LIBRARY OF PRINCETON THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY, BALIS1s Canto 25 Callan, Charles Jerome, 1877-1962. Blessed be God; a complete Catholic prayer book / Ree ee : sare piroos ees we ose Sn — Digitized by the Internet Archive in 2022 with funding from Princeton Theological Seminary Library https://archive.org/details/blessedbegodcompo00call Conca WITNESSES ye OF his Certifies that AND acon Romanbathotictohurch on the day of, AD at ae BUCESSE DT BE GOD : i REGULAR AND SPECIAL PRAYERS PorpuLarR DEVOTIONS FavorirE NoveENas MEDITATIONS AND READINGS FROM Tue Hory BisLe AND Tue ImiraTION OF CHRIST EpisTLEs AND GOSPELS FOR SUNDAYS AND Ho.Lypays LIBRARY OF PRINCLION peaememnn snare “4 { OCT 6 200 Ll ee aceon THEOLOGICAL SEiv LARY te en owaeetateees I it | ay VEL < y | ol ES eZ CWT YEON —— BLESSED BE GOD A COMPLETE CATHOD#hs PRAYER BOOK By Very Rev. Cuartes J. Catan, O.P., S.T M. and Very Rev. Joun A. McHueu, O.P., S.T.M. New York: P. J. KENEpy & Sons PUBLISHERS TO THE HOLY APOSTOLIC SEE Ribil Cbstat V. F. O’Daniet, O.P., S.T.M. M. A. Watpron, O.P., S.T.M. Imprimi Potest Juke MEAGHER SO.P., S.1-LR: Prior Provincialis HRibil Cbstat ArtuurR J. SCANLAN, S.T.D. Censor Librorum Amprimatur Patrick CARDINAL HAYES Archbishop of New York New York March 19, 1925 COPYRIGHT, 1925 P. J. KENEDY & SONS PRINTED IN U.S.A. CONTENTS IZAY BAPTISM iy Aico , TABLE OF FEASTS AND Paeye TaBLeE OF MovEABLE FEasts ... . (SAUENDARI a: Pim rebinne-tre4 b 143 Brier STATEMENT OF Gunisciany Tec cne How sTO,PRAYS (ewe Beerde:) co Bane Heroic Acr oF CHARITY . MorninG PRAYERS .. . 7 PRAYERS TO BE SAID per Day The Angelus .. . The Regina Ceeli Grace at Meals . PRAYERS DURING THE Day , INDULGENCED EJACULATIONS EVENING PRAYERS .. . , DEVOTIONS FOR ConrEssion Manner of Making Confession Devotions FoR Hoty CoMMUNION DeEvoTIons FOR Mass. .... . Tue ASPERGES . Tue Vint AqguaAM THE ORDINARY OF THE Masse Mass of the Catechumens Mass of the Faithful Canon of the Mass. The Pater Noster . The Communion ... Conclusion of the Mass PRAYERS AFTER Mass . . PRAVERS eATiMASSinenca pieticerseee 2 beaks Parry Mass ror THE DEAD? ~ sob] ayer ne wpe lil Tue RiruAL FOR THE CELEBRATION OF MATRIMONY 159 Mass For BRIDEGROOM AND BRIDE... . VESPERS FOR SUNDAYS ...... ee lO4 Pa IV CONTENTS PAGE BENEDICTION OF THE BLESSED SACRAMENT ... IQI Devotions FOR HoLtypAys AND SPECIAL FEAsTs . 196 Feast of the Epiphanyeaae & 1) uk. S425) | 107 Feast of St. Joseph. . OY 2. oe Se 202 Devotions for Holy Week Bs: ao YOM ween neeams 204 Prayers for Paschaltide 2... ...%.... . 226 Feast of the Assumption . «+ 5. . . M&MUS Y39 Ember Days”, . | tA, GTI SXeAaN 10 Filagay, Feast of Ail Saints. . .¢.¢9) SaARYOM 10 319396 All Souls’ Day’ . . 2s » PANIIZ39 Feast of the Thamiden lite Conception FAMETETS NS 138 Feast of Christmas . . 4 4 8 (ORAS OF Wort The Last Day of the Year. .¥ mia : A, SIONS AD DEVOTIONS FOR THE SEASONS OF THE YEAR . VXIPAGES Advent... . . .°OMt PEGVS IAG 3a OF ZA3Y 353 Christmastide= . +. % 245 5 + +. .2USgah 98254 Septuagesima and Lent 2 34 JD Begos Of bss Passiontide ... . Vi $8 29f1%3.56 DEVOTIONS FOR THE Days ¢ OF THE : WEEK (Ud FAN 4258 DEVOTIONS FOR THE MONTHS OF THE YEAR... 268 NOvENA FOR CHRISTMAS . . : . . CHaYAA QYIMazg2 In Honor of the Holy Nanieieerimo Ao} Agu 204 For Pentecost. .... iaQy, arias Jo. 19ngeleqG To the Blessed Vira able L FOF AAQITOVAGS Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal , HOY GADOV™gbo To St. Joseph . 2 vi. % ss 1 + 4 5 PAPAAL) S¥r0 In Honor of St. Francis avicn . » MAUQA IQS, Agee To St. Anne. . 2 4 5. PAM ANT. 10 YAAVIGAN) BaaG To St. Thérése .. . Pu} Bt 10, 2EAIaT 4 DEVOTIONS TO THE BLESSED Trinity (2, Shs, LOEB IVS 20 DEVOTIONS TO THE BLESSED SACRAMENT ... . 321 Visits TO THE BLESSED SACRAMENT . . 321 Tue Hoty Hour BeEFroreE THE BLESSED SACRA- MENT .. . . OBI: ons fo pogeulono.326 Forty Hours’ DEvorion . oe , AATIA Ble Aga DEVOTIONS TO THE SACRED INFANCY O° .004 ei 353 DEvoTIONS TO THE Hoty NAME ........ 357 DeEvoTIONS TO THE SACRED HearT ...... . 363 Litany of the Sacred Heart . . 2... 2... . 363 STATIONS OF THE Cross . . « ; S/494uUc SOR 789g 78 CONTENTS Vv PAGE Devotions TO THE Hoty Face .:.. 387 DEVOTIONS TO THE FivE Wounps ..... 389 DEVOTIONS TO THE Precious BLoop ... . 303 Tue Hoty Hour 399 DEVOTIONS TO THE BLEsseD VircIN 413 The Most Holy Rosary 413 Litany of the Blessed Virgin ; 421 Liturgical Prayers to the Blessed Virgin. 424 Daily Prayers to the Blessed Virgin ‘ 427 Particular Devotions to the Blessed Virgin 432 Exercises in Honor of the Seven Dolors 432 Devotions To SAINT JOSEPH . 437 Litany of Saint Joseph . 437 Devout Exercise in Honor ) the Seven Gouraws and Seven Joys of St. Joseph 439 Indulgenced Ejaculations in Honor of St. gq oseish = 444 Devotions IN Honor OF THE SAINTS . ; 445 Litany of the oaints s & st 3 Sundays after Pentecost May 3)May 13|May 24 May 23} June 1) June 12 Feb. Mar. Feb. Feb. Mar. Feb. Feb. Mar. Feb. Mar. Feb, Feb. 18/Ap. 5 3/Ap. 18 23/Ap. 10 15|;Ap. 1 6/Ap. 21 19/Ap. 6 11] Mar. 29 2)Ap. 17 15/Ap. 2 T\Ap. 22 27\Ap. 14 12|Mar. 29 3/Ap. 18 . 23/Ap. 10 8| Mar. 26 | 28/Ap. 14 . 23/Ap. 10 . 28/Ap. 15 - 20/Ap. 6 Ap. 6 11|Mar. 29 .24tAp. 11 . 16/Ap. 2 T\Ap. 22 . 27\Ap. 14 12| Mar. 30 3\Ap. 18 8) Mar. 26 Feb. Mar. 22 T\ Ap Ix May 14|May 24) June 4 May 27} June 6} June 17 May 19}May 29} June 9 May 10)May 20|)May 31 — May 30| June 9} June 20), May 15|May 25] June 5 May 7|May 17|May 28 May 26} June 5} June 16 May 11/May 2t} June } May 31] June 10) June 2} May 23} June 2} June 13 May 7|May 17|May 28 May 27} June 6] June 17 May 19/May 29} June 9 May 4|May 14|May 25] 28 May 23) June 2] June 13 May 15)May 25] June 5 May 7|May 17|May 28 May 20/May 30] June 10 May 11}May 21] June 1 May 31] June 10} June 21 May 23] June 2) June 13 May 8|May 18|May 29 May 27| June 6) June 17 May 19/May 29) June 9 May 4!May 14|May 25 May 24| June 3} June 14 May 15|May 25] June 5 - A/Ap. 19)May 28] June 7} June 18 . 25/Ap. 12 15|Ap. 3|May 12|May 22) June 2 May 21|May 31} June 11 May: 31|May 10) June 21 JANUARY a as ee ee Ea ee 1. }«CIRCUMCISION OF OUR LORD. Sunday between Circumcision and Epiph- any: Feast of the Most Holy Name of Jesus. . Octave of St. Stephen, First Martyr. - Octave of St. John, Ap. and Evangelist. . Octave of Holy Innocents, MM. . Eve of Epiphany. . Epiphany of our Lord. Sunday within Octave of Epiphany: Feast of the Holy Family. 7. Of the Octave. 8. Of the Octave. 9. Of the Octave. . Of the Octave. . Of the Octave. . Of the Octave. Anuhwn . Octave of Epiphany. . St. Hilary, B.C.D. . St. Paul, First Hermit, C. . St. Marcellus, P.M. . St. Anthony, Abbot. . St. Peter’s Chair at Rome. : be SY da Martha, Audifax, Abachum . SS. Fabian, Pope, and Sebastian, MM. . St. Agnes, V.M. . SS. Vincent and Anastasius, MM. . St. Raymond of Pennafort, C. . St. Timothy, B.M. . Conversion of St. Paul, Ap. 26. St. Polycarp, B.M. . St. John Chrysostom, B.C.D. . Agnes, V.M., the second time. . Francis of Sales, B.C.D. . Martina, V.M. 3S. Peter Nolasco and John Bosco, C. or UAT reapers: FEBRUARY . St. Ignatius, B.M. . Purification of the B. V. M. St. Blase, B.M. St. Andrew Corsini, B.C. St. Agatha, V.M. . Titus, B.C. St. Romuald, Abbot. St. John of Matha, C. St. Cyril of Alexandria, B.C.D. St. Scholastica, V . Apparition of the Immaculate Virgin Mary. (Feast of Our Lady of Lourdes.) | r2. The Seven Holy Founders of the Order of Servites, CC. FOO SI OME pH v2) eo | a onl 14. St. Valentine, Priest, M. 15. SS. Faustinus and Jovita, MM. 18. St. Simeon, B.M. 22. St. Peter’s Chair at Antioch. 23. St. Peter Damian, B.C.D. Vigil. 24. St. Matthias, Ap.* 27. St. Gabriel of The Seven Dolors. MD *In Leap Year, on the 25th. Ste Afi Vg Eg on y Ie Sig mice. Casimir, C. . SS. Perpetua and Felicity, MM. . St. Thomas Aquinas, C.D. » St. John of God, C. . St. Frances of Rome, W. . The Forty Martyrs. . St. Gregory the Great, P.C.D. Sti Patrick, B.C., Apostle of Ireland. . St. Cyril of Jerusalem, B.C.D. . ST. JOSEPH, SPOUSE OF THE B.V.M. . St. Benedict, Abbot. . St. Isidore, the Farmer. : St. Gabriel, Archangel. . ANNUNCIATION OF THE B. V. M. . St. John Damascene, C.D. . St. John Capistran, C. Friday after Passion Sunday: The Seven Sorrows of the B. V. M. oF < < i @ APRIL . St. Francis of Paula, C. oe Isidore, B.C.D. . St. Vincent Ferrer, C. | St. Leo the Great, P.C.D. St Hermenegild, K.M. . St. Justin, M. Se Anicetus, P.M. . St. Anselm, B.C.D. . SS. Soter and Caius, PP., MM. . St. George, M. . St. Fidelis of Sigmaringen, M. . St. Mark, Evangelist. . SS. Cletus and Marcellinus, PP., MM. . St. Paul of the Cross, C. . St. Peter, M. . St. Catherine of Siena, V. Wednesday of the second week after the Octave of Easter: Solemnity of St. Joseph, Patron of the Universal Church. Wednesday of the third week after the Oc- tave of Easter: Octave Day of St. Joseph. > Gy NS seas DES CLONAG SCAM ba iran a Senet D py ©).G! @) G | Bas ae oa. B j ay gies [3 EO ON) | Ce GE NEINe =f i hve MAY . SS. Philip and James, App. . St. Athanasius, B.C.D. . Finding of the Holy Cross. . St. Monica, W. Oty Pius sVeprG. . St. John before the Latin Gate. . St. Stanislaus, B.M. . Apparition of St. Michael, Archangel St. Gregory Nazianzen, B.C.D. . St. Antoninus, B.C. . SS. Nereus, Achilleus and Comp., MM . St. Robert Bellarmine, B.C.D. 4. St. Boniface, M. . St. John Baptist de la Salle, C. . St. Ubald, B.C. . St. Paschal Baylon, C. . St. Venantius, M. . St. Peter Celestin, P.C. . St. Bernardine of Siena, C. 5. St. Gregory VII, P.C. . St. Philip Neri, C. . St. Bede the Venerable, C.D. . St. Augustine of Canterbury, B.C. . St. Mary Magdalen of Pazzi, V . St. Felix I, P.M. . St. Angela of Merici, V. Friday after the Octave of Corpus Christi: Feast of the Sacred Heart of Jesus. JUNE . St. Prancis Caracciolo, C. . St. Boniface, B.M. . St. Norbert, B.C. . SS. Primus and Felician, MM. . St. Margaret of Scotland, Q.W. . St. Barnabas, Ap. . St. John of St. Facundo, C. . St. Anthony of Padua, C . St. Basil the Great, B.C.D. . SS. Vitus, Modestus, and Crescentia, MM. . St. Ephraerm the Syrian, Deacon, C.D. . St. Juliana Falconieri, V. . St. Silverius, P.M. . St. Aloysius Gonzaga, C. . St. Paulinus, B.C. . Eve of St. John the Baptist. . Birthday of St. John the Baptist. . St. William, Abbot. . SS. John and Paul, MM, . Of the Octave. . St. Ireneus, B.M. Vigil. . SS. PETER AND. PAUL, Ap. . Commemoration of St. Paul, Ap. 9-0-0-5-0-5-5-o- o ety cS [s] t Q 1 [+] t (>) 1 o ‘ 3) 1 o 1 [-] 0 a) ' ls] 1 iO-5-0-0-0~-0-0 JUEY. . The Most Precious Blood. . Visitation of the B. V. M. St. Leo II, P.C. of the Octave of SS. Peter and Paul. . Of the Octave. . St. Anthony Mary Zaccaria, C. . Octave of SS. Peter and Paul, App. . SS. Cyril and Methodius, BB., CC. . St. Elizabeth of Portugal, 0.W. . Seven Brothers, MM., and SS. Rufina and Secunda, VV., MM. . St. Pius I, P.M. . St. John Gualbert, Abbot. . St. Anacletus, P.M. . St. Bonaventure, B.C.D. . St. Henry, E:C. . Our Lady of Mount Carmel. . St. Alexius, C. . St. Camillus of Lellis, C. . St. Vincent of Paul, C. . St. Jerome Aemilian, C. . St. Praxedes, V.M. . St. Mary Magdalen, Penttent. . St. Apollinaris, B.M . Eve of St. James. . St. James, Ap. . St. Anne, Mother of the B. V. M. . St. Pantaleon, M. . SS. Nazarius and Celsus, MM., St. Victor I., P.M., St. Innocent I., P.C. . St. Martha, V. . SS. Abdon and Sennen, MM. . St. Ignatius of Loyola, C. AUGUST al al He HH He IANS WH . St. Peter’s Chains. . St. Alphonsus Liguori, B.C.D. . Finding of St. Stephen, First Martyr. . St. Dominic, C. . Our Lady of the Snows. . Transfiguration of our Lord. . St. Cajetan, C. . Eve of St. Lawrence. . St. Lawrence, M. . SS. Tiburtius and Susanna, V., MM. . St. Clare, V. . SS. Hippolytus and Cassian, MM. . Eve of the Assumption. . H«ASSUMPTIOM OF THE B. V. M. . St. Joachim mob Hyacinth, G; 18. . Of the Octave. . St. Bernard, Abbot, C.D. . St. Jane Frances de Chantal, W. . Octave of the Assumption. . St. Philip Benizi, C. Vigil. . St. Bartholomew, Ap. . St. Louis of France, K.C. . St. Zephyrinus, P.M. . St. Joseph Calasanctius, C. . St. Augustine, B.C.D. . Beheading of St. John the Baptist. . St. Rose of Lima, V . St. Raymond Nonnatus, C. Lal OO OI ONRW DH SS. Cyriacus and others, MM. Father of the B. V. M. Of the Octave. SEPTEMBER . St. Giles, Abbot. . St. Stephen of Hungary, K.C. . St. Lawrence Justinian, B.C. . Birthday of the B. V. M. . St. Gorgonius, M. . St. Nicholas of Tolentino, C. . SS. Protus and Hyacinth, MM. - Most Holy Name of Mary. . Exaltation of the Holy Cross. . Seven Sorrows of the B. V. M. - SS. Cornelius, P., and Cyprian, B.M.M. . The Stigmata of St. Francis, C. . St. Joseph of Cupertino, C. . SS. Januarius, B., and Companions, MM. . SS. Eustace and Companions, MM. Vigil. . St. Matthew, Ap. and Evangelist. . St. Thomas of Villanova, B.C. . St. Linus, P.M. . Our Lady of Ransom. . SS. Cyprian and Justina, V., MM., St. Isaac Jogues and Companions, MM. . SS. Cosmas and Damian, MM. . St. Wenceslaus of Bohemia, K.M. . Dedication of St. Michael, Archangel. . St. Jerome, C.D. Zoreae Oe BORE Ow ve. aia 0790580500. ECERCES OF.0530% . OgsOrzeGe5) =u 2397 ins P5500 spe des0s Ons ce #2 eae et << ee +e Se PES cs . 