
Lord, may our eyes see your saving power.
Christ Jesus, joy of all the saints, Simeon longed to see you before he died, and his prayer was answered,
– hear our plea for all the dead who still yearn to see you face to face.
Lord, may our eyes see your saving power.
THE LORD’S PRAYER
(Gathering our prayer and praises into one, let us offer the prayer Christ himself taught us:)
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;
and lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from evil.
CONCLUDING PRAYER
All-powerful Father,
Christ your Son became man for us
and was presented in the temple.
May he free our hearts from sin
and bring us into your presence.
We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you and Holy Spirit
God, for ever and ever.
– Amen.
Or:
Almighty ever-living God,
we humbly implore your majesty
that, just as your Only Begotten Son
was presented on this day in the Temple
in the substance of our flesh,
so, by your grace,
we may be presented to you with minds made pure.
Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
God, for ever and ever.
– Amen.
Go to the Dismissal
The Transfiguration of the Lord
HYMN
’Tis good, Lord, to be here!
Your glory fills the night;
Your face and garments, like the sun,
Shine with unborrowed light.
’Tis good, Lord, to be here,
Your beauty to behold,
Where Moses and Elijah stand,
Your messengers of old.
Fulfiller of the past!
Promise of things to be!
We hail your body glorified,
And our redemption see.
Before we taste of death,
We see your kingdom come;
Before us keep your vision bright,
And make this place our home.
Tune: Narenza S.M.
Music: Melody in Leisentritt’s Catholicum Hymnologium Germanicum, 1584
Text: J. A. Robinson, 1858-1933
PSALMODY
Ant. 1 Jesus took his disciples and went up the mountain where he was transfigured before them.
Psalm 113
Praise the name of the Lord
He has cast down the mighty and has lifted up the lowly (Luke 1:52).
Praise, O servants of the Lord, *
praise the name of the Lord!
May the name of the Lord be blessed *
both now and for evermore!
From the rising of the sun to its setting *
praised be the name of the Lord!
High above all nations is the Lord, *
above the heavens his glory.
Who is like the Lord, our God, *
who has risen on high to his throne
yet stoops from the heights to look down, *
to look down upon heaven and earth?
From the dust he lifts up the lowly, *
from the dungheap he raises the poor
to set them in the company of princes, *
yes, with the princes of his people.
To the childless wife he gives a home *
and gladdens her heart with children.
Glory to the Father, and to the Son, *
and to the Holy Spirit:
as it was in the beginning, is now, *
and will be for ever. Amen.
Psalm Prayer
Lord Jesus, Word of God, surrendering the brightness of your glory you became man so that we may be raised from the dust to share your very being. May there be innumerable children of the Church to offer homage to your name from the rising of the sun to its setting.
Ant. Jesus took his disciples and went up the mountain where he was transfigured before them.
Ant. 2 Suddenly Moses and Elijah appeared before them and began talking with Jesus.
Psalm 117
Praise for God’s loving compassion
I affirm that ... the Gentile peoples are to praise God because of his mercy (Romans 15:8-9).
O praise the Lord, all you nations, *
acclaim him, all you peoples!
Strong is his love for us; *
he is faithful for ever.
Glory to the Father, and to the Son, *
and to the Holy Spirit:
as it was in the beginning, is now, *
and will be for ever. Amen.
Psalm Prayer
God our Father, may all nations and peoples praise you. May Jesus, who is called faithful and true and who lives with you eternally, possess our hearts for ever.
Ant. Suddenly Moses and Elijah appeared before them and began talking with Jesus.
Ant. 3 Lord, how good it is for us to be here; if you wish, let us build three tents here, one for you, one for Moses and one for Elijah.
Canticle: See Revelation 19:1-7
The wedding of the Lamb
The following canticle is said with the Alleluia when Evening Prayer is sung; when the Office if recited, the Alleluia may be said at the beginning and end of each strophe.
Alleluia.
Salvation, glory, and power to our God: *
(Alleluia).
his judgments are honest and true. *
Alleluia (alleluia).
Alleluia.
Sing praise to our God, all you his servants, *
(Alleluia).
all who worship him reverently, great and small. *
Alleluia (alleluia).
Alleluia.
The Lord our all-powerful God is King; *
(Alleluia).
Let us rejoice, sing praise, and give him glory. *
Alleluia (alleluia).
Alleluia.
The wedding feast of the Lamb has begun, *
(Alleluia).
and his bride is prepared to welcome him. *
Alleluia (alleluia).
Alleluia.
Glory to the Father, and to the Son, *
(Alleluia).
and to the Holy Spirit: *
Alleluia (alleluia).
Alleluia.
as it was in the beginning, is now, *
(Alleluia).
and will be for ever. Amen. *
Alleluia (alleluia).
Ant. Lord, how good it is for us to be here; if you wish, let us build three tents here, one for you, one for Moses and one for Elijah.
READING
Philippians 3:20-21
Our citizenship is in heaven, and from it we also await a savior, the Lord Jesus Christ. He will change our lowly body to conform with his glorified body by the power that enables him also to bring all things into subjection to himself.
RESPONSORY
You have appeared in glory before the Lord, alleluia, alleluia.
– You have appeared in glory before the Lord, alleluia, alleluia.
The Lord has clothed you in splendor.
– Alleluia, alleluia.
Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
– You have appeared in glory before the Lord, alleluia, alleluia.
GOSPEL CANTICLE
Ant. Christ Jesus, you are the splendor of the Father and the perfect image of his being; you sustain all creation with your powerful word and cleanse us of all our sins. On this day you were exalted in glory upon the high mountain.
Canticle of Mary
Luke 1:46-55
The soul rejoices in the Lord
My + soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord, †
my spirit rejoices in God my Savior *
for he has looked with favor on his lowly servant.
From this day all generations will call me blessed: †
the Almighty has done great things for me, *
and holy is his Name.
He has mercy on those who fear him *
in every generation.
He has shown the strength of his arm, *
he has scattered the proud in their conceit.
He has cast down the mighty from their thrones, *
and has lifted up the lowly.
He has filled the hungry with good things, *
and the rich he has sent away empty.
He has come to the help of his servant Israel *
for he has remembered his promise of mercy,
the promise he made to our fathers, *
to Abraham and his children for ever.
Glory to the Father, and to the Son, *
and to the Holy Spirit:
as it was in the beginning, is now, *
and will be for ever. Amen.
Ant. Christ Jesus, you are the splendor of the Father and the perfect image of his being; you sustain all creation with your powerful word and cleanse us of all our sins. On this day you were exalted in glory upon the high mountain.
INTERCESSIONS
In the presence of his disciples our Savior was wonderfully transfigured on Mount Tabor. Let us pray to him with confidence:
Lord, in your light may we see light.
O Christ, before your passion and death you revealed the resurrection to your disciples on Mount Tabor; we pray for your Church which labors amid the cares and anxieties of this world,
– that in its trials it may always be transfigured by the joy of your victory.
Lord, in your light may we see light.
O Christ, you took Peter, James and John and led them up a high mountain by themselves; we pray for our pope and bishops,
– that they may inspire in your people the hope of being transfigured at the last day.
Lord, in your light may we see light.
O Christ, upon the mountaintop you let the light of your face shine over Moses and Elijah,
– we ask your blessing upon the Jewish people; of old you called them to be your chosen nation.
Lord, in your light may we see light.
O Christ, you gave light to the world when the glory of the Creator arose over you,
– we pray for men of good will that they may walk in your light.
Lord, in your light may we see light.
O Christ, you will reform our lowly body and make it like your glorious one,
– we pray for our brothers and sisters who have died that they may share in your glory for ever.
Lord, in your light may we see light.
THE LORD’S PRAYER
(And now let us pray as the Lord told us:)
(Gathering our prayer and praises into one, let us offer the prayer Christ himself taught us:)
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;
and lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from evil.
CONCLUDING PRAYER
God our Father,
in the transfigured glory of Christ your Son,
you strengthen our faith
by confirming the witness of your prophets,
and show us the splendor of your beloved sons and daughters.
As we listen to the voice of your Son,
help us to become heirs to eternal life with him
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
God, for ever and ever.
– Amen.