3080500439. St NUN EG OSaCSa0. OCTOBER . St. Remy, B.C. . Holy Guardian Angels. . St. Theresa of the Child Jesus. . St. Francis of Assisi, C. . St. Placid and Companions, MM. OL rUnON Cs . Feast of the Most Holy Rosary of the B.V.M. . St. Bridget of Sweden, W. . SS. Denys, B., and Companions, MM. . St. Francis Borgia, C. . Mother of the B.V.M. . St. Edward, K.C. . St. Callistus, P.M. . St. Teresa, V. . St. Hedwig, W. . St. Margaret Mary Alacoque, V. . St. Luke, Evangelist. . St. Peter of Alcantara, C. . St. John Cantius, C. . St. Hilarion, Abbot. agee Raphael, Archangel. . SS. Chrysanthus and Daria, MM. St. Evaristus, P.M. 2 ae . Eve of SS. Simon and Jude. . SS. Simon and Jude, App. . Eve of All Saints. Or. e0n 304 SO> 5 eae A BRIEF STATEMENT OF CHRISTIAN DOCTRINE The Ten Commandments of God —- Exodus xx 1. I am the Lord thy God, who brought thee out of the land of Egypt, and out of the house of bondage. Thou shalt not have strange gods before me. Thou shalt not make to thyself a graven thing, nor the likeness of any thing that is in heaven above, or in the earth be- neath, nor of those things that are in the waters under the earth. Thou shalt not adore them nor serve them: I am the Lord thy God, mighty, jealous, visiting the iniquity of fathers upon their children, unto the third and fourth generation of those that hate me; and show- ing mercy unto thousands of those that love me, and keep my commandments. 2. Thou shalt not take the name of the Lord thy God in vain; for the Lord will not hold him guiltless that shall take the name of the Lord his God in vain. 3. Remember that thou keep holy the Sabbath-day. Six days shalt thou labor, and shalt do all thy works; but on the seventh day is the Sabbath of the Lord thy God: thou shalt do no work on it, thou, nor thy son, nor thy daughter, nor thy man-servant, nor thy maid-ser- vant, nor thy beast, nor the stranger that is within thy gates. For in six days the Lord made heaven and earth, and the sea, and all things that are in them, and rested on the seventh day; therefore the Lord blessed the seventh day, and sanctified it. 4. Honor thy father and thy mother, that thou mayest be long-lived upon the Jand which the Lord thy God will give thee. 5. Thou shalt not kill. 6. Thou shalt not commit adultery. 7. Thou shalt not steal. Xx CHRISTIAN DOCTEINE XXIII 8. Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbor. 9. Thou shalt not covet thy neighbor’s wife. 10. Thou shalt not covet thy neighbor’s house, nor his servant, nor his ox, nor his ass, nor any thing that is his. The Six Precepts of the Church 1. To hear Mass on Sundays, and all holydays of obligation. 2. To fast and abstain on the days commanded. 3. To confess our sins at least once a year, 4. To receive the blessed Eucharist at Easter. 5. To contribute to the support of our pastors. 6. Not to solemnise marriage at the forbidden times; nor to marry persons within the forbidden degrees of kindred, or otherwise prohibited by the Church; nor clandestinely. Seven Sacraments Baptismicade es oe 0 cee war, vo.qg odVlatl. xevut.) 10. Contirmatione jk Ga Ae CIS Vl 17 Eucharist!2+-- esse ee es Matt. xvi. 26 Pe ngners..s Th setareek ee sctatle'e Jobn xx. 23. Extreme Unction..............James v. 14. Baly, Orders cicserle ours? oocgagtssacs Luke xxii. 19. Matrimonyas.. sane santas Mal. xix. .6. The Three Theological Virtues Faith — Hope — and Charity The Four Cardinal Virtues Prudence — Justice — Fortitude — and Temperance The Seven Gifts of the Holy Ghost — Isa. xi. 2, 3 Wisdom, Fortitude, Piety, Understanding, Knowledge, The fear of the Counsel, Lord. XXIV A BRIEF STATEMENT OF The Twelve Fruits of the Holy Ghost Charity, Longanimity, Fidelity, Joy, Goodness, Modesty, Peace, Benignity, Continency, Patience, Mildness, Chastity. The Spiritual Works of Mercy To counsel the doubtful, To forgive offenses, To instruct the ignorant, To bear wrongs patiently, To admonish sinners, To pray for the living and To comfort the afflicted, the dead. The Corporal Works of Mercy To feed the hungry, To visit the sick, To give drink to the thirsty, To visit the captive, To clothe the naked, and To harbor the harborless, To bury the dead. The Eight Beatitudes — Matt. v 1. Blessed are the poor in spirit; for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. 2. Blessed are the meek; for they shall possess the land. 3. Blessed are they that mourn; for they shall be comforted. 4. Blessed are they that hunger and thirst after jus- tice; for they shall be filled. 5. Blessed are the merciful; for they shall obtain mercy. 6. Blessed are the clean of heart; for they shall see God. 7. Blessed are the peacemakers; for they shall be called the children of God. 8. Blessed are they that suffer persecution for justice’ sake; for theirs is the kingdom of heaven: CHRISTIAN DOCTRINE XXV The Seven Deadly Sins, and the opposite Virtues Pride, ~ @ ({ Humility. Covetousness, = Liberality. Lust, iS | Chastity. Anger, > { Meekness. Gluttony, S | Temperance. Envy, g Brotherly love. Sloth, © | Diligence. Sins against the Holy Ghost Presumption of God’s mercy —Despair — Impugning the known truth — Envy at another’s spiritual good — Obstinacy in sin — Final impenitence. | Sins crying to Heaven for Vengeance Wilful murder — The sin of Sodom — Oppression of the poor — Defrauding laborers of their wages. Nine Ways of being accessory to another’s Sin By counsel— By command — By consent — By provo- cation — By praise or flattery — By concealment — By partaking — By silence — By defence of the ill done. Three Eminent Good Works Alms-deeds, or works of mercy — Prayer — and Fasting. The Evangelical Counsels Voluntary poverty — Chastity — and Obedience The Four Last Things to be Remembered Death — Judgment — Hell — and Heaven. HOW TO PRAY The Nature of Prayer Paver is a communing with God. It is sweet converse held between the soul and its Maker, whether by means of words or thoughts only. It is a lifting of our minds and hearts to the loving and almighty Father Who made us, in order to praise and adore Him for all His greatness and goodness, to thank Him for the unbounded and numberless benefits we have received from Him, to petition His bounty for the many favors we need and to ask His pardon for our offenses. As a child goes to its father to express its filial love and devotion and to obtain the satisfaction of its wants, as a friend talks to a friend, so in prayer the pious soul speaks to God and communes with its Creator. The Kinds of Prayer Quere are two general kinds of prayer, mental and vocal. The first consists in thought only, as when we think reverently of God, of His eternity, immensity, power, goodness, mercy, and the like; or whenever our mind dwells with pious reflection on divine things, such as the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass, the Sacraments, the Blessed Virgin or the saints, the future state of souls, heaven, purgatory, and the life to come. The contemplation of God, of His XXVI HOW TO PRAY XXVII attributes, or of any divine truths, which arouses pious affections or occasions good resolutions, comes under the head of mental prayer. As we can reflect in our own way and with sentiments of love on the persons of our friends and relatives who are far away, as we can think of their quali- ties of mind and soul, of all they have done or been to us, so in our minds alone, without the use of words, we can think affectionately and interestedly of God and of divine truths; and this is what is meant by mental prayer. No special method or system is required for this act of religion. Neither is it necessary to single out for our meditation any particular divine subject. Rather we should dwell on those mysteries which appeal to us most, and from contemplation of which we derive most spiritual fruit. Doubtless the life of our divine Saviour is the most attrac- tive and fruitful subject of our pious thoughts, since it is the easiest to dwell on and the most universal in its appeal. Vocal prayer adds to mental prayer the use of words, or external expression of our thoughts. Its usefulness lies in the fact that it helps the mind to fix and hold attention, that it reinforces our thoughts thus increasing fervor and devotion, and that it joins the homage of the body to that of the soul. Here again, for private prayer, no special form is required, no particular words or expressions are necessary, although the most beautiful vocal prayers are those which have been handed down to us from our Lord, the Holy Scriptures and the Church. XXVIII HOW TO PRAY The Benefits of Prayer ROM its very nature we can understand how rich in beneftts is prayer. It honors God and helps us both in soul and body. We are God’s children, and as a child honors its father by speaking reverently to him, by manifesting Its love for him, by showmg that it depends upon him for its needs and by begging forgiveness of offenses committed, so do we in these various ways give honor to God through prayer. More- over, by this holy exercise we obtain for ourselves all we need both spiritually and temporally; we are strengthened against temptation and our natural weaknesses; our life is ennobled and filled with virtues and we are better fitted for heaven. In the words of St. Lawrence Justinian, prayer ‘“‘pleases God, gets what it asks, overcomes enemies, changes man.” Rightly, then, has it been called incense ascending before the throne of God, or a golden key which unlocks for us the treasures of heaven. The Necessity of Prayer OD has not merely counseled, but has com- manded us to have recourse to prayer: ‘“‘We ought always to pray, and not to faint” (Luke xvul. 1); ‘‘Ask, and it shall be given you” (Matt. vil. 7). Again, we are dependent creatures, and as such are bound to render honor and grati- tude to the Author of our being. We are frail creatures, subject to all kinds of infirmities and unable to do anything meritorious of eternal life HOW TO PRAY XxIx without God’s grace. Since, therefore, God has decreed to give His special help only to those who seek it, prayer becomes a necessity, if we are to save our souls. “He who prays,” says St. Alphonsus, “will certainly be saved; he who does not, will certainly be damned.” The Simplicity of Prayer Propte often find it difficult to pray because they have an exaggerated notion of prayer, not really understanding what it means and erro- neously believing that it consists in very lofty thoughts, which must be expressed in corre- spondingly elevated words and sentences; where- as the very opposite is the truth. How simple are the Our Father and the Hail Mary! How unaffected the thoughts and the words of the centurion, the Ieper, the blind man, and others mentioned in the Gospel, who sought help from our Lord and were heard! Neither is it necessary for a prayer to be long to be perfect; it need not be said in any par- ticular place or at any special time; nor need it be said kneeling, or standing. We may turn our hearts to God at all times, in all places, and in any posture of body, whether we be in the street or in the church, at home or abroad; and this is not only prayer, but devout prayer. How to Pray Well Praver means simple, loving converse be- tween the soul and God, as between a child and ( XXX HOW TO PRAY its father, yet it Is quite obvious that ert A dispositions of soul are indispensable to this holy exercise. The Sacred Scriptures admonish us, in the first place, to prepare ourselves: ‘Before prayer prepare thy soul, and be not as a man that tempteth God” (Ecclus. xviii. 