Or:
O God, who in the glorious Transfiguration
of your Only Begotten Son
confirmed the mysteries of faith by the witness of the Fathers
and wonderfully prefigured our full adoption to sonship,
grant, we pray, to your servants,
that, listening to the voice of your beloved Son,
we may merit to be co-heirs with him.
Who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
God, for ever and ever.
– Amen.
Go to the Dismissal
The Exaltation of the Holy Cross
HYMN
The banners of the King go forth,
the gleaming myst’ry of the Cross,
by which the Maker of all flesh
was yoked in flesh upon the wood;
Where, wounded as he hung on high
by ruthless blade of sharpened spear,
there flowed forth water mixed with blood,
to wash us clean from ev’ry sin.
O noble tree with blood adorned,
the splendid purple of the King,
wood chosen from a worthy stock
to touch and bear such holy limbs.
O blessed tree whose branches bore
the price and ransom of the world!
Like scales it weighed the body’s worth
and bore away the spoils of hell.
Hail altar, victim, sacrifice,
for glory gained through grief and death,
by which our Life endured to die
and through his death restored our life.
O Cross, all hail, our only hope!
In this most holy Passiontide,
increase the grace of loving hearts
and rid the guilty of their sin.
O Triune God, let all sing praise
to you, the font of saving grace;
sustain for ever those you save
by wondrous myst’ry of the Cross. Amen.
Tune: GONFALON ROYAL, 8 8 8 8
Music: Sir Percy Carter Buck, 1871-1947
or Mode I, melody 29; Liber Hymnarius, Solesmes, 1983
Text: Vexilla regis prodeunt, Venantius Fortunaus, ca. 530-600, © 2023 ICEL
PSALMODY
Ant. 1 Our crucified and risen Lord has redeemed us, alleluia.
Psalm 147:1-11
The loving kindness of God who can do all he wills
You are God: we praise you; you are the Lord: we acclaim you.
Praise the Lord for he is good; †
sing to our God for he is loving: *
to him our praise is due.
The Lord builds up Jerusalem *
and brings back Israel’s exiles,
he heals the broken-hearted, *
he binds up all their wounds.
He fixes the number of the stars; *
he calls each one by its name.
Our Lord is great and almighty; *
his wisdom can never be measured.
The Lord raises the lowly; *
he humbles the wicked to the dust.
O sing to the Lord, giving thanks; *
sing psalms to our God with the harp.
He covers the heavens with clouds; *
he prepares the rain for the earth,
making mountains sprout with grass *
and with plants to serve man’s needs.
He provides the beasts with their food *
and young ravens that call upon him.
His delight is not in horses *
nor his pleasure in warriors’ strength.
The Lord delights in those who revere him, *
in those who wait for his love.
Glory to the Father, and to the Son, *
and to the Holy Spirit:
as it was in the beginning, is now, *
and will be for ever. Amen.
Psalm Prayer
God our Father, great builder of the heavenly Jerusalem, you know the number of the stars and call each of them by name. Heal hearts that are broken, gather together those who have been scattered, and enrich us all from the plenitude of your eternal wisdom.
Ant. Our crucified and risen Lord has redeemed us, alleluia.
Ant. 2 The tree of life flourished in the midst of the holy city of Jerusalem, and its leaves had power to save all the nations, alleluia.
Psalm 147:12-20
The restoration of Jerusalem
Come, I will show you the bride of the Lamb (Revelation 21:9).
O praise the Lord, Jerusalem! *
Zion, praise your God!
He has strengthened the bars of your gates, *
he has blessed the children within you.
He established peace on your borders, *
he feeds you with finest wheat.
He sends out his word to the earth *
and swiftly runs his command.
He showers down snow white as wool, *
he scatters hoar-frost like ashes.
He hurls down hailstones like crumbs. *
The waters are frozen at his touch;
he sends forth his word and it melts them: *
at the breath of his mouth the waters flow.
He makes his word known to Jacob, *
to Israel his laws and decrees.
He has not dealt thus with other nations; *
he has not taught them his decrees.
Glory to the Father, and to the Son, *
and to the Holy Spirit:
as it was in the beginning, is now, *
and will be for ever. Amen.
Psalm Prayer
Lord you established peace within the borders of Jerusalem. Give the fullness of peace to your faithful people. May peace rule us in this life and possess us in eternal life. You are about to fill us with the best of wheat; grant that what we see dimly now as in a mirror, we may come to perceive clearly in the brightness of your truth.
Ant. The tree of life flourished in the midst of the holy city of Jerusalem, and its leaves had power to save all the nations, alleluia.
Ant. 3 We must glory in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Canticle: Philippians 2:6-11
Christ, God’s holy servant
Though he was in the form of God, †
Jesus did not deem equality with God *
something to be grasped at.
Rather, he emptied himself †
and took the form of a slave, *
being born in the likeness of men.
He was known to be of human estate, *
and it was thus that he humbled himself,
obediently accepting even death, *
death on a cross!
Because of this, *
God highly exalted him
and bestowed on him the name *
above every other name,
So that at Jesus’ name *
every knee must bend
in the heavens, on the earth, *
and under the earth,
and every tongue proclaim †
to the glory of God the Father: *
JESUS CHRIST IS LORD!
Glory to the Father, and to the Son, *
and to the Holy Spirit:
as it was in the beginning, is now, *
and will be for ever. Amen.
Ant. We must glory in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ.
READING
1 Corinthians 1:23-24
We preach Christ crucified—a stumbling block to Jews, and an absurdity to Gentiles; but to those who are called, Jews and Greeks alike, Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God.
RESPONSORY
This sign will appear in the heavens when the Lord comes.
— This sign will appear in the heavens when the Lord comes.
Lift up your heads, your salvation is at hand.
— When the Lord comes.
Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
— This sign will appear in the heavens when the Lord comes.
GOSPEL CANTICLE
Ant. It was ordained that Christ should suffer, and on the third day rise from the dead.
Luke 1:46-55
The soul rejoices in the Lord
My soul + proclaims the greatness of the Lord, *
my spirit rejoices in God my Savior
for he has looked with favor on his lowly servant. *
From this day all generations will call me blessed:
the Almighty has done great things for me, *
and holy is his Name.
He has mercy on those who fear him *
in every generation.
He has shown the strength of his arm, *
he has scattered the proud in their conceit.
He has cast down the mighty from their thrones, *
and has lifted up the lowly.
He has filled the hungry with good things, *
and the rich he has sent away empty.
He has come to the help of his servant Israel *
for he has remembered his promise of mercy,
the promise he made to our fathers, *
to Abraham and his children for ever.
Glory to the Father, and to the Son, *
and to the Holy Spirit:
as it was in the beginning, is now, *
and will be for ever. Amen.
Ant. It was ordained that Christ should suffer, and on the third day rise from the dead.
INTERCESSIONS
Let us pray with confidence to Christ who endured the cross to save us:
Lord, through your cross bring us to the glory of your kingdom.
O Christ, you emptied yourself, taking the form of a servant and being made like us,
— grant that your people may follow the example of your humility.
Lord, through your cross bring us to the glory of your kingdom.
O Christ, you humbled yourself and became obedient unto death, even death on a cross,
— grant that your servants may imitate your obedience and willing acceptance of trials.
Lord, through your cross bring us to the glory of your kingdom.
O Christ, you were raised up by the Father and given the name that is above all other names,
— may your people, strengthened in the hope of a heavenly resurrection, persevere to the end.
Lord, through your cross bring us to the glory of your kingdom.
O Christ, at your name every knee in heaven, on earth and under the earth will bend in adoration,
— pour out your love upon all men that they may join together in proclaiming your glory.
Lord, through your cross bring us to the glory of your kingdom.
O Christ, every tongue shall confess that you are Lord to the glory of God the Father,
— welcome our brothers and sisters who have died into the unfailing joy of your kingdom.
Lord, through your cross bring us to the glory of your kingdom.
THE LORD’S PRAYER
(And now let us pray as the Lord told us:)
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;
and lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from evil.
CONCLUDING PRAYER
God our Father,
in obedience to you
your only Son accepted death on the cross
for the salvation of mankind.
We acknowledge the mystery of the cross on earth.
May we receive the gift of redemption in heaven.
We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
God, for ever and ever.
— Amen.
Or:
O God, who willed that your Only Begotten Son
should undergo the Cross to save the human race,
grant, we pray,
that we, who have known his mystery on earth,
may merit the grace of his redemption in heaven.
Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
God, for ever and ever.
— Amen.
Go to the Dismissal
The Nativity of Saint John the Baptist
HYMN
Preacher of penance, great Saint John the Baptist,
Cleanse us poor sinners that our tongues may praise you,
Joyfully singing with a new-found fervor
On this your feast day.
Angel from heaven told your honored father
Of coming wonder, destined to delight him,
Son of his old age, John, the greatest prophet,
Such he foretold you.
Zachary doubted, trusted not the message,
And in atonement not a word could utter,
‘Til he received you in his arms as father,
Humbly rejoicing.
Tune: Ut quaeant laxis, 11.11.11.5
Music: Anonymous, eighth century
Text: Paulus Diaconus?, eighth century
Translation: © The Benedictines of Saint Cecilia’s Abbey, Ryde, UK, used with permission
PSALMODY
Ant. 1 Elizabeth, the wife of Zechariah, gave birth to a great man, John the Baptist, who prepared the way for the Lord.
Psalm 113
Praise the name of the Lord
He has cast down the mighty and has lifted up the lowly (Luke 1:52).
Praise, O servants of the Lord, *
praise the name of the Lord!
May the name of the Lord be blessed *
both now and for evermore!
From the rising of the sun to its setting *
praised be the name of the Lord!
High above all nations is the Lord, *
above the heavens his glory.
Who is like the Lord, our God, *
who has risen on high to his throne
yet stoops from the heights to look down, *
to look down upon heaven and earth?
From the dust he lifts up the lowly, *
from his misery he raises the poor
to set him in the company of princes, *
yes, with the princes of his people.
To the childless wife he gives a home *
and gladdens her heart with children.
Glory to the Father, and to the Son, *
and to the Holy Spirit:
as it was in the beginning, is now, *
and will be for ever. Amen.
Psalm Prayer
Lord Jesus, Word of God, surrendering the brightness of your glory you became man so that we may be raised from the dust to share your very being. May there be innumerable children of the Church to offer homage to your name from the rising of the sun to its setting.
Ant. Elizabeth, the wife of Zechariah, gave birth to a great man, John the Baptist, who prepared the way for the Lord.
Ant. 2 John, the forerunner of the Lord, was born of an old and childless couple.
Psalm 146
Those who trust in God know what it is to be happy
To praise God in our lives means all we do must be for his glory (Arnobius).
My soul, give praise to the Lord; †
I will praise the Lord all my days, *
make music to my God while I live.
Put no trust in princes, *
in mortal men in whom there is no help.
Take their breath, they return to clay *
and their plans that day come to nothing.
He is happy who is helped by Jacob’s God, *
whose hope is in the Lord his God,
who alone made heaven and earth, *
the seas and all they contain.
It is he who keeps faith for ever, *
who is just to those who are oppressed.
It is he who gives bread to the hungry, *
the Lord, who sets prisoners free,
The Lord who gives sight to the blind, *
who raises up those who are bowed down,
the Lord, who protects the stranger *
and upholds the widow and orphan.
It is the Lord who loves the just *
but thwarts the path of the wicked.
The Lord will reign for ever. *
Zion’s God, from age to age.
Glory to the Father, and to the Son, *
and to the Holy Spirit:
as it was in the beginning, is now, *
and will be for ever. Amen.
Psalm Prayer
God of glory and power, those who have put all their trust in you are happy indeed. Shine the brightness of your light on us, that we may love you always with a pure heart.
Ant. John, the forerunner of the Lord, was born of an old and childless couple.
Ant. 3 There is no man born of women greater than John the Baptist.
Canticle: Ephesians 1:3-10
God our Savior
Praised be the God and Father *
of our Lord Jesus Christ,
who has bestowed on us in Christ *
every spiritual blessing in the heavens.
God chose us in him *
before the world began
to be holy *
and blameless in his sight.
He predestined us *
to be his adopted sons through Jesus Christ,
such was his will and pleasure, †
that all might praise the glorious favor *
he has bestowed on us in his beloved.
In him and through his blood, we have been redeemed, *
and our sins forgiven,
so immeasurably generous *
is God’s favor to us.
God has given us the wisdom *
to understand fully the mystery,
the plan he was pleased *
to decree in Christ.
A plan to be carried out *
in Christ, in the fullness of time,
to bring all things into one in him, *
in the heavens and on earth.
Glory to the Father, and to the Son, *
and to the Holy Spirit:
as it was in the beginning, is now, *
and will be for ever. Amen.
Ant. 3 There is no man born of women greater than John the Baptist.
READING
Acts 13:23-25
According to his promise, God has brought forth from David’s descendants Jesus, a savior for Israel. John heralded the coming of Jesus by proclaiming a baptism of repentance to all the people of Israel. As John’s career was coming to an end, he would say, “What you suppose me to be I am not. Rather, look for one who comes after me. I am not worthy to unfasten the sandals of his feet.”
RESPONSORY
Prepare the way of the Lord; make straight his paths.
– Prepare the way of the Lord; make straight his paths.
He who is to come after me existed before me.
– Make straight his paths.
Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
– Prepare the way of the Lord; make straight his paths.
GOSPEL CANTICLE
Ant. Zechariah entered the temple of the Lord, and the angel Gabriel appeared to him, standing on the right of the altar of incense.
Canticle of Mary
Luke 1:46-55
The soul rejoices in the Lord
My + soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord, †
my spirit rejoices in God my Savior *
for he has looked with favor on his lowly servant.
From this day all generations will call me blessed: †
the Almighty has done great things for me, *
and holy is his Name.
He has mercy on those who fear him *
in every generation.
He has shown the strength of his arm, *
he has scattered the proud in their conceit.
He has cast down the mighty from their thrones, *
and has lifted up the lowly.
He has filled the hungry with good things, *
and the rich he has sent away empty.
He has come to the help of his servant Israel *
for he has remembered his promise of mercy,
the promise he made to our fathers, *
to Abraham and his children for ever.
Glory to the Father, and to the Son, *
and to the Holy Spirit:
as it was in the beginning, is now, *
and will be for ever. Amen.
Ant. Zechariah entered the temple of the Lord, and the angel Gabriel appeared to him, standing on the right of the altar of incense.
INTERCESSIONS
Let us pray joyfully to God our Father who called John the Baptist to proclaim the coming of the kingdom of Christ:
O Lord, guide our feet into the way of peace.
You called John the Baptist from his mother’s womb to prepare the way of your Son,
– help us to follow in that path which the Baptist opened before the Lord Jesus.
O Lord, guide our feet into the way of peace.
May your Church, in imitation of the Baptist, fearlessly point out the Lamb of God,
– so that people in every age may acknowledge that the Lord comes to them.
O Lord, guide our feet into the way of peace.
John the Baptist did not exalt himself but acknowledged his role as forerunner of the Christ,
– teach us to acknowledge that you are the giver of all our good gifts and that we must use them in your service.
O Lord, guide our feet into the way of peace.
You called John the Baptist to give testimony to you by his life and even by his death,
– help us to imitate his unceasing witness to your truth.
O Lord, guide our feet into the way of peace.
Remember those who have died,
– give them a place of light, happiness, and peace.
O Lord, guide our feet into the way of peace.
THE LORD’S PRAYER
(Now let us pray as Christ the Lord has taught us:)
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;
and lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from evil.
CONCLUDING PRAYER
God our Father,
you raised up John the Baptist
to prepare a perfect people for Christ the Lord.
Give your Church joy in spirit
and guide those who believe in you
into the way of salvation and peace.
We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
God, for ever and ever.
– Amen.
Or:
O God, who raised up Saint John the Baptist
to make ready a nation fit for Christ the Lord,
give your people, we pray,
the grace of spiritual joys
and direct the hearts of all the faithful
into the way of salvation and peace.
Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
God, for ever and ever.
– Amen.
Go to the Dismissal
Saints Peter and Paul, Apostles
HYMN
Light of the Godhead, shining from eternity,
You bless the heavens with a golden radiance,
For this great feast day on which we commemorate
Martyred apostles, wining grace for penitents.