23). This preparation is not difficult, consisting simply in humility, sorrow for sin, a wish to improve our lives, confidence in God and His mercy and free- dom from hatred of our neighbor. During prayer the chief things required are: a realization of the presence of God, attention to what we are saying, sincerity and fervor. If, while praying, we are purposely or consciously distracted we become like those irreligious worshipers, of whom our Lord said: “This people honoreth Me with their lips, but their heart is far from Me” (Matt. xv. 8). Fmally, for good prayer it is necessary that we pray with entire submission to the will of our heavenly Father who knows what is best for us, and with perseverance, which means that we should continue to implore God’s help and grace as long as we live. Christ the Lord has said: “We ought always to pray” (Luke xviii. ry Our prayers will be greatly enhanced in value and efficacy, if we add to them works of charity and mortification. To Whom We Should Pray RAYER should primarily be directed to God in the Three Persons of the Blessed Trinity; but since the fruitfulness of our supplications depends solely on the merits of Christ, our HOW TO PRAY XXXI ‘edeemer and Advocate with the Father, we hould offer them in His Name. Thereby they equire the weight and influence which make hem pleasing to the Father. It is also useful o invoke the intercession of the Blessed Virgin nd the saints, who are God’s special friends, and s such enjoy not only great power with the \Imighty, but are deeply interested in our wel- are and we address our prayers to them re- juesting their intercession with God in our behalf ior favors both temporal and spiritual. For What We Should Pray HAT most perfect of prayers, the Our Father, contains all the things for which we should pray, and also indicates the order of importance ac- cording to which our requests should be made. Therefore, m the first of the seven petitions which constitute this the best of prayers we say, “Hallowed be Thy Name,” thus asking that God be acknowledged and glorified and praised throughout the earth. In the second petition we say, “Thy kingdom come,” that is, may we one day possess the kingdom of heaven, which God has prepared for us. And since this great king- dom can only be entered and enjoyed by those who do God’s will here on earth, we say in the third petition, “Thy will be done,” begging that we may be enabled at all times to keep His com- mandments. In the fourth petition we ask for our daily bread, that is, we beg of God those temporal and spiritual necessities without which XXXII HOW TO PRAY we can sustain neither the life of our bodies nor that of our souls. Thus far in the Lord’s Prayer we have been seeking good things. Next we ask to be pre- served from evils of soul and body, imploring deliverance from our trespasses and sins which would exclude us from the kingdom of God. We then pray for victory over temptation which would hinder us from doing God’s will. In con- cluding this beautiful prayer, we ask to be de- livered from all those evils which might imperil our spiritual or temporal life, such as sudden death, famine, war, pestilence and the like. For Whom We Should Pray Y the use of the word “our” in the Lord’s Prayer it is clear that God wishes us to pray not only for ourselves, but for others, and therefore it is also our duty to offer supplications for all mankind, imploring for them first spiritual, then temporal benefits. In a special manner, however, we are bound to pray for our relatives, pastors, friends and benefactors, for our country and its rulers, for the just and the faithful departed, for enemies and sinners. We should not omit offering frequent prayers of thanksgiving for the numerous and weighty blessings which God continually bestows upon us and on the whole human race, and thanking Him particularly for the crowns of victory and glory with which He has adorned the Blessed Virgin and the saints. Thanksgiving and peti- HOW TO PRAY XXXII tion are, indeed, the two principal parts of prayer, the former being quite as necessary as the latter. In fact, if we are not grateful for God’s benefits, how may we expect that He will heed our petitions? The one, therefore, is in- dispensable to the other. Conclusion Mer us with all confidence have recourse to prayer, being assured, as St. Bernard says, that “God will grant what we ask or something better.” In seeking the aid of men we often are disappointed, either because they are unable to give what we request, or because they are un- willing to help us. Not so with God, Who is both almighty and all good. Moreover, we have the solemn promise of Christ confirmed by His oath, that God is always ready to hear and answer us: “‘Amen, amen, I say to you, if you ask the Father anything n My Name, He will give it you” (John xvi. 23). Our Lord is our advocate with the Father; hence when, with piety and perseverance, we ask for anything that is necessary for our salvation, it is impossible not to be heard. “Let us go, therefore, with confidence to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace in seasonable aid” (Heb. tv. 16). THE HEROIC ACT OF CHARITY This act consists in offering to the Divine Majesty for the souls in Purgatory all the satisfactions of our works and our indulgences throughout life, as well as all the suffrages that shall be offered for us after death. It is a laudable custom to make this offering through the hands of the Blessed Virgin, that she may apply our satisfac- tions as she may elect. The Heroic Act is not a giving over of our merits, nor does it deprive ourselves of the benefit of our prayers; but only a surrender of the remission of temporal punish- ment due to sin which would otherwise belong to our- selves. On the contrary, those who make this act gain for themselves special merits and the particular blessing of God. It is well to renew it frequently. No special form of words is required, but the following may be used: QO HEAVENLY Father, m union with the merits of Jesus and Mary, I offer Thee, for the poor souls in Purgatory, all the works of satisfac- tion of my entire life, as well as all the satisfac- tory works that will be offered for me after my death. These works I surrender into the most pure hands of the immaculate Virgin Mary, that she may apply them to those souls which, ac- cording to her wisdom and motherly love, should be first delivered from Purgatory. Graciously accept, O my God, this offering, and may it win for me Thy constant favor. (A plenary indulgence for the souls in Purgatory may be gained by those who make this act (1) whenever they go to Holy Communion, (2) whenever, for the souls in Purgatory, they assist at Mass on a Monday, or, if this is not possible, on a Sunday. Condition: Visit to a church and prayer therein for the Pope. — Pius X. Feb. 20, 1907.) TW ie Morning WBrapers Morning prayers should comprise adoration of the Divine Majesty, thanksgiving for His protection during the night, and consecration of the day to God’s service. Each day, as it comes, may be the last one of our earthly lives. We should, therefore, try to keep it free from sin and fill it with good works, fruitful unto life eternal. To this end we must purpose to please our heavenly _ Father and implore His help and blessing for the day. On awakening turn your thoughts immediately to God, and, making the Sign of the Cross, say: N the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost. Amen. (Ind. of 50 days is granted for making the Sign of the Cross; and of 100 days, if it be done with holy water. The words must in either case be said.— Pius IX. July 28, 1863; March 23, 1866.) On rising from your bed, say: N the Name of our Lord Jesus Christ cruct- fied, I arise. May He bless, govern, and preserve me, and bring me to everlasting life. Amen. In kneeling down try to put yourself in the presence of God, realizing that He is before you, that He sees all your thoughts, and is anxious to bear and belp you. Then say: 2 MORNING PRAYERS REE my mind, O Lord, from all distracting thoughts, and enable me to pray at all times with attention and devotion, so that I may deserve to be heard by Thee. I offer Thee my prayers in union with that divine intention with which Thou Thyself, while on earth, didst render praises to God. ACTS OF ADORATION AND THANKSGIVING LESSED be the holy and undivided Trinity, now and forevermore. Amen. Unto the King of ages, the immortal, invis- ible, and only God, be honor and g'ory forever and ever. I thank Thee, O my Father, for the innumer- able favors and benefits which I have received from Thy loving kindness and mercy, especially for having preserved me this night. Glory be to the Father Who has created me, glory be to the Son Who has redeemed me, glory be to the Holy Ghost Who has sanctified me. MORNING OFFERING JESUS, through the Immaculate Heart of Mary, I offer Thee my prayers, works and sufferings of this day for all the intentions of Thy Sacred Heart, m union with the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass throughout the world, in reparation for my sins, for the intentions of all our Associates and in particular for the intention of the Apostleship of Prayer. PRAYERS TO BE SAID EVERY DAY 3 Prapers to be Sain Every Wap The Lord’s Prayer UR 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. Amen. The Angelical Salutation AIL, Mary, full of grace! the Lord is with thee: blessed art thou amongst women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of our death. Amen. The Apostles’ Creed BELIEVE in God, the Father Almighty, Creator of heaven and earth; and in Jesus Christ, His only Son, our Lord; who was con- ceived by the Holy Ghost, born of the Virgin Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate, was cru- cified; died, and was buried. He descended into hell; the third day He arose again from the dead: He ascended into heaven, sitteth at the right hand of God, the Father Almighty; from thence He shall come to judge the living and the dead. I believe in the Holy Ghost, the Holy Catholic Church, the communion of Saints, the forgive- ness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting. Amen. 4 PRAYERS TO BE SAID EVERY DAY The Confiteor CONFESS to Almighty God, to blessed Mary, ever Virgin, to blessed Michael the Archangel, to blessed John the Baptist, to the Holy Apostles Peter and Paul, and to all the, Saints, that I have sinned exceedingly in thought, word and deed, through my fault, through my fault, through my most grievous fault. There- fore I beseech blessed Mary, ever Virgin, blessed Michael the Archangel, blessed John the Baptist, the holy Apostles Peter and Paul, and all the Saints, to pray to the Lord our God for me. May the Almighty God have mercy on me, and forgive me my sins, and bring me to ever- lasting life. Amen. May the Almighty and merciful Lord grant me pardon, > absolution, and remission of all my sins. Amen. AN ACT OF FAITH MY God, I firmly believe all the sacred truths which Thy holy Catholic Church be- lieves and teaches, because Thou hast revealed them, Who canst neither deceive nor be deceived. AN ACT OF HOPE MY God, relying on Thy infinite goodness and promises, I hope to obtain the pardon of my sins, the assistance of Thy grace, and life everlasting; through the merits of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Saviour. PRAYERS TO BE SAID EVERY DAY 5 AN ACT OF CHARITY MY God! I love Thee above all things with my whole heart and soul, because Thou art all-good, and worthy of all love. I love my neighbor as myself for the love of Thee. I for- give all who have injured me, and ask pardon of all whom I have injured. (Ind. of 7 years and 7 quarantines * for saying the acts of faith, hope and charity, each time. — BENEpicr XIV, Jan. 28, 1756.) THE ANGELUS The Angelus is to be said morning, noon, and evening in memory of the adorable mystery of the Incarnation. On Saturday evening and on Sunday, it should be said standing, otherwise kneeling. HE angel of the Lord declared unto Mary. R. And she conceived by the Holy Ghost. Hail, Mary, etc. V. Behold the handmaid of the Lord. R. Be it done unto me according to Thy word. Hail, Mary, etc. V. ANpD THE WorD WAS MADE FLESH. R. And dwelt among us. Hail, Mary, etc. V. Pray for us, O holy Mother of God. R. That we may be made worthy of the promises of Christ. * A quarantine was a forty days’ fast on bread and water, joined with other penitential works, which was prescribed by the ancient Church. It usually began on | Ash Wednesday, and terminated with the end of Lent. An indulgence of 7 quarantines, therefore, is equal in satisfactory value to seven of these ancient penitential exercises. 