Keys of the kingdom prove one great supremacy,
Teacher of nations was Saint Paul’s activity;
Cross for Saint Peter, sword for Paul, meant for victory.
They shine as judges crowned for all eternity.
Rome, favored city, your soil had the privilege
Of being purpled by such leaders’ martyrdom,
Not for your merits, but for their great fortitude,
You can claim beauty, passing all in excellence.
Mystical olives, one in sacred tenderness,
Pray for us always, gain for us true happiness,
When the things hoped for, clung to with fidelity,
Blossom in merits won by two-fold charity.
Praise be unending, homage and all reverence,
Glory and honor, now and through eternity,
Joyful thanksgiving to the Blessed Trinity,
Reigning for ever in their perfect Unity. Amen.
Tune: Heber 12.12.12.12 or Aurea Luce, Mode I 12.12.12.12
Music: The Sarum Hymnal, 1869
Text: Aurea luce et decore roseo, Elphis, c. 493, wife of Boethius
Translation: © the Benedictines of Saint Cecilia’s Abbey, Ryde, UK, used with permission
Go to the Psalmody
Or:
The eternal gifts of Christ the King,
The apostles’ glory, let us sing,
And all, with hearts of gladness, raise
Due hymns of thankful love and praise.
Their faith in Christ the Lord prevailed;
Their hope, a light that never failed;
Their love ablaze o’er pathways trod
To lead them to the eternal God.
In them the Father’s glory shone,
In them the will of God the Son,
In them exults the Holy Ghost,
Through them rejoice the heav’enly host.
To thee, Redeemer, now we cry,
That thou wouldst join to them on high
Thy servants, who this grace implore,
For ever and for evermore.
Tune: King’s Majesty L.M.
Music: Graham George, 1941
Text: Aeterna Christi munera, Saint Ambrose of Milan, 337?-397
Translation: John Mason Neale, 1818-1866
PSALMODY
Ant. 1 You are Christ, the Son of the living God. Blessed are you Simon, son of John!
Psalm 117
Praise for God’s loving compassion
I affirm that . . . the Gentile peoples are to praise God because of his mercy (Romans 15:8-9).
O praise the Lord, all you nations, *
acclaim him all you peoples!
Strong is his love for us; *
he is faithful for ever.
Glory to the Father, and to the Son, *
and to the Holy Spirit:
as it was in the beginning, is now, *
and will be for ever. Amen.
Psalm Prayer
God our Father, may all nations and peoples praise you. May Jesus, who is called faithful and true and who lives with you eternally, possess our hearts for ever.
Ant. You are Christ, the Son of the living God. Blessed are you Simon, son of John!
Ant. 2 You are Peter, and on this rock I will build my Church.
Psalm 147:12-20
The restoration of Jerusalem
Come, I will show you the bride of the Lamb (Revelation 21:9).
O praise the Lord, Jerusalem! *
Zion, praise your God!
He has strengthened the bars of your gates, *
he has blessed the children within you.
He established peace on your borders, *
he feeds you with finest wheat.
He sends out his word to the earth *
and swiftly runs his command.
He showers down snow white as wool, *
he scatters hoar-frost like ashes.
He hurls down hailstones like crumbs. *
The waters are frozen at his touch;
he sends forth his word and it melts them: *
at the breath of his mouth the waters flow.
He makes his word known to Jacob, *
to Israel his laws and decrees.
He has not dealt thus with other nations; *
he has not taught them his decrees.
Glory to the Father, and to the Son, *
and to the Holy Spirit:
as it was in the beginning, is now, *
and will be for ever. Amen.
Psalm Prayer
Lord you established peace within the borders of Jerusalem. Give the fullness of peace to your faithful people. May peace rule us in this life and possess us in eternal life. You are about to fill us with the best of wheat; grant that what we see dimly now as in a mirror, we may come to perceive clearly in the brightness of your truth.
Ant. You are Peter, and on this rock I will build my Church.
Ant. 3 You are the chosen vessel of God, blessed apostle Paul; you preached the truth throughout the whole world.
Canticle: Ephesians 1:3-10
God our Savior
Praised be the God and Father *
of our Lord Jesus Christ,
who has bestowed on us in Christ *
every spiritual blessing in the heavens.
God chose us in him *
before the world began
to be holy *
and blameless in his sight.
He predestined us *
to be his adopted sons through Jesus Christ,
such was his will and pleasure, †
that all might praise the glorious favor *
he has bestowed on us in his beloved.
In him and through his blood, we have been redeemed, *
and our sins forgiven,
so immeasurably generous *
is God’s favor to us.
God has given us the wisdom *
to understand fully the mystery,
the plan he was pleased *
to decree in Christ.
A plan to be carried out *
in Christ, in the fullness of time,
to bring all things into one in him, *
in the heavens and on earth.
Glory to the Father, and to the Son, *
and to the Holy Spirit:
as it was in the beginning, is now, *
and will be for ever. Amen.
Ant. You are the chosen vessel of God, blessed apostle Paul; you preached the truth throughout the whole world.
READING
Romans 1:1-2, 7
Greetings from Paul, a servant of Christ Jesus, called to be an apostle and set apart to proclaim the gospel of God which he promised long ago through his prophets, as the holy Scriptures record—the gospel concerning his Son—to all in Rome, beloved of God and called to holiness, grace and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.
RESPONSORY
The apostles proclaimed the word of God and preached it faithfully.
– The apostles proclaimed the word of God and preached it faithfully.
They bore witness to the resurrection of Jesus Christ.
– And preached it faithfully.
Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
– The apostles proclaimed the word of God and preached it faithfully.
GOSPEL CANTICLE
Ant. How glorious are the apostles of Christ; in life they loved one another; in death they rejoice together for ever.
Canticle of Mary
Luke 1:46-55
The soul rejoices in the Lord
My + soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord, †
my spirit rejoices in God my Savior *
for he has looked with favor on his lowly servant.
From this day all generations will call me blessed: †
the Almighty has done great things for me, *
and holy is his Name.
He has mercy on those who fear him *
in every generation.
He has shown the strength of his arm, *
he has scattered the proud in their conceit.
He has cast down the mighty from their thrones, *
and has lifted up the lowly.
He has filled the hungry with good things, *
and the rich he has sent away empty.
He has come to the help of his servant Israel *
for he has remembered his promise of mercy,
the promise he made to our fathers, *
to Abraham and his children for ever.
Glory to the Father, and to the Son, *
and to the Holy Spirit:
as it was in the beginning, is now, *
and will be for ever. Amen.
Ant. How glorious are the apostles of Christ; in life they loved one another; in death they rejoice together for ever.
INTERCESSIONS
The Lord Jesus built his holy people on the foundation of the apostles and prophets. In faith let us pray:
Lord, come to the aid of your people.
You once called Simon, the fisherman, to catch men,
– now summon new workers who will bring the message of salvation to all peoples.
Lord, come to the aid of your people.
You calmed the waves so that your followers would not be drowned,
– guard your Church, protect it from all dangers.
Lord, come to the aid of your people.
You gathered your scattered flock around Peter after the resurrection,
– good Shepherd, bring all your people together as one flock.
Lord, come to the aid of your people.
You sent Paul as apostle to preach the good news to the Gentiles,
– let the word of salvation be proclaimed to all mankind.
Lord, come to the aid of your people.
You gave the keys of your kingdom into the hands of your holy Church,
– open the gates of that kingdom to all who trusted in your mercy while on earth.
Lord, come to the aid of your people.
THE LORD’S PRAYER
(Remember us, Lord, when you come into your kingdom and teach us to pray:)
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;
and lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from evil.
CONCLUDING PRAYER
Lord our God,
encourage us through the prayers of Saints Peter and Paul.
May the apostles who strengthened the faith of the infant Church
help us on our way of salvation.
We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
God, for ever and ever.
– Amen.
Or:
Grant, we pray, O Lord our O God,
that we may be sustained
by the intercession of the blessed Apostles Peter and Paul,
that, as through them you gave your Church
the foundations of her heavenly office,
so through them you may help her to eternal salvation.
Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
God, for ever and ever.
– Amen.
Go to the Dismissal
The Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary
HYMN
Joy of poor sinners, fairest Star of heaven,
Sun of true justice, chose you as his mother;
Save us who perish, raise the sadly fallen,
Mary, pure Virgin.
You were the ladder by which God descended,
Through you the Highest came to seek the lowest;
By your protection, help us as we journey
Onwards to heaven.
Choirs of bright angels throng with joy to meet you,
Saints of the Old Law, prophets and apostles,
Hasten to lead you to your throne of glory
Next to the Godhead.
Praise be for ever Trinity most holy,
Who crowned you, Mary, Virgin pure and sinless,
And gave you to us, Queen and loving Mother,
Now and for ever. Amen.
Tune: Flemming 11.11.11.5
Music: Friedrich F. Flemming, 1811
Text: Gaudium mundi, Saint Peter Damian, 1007-1072
Translation: © the Benedictines of Saint Cecilia’s Abbey, Ryde, UK, used with permission
PSALMODY
Ant. 1 Christ ascended into heaven and prepared an everlasting place for his immaculate Mother, alleluia.
Psalm 113
Praise the name of the Lord
He has cast down the mighty and has lifted up the lowly (Luke 1:52).
Praise, O servants of the Lord, *
praise the name of the Lord!
May the name of the Lord be blessed *
both now and for evermore!
From the rising of the sun to its setting *
praised be the name of the Lord!
High above all nations is the Lord, *
above the heavens his glory.
Who is like the Lord, our God, *
who has risen on high to his throne
yet stoops from the heights to look down, *
to look down upon heaven and earth?
From the dust he lifts up the lowly, *
from his misery he raises the poor
to set him in the company of princes, *
yes, with the princes of his people.
To the childless wife he gives a home *
and gladdens her heart with children.
Glory to the Father, and to the Son, *
and to the Holy Spirit:
as it was in the beginning, is now, *
and will be for ever. Amen.
Psalm Prayer
Lord Jesus, Word of God, surrendering the brightness of your glory you became man so that we may be raised from the dust to share your very being. May there be innumerable children of the Church to offer homage to your name from the rising of the sun to its setting.
Ant. Christ ascended into heaven and prepared an everlasting place for his immaculate Mother, alleluia.
Ant. 2 Through Eve the gates of heaven were closed to all mankind; through the Virgin Mother they were opened wide again, alleluia.
Psalm 147:12-20
The restoration of Jerusalem
Come, I will show you the bride of the Lamb (Revelation 21:9).
O praise the Lord, Jerusalem! *
Zion, praise your God!
He has strengthened the bars of your gates, *
he has blessed the children within you.
He established peace on your borders, *
he feeds you with finest wheat.
He sends out his word to the earth *
and swiftly runs his command.
He showers down snow white as wool, *
he scatters hoar-frost like ashes.
He hurls down hailstones like crumbs. *
The waters are frozen at his touch;
he sends forth his word and it melts them: *
at the breath of his mouth the waters flow.
He makes his word known to Jacob, *
to Israel his laws and decrees.
He has not dealt thus with other nations; *
he has not taught them his decrees.
Glory to the Father, and to the Son, *
and to the Holy Spirit:
as it was in the beginning, is now, *
and will be for ever. Amen.
Psalm Prayer
All-powerful God, it is through your Church, generously endowed with gifts of grace and fortified by the Holy Spirit, that you send out your word to all nations. Strengthen your Church with the best of all food and make it dauntless in faith. Multiply its children to celebrate with one accord the mysteries of your love at the altar on high.
Ant. Through Eve the gates of heaven were closed to all mankind; through the Virgin Mother they were opened wide again, alleluia.
Ant. 3 The Virgin Mary has been exalted above all the heavens; come, let all men glorify Christ the King, whose kingdom will endure for ever, alleluia.
Canticle: Ephesians 1:3-10
God our savior
Praised be the God and Father *
of our Lord Jesus Christ,
who has bestowed on us in Christ *
every spiritual blessing in the heavens.
God chose us in him †
before the world began *
to be holy
and blameless in his sight.
He predestined us †
to be his adopted sons through Jesus Christ, *
such was his will and pleasure,
that all might praise the glorious favor *
he has bestowed on us in his beloved.
In him and through his blood, we have been redeemed, *
and our sins forgiven,
so immeasurably generous *
is God’s favor to us.
God has given us the wisdom *
to understand fully the mystery,
the plan he was pleased *
to decree in Christ.
A plan to be carried out *
in Christ, in the fullness of time,
to bring all things into one in him, *
in the heavens and on earth.
Glory to the Father, and to the Son, *
and to the Holy Spirit:
as it was in the beginning, is now, *
and will be for ever. Amen.
Ant. The Virgin Mary has been exalted above all the heavens; come, let all men glorify Christ the King, whose kingdom will endure for ever, alleluia.
READING
Romans 8:30
Those God predestined he likewise called; those he called he also justified, and those he justified he in turn glorified.
RESPONSORY
As Mary is taken up to heaven,
the angels of God rejoice.
– As Mary is taken up to heaven,
the angels of God rejoice.
They worship the Lord and sing his praises.
– The angels of God rejoice.
Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
– As Mary is taken up to heaven,
the angels of God rejoice.
Dominican:
Blessed are you, O Virgin Mary, Mother of God, for you believed the Lord:
that which was told you has come to pass in you,
and you are exalted far above the choirs of angels.
Intercede for us with our Lord Jesus Christ.
– Blessed are you, O Virgin Mary, Mother of God, for you believed the Lord:
that which was told you has come to pass in you,
and you are exalted far above the choirs of angels.
Intercede for us with our Lord Jesus Christ.
Blessed are you and worthy of veneration, O Virgin Mary,
for you became the Mother of the Savior without stain of sin.
– Intercede for us with our Lord Jesus Christ.
Glory to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit.
– Blessed are you, O Virgin Mary, Mother of God, for you believed the Lord:
that which was told you has come to pass in you,
and you are exalted far above the choirs of angels.
Intercede for us with our Lord Jesus Christ.
GOSPEL CANTICLE
Ant. All generations will call me blessed; the Almighty has done great things for me, alleluia.
Canticle of Mary
Luke 1:46-55
The soul rejoices in the Lord
My + soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord, †
my spirit rejoices in God my Savior *
for he has looked with favor on his lowly servant.
From this day all generations will call me blessed: †
the Almighty has done great things for me, *
and holy is his Name.
He has mercy on those who fear him *
in every generation.
He has shown the strength of his arm, *
he has scattered the proud in their conceit.
He has cast down the mighty from their thrones, *
and has lifted up the lowly.
He has filled the hungry with good things, *
and the rich he has sent away empty.
He has come to the help of his servant Israel *
for he has remembered his promise of mercy,
the promise he made to our fathers, *
to Abraham and his children for ever.
Glory to the Father, and to the Son, *
and to the Holy Spirit:
as it was in the beginning, is now, *
and will be for ever. Amen.
Ant. All generations will call me blessed; the Almighty has done great things for me, alleluia.
INTERCESSIONS
Let us praise God our Almighty Father, who wished that Mary, his Son’s mother, be celebrated by each generation. Now in need we ask:
Mary, full of grace, intercede for us.
O God, worker of miracles, you made the Immaculate Virgin Mary share body and soul in your Son’s glory in heaven,
– direct the hearts of your children to that same glory.
Mary, full of grace, intercede for us.
You made Mary our mother. Through her intercession grant strength to the weak, comfort to the sorrowing, pardon to sinners,
– salvation and peace to all.
Mary, full of grace, intercede for us.
You made Mary full of grace,
– grant all men the joyful abundance of your grace.
Mary, full of grace, intercede for us.
Make your church of one mind and one heart in love,
– and help all those who believe to be one in prayer with Mary, the mother of Jesus.
Mary, full of grace, intercede for us.
You crowned Mary queen of heaven,
– may all the dead rejoice in your kingdom with the saints for ever.
Mary, full of grace, intercede for us.
THE LORD’S PRAYER
(Remember us, Lord, when you come to your kingdom and teach us how to pray:)
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;
and lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from evil.