6 PRAYERS TO BE SAID EVERY DAY Let us Pray OUR 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 His Resur- rection. Through the same Christ our Lord. Amen. (Ind. of 100 days. each time. — Leo XIII, May 20, THE REGINA CAELI From Holy Saturday noon until Trinity Sunday the fol- lowing anthem is recited standing instead of the Angelus. RIGHT Queen of heaven! your joy declare; : Alleluia. For He, Whom you deserved to bear; Alleluia. Hath, as He said, rose from the grave; Alleluia. Petition God our souls to save. Alleluia. V. Rejoice and’be glad, O Virgin Mary. Alle- luia. R. For He hath truly risen. Alleluia. Let us Pray GOD! Who by the Resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ, Thy Son, hast vouchsafed to rejoice the world, grant, we beseech Thee, that by the intercession of His Virgin Mother, Mary, we may receive the joys of eternal life, through the same Christ, our Lord. Amen. (Ind. of 100 days, each time. — Leo XIII. May 20, 1896.) PRAYERS TO BE SAID EVERY DAY 7 GRACE AT MEALS Before Meals LESS us, O Lord, and these Thy gifts, which we are about to receive from Thy bounty. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. After Meals E give Thee thanks, O almighty God, for all Thy mercies. Who livest and reignest forever and ever. Amen. 8 PRAYERS DURING THE DAY Brapers During the Dap On Going Out in the Morning HOW me, O Lord, Thy ways, and teach me Thy paths. Direct my steps according to Thy word, that no injustice may rule over me. Make perfect my walking in Thy paths, that my footsteps may not be moved. Jesus and Mary, we pray, be with us on our way. To the Guardian Angel NGEL of God, my guardian dear, To whom His love commits me here, Ever this day be at my side. To light and guard, to rule and guide. Amen. (Ind. of 100 days each time. — LEo XIII. Aug. 19, 1893.) On Going into Church LORD, in the multitude of Thy mercies, I will enter into Thy house, and worship Thee in Thy holy temple, and praise Thy name. At Taking Holy Water PRINKLE me, O Lord, with hyssop, and I shall be cleansed; wash me, and [I shall be made whiter than the snow. Create In me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me. PRAYERS DURING THE DAY 9 Before Work OOK upon Thy servants, O Lord, and upon Thy works, and direct their children. And let the brightness of the Lord our God be upon us, and direct Thou the works of our hands over us; yea, the work of our hands do Thou direct. Glory be to the Father, etc. As it was in the beginning, etc. Before Study or Reading RANT me grace, O merciful God, to desire ardently all that is pleasing to Thee, to examine it prudently, to acknowledge it truth- fully, and to accomplish it perfectly, for the vraise and glory of Thy name. Amen. (Ind. of 300 days, each time.—LeEo XIII. June 21, 1879.) Ejaculation Our Lady of good studies, pray for us. (Ind. of 300 days once a day. — Pius X. May 22, 1906.) 10 PRAYERS DURING THE DAY Sndulgenced Ejaculations 1. Blessed be God! (Ind. of 50 days. — Pius X. Nov. 28, 1903.) 2. My God and my all. (Ind. of 50 days. — Leo XIII. May 4, 1888.) 3. Praised be Jesus Christ, now and forever- more. (Ind. of 100 days. — CLEMENT XIII. Sept. 5, 1759.) 4. My Jesus, Mercy! (Ind. of 100 days. — Pius IX. Sept. 24, 1846.) 5. Eucharistic Heart of Jesus, increase in us our Faith, Hope and Charity. (Ind. of 300 days. — BENEpicr XV. April 5, 1917.) 6. May the most just, most high, and most adorable will of God be done im all things, praised and magnified forever. (Ind. of 100 days, once a day.—Pius VII. May 109, 1818.) 7. My Lord, grant that I may love Thee, and that the reward of my love may be to love Thee ever more and more. (Ind. of 100 days, once a day. — LEo XIII. March 15, 1890.) 8. Jesus, my God, I love Thee above all things. Ind. of 50 days, each time. — Pius IX. May 7, 1854.) g. O Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament have mercy on us. (Ind. of 300 days. — Pius X. May 20, 1911.) PRAYERS DURING THE DAY II 10. Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me. (Ind. of 100 days, once a day.—Leo XIII. Feb. 27, 1886.) 11. Saviour of the world, have mercy on us. (Ind. of 50 days, once a day. — LEo XIII. Feb. 21, 1891.) 12. My sweetest Jesus, be not my Judge, but my Saviour. (Ind. of 50 days, each time.—Pius IX. Nov. 29, 1853.) 13. Jesus, Mary, Joseph. (Ind. of 7 years and 7 quarantines. — Pius X. June 8, 1906.) 14. Jesus, Mary, and Joseph, bless us now and at the hour of our death. (Ind. of 50 days, each time. — Pius VII. July 2, 1816.) 15. Jesus, Mary, and Joseph, I give You my heart and my soul. Jesus, Mary, and Joseph, assist me In my last agony. Jesus, Mary, and Joseph, may I breathe out my soul in peace with You. (Ind. of 300 days, each time.—Prus VII. April 28, 1807.) Evening Prayers We should never neglect our night prayers. First, it is only proper that, when the day is over, we return thanks to God for His help and protection during the day, even for the crosses He may have sent to prove and sanctify us; and secondly, we ought to offer up fervent supplications that we may be protected from harm while we rest. Each night may be our last one here below. We should think of this when saying our evening prayers. N the name of the Father, 44 and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost. Amen. AN ACT OF THE PRESENCE OF GOD ALMIGHTY and _ eternal God, Whose majesty filleth heaven and earth, I firmly believe that Thou art here present; that Thine all-seemg eye Is upon me; that Thou knowest all things, and art most intimately present in the very center of my soul. I desire to bow down all the powers of my soul to adore Thee; I desire to join my voice with all Thy blessed angels and saints, to praise Thee and glorify Thee now and forever. EVENING PRAYERS 13 AN ACT OF THANKSGIVING MOST heartily thank Thee, O Lord, for all Thy mercies and blessings bestowed upon me and upon Thy whole Church; and particu- larly for those I have received from Thee this day, in watching over me, and preserving me from so many evils, and favoring me with so many graces and inspirations. [Here pause and meditate on God’s mercies.| Oh, let me never more be ungrateful unto Thee, my God, Who art so good and gracious unto me. PRAYERS OF SHUR THERESE Love of God ae the close of evening I shall appear before Thee with empty hands, for I ask not, Lord, that Thou wouldst count my works. All our justice is tarnished in Thy sight. It is there- fore my desire to be clothed with Thme own justice and to receive from Thy love the eternal possession of Thyself. I crave no other throne or other crown but Thee, O my Beloved. Gratitude MY God, how good Thou art to me, the vic- tim of Thy merciful love. Now even though Thou dost join physical suffering to the trials of my soul, I cannot say: “The sorrows of death have encompassed me.” But I cry out in my gratitude: “J have gone down into the valley of the shadow of death, yet I fear no evil, because Thou, O Lord, art with me.” 14 EVENING PRAYERS Hope DAY ...an hour...and we shall have reached the port! My God, what shall we see then? What is that life which will never have an end?... Jesus will be the soul of our soul. Unfathomable mystery! ‘Eye hath not seen, nor ear beard, neither bath it entered into the beart of man what great things God hath prepared for them that love Him.” AN EXAMINATION OF CONSCIENCE MY Lord Jesus Christ, Judge of the living and the dead, before whom I must appear one day to give an exact account of my whole life; enlighten me, I beseech Thee, and give me an humble and contrite heart, that I may see wherein I have offended Thine infinite Majesty, and judge myself now with such a just severity, that then Thou mayest judge me with mercy and clemency. Here pause a moment and consider where and in what company you have been this day. Call to mind the sins committed against God, your neighbor, or yourself; and reflect whether you have fulfilled the duties of your state of life. Offenses against God: Omission or negligence in religious duties; irreverence and wilful distractions in prayer; lack of confidence and resignation; cursing, swearing, etc. Against the neighbor: Want of obedience or respect; scandal, hatred, quarreling; stealing, injuries; lies, false reports; jealousy, desire of revenge, etc. Against self: Vanity, human respect; thoughts, de- sires or language against purity; intemperance in eating or drinking; laziness and neglect of one’s duties. EVENING PRAYERS 15 The Confiteor CONFESS to Almighty God, to blessed Mary ever Virgin, to blessed Michael the Archangel, to blessed John the Baptist, to the holy Apostles Peter and Paul, and to all the Saints, that I have sinned exceedingly in thought, word and deed, through my fault, through my fault, through my most grievous fault. There- fore I beseech blessed Mary ever Virgin, blessed Michael the Archangel, blessed John the Baptist, the holy Apostles Peter and Paul, and all the Saints, to pray to the Lord our God for me. May Almighty God have mercy on me, for- give me my sins, and bring me to everlasting life. Amen. May the Almighty and merciful Lord grant me pardon, + absolution, and remission of all my sins. Amen. AN ACT OF CONTRITION MY God! I am heartily sorry for having offended Thee, and I detest all my sins, because I dread the loss of heaven and the pains of hell, but most of all because they offend Thee, my God, who art all-good and deserving of all my love. I firmly resolve, with the help of Thy grace, to confess my sins, to do penance, and to amend my life. PRAYER FOR THE LIVING GOD, hear my prayers on behalf of our Holy Father, the Pope, our Bishops, our clergy, and for all that are in authority over 16 EVENING PRAYERS us. Bless, I beseech Thee, the whole Catholic Church; protect our country; send down Thy benediction, on my parents, my relatives, friends, and benefactors. Protect my home; comfort the poor, the sick, the afflicted, and the agonizing; convert and enlighten heretics and infidels. PRAYER FOR THE DEPARTED, ESPECIALLY OUR FRIENDS AND BENEFACTORS The De Profundis* (Psalm CXXIX) UT of the depths I have cried to Thee, O Lord; Lord, hear my voice. Let Thine ears be attentive to the voice of my supplications. If thou, O Lord, shalt mark iniquities; Lord, who shall stand? For with Thee there is merciful forgiveness: and by reason of Thy law I have waited for Thee, O Lord. My soul hath relied on His word; my soul hath hoped in the Lord. From the morning watch even unto night, let Israel hope in the Lord. Because with the Lord there is mercy, and with Him plentiful redemption. And He shall redeem Israel from all his iniquities. Eternal Rest grant unto them, O Lord. *The Psalms quoted have been newly translated from the Vulgate in the light of the original Hebrew by the authors. EVENING PRAYERS 17 And let perpetual light shine upon them. May they rest in peace. O Lord! hear my prayer. And let my cry come unto Thee. Let us Pray GOD! the Creator and Redeemer of all the faithful, grant to the souls of Thy servants departed, the remission of all their sins, that, through pious supplications, they may obtain that pardon, which they have always desired. Who livest and reignest forever and ever. Amen. ACTS OF PETITION OUCHSAFE, O Lord, this night, To keep us without sin. Have mercy upon us, O Lord. Have mercy upon us. Let Thy mercy, be upon us, O Lord. As we have hoped in Thee. O Lord, hear our prayer. And let our cry come unto Thee. Let us Pray ISIT, we beseech Thee, O Lord, this habita- tion, and drive far from it all snares of the enemy. Let Thy holy angels dwell herein, to preserve us in peace; and may Thy blessing be always upon us, through our Lord, Jesus Christ. Save us, O Lord, when we are awake, and keep us while we sleep, that we may watch with Christ, and rest in peace, Amen. 18 EVENING PRAYERS PRAYER OF ST. ALPHONSUS RD Jesus Christ, my God, I adore Thee and thank Thee for all the _ blessings which Thou hast conferred upon me this day. I offer Thee my rest and all the moments of this night, and I beseech Thee to protect me from all sin. Therefore I place myself within the most. sacred wound of Thy side, and under the protect- ing mantle of Mary my Mother. May Thy holy angels assist me and preserve me in peace. May Thy blessing be upon me forevermore. (Ind. of 60 days, once a day.—LeEo XIII. June 30, 1893.) After retiring say: NTO Thy hands, O Lord, I commend my spirit. Lord Jesus, receive my soul. In the name of our Lord Jesus Christ crucified, I lay me down to rest. May He bless, govern and protect me; and, after this short pilgrimage, bring to me everlasting happiness. Amen. LORD Jesus Christ, Whose unwearied eye neither slumbers nor sleeps, but continually watches in defense of Thy servants; take me and mine, I beseech Thee, into Thy protection, and grant, that whilst my body is asleep, my soul may be awake to Thee, and that I may here- after behold Thee in that blessed and heavenly country, where Thou, with the Father and the Holy Ghost, rulest eternally, and where all the angels, with the blessed saints, are citizens forever. Amen. DEVOTIONS FOR CONFESSION ravers before Confession Each confession should be made as carefully as if it were to be the Jast one of our lives. First, we should beg God’s mercy, and ask Him to give us light to know our sins, and grace to detest them; then diligently examine _ our consciences. : . A PRAYER FOR FORGIVENESS (Psalm L) AVE mercy upon me, O God; according to Thy great mercy. And according to the multitude of Thy tender mercies: blot out my transgression. Wash me thoroughly from mine iniquity: and cleanse me from my sin. For I acknowledge my transgression: and my sin 1s always before me. Against Thee only have I sinned, and done evil in Thy sight: that Thou mayest be justified when Thou givest sentence, and mayest be victorious when Thou art judged. For behold, I was born in iniquities: and in sins did my mother conceive me. 20 DEVOTIONS FOR CONFESSION For behold, Thou hast loved truth and sin- cerity: the hidden and secret things of Thy wis- dom Thou hast made known unto me. Thou shalt purify me with hyssop, and I shall be cleansed: Thou shalt wash me, and I shall be made whiter than snow. Thou shalt make me to hear joy and gladness: and the bones that were humbled shall rejoice. Turn away Thy face from my sins: and blot out all mine iniquities. Cast me not away from Thy presence: and take not Thy holy Spirit from me. Restore unto me the joy of Thy salvation: and strengthen me with a willing spirit. The sacrifice of God is an afflicted spirit: a contrite and humble heart, O God, Thou wilt not despise. INVOCATION OF THE HOLY GHOST HOLY SPIRIT, Source of all light, Spirit of wisdom, of understanding, and of knowl- edge, come to my assistance and enable me to make a good confession. Enlighten me, and help me now to know my sins as one day I shall be forced to recognize them before Thy judgment- seat. Bring to my mind the evil which I have done and the good which I have neglected. Per- mit me not to be blinded by self-love. Grant me, moreover, heartfelt sorrow for my trans- gressions, and the grace of a sincere confession, so that I may be forgiven and admitted into Thy friendship. DEVOTIONS FOR CONFESSION 21 EXAMINATION OF CONSCIENCE It is necessary that we tell in confession, as far as we can remember, all the mortal or grievous sins we may have been guilty of since our last worthy confession, giv- ing the number of times each one has been committed. If we have nothing but venial or light sins to tell, it is always wel] to include one or other of the more serious sins of the past. The following list will help us to know our sins, Preliminary Examination When did you make your last confession? Did you have real sorrow for the sins then told? Did you conceal or forget any mortal sin? Have you performed your penance, and done as your confessor directed? Have you really tried to keep your good resolutions? Table of Sins against the Commandments First ComMMANDMENT: Have you doubted in matters of faith? consulted fortune-tellers? be- lieved in dreams? made use of superstitious prac- tices? gone to places of false worship? belonged to forbidden societies? read anti-Catholic books and papers? neglected your religious instruction? omitted religious duties through human respect? Have you murmured against God, or despaired of His mercy? Or have you rashly presumed on His goodness in committing sin? Have you neglected your daily prayers? been irreverent toward God, sacred persons, places, or things? SECOND CoMMANDMENT: Have you taken the name of God in vain? spoken disrespectfully of the saints or holy things? sworn falsely, rashly, 22 DEVOTIONS FCR CONFESSION or in slight and trivial matters? Have you cursed, blasphemed, or caused others to do so? THrRD COMMANDMENT: Have you kept holy the Sunday and holydays by assisting at Mass with devotion? Have you performed or commanded unnecessary servile work? bought or sold with- out necessity, or in any other way profaned these days? FouRTH COMMANDMENT: Have you shown due honor and obedience to your parents, pastors, and other superiors? Have you been respectful to aged persons? Have you had proper care for your children and those dependent upon you, in particular as regards religious training and duties? Have you given them good example? FirtH COMMANDMENT: Have you procured, desired, or hastened the death of any one? Have you been guilty of anger, hatred, quarreling, revenge? used provoking language, insulting words, ridicule? refused to speak to others? caused enmities? given scandal? SrxTH AND NINTH COMMANDMENTs: Have you been guilty of impurity or immodesty in thoughts, words, or actions? Have you put yourself in an occasion of sin by reading bad books, keepmg bad company, attending immoral performances, and the like? Have you been an occasion of sin to others by your conversation, dress, actions? SEVENTH AND TENTH CoMMANDMENTS: Have you stolen or retained ill-gotten goods? cheated? refused to pay your just debts? damaged or wasted the property of others? accepted bribes? neglected to make restitution, or to help the DEVOTIONS FOR CONFESSION 23 poor? Have you coveted what belongs to others? EIGHTH COMMANDMENT: Have you borne false witness for or against another? been guilty of detraction, flattery, hypocrisy, lying, rash judgment? Table of Sins against the Precepts of the Church 1. Have you observed the Sundays and holy- days by hearing Mass and avoiding servile works? 2. Have you neglected prescribed fasts and abstinences without sufficient reason? 3. Have you confessed your mortal sins at least once a year? 4. Have you gone to Holy Communion during the Easter time? 5. Have you contributed according to your means to religion and the Church? 6. Have you married not in accordance with the laws of the Catholic Church, or aided others in doing so? Table of Capital Sins 1. Have you been guilty of pride, vainglory, love of applause, contempt of others? 2. Have you been too eager in seeking the goods of this world, or had your heart set on them? 3. Have you violated the Sixth and Ninth Commandments in any way? 4. Have you been guilty of unreasonable anger, or disagreeableness of disposition? 5. Have you eaten or drunk to excess, or caused others to do so? 24 DEVOTIONS FOR CONFESSION 6. Have you rejoiced at the misfortune, or been grieved at the success of others? 7. Have you wasted time in idleness and self- mdulgence? Have you neglected the duties of your state of life, or performed them remissly? Have you desired to commit sin, or gloried in sin committed? THE FOUR SINS WHICH CRY TO HEAVEN FOR VENGEANCE 1. Wilful murder. 2. The sim of Sodom. 3. Oppression of the poor. 4. Defrauding the laborer of his wages. SINS AGAINST THE HOLY GHOST 1. Presumption of God’s mercy. 2. Despair. 3. Impugning the known truth. 4. Envy at another’s spiritual good. 4. Obstinacy in sin. 6. Final impenitence. NINE WAYS'OF BEING ACCESSORY TO ANOTHER’S SIN 1. By counsel. 2. By command. 3. By consent. 4. By provocation. 54. By praise or flattery. 6. By concealment. 7. By partaking. 8. By silence. 9. By defense of the ill done. THE SEVEN SPIRITUAL WORKS OF MERCY 1. To admonish sinners. 2. To instruct the ignorant. 3. To counsel the doubtful. 4. To comfort the sorrowful. 5. To bear wrongs pa- tiently. 6. To forgive all mjuries. 7. To pray for the living and the dead. DEVOTIONS FOR CONFESSION 25 THE SEVEN CORPORAL WORKS OF MERCY 1. To feed the hungry. 2. To give drink to the thirsty. 3. To clothe the naked. 4. To visit and ransom the captives. 4. To harbor the harborless. 6. To visit the sick. 7. To bury the dead. THE EIGHT BEATITUDES (Matt. V) 1. Blessed are the poor in spirit; for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. 2. Blessed are the meek; for they shall possess the land. 3. Blessed are they that mourn; for they shall be comforted. 4. Blessed are they that hunger and thirst after justice; for they shall be filled. 5. Blessed are the merciful; for they shall obtain mercy. 6. Blessed are the clean of heart; tor they shall see God. 7. Blessed are the peacemakers; for they shall be called the children of God. 8. Blessed are they that suffer persecution for justice’ sake; for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. PRAYERS TO OBTAIN CONTRITION After the examination of conscience it is all-important to awaken true sorrow for the sins committed. This sorrow must always include the resolve to avoid all serious sin in the future, and we should aiso determine to guard against wilful vental sin. It is well to say an act of contrition before entermg the confessional. 