CONCLUDING PRAYER
Almighty God,
you gave a humble virgin
the privilege of being the mother of your Son
and crowned her with the glory of heaven.
May the prayers of the Virgin Mary
bring us to the salvation of Christ
and raise us up to eternal life.
We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
God, for ever and ever.
– Amen.
Or:
O God, who looking on the lowliness of the Blessed Virgin Mary,
raised her to this grace,
that your Only Begotten Son was born of her according to the flesh
and that she was crowned this day with surpassing glory,
grant through her prayers,
that, saved by the mystery of your redemption,
we may merit to be exalted by you on high.
Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
God, for ever and ever.
– Amen.
Go to the Dismissal
HYMN
For all the saints, who from their labors rest,
Who Thee by faith before the world confessed,
Thy Name, O Jesus, be forever blest:
Alleluia, alleluia!
Thou wast their Rock, their Fortress and their Might;
Thou, Lord, their Captain in the well-fought fight;
Thou, in the darkness drear, their one true light:
Alleluia, alleluia!
O blest communion, fellowship divine!
We feebly struggle, they in glory shine;
Yet all are one in thee, for all are thine:
Alleluia, alleluia!
But lo! there breaks a yet more glorious day;
The saints triumphant rise in bright array;
The King of glory passes on his way:
Alleluia, alleluia!
Tune: Sine Nomine 10.10.10 with Alleluias
Music: Ralph Vaughn Williams, 1872-1958
Text: William W. How, 1823-1897
PSALMODY
Ant. 1 Eternal light will shine upon your saints, O Lord, and they will live for ever, alleluia.
Psalm 113
Praise the name of the Lord
He has cast down the mighty and has lifted up the lowly (Luke 1:52).
Praise, O servants of the Lord, *
praise the name of the Lord!
May the name of the Lord be blessed *
both now and for evermore!
From the rising of the sun to its setting *
praised be the name of the Lord!
High above all nations is the Lord, *
above the heavens his glory.
Who is like the Lord, our God, *
who has risen on high to his throne
yet stoops from the heights to look down, *
to look down upon heaven and earth?
From the dust he lifts up the lowly, *
from his misery he raises the poor
to set him in the company of princes, *
yes, with the princes of his people.
To the childless wife he gives a home *
and gladdens her heart with children.
Glory to the Father, and to the Son, *
and to the Holy Spirit:
as it was in the beginning, is now, *
and will be for ever. Amen.
Psalm Prayer
Lord Jesus, Word of God, surrendering the brightness of your glory you became man so that we may be raised from the dust to share your very being. May there be innumerable children of the Church to offer homage to your name from the rising of the sun to its setting.
Ant. Eternal light will shine upon your saints, O Lord, and they will live for ever, alleluia.
Ant. 2 Jerusalem, city of God, you will rejoice in your children, for they shall all be blessed and gathered together with the Lord, alleluia.
Psalm 147:12-20
The restoration of Jerusalem
Come, I will show you the bride of the Lamb (Revelation 21:9).
O praise the Lord, Jerusalem! *
Zion, praise your God!
He has strengthened the bars of your gates, *
he has blessed the children within you.
He established peace on your borders, *
he feeds you with finest wheat.
He sends out his word to the earth *
and swiftly runs his command.
He showers down snow white as wool, *
he scatters hoar-frost like ashes.
He hurls down hailstones like crumbs. *
The waters are frozen at his touch;
he sends forth his word and it melts them: *
at the breath of his mouth the waters flow.
He makes his word known to Jacob, *
to Israel his laws and decrees.
He has not dealt thus with other nations; *
he has not taught them his decrees.
Glory to the Father, and to the Son, *
and to the Holy Spirit:
as it was in the beginning, is now, *
and will be for ever. Amen.
Psalm Prayer
Lord you established peace within the borders of Jerusalem. Give the fullness of peace to your faithful people. May peace rule us in this life and possess us in eternal life. You are about to fill us with the best of wheat; grant that what we see dimly now as in a mirror, we may come to perceive clearly in the brightness of your truth.
Ant. Jerusalem, city of God, you will rejoice in your children, for they shall all be blessed and gathered together with the Lord, alleluia.
Ant. 3 Before the throne of God and the Lamb the saints will sing a new song; their voices will resound throughout the earth, alleluia.
Canticle: See Revelation 19:1-7
The wedding of the Lamb
The following canticle is said with the Alleluia when Evening Prayer is sung; when the Office if recited, the Alleluia may be said at the beginning and end of each strophe.
Alleluia.
Salvation, glory, and power to our God: *
(Alleluia.)
his judgments are honest and true. *
Alleluia (alleluia).
Alleluia.
Sing praise to our God, all you his servants, *
(Alleluia.)
all who worship him reverently, great and small. *
Alleluia (alleluia).
Alleluia.
The Lord our all-powerful God is King; *
(Alleluia.)
Let us rejoice, sing praise, and give him glory. *
Alleluia (alleluia).
Alleluia.
The wedding feast of the Lamb has begun, *
(Alleluia.)
and his bride is prepared to welcome him. *
Alleluia (alleluia).
Alleluia.
Glory to the Father, and to the Son, *
(Alleluia.)
and to the Holy Spirit: *
Alleluia (alleluia).
Alleluia.
as it was in the beginning, is now, *
(Alleluia.)
and will be for ever. Amen. *
Alleluia (alleluia).
Ant. Before the throne of God and the Lamb the saints will sing a new song; their voices will resound throughout the earth, alleluia.
READING
Hebrews 12:22-24
You have drawn near to Mount Zion and the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem, to myriads of angels in festal gathering, to the assembly of the first-born enrolled in heaven, to God, the judge of all, to the spirits of just men made perfect, to Jesus, the mediator of the new covenant, and to the sprinkled blood which speaks more eloquently than that of Abel.
RESPONSORY
The just shall rejoice in the presence of the Lord.
– The just shall rejoice in the presence of the Lord.
They shall sing for joy
– in the presence of the Lord.
Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
– The just shall rejoice in the presence of the Lord.
GOSPEL CANTICLE
Ant. The glorious company of apostles praises you, the noble fellowship of prophets praises you, the white-robed army of martyrs praises you, all the saints together sing your glory, O Holy Trinity, one God.
Canticle of Mary
Luke 1:46-55
The soul rejoices in the Lord
My + soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord, †
my spirit rejoices in God my Savior *
for he has looked with favor on his lowly servant.
From this day all generations will call me blessed: †
the Almighty has done great things for me, *
and holy is his Name.
He has mercy on those who fear him *
in every generation.
He has shown the strength of his arm, *
he has scattered the proud in their conceit.
He has cast down the mighty from their thrones, *
and has lifted up the lowly.
He has filled the hungry with good things, *
and the rich he has sent away empty.
He has come to the help of his servant Israel *
for he has remembered his promise of mercy,
the promise he made to our fathers, *
to Abraham and his children for ever.
Glory to the Father, and to the Son, *
and to the Holy Spirit:
as it was in the beginning, is now, *
and will be for ever. Amen.
Ant. The glorious company of apostles praises you, the noble fellowship of prophets praises you, the white-robed army of martyrs praises you, all the saints together sing your glory, O Holy Trinity, one God.
INTERCESSIONS
God is the reward of all the saints. Let us joyfully call upon him:
Lord, save your people.
O God, through your Son Jesus Christ you built your Church on the foundation of the apostles,
– keep their teaching secure among your faithful people.
Lord, save your people.
You made the martyrs powerful witnesses even to the point of giving up their lives,
– help all Christians to give faithful witness to your Son.
Lord, save your people.
You gave holy virgins the gift of imitating the virginity of Christ,
– may those consecrated to virginity be steadfast witnesses to the coming of your kingdom.
Lord, save your people.
Your saints now see you face to face,
– keep alive in our hearts the hope of coming at last into your presence.
Lord, save your people.
Bring all who have died into the company of heaven with Mary, Joseph and all your saints,
– and give us also a place in the unending fellowship of your kingdom.
Lord, save your people.
THE LORD’S PRAYER
(Gathering our prayer and praises into one, let us offer the prayer Christ himself taught us:)
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;
and lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from evil.