26 DEVOTIONS FOR CONFESSION PRAYER OF ST. THOMAS AQUINAS ' O Thee, O God, the fount of mercy, I draw near, asinner. From my uncleanness, there- fore, deign Thou to cleanse me. Enlighten my blindness, O sun of justice; bind up my wounds, O eternal physician. Thou King of kings, clothe my nakedness; lead me back, good shepherd, to the fold from which I have strayed; Thou medi- ator between God and man, clear away my guilt. Have pity, O God, on my misery; grant indul- gence to my crimes; restore me life for death, virtue for impiety, and to my obduracy apply Thy saving grace. O Thou most clement one, call me back fleeing from Thee, draw me when resisting, raise me when I fall, support me having risen, and lead me as I walk. Do not forget me when I forget Thee, nor turn Thou away when I forsake Thee; despise me not in the midst of my sins. By sinning I have offended Thee, my God, I have injured my neighbor, I have wounded myself. By my very weakness, O my God, have I smned against Thee, the Father almighty; out of my ignorance, against Thee, the all wise Son; through my malice, against Thee, meek Spirit of | God. Thus have I offended Thee, most excellent Trinity. Alas for my misery! How many and what great faults of divers kinds I have committed! I have abandoned Thee, O Lord; l have murmured against Thy goodness; and when confronted by base pleasure, or deterred by misfortune, I have preferred rather to lose Thee than to forego the things that allure, to offend Thee than to incur the things that I fear. O my God, how far I have > DEVOTIONS FOR CONFESSION 27 gone astray in word and deed! I have sinned in secret and in public contumaciously. Hence, I beseech Thee that, because of my weakness, Thou wilt not regard my iniquity, but Thine own *‘mmense goodness, and, bestowing upon me sor- ‘row for the past and care for the future, wilt mercifully forgive what I have done. PRAYER TO THE BLESSED VIRGIN AND THE SAINTS MOST gracious Virgin Mary, beloved Mother of Jesus Christ my Redeemer, inter- cede for me with Him. Obtain for me the full remission of my sins, and perfect amendment of life, unto the salvation of my soul, and the glory of His Name. Amen. I implore the same grace of thee, O my angel guardian; of you, my holy patrons, N. N.; of -you, O holy Peter and holy Magdalen, and of all the saints of God. Intercede for me a sinner, repenting of my sins, and resolving to confess ‘and amend them. Amen. An Act of Contrition MY God! I am heartily sorry for having offended Thee, and I detest all my sins, because I dread the Joss of heaven and the pains of hell, but most of all because they offend Thee, my God, who art all-good and deserving of all my love. I firmly resolve, with the help of Thy grace, to confess my sins, to do penance, and to amend my life. 28 MANNER OF MAKING CONFESSION Manner of Making Confession Having entered the confessional, place yourself in the presence of God, Who sees all things, and then address His minister: LESS me, Father, for I have sinned. I confess to almighty God, and to you, Father, that I have sinned exceedingly in thought, word, deed and omission, through my fault. It has been one week, (or, — weeks), since my last worthy confession. I accuse myself of having committed, during that time, the follow- Ing sins: Without exaggerating or extenuating the offenses of which you may be conscious, tell them, as if to God Himself, with a humble, sorrowful and contrite heart. Afterwards, it will be well, though it is never obligatory, to specify some one sin of the past which is especially calculated to dispose the soul to deeper contrition. This being briefly done, say: For these, and for ali the sins of which I have at any time been guilty, I humbly ask pardon of God, and absolution of you, Father, if you think me worthy. Then listen attentively to anything the confessor may choose to say; humbly accept the penance he imposes; and, when he raises his hand m absolution, recite the act of contrition. PRAYERS AFTER CONFESSION After confession we should return thanks to God for His mercies in forgiving our sins, beg that He supply whatever has been wanting to us and bless our good resolutions, and immediately thereafter say our penance. ) MANNER OF MAKING CONFESSION 29 PRAYER OF THANKSGIVING : RETURN unto Thee, O Lord Jesus, and give Thee thanks that Thou hast been pleased to cleanse me from the foul leprosy of my sins. Blessed be Thy Name, O Lord, for- ever and ever. Truly Thou art a Saviour Who ejectest none that come unto Thee seriously desiring to repent, but receivest them into Thy favor, and numberest them with Thy children. I acknowledge and adore Thy mercy, and dedi- ate myself wholly to Thy service hereafter. Assist my weakness, and suffer me not again to fall into my past sins and to be separated from Thee; but so bind my heart and soul to Thee with the cords of Thy love, that I may say with the Apostle: ‘Who shall separate me from the love of Christ?” PRAYER OF PETITION Y this, my confession, O Lord, by the merits of Blessed Mary ever virgin, Thy Mother, and of all the saints, be pleasing and acceptable in Thy sight. Let Thy goodness and mercy supply for whatever has been wanting in y contrition, and in the purity and integrity of my confession. Deign Thou mercifully to egard me perfectly and entirely absolved in veaven: Who livest and reignest God, world vithout end. Amen. 30 MANNER OF MAKING CONFESSION PRAYER FOR PERSEVERANCE ALMIGHTY and most merciful God, Who, according to the multitude of Thy tender mercies, hast vouchsafed once more to receive Thy prodigal child, after so many times going astray from Thee, and to admit me to this Sacra- ment of reconciliation; I give Thee thanks with all the powers of my soul for this and ah other mercies, graces, and blessings bestowed on me; and prostrating myself at Thy sacred feet, I offer myself to be henceforth forever Thine. Oh! let nothing m life or death ever separate me from Thee. I renounce with my whole soul all my treasons against Thee, and all the abominations and sins of my past life. I renew my promises made in Baptism, and from this moment I dedi- cate myself eternally to Thy love and service. Oh! grant that for the time to come I may abhor sin more than death itself, and avoid all such occasions and companies as have unhappily brought me to it. This I resolve to do, by the aid of Thy divine grace, without which I can do nothing. I beg Thy blessing upon these my resolutions, that they may not be meffectual, like so many others I have formerly made; for, O Lord, without Thee I am nothing but misery and sin. Give me grace to be now and always a true penitent, through the same Jesus Christ Thy Son. Amen. MANNER OF MAKING CONFESSION 31 A PSALM OF PRAISE (Psalm CIT) LESS the Lord, O my soul: and Iet all that is within me bless His holy name. Bless the Lord, O my soul, and never forget all He hath done for thee. Who forgiveth all thine miquities: Who healeth all thy diseases. Who redeemeth thy life from destruction: Who crowneth thee with mercy and compassion. Who satisfieth thy desire with good things: so that thy youth shall be renewed like the eagle’s. The Lord doth righteous acts, and judgment for all that suffer wrong. He hath made His ways known unto Moses: His acts unto the children of Israel. The Lord is compassionate and merciful: Iong- suffering and plenteous in mercy. He will not always be angry: nor will He threaten for ever. He hath not dealt with us according to our sins: nor rewarded us according to our iniquities. For as heaven is high above the earth: so mighty is His mercy towards them that fear Him. As far as the east is from the west, so far hath He removed our transgressions from us. As a father hath compassion on his children, so the Lord pitieth them that fear Him: for He ‘knoweth our frame. 32 MANNER OF MAKING CONFESSION He remembereth that we are dust: Man’s days are as grass, as the flower of the field so shall he flourish. For the wind passeth over him, and he is gone; and his place shall know him no more. But the mercy of the Lord is from everlasting to everlasting upon them that fear Him: and His justice unto children’s children, to such as keep His covenant, and are mindful of His com- mandments to do them. The Lord hath prepared His throne in heaven: and His kingdom shall rule over all. Bless the Lord, all ye angels of His; ye mighty in strength, and that do His word, hearkening to the voice of His orders. Bless the Lord, all ye His hosts: you ministers of His that do His will. | Bless the Lord, all His works: in every place’ of His dominion, Bless thou the Lord, oh my soul. The penance given in confession may be said now. DEVOTIONS FOR HOLY COMMUNION Preparation for Holy Communton Holy Communion is the receiving of the body and blood, soul and divinity of our Lord Jesus Christ under the appearance of bread. We should never approach the holy table unless free from grievous sin, and without some previous devout preparation. The benefit we derive from our Communions is in proportion to our devotion and to the preparation we make for them. PRAYER OF ST. THOMAS AQUINAS ALMIGHTY and eternal God, behold I approach the Sacrament of Thine only- begotten Son, our Lord Jesus Christ. I come as one sick to the physician of life, as one un- clean to the source of all mercy, as one blind to the light of the eternal sun, as one poor and - needy to the Lord of heaven and earth. 1 beseech Thee, therefore, out of the abundance of Thine immense goodness, deign to heal my infirmity, cleanse me from my sins, lumine my 34 PREPARATION FOR COMMUNION blindness, enrich my poverty, clothe my naked- ness. Grant that I may receive the Bread of angels, the King of kings, the Lord of Iords, with as much reverence and humility, contrition and devotion, purity and faith, with such uprightness of purpose and intention, as may be profitable to the salvation of my soul. Grant me, I beseech Thee, to receive not only the Sacrament of the Lord’s body and blood, but also the grace and virtue of the Sacrament. O most merciful God, grant me so to receive the body of Thy only Son, our Lord Jesus Christ, which He took from Mary ever virgin, that I may merit to be incorporated into His mystical body, and numbered amongst His members. O most loving Father, grant that Thy beloved Son, Whom, now hidden beneath the sacramental veil, I propose to receive, I may at length con- template forever, face to face: Who with Thee liveth and reigneth mn the unity of the Holy Ghost, God, world without end. Amen. PRAYER OF ST. AMBROSE GRACIOUS Lord Jesus Christ, I, a sinner, nothing presuming on my own deserts, but trusting in Thy mercy and goodness, with fear and trembling approach to the table of Thy most sweet feast. For my heart and body are stained with many sins; my thoughts and lips not dili- gently guarded. Wherefore, O gracious God, O awful Majesty, in my extremity I turn to Thee, the fount of mercy; to Thee I hasten to be healed, PREPARATION FOR COMMUNION 35 and take refuge under Thy protection; and Thee, before Whom as my Judge I cannot stand, I long for as my Saviour. To Thee, O Lord, I show my wounds, to Thee I Jay bare my shame. I know my sins are many and great, for which I am afraid. My trust is in Thy mercies, of which there isnoend. Look therefore upon me with the eyes of Thy mercy, O Lord Jesus Christ, God and man, crucified for man; hearken unto me, whose trust is in Thee; have mercy upon me, who am full of sin and misery, O Thou fount of mercy, that will never cease to flow. Hail, saving Victim, offered for me and all mankind on the cross of suffering and shame. Hail, noble and precious Blood, flowing from the wounds of my crucified ‘Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, and washing away the sins of the whole world. Be mindful, O Lord, of Thy creature, whom Thou has re- deemed with Thine own Blood. I repent that I have sinned; I desire to amend what I have done. Take therefore away from me, O most merciful Father, all my iniquities and sins: that, being cleansed both in body and soul, I may worthily taste the Holy of holies; and grant that this holy feeding on Thy Body and Blood, of which, unworthy as I am, I purpose to par- take, may be for the remission of my sins, and the perfect cleansing of all my offenses, for the driving away of all evil thoughts and the re- newal of all holy desires, for the healthful bring- ing forth of fruit well-pleasing unto Thee, and the most sure protection of my soul and body against the wiles of all my enemies. Amen. 36 PREPARATION FOR COMMUNION PRAYER TO THE BLESSED VIRGIN MOST Blessed Virgin Mary, mother of gentleness and mercy, I, a miserable and unworthy sinner, fly to thy protection with every — sentiment of humility and love; and I implore of thy Ioving kindness that thou wouldst vouch-_ safe graciously to be near me, and all who through-_ out the whole Church are to receive the Body and Blood of thy Son this day, even as thou wert near thy sweetest Son as He hung bleeding on the Cross. Aided by thy gracious help, may we worthily approach this august Sacrament. PRAYER TO ST. JOSEPH APPY and blessed art thou, O Joseph, to £ whom it was given not only to see and to hear that God Whom many kings desired to see, and saw not, to hear, and heard not; but also to bear Him in thine arms, to embrace Him, to clothe Him, and to guard and defend Him. V. Pray for us, O blessed Joseph. R. That we may be made worthy of the promises of Christ. Let us Pray GOD, vouchsafe, we beseech Thee, that as blessed Joseph was found worthy to handle with his hands, and bear within his arms, Thine only-begotten Son, born of the Yirgin Mary, so may we be made fit, by cleanness of heart and innocence of works, worthily to receive the most sacred Body and Blood of Thy Son, now in this PREPARATION FOR COMMUNION 37 present, and deserve to attain an everlasting re- ward in the world to come. Through the same Christ our Lord. Amen. THE FORMING OF ONE’S INTENTION OY with peace, amendment of life, space for true repentance, the grace and comfort of the Holy Ghost, perseverance in good works, a contrite and humble heart, and a happy con- summation of my life, grant unto me, O almighty and merciful Lord. Amen. THE SOUL’S LONGING FOR GOD (Psalm LX XXIII) OW lovely are Thy tabernacles, O Lord of hosts! my soul hath pined, yea, even fainted for the courts of the Lord. My heart and my flesh crieth out for the liv- ing God. For the sparrow hath found herself a house, and the swallow a nest for herself where she hath Jaid her young: Even Thine altars, O Lord of hosts, my King and my God. Blessed are they that dwell in Thy house, O Lord: they shall praise Thee for ever and ever. Blessed are the men whose help is n Thee: in whose hearts are the highways, (to Sion), who passing through the waterless vale, make it a place of springs, yea, like the early rain they clothe it with blessings. 38 AT COMNUNION For the Jawgiver shall give blessings, they shall go from strength to strength: (everyone of them) shall appear before God in Sion. © Lord God of hosts, hear my prayer: give ear, O God of Jacob. Behold, O God our protector: and look on the face of Thy Christ. For better is one day in Thy courts above thousands. I had rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God, than to dwell in the tabernacles of sinners. For God lIoveth mercy and truth: the Lord will give grace and glory. He will not deprive of good things them that walk in innocence: O Lord of hosts, blessed 1s the man that trusteth in Thee. AT COMMUNION When the communion bell rings, go quietly up to the railing with hands devoutly folded, and kneel. As the priest turns around to pronounce the words of absolution, renew your act of contrition, and bless yourself. As he approaches to give you the Blessed Sacrament, moderately raise your head, open your mouth, resting the end of your tongue on the lower lip. While receiving communion reflect on the words which the priest then utters: “May the Body of our Lord Jesus Christ preserve your soul unto life everlasting. Amen.” After this, return to your place, having your eyes cast down and hands again reverently folded, THANKSGIVING AFTER COMMUNION 39 Thanksgiving after Holp Communion When you have returned to your seat, try to reflect on the Sacred Mysteries you have just received, and give free expression to your devotion in your own words. The following prayers will be found very useful as aids to your sentiments of worship, thanksgiving, petition, etc. MEDITATION OF SHUR THERESE OW sweet it is, the first kiss of Jesus to my soul. Yes, it is a kiss of love. I feel I am Joved, and I too say: “I love Thee, I give my- self to Thee forever!” Jesus asks nothing of me, demands no sacrifice. Already for a long time past, He and I have watched and understood each other. This day our meeting is no longer a simple Iook but a fusion. No longer are we two. I have disappeared as the drop of water which loses itself in the depths of the ocean. Jesus alone remains: the Master, the King. PRAYER OF ST. THOMAS AQUINAS RENDER thanks to Thee, O Lord, holy Father, everlasting God, Who hast vouch- safed, not for any merits of mine, but of Thy great mercy only, to feed me, a smner, Thine unworthy servant, with the precious Body and Blood of Thy Son, our Lord Jesus Christ; and I pray that this Holy Communion may not be for my judgment and condemnation, but for my pardon and salvation. Let it be unto me an armor of faith and a shield of good purpose, a riddance of all vices, and a rooting out of all evil desires; an increase of love and patience, 49 THANKSGIVING AFTER COMMUNION of humility and obedience, and of all virtues; a firm defense against the wiles of all my enemies, visible and invisible; a perfect quieting of all my impulses, fleshly and spiritual; a cleaving unto Thee, the one true God; and a blessed con- summation of my end when Thou dost call. And I pray that Thou wouldst vouchsafe to bring me a sinner to that unspeakable feast, where Thou, with Thy Son and Thy Holy Spirit, art to Thy holy ones true light, fullness ot blessedness, everlasting joy, and perfect happiness. Through the same Christ our Lord. Amen. PRAYER OF ST. BONAVENTURE MOST sweet Lord Jesus Christ, transfix the affections of my inmost soul with that most joyous and healthful wound of Thy love; with true, serene, holiest apostolic charity; that my soul may ever Janguish and melt with entire love and longing for Thee, that it may desire Thee, and faint for Thy courts, long to be dis- solved and to be with Thee. Grant that my soul may hunger after Thee, the Bread of angels, the refreshment of holy souls, our daily and super- substantial Bread, Who hast all sweetness and savor, and the sweetness of every taste. Let my heart ever hunger after and feed upon Thee, upon Whom the angels desire to look, and my inmost soul be filled with the sweetness of Thy savor. May it ever thirst for Thee, the fountain of life, the source of wisdom and knowledge, the foun- tain of eternal light, the torrent of pleasure, the richness of the house of God. May it ever yearn THANKSGIVING AFTER COMMUNION 41 for Thee, seek Thee, find Thee, stretch towards Thee, attain to Thee, meditate upon Thee, speak of Thee, and do all things to the praise and glory of Thy holy name, with humility and discretion, with love and delight, with readiness and affec- tion, with perseverance even unto the end. And be Thou ever my hope and my whole confidence; my riches; my delight, my pleasure, and my joy; my rest and tranquillity; my peace, my sweetness, and my fragrance; my sweet savor, my food and refreshment; my refuge and my help; my wisdom; my portion, my possession, -and my treasure, in Whom my mind and my heart -may ever remain fixed and firm, and rooted im- movably, henceforth and forevermore. Amen. PRAYER TO OUR LORD BESEECH Thee, O most meek and loving Jesus, that this immortal Host may return Thee thanks on my behalf, may reconcile and restore me to Thee. May it procure pardon for “me, a sinner, and Jead me to everlasting life. Amen. How sweet and lovely is this Bread of heaven which Thou hast given us! How wonderful is the rest, how full the peace which they experience who receive Thee after a sincere and sorrowful confession of their sins! For this, O my Jesus, be Thou praised a thousand times! In the matter of sin I have been most unfortunate; but now not only do I enjoy true comfort of soul, but I also believe that I have had a foretaste of the peace of heaven. How true it is, O Lord, that | 42 THANKSGIVING AFTER COMMUNION our soul was made for Thee, and can enjoy true peace only when it rests in Thee! From the bottom of my: heart, therefore, do I thank Thee and I firmly resolve ever to fly sin and its oc- casions and to take up my lasting dwelling in Thy divine Heart, from which I hope the grace and help to love Thee until death. Amen. (Ind. of 300 days, when said after Holy Communion. Leo XIII. « June 3, 1896.) ANIMA CHRISTI OUL of Christ, be my sanctification; Body of Christ, be my salvation; Blood of Christ, fill all my veins; Water from Christ’s side, wash out my stains; Passion of Christ, my comfort be, O good Jesus, listen to me. In Thy wounds I fain would hide, Ne’er to be parted from Thy side. Guard me when the foe assails me; Guide me when my feet shall fail me; Bid me come to Thee above, With Thy saints to sing Thy love, forever and ever. Amen. PRAYER TO THE BLESSED VIRGIN MOST Holy, O most benign, O noble and glorious Virgin Mary, who wast worthy to bear in thy sacred womb the Creator of all, and at thy virginal breast to nourish Him Whose true, real, and most holy Body and Blood J, an un- worthy sinner, have just now dared to receive: vouchsafe, I humbly beseech thee, to intercede THANKSGIVING AFTER COMMUNION 43 with Him for me a sinner; that whatsoever, by ignorance or neglect, by accident or irreverence, I have left undone, or have done amiss, in this unspeakably holy Sacrament, may be pardoned through thy prayers to the same our Lord Jesus Christ, thy Son, Who with the Father and the Holy Ghost livest and reignest forever and ever. Amen. PRAYER BEFORE A CRUCIFIX To be Said after Communion OOK down upon me, good and gentle Jesus, while before Thy face I humbly kneel, and with burning soul pray and be- seech Thee to fix deep in my heart lively sentiments of faith, hope and charity, true contrition for my sins, and a firm purpose of amend- ment. Meanwhile, I con- template with great love and tender mercy Thy five most precious wounds, pondering over them within me, and calling to mind the words which David in prophecy made Thee say concerning Thyself, my Jesus: ‘They have pierced My hands and feet; they have numbered all My bones.” (Plen. Ind. Conditions: Conf., Comm., Prayers for intention of Holy Father.— Pius IX. July 31, 1858.) 44 THANKSGIVING AFTER COMMUNION (Psalm XCV) ING unto the Lord a new canticle; sing unto the Lord, all the earth. Sing ye to the Lord and bless His Name: Pro- claim the tidings of His salvation from day to day. Declare His glory among the Gentiles: His marvelous works among all peoples. For the Lord is great, and exceedingly to be praised: He is to be feared above all gods. For all the gods of the Gentiles are devils: but the Lord made the heavens. Honor and majesty are before Him: holiness and beauty are in His sanctuary. Give ye to the Lord, O ye families of the peoples, give ye to the Lord glory and honor: Give to the Lord the glory of His Name. Bring up sacrifices, and come into His courts. Adore ye the Lord in His holy array. Let all the earth be moved at His presence. Say ye among the Gentiles, the Lord hath reigned, Yea, the world hath He ordered that it shall not be moved: He will judge the peoples with justice. Let the heavens rejoice, and Iet the earth re- joice, let the sea roar, and the fulness thereof. The fields and all things that are in them shall be joyful. Then shall all the trees of the woods rejoice. Before the face of the Lord, for He cometh: for He cometh to judge the earth. He shall judge the world with justice, and the people with His truth. DEVOTIONS FOR MASS The Ordinary of the Mass The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass is the unbloody sacrifice of the Body and Blood of Christ. It is substantially the same as the bloody sacrifice of the cross, and was instituted by our Lord at the Last Supper on the first Holy Thurs- day evening, just as He was entering upon His Passion. Then it was that He changed bread and wine into His most holy Body and Blood, and offered them in sacrifice, giving at the same time to His apostles and their successors the power and the command to continue this sacred action in memory of Him to the end of time. The Mass is, therefore, a daily renewal of the Passiou of Christ and an application to our souls of the fruits thereof. It is offered for four specific ends: (1) as a supreme act of adoration of the Divine Majesty; (2) as a most acceptable act of thanksgiving; (3) as a most potent satisfaction for appeasing God’s offended justice; (4) as a most powerful means of obtaining all blessings for soul and