CONCLUDING PRAYER
Father, all-powerful and ever-living God,
today we rejoice in the holy men and women
of every time and place.
May their prayers bring us your forgiveness and love.
We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you and Holy Spirit,
God, for ever and ever.
– Amen.
Or:
Almighty ever-living God,
by whose gift we venerate in one celebration
the merits of all the Saints,
bestow on us, we pray,
through the prayers of so many intercessors,
an abundance of the reconciliation with you
for which we earnestly long.
Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
God, for ever and ever.
– Amen.
Go to the Dismissal
The Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary
HYMN
Mary, crowned with living light,
Temple of the Lord,
Place of peace and holiness,
Shelter of the Word.
Mystery of sinless life
In our fallen race,
Free from shadow, you reflect
Plentitude of grace.
Virgin-Mother of our God,
Lift us when we fall,
Who were named upon the Cross
Mother of us all.
Father, Son and Holy Ghost,
Heaven sings your praise;
Mary magnifies your name
Through eternal days.
Tune: Glorification 75. 75
Music: Gossner’s Choralbuch, Lepizig, 1832
Text: © Stanbrook Abbey, used with permission
Go to the Psalmody
Or:
Salve, Regina, mater misericordiae;
vita, dulcedo et spes nostra, salve,
Ad te clamamus, exsules filii Evae.
Ad te suspiramus, gementes et flentes
in hac lacrimarum valle.
Eia ergo, advocata nostra,
illos tuos misericordes occulos
ad nos converte.
Et Iesum, benedictum fructum ventris tui,
nobis post hoc exilium ostende.
O clemens, o pia, o dulcis Virgo Maria.
Tune: Salve Regina
Music: Paris, 1634
Text: Eleventh century
PSALMODY
Ant. 1 I will make you enemies, you and the woman, your offspring and hers.
Psalm 113
Praise the name of the Lord
He has cast down the mighty and has lifted up the lowly (Luke 1:52).
Praise, O servants of the Lord, *
praise the name of the Lord!
May the name of the Lord be blessed *
both now and for evermore!
From the rising of the sun to its setting *
praised be the name of the Lord!
High above all nations is the Lord, *
above the heavens his glory.
Who is like the Lord, our God, *
who has risen on high to his throne
yet stoops from the heights to look down, *
to look down upon heaven and earth?
From the dust he lifts up the lowly, *
from his misery he raises the poor
to set him in the company of princes, *
yes, with the princes of his people.
To the childless wife he gives a home *
and gladdens her heart with children.
Glory to the Father, and to the Son, *
and to the Holy Spirit:
as it was in the beginning, is now, *
and will be for ever. Amen.
Psalm Prayer
Lord Jesus, Word of God, surrendering the brightness of your glory you became man so that we may be raised from the dust to share your very being. May there be innumerable children of the Church to offer homage to your name from the rising of the sun to its setting.
Ant. I will make you enemies, you and the woman, your offspring and hers.
Ant. 2 The Lord clothed me with garments of salvation; he has covered me with a robe of justice.
Psalm 147:12-20
The restoration of Jerusalem
Come, I will show you the bride of the Lamb (Revelation 21:9).
O praise the Lord, Jerusalem! *
Zion, praise your God!
He has strengthened the bars of your gates, *
he has blessed the children within you.
He established peace on your borders, *
he feeds you with finest wheat.
He sends out his word to the earth *
and swiftly runs his command.
He showers down snow white as wool, *
he scatters hoar-frost like ashes.
He hurls down hailstones like crumbs. *
The waters are frozen at his touch;
he sends forth his word and it melts them: *
at the breath of his mouth the waters flow.
He makes his word known to Jacob, *
to Israel his laws and decrees.
He has not dealt thus with other nations; *
he has not taught them his decrees.
Glory to the Father, and to the Son, *
and to the Holy Spirit:
as it was in the beginning, is now, *
and will be for ever. Amen.
Psalm Prayer
All-powerful God, it is through your Church, generously endowed with gifts of grace and fortified by the Holy Spirit, that you send out your word to all nations. Strengthen your Church with the best of all food and make it dauntless in faith. Multiply its children to celebrate with one accord the mysteries of your love at the altar on high.
Ant. The Lord clothed me with garments of salvation; he has covered me with a robe of justice.
Ant. 3 Hail Mary, full of grace; the Lord is with you.
Canticle: Ephesians 1:3-10
God our savior
Praised be the God and Father *
of our Lord Jesus Christ,
who has bestowed on us in Christ *
every spiritual blessing in the heavens.
God chose us in him †
before the world began *
to be holy
and blameless in his sight.
He predestined us †
to be his adopted sons through Jesus Christ, *
such was his will and pleasure,
that all might praise the glorious favor *
he has bestowed on us in his beloved.
In him and through his blood, we have been redeemed, *
and our sins forgiven,
so immeasurably generous *
is God’s favor to us.
God has given us the wisdom *
to understand fully the mystery,
the plan he was pleased *
to decree in Christ.
A plan to be carried out *
in Christ, in the fullness of time,
to bring all things into one in him, *
in the heavens and on earth.
Glory to the Father, and to the Son, *
and to the Holy Spirit:
as it was in the beginning, is now, *
and will be for ever. Amen.
Ant. Hail Mary, full of grace; the Lord is with you.
READING
Romans 8:29-30
Those whom God foreknew, he predestined to share the image of his Son. Those he predestined he likewise called; those he called he also justified.
RESPONSORY
I shall glorify you, Lord, for you have rescued me.
– I shall glorify you, Lord, for you have rescued me.
You have not let my enemies rejoice over me.
– For you have rescued me.
Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
– I shall glorify you, Lord, for you have rescued me.
GOSPEL CANTICLE
Ant. All generations will call me blessed: the Almighty has done great things for me.
Canticle of Mary
Luke 1:46-55
The soul rejoices in the Lord
My + soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord, †
my spirit rejoices in God my Savior *
for he has looked with favor on his lowly servant.
From this day all generations will call me blessed: †
the Almighty has done great things for me, *
and holy is his Name.
He has mercy on those who fear him *
in every generation.
He has shown the strength of his arm, *
he has scattered the proud in their conceit.
He has cast down the mighty from their thrones, *
and has lifted up the lowly.
He has filled the hungry with good things, *
and the rich he has sent away empty.
He has come to the help of his servant Israel *
for he has remembered his promise of mercy,
the promise he made to our fathers, *
to Abraham and his children for ever.
Glory to the Father, and to the Son, *
and to the Holy Spirit:
as it was in the beginning, is now, *
and will be for ever. Amen.
Ant. All generations will call me blessed: the Almighty has done great things for me.
INTERCESSIONS
Let us praise God our Almighty Father, who wished that Mary, his Son’s mother, be celebrated by each generation. Now in need we ask:
Mary, full of grace, intercede for us.
O God, worker of miracles, you made the Immaculate Virgin Mary share body and soul in your Son’s glory in heaven,
– direct the hearts of your children to that same glory.
Mary, full of grace, intercede for us.
You made Mary our mother. Through her intercession grant strength to the weak, comfort to the sorrowing, pardon to sinners,
– salvation and peace to all.
Mary, full of grace, intercede for us.
You made Mary the mother of mercy,
– may all who are faced with trials feel her motherly love.
Mary, full of grace, intercede for us.
You wished Mary to be the mother of the family in the home of Jesus and Joseph,
– may all mothers of families foster love and holiness through her intercession.
Mary, full of grace, intercede for us.
You crowned Mary queen of heaven,
– may all the dead rejoice in your kingdom with the saints for ever.
Mary, full of grace, intercede for us.
THE LORD’S PRAYER
(Remember us, Lord, when you come to your kingdom and teach us how to pray:)
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;
and lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from evil.
CONCLUDING PRAYER
Father,
you prepared the Virgin Mary,
to be the worthy mother of your Son.
You let her share beforehand
in the salvation Christ would bring by his death,
and kept her sinless from the first moment of her conception.
Help us by her prayers
to live in your presence without sin.
We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
God, for ever and ever.
– Amen.
Or:
O God, who by the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin
prepared a worthy dwelling for your Son,
grant, we pray,
that, as you preserved her from every stain
by virtue of the Death of your Son, which you foresaw,
so, through her intercession,
we, too, may be cleansed and admitted to your presence.
Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
God, for ever and ever.
– Amen.
The Holy Family of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph
HYMN
Sing of Mary, pure and lowly,
Virgin mother undefiled,
Sing of God’s own Son most holy,
Who became her little child.
Fairest child of fairest mother,
God the Lord who came to earth,
Word made flesh, our very brother,
Takes our nature by his birth.
Sing of Jesus, son of Mary,
In the home at Nazareth.
Toil and labor cannot weary
Love enduring unto death.
Constant was the love he gave her,
Though he went forth from her side,
Forth to preach, and heal, and suffer,
Till on Calvary he died.
Glory be to God the Father;
Glory be to God the Son;
Glory be to God the Spirit;
Glory to the Three in One.
From the heart of blessed Mary,
From all saints the song ascends,
And the Church the strain reechoes
Unto earth’s remotest ends.
Tune: Pleading Savior 87.87 D
Music: The Christian Lyre, 1841
Text: Anonymous, 1914
PSALMODY
Ant. 1 Jacob was the father of Joseph, the husband of Mary; Mary gave birth to Jesus who is called the Christ.
Psalm 113
Praise the name of the Lord
He has cast down the mighty and has lifted up the lowly (Luke 1:52).
Praise, O servants of the Lord, *
praise the name of the Lord!
May the name of the Lord be blessed *
both now and for evermore!
From the rising of the sun to its setting *
praised be the name of the Lord!
High above all nations is the Lord, *
above the heavens his glory.
Who is like the Lord, our God, *
who has risen on high to his throne
yet stoops from the heights to look down, *
to look down upon heaven and earth?
From the dust he lifts up the lowly, *
from his misery he raises the poor
to set him in the company of princes, *
yes, with the princes of his people.
To the childless wife he gives a home *
and gladdens her heart with children.
Glory to the Father, and to the Son, *
and to the Holy Spirit:
as it was in the beginning, is now, *
and will be for ever. Amen.
Psalm Prayer
Lord Jesus, Word of God, surrendering the brightness of your glory you became man so that we may be raised from the dust to share your very being. May there be innumerable children of the Church to offer homage to your name from the rising of the sun to its setting.
Ant. Jacob was the father of Joseph, the husband of Mary; Mary gave birth to Jesus who is called the Christ.
Ant. 2 Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary as your wife; the child in her womb is conceived by the Holy Spirit.
Psalm 147:12-20
The restoration of Jerusalem
Come, I will show you the bride of the Lamb (Revelation 21:9).
O praise the Lord, Jerusalem! *
Zion, praise your God!
He has strengthened the bars of your gates, *
he has blessed the children within you.
He established peace on your borders, *
he feeds you with finest wheat.
He sends out his word to the earth *
and swiftly runs his command.
He showers down snow white as wool, *
he scatters hoar-frost like ashes.
He hurls down hailstones like crumbs. *
The waters are frozen at his touch;
he sends forth his word and it melts them: *
at the breath of his mouth the waters flow.
He makes his word known to Jacob, *
to Israel his laws and decrees.
He has not dealt thus with other nations; *
he has not taught them his decrees.
Glory to the Father, and to the Son, *
and to the Holy Spirit:
as it was in the beginning, is now, *
and will be for ever. Amen.
Psalm Prayer
Lord you established peace within the borders of Jerusalem. Give the fullness of peace to your faithful people. May peace rule us in this life and possess us in eternal life. You are about to fill us with the best of wheat; grant that what we see dimly now as in a mirror, we may come to perceive clearly in the brightness of your truth.
Ant. Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary as your wife; the child in her womb is conceived by the Holy Spirit.
Ant. 3 The shepherds went in haste and found Mary and Joseph, with the child cradled in a manger.
Canticle: Ephesians 1:3-10
God our savior
Praised be the God and Father *
of our Lord Jesus Christ,
who has bestowed on us in Christ *
every spiritual blessing in the heavens.
God chose us in him †
before the world began *
to be holy
and blameless in his sight.
He predestined us †
to be his adopted sons through Jesus Christ, *
such was his will and pleasure,
that all might praise the glorious favor *
he has bestowed on us in his beloved.
In him and through his blood, we have been redeemed, *
and our sins forgiven,
so immeasurably generous *
is God’s favor to us.
God has given us the wisdom *
to understand fully the mystery,
the plan he was pleased *
to decree in Christ.
A plan to be carried out *
in Christ, in the fullness of time,
to bring all things into one in him, *
in the heavens and on earth.
Glory to the Father, and to the Son, *
and to the Holy Spirit:
as it was in the beginning, is now, *
and will be for ever. Amen.
Ant. The shepherds went in haste and found Mary and Joseph, with the child cradled in a manger.
READING
2 Corinthians 8:9
You are well acquainted with the favor shown you by our Lord Jesus Christ: how for your sake he made himself poor though he was rich, so that you might become rich by his poverty.
RESPONSORY
The Word was made man, alleluia, alleluia.
– The Word was made man, alleluia, alleluia.
He lived among us.
– Alleluia, alleluia.
Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
– The Word was made man, alleluia, alleluia.
GOSPEL CANTICLE
Ant. The child Jesus remained in Jerusalem and his parents did not know it. They thought he was in the group of travelers and looked for him among their relatives and friends.
Canticle of Mary
Luke 1:46-55
The soul rejoices in the Lord
My + soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord, †
my spirit rejoices in God my Savior *
for he has looked with favor on his lowly servant.
From this day all generations will call me blessed:†
the Almighty has done great things for me, *
and holy is his Name.
He has mercy on those who fear him *
in every generation.
He has shown the strength of his arm, *
he has scattered the proud in their conceit.
He has cast down the mighty from their thrones, *
and has lifted up the lowly.
He has filled the hungry with good things, *
and the rich he has sent away empty.
He has come to the help of his servant Israel *
for he has remembered his promise of mercy,
the promise he made to our fathers, *
to Abraham and his children for ever.
Glory to the Father, and to the Son, *
and to the Holy Spirit:
as it was in the beginning, is now, *
and will be for ever. Amen.
Ant. The child Jesus remained in Jerusalem and his parents did not know it. They thought he was in the group of travelers and looked for him among their relatives and friends.
INTERCESSIONS
Let us adore the Son of the living God who humbled himself to become a son of a human family, and let us beseech him:
Lord, you are the model and Savior of all.
Christ, by the mystery of your subjection to Mary and Joseph,
– teach all people reverence and obedience to lawful authority.
Lord, you are the model and Savior of all.
You loved your parents and were loved by them,
– establish our families in mutual love and peace.
Lord, you are the model and Savior of all.
You were eager to be about your Father’s business,
– may he be honored in every home.
Lord, you are the model and Savior of all.
Christ, after three days your anxious parents found you in your Father’s house,
– teach all to seek first the kingdom of God.
Lord, you are the model and Savior of all.
Christ, you have made Mary and Joseph sharers in heavenly glory,
– admit the dead into the family of the blessed.
Lord, you are the model and Savior of all.
THE LORD’S PRAYER
(Gathering our prayer and praises into one, let us offer the prayer Christ himself taught us:)
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;
and lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from evil.
CONCLUDING PRAYER
Father,
help us to live as the holy family,
united in respect and love.
Bring us to the joy and peace of your eternal home.
Grant this through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
God, for ever and ever.
– Amen.
Or:
O God, who were pleased to give us
the shining example of the Holy Family,
graciously grant that we may imitate them
in practicing the virtues of family life and in the bonds of charity,
and so, in the joy of your house,
delight one day in eternal rewards.
Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
God, for ever and ever.
– Amen.
DISMISSAL
If a priest or deacon presides, he dismisses the people:
The Lord be with you.
– And with your spirit.
May almighty God bless you,
the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit.
– Amen.
Another form of the blessing may be used, as at Mass.
Then he adds:
Go in peace.
– Thanks be to God.
In the absence of a priest or deacon and in individual recitation, Evening Prayer concludes:
May the Lord + bless us,
protect us from all evil
and bring us to everlasting life.
– Amen.
Evening Prayer is taken from Evening Prayer I for Solemnities, found in the Prayers section of the iBreviary.
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