body. 46 THE ASPERGES The Asperges The Asperges, or sprinkling with holy water, is per- formed every Sunday, immediately before High Mass, except when the Bishop celebrates pontifically. The priest who is about to celebrate High Mass, first blesses the holy water and then enters the sanctuary vested in his alb and stole (and sometimes in a cope also), accom- panied by an acolyte bearing the vessel of holy water (at Solemn Mass he is accompanied also by the deacon and subdeacon). Arriving at the foot of the altar, the priest, while intoning the following antiphon, sprinkles the altar three times; then himself, and afterwards his assistants. Then going down into the church, he sprinkles the con- gregation. NTIPHON. As- NTIPHON. Thou perges me, Domine, hyssopo, et mundabor: lavabis me, et super nivem dealbabor. Psalm 50, 3. Mise- rere mei, Deus, secun- dum magnam_ miseri- cordiam tuam. Versicle. Gloria Pa- tri, etc. Ant. Asperges me, etc. shalt sprinkle me, O Lord, with hyssop, and I shall be cleansed: Thou shalt wash me, and I shall be made whiter than snow. Psalm 50, 3. Have mercy on me, O God, according to Thy great mercy. Versicle. Glory be to the Father, etc. Ant. Thou sprinkle me, etc. shalt The priest, being returned to the foot of tke altar, says the following versicles and prayer: THE ASPERGES 47 STENDE Domine, cordiam tuam. R. Et salutare tuum da nobis. V. Domine, exaudi orationem meam. R. Et clamor meus ad te veniat. nobis, miseri- HOW us Thy mercy, O Lord. R. And grant us Thy salvation. V. O Lord, hear my prayer. R. And let my cry come unto Thee. V. Dominus vobis- V. The Lord be with cum. you. R. Et cum spiritu R. And with thy tuo. spirit. Let us Pray XAUDI nos, Do- mine sancte, Pater omnipotens, «terne Deus; et mittere dig- neris sanctum Angelum tuum de cezlis, qui cus- todiat, foveat, protegat, visitet, atque defendat omnes habitantes in hoc habitaculo. Per Chris- tum Dominum nos- trum. Amen. EAR us, O holy Lord, Father al- mighty, everlasting God; and vouchsafe to send Thy holy angel from heaven, to guard, cherish, protect, visit, and defend all those that are assembled to- gether in this house. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. From Easter to Pentecost inclusively, instead of the foregoing antiphon the following is sung, and Alleluia is added to the versicle, (Ostende nobis), and also to Its response (Et salutare). 48 THE VIDI AQUAM The Visi Aquam NTIPHON. Vidi aquam_ egredien- tem de templo a Jatere dextro, Alleluia; et omnes ad quos perve- nit aqua ista salvi facti sunt, et dicent, Alle- Juia, alleluia. Psalm _ 117, 1, Con fitemint Domino, quo- niam bonus: quoniam in seculum misericordia ejus. Gloria Patri, etc. NTIPHON. I saw water flowing from the right side of the temple, Alleluia; and all unto whom that _ water came were saved, and they shall say, Alle- luia, alleluta. Ps GlIM etl 7,8 3uee praise the Lord, for He is good; for His mercy endureth forever. Glory be to the Father, etc. The Antipbon Vidi aquam is repeated. EDITORS’ NOTE Tue Ordinary of the Mass as given, appears in double column, with a printed line between. As a guide for the reader, this line varies so as to follow correctly the Celebrant at low mass, and also when Communion is being distributed, as follows: Prayers said at Low Mass are marked: | Prayers said only at Solemn Mass: | Prayers said while giving Communion: || COPYRIGHT, 1928 BY P. J. KENEDY & SONS, NEW YORK ee { <-> SC; oS The First Part of the Mass, or the Mass of the Catechumens The term “catechumens” designates those who have been receiving religious instruction, but have not yet been admitted to Baptism. In the early days of the Church these candidates were allowed to be present only for the first part of the Mass, being dismissed just before the Offertory. This preparatory part of the Mass con- sists: (1) of the prayers, and confession of sins, made at the foot of the altar; (2) of the prayers which the priest says on going to the book, namely, the Introit or entrance hymn, Kyrie, and Gloria; (3) of the Collect, or prayer, expressing the central thought of the feast; and (4) of the lessons of instruction chosen from the Epistles and Gospels. The Mass of the Catechumens terminates with the Nicene Creed, which is said on Sundays and greater feasts. The purpose of the Mass of the Catechumens is three- fold: (1) to praise God; (2) to pray for the various needs of the Church; (3) to mstruct the faithful. 1. PREPARATORY PRAYERS AT THE FOOT OF THE ALTAR N nomine Patris, N the name of the + et) Fill, et Father, 4 and of Spiritus sancti. Amen. | the Son, and of the Holy Ghost.Amen. 40 MASS OF THE CATECHUMENS Antipbon. Introtbo ad altare Det. Response. Ad Deum qui letificat juventu- tem meam. Antipbon. I will go unto the altar of God. Response. To God Who giveth joy to my youth, PSALM XLII To be omitted in Passion-tide and in Masses for the Dead. UDICA me, Deus, et discerne cau- sam meam de gente non sancta: ab homme ini- quo, et doloso erue me. Ministers. Quia tu es Deus fortitudo mea: quare me repulisti, et quare tristis incedo, dum affligit me inimI- cus? Priest. Emitte lu- cem tuam, et veritatem tuam: Ipsa me deduxe- runt, et adduxerunt in montem sanctum tuum, et in tabernacula tua. M. Et introibo ad altare Dei: ad Deum qui letificat juventu- tem meam. UDGE me, O Lord, and —_ distinguish my cause from the na- tion not holy: deliver me from the unjust and deceitful man. Ministers. For Thou, O God, art my strength: why hast Thou cast me off? and why do I go sorrowful whilst the enemy afflicteth me? Priest. Send forth Thy light and truth: they have conducted me and brought me unto Thy holy mount and into Thy tabernacles. M. And I will go un- to the altar of God: to God, Who giveth joy to my youth. MASS OF THE CATECHUMENS P. Confitebor tibi m cithara, Deus, Deus meus; quare tristis es, anima mea, et quare conturbas me? M. Spera in Deo, quoniam adhuc con- fitebor illi: salutare vultus mei, et Deus meus. P. Gloria Patri, et Filio et Spiritur Sancto. M. Sicut erat in prin- cipio, et nunc, et sem- per, et in secula secu- lorum. Amen. Ant. Introibo ad al- tare Dei. R. Ad Deum, qui letificat juventutem meam. V. Adjutorium nos- trum in nomine Domini. R. Qui fecit calum et terram. 51 P. To Thee, O God, my God, I will give praise upon the harp: why art thou sad, my soul, and why dost thou disquiet me? M. Hope in God, for I will still give praise to Him: the salvation of my countenance and my God, P. Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost. M. As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen. Ant. I will go in un- to the altar of God. R. To God, Who giveth joy to my youth. V. Our help is in the name of the Lord. R. Who hath made heaven and earth. Humbly bowing down, the priest continues: ONFITEOR Deo omnipotent, beatzee Marie semper Virgini, beato Michaeli | CONFESS to al- ls mighty God, to blessed Mary ever Vir- gin, to blessed Michael 52 MASS OF THE CATECHUMENS Archangelo, beato Jo- anni Baptiste, sanctis Apostolis Petro et Paulo, omnibus Sanctis, et vobis, fratres, quia peccavi nimis cogita- tione, verbo, et opere, mea culpa, mea culpa, mea maxima culpa. Ideo precor beatam Ma- riam semper Virginem, beatum Michaelem Archangelum, beatum Joannem Baptistam, sanctos Apostolos Pe- trum et Paulum, om- nes Sanctos, et vos, fratres, orare pro me ad Dominum Deum nostrum. M. Misereatur tui omnipotens Deus, et dimissis peccatis tuis, perducat te ad vitam eternam. P. Amen. the Archangel, toblessed John the Baptist, to the holy Apostles Peter and Paul, and to all the Saints, and to you, brethren, that I have sinned exceedingly in thought, word, and deed, through my fault, through my fault, through my most griev- ous fault. Therefore I beseech blessed Mary ever Virgin, blessed Michael the Archangel, blessed John the Bap- tist, the holy Apostles Peter and Paul, and all the Saints, and you, brethren, to pray to the Lord our God for me. M. May almighty God have mercy upon thee, and forgive thee thy sins, and bring thee unto life everlasting. P. Amen. The ministers then recite the Con/fiteor. ISEREATUR vestri omnipotens Deus, et dimissis pecca- AY almighty God have mercy upon you, and forgive you MASS OF THE tis vestris, perducat vos ad vitam eternam. M. Amen. NDULGENTIAM 44 absolutionem, et remissionem pecca- torum nostrorum tri- buat nobis omnipotens et misericors Dominus. M. Amen. CATECHUMENS 53 your sins, and bring you unto life everlasting. M. Amen. Y the almighty and merciful Lord grant us pardon, 4 ab- solution, and remission of our sins. M. Amen. Again bowing, the priest continues: V. Deus, tu conver- sus vivificabts nos. R. Et plebs tua leta- bitur im te. V. Ostende nobis, Domine, misericordiam tuam. R. Et salutare tuum da nobis. V. Domme, exaudi orationem meam. R. Et clamor meus ad te veniat. V. Dominus — vobis- cum. R. Et cum spiritu tuo. Oremus. V. Thou shalt turn again, O God, and quicken us. R. And Thy people shall rejoice in Thee. V. Show us Thy mercy, O Lord. R, And grant.us Thy salvation. V. O Lord, hear my prayer. R. And let my cry come unto Thee. V. The Lord be with you. R. And with spirit. Let us pray. thy 54 MASS OF THE CATECHUMENS Going up to the altar, the priest says inaudibly: UFER a= nobis, quesumus, Do- mine, Iniquitates nos- tras: ut ad Sancta sanctorum puris merea- mur mentibus introire. Per Christum Domi- num nostrum. Amen. AKE away from us our iniquities, we beseech Thee, O Lord: that we may be worthy to enter with pure minds into the Holy of holies. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. Bowing down over the altar, the priest kisses it, saying: RAMUS te, Do- mine, per merita Sanctorum tuorum quorum reliquie hic sunt, et omnium Sanc- torum, ut indulgere dig- neris omnia peccata mea. Amen. E beseech Thee, O Lord, by the merits of Thy saints whose relics are here, and of all the saints, that Thou wouldst vouchsafe to forgive me all my sins. Amen. At Solemn Mass incense is blessed B illo benedicaris in cuius’ honore cremaberis. Amen. E thou blessed by Him in_ whose honor thou shalt burn. Amen. 2. FROM THE INTROIT TO THE COLLECT At Solemn Mass the altar is incensed before the Introit and Kyrie. The use of incense is intended to symbolize prayer, according to the words of the Psalmist: Let my prayer, O Lord, be directed as incense in Thy sight” The Introit _ The Introit and other variable parts of the Mass here given are taken from the Mass of Trinity Sunday. (PSiiexiee2)s MASS OF THE CATECHUMENS 55 LESSED be the Holy Trinity and Undivided Unity: we will give praise to Him, because He hath shown His mercy unto us. O Lord, our Lord, how admirable is Thy Name in the whole earth! Glory be to the Father, etc. The Kyrie YRIE eleison, Ministers. Kyrie eleison, P. Kyrie eleison, M. Christe eleison, P. Christe eleison, M. Christe eleison, P. Kyrie eleison, M. Kyrie eleison, P, Kyrie eleison. ORD, have mercy, Ministers. Lord, have mercy. Polvord, hia ve mercy. M. Christ, have mercy. BP Christ...bave mercy, M. Christ, have mercy, P. Lord, have mercy, Vise ls Og c ae Daa ae mercy, P. Lord, have mercy. The Gloria Afterwards, at the middle of the altar, the priest says the Gloria in excelsis, the magnificent hymn of adoration. The Gloria is omitted on Sundays during Lent and Advent. LORIA in excelsis Deo; et im terra pax homimibus bone voluntatis. Laudamus te; benedicimus te; ado- ramus te; glorificamus LORY be to God on high, and on earth peace to men of good will. We praise Thee; we bless Thee; we worship Thee; we glorify 56 MASS OF THE CATECHUMENS te. Gratias agimus tibi propter magnam_ glo- riam tuam. Domine Deus, Rex ccelestis, Deus pater omnipotens. Domine Fili unigenite, Jesu Christe: Domine Deus, Agnus Dei, Filtus Patris, qui tollis pec- cata mundi, miserere nobis: qui tollis peccata mundi, suscipe depre- cationem nostram: qul sedes ad dexteram Pa- tris, miserere nobis. Quoniam tu solus sanc- tus: tu solus Dominus: tu solus__altissimus, Jesu Christe, cum Sanc- to Spiritu, in gloria Dei Patris. Amen. Thee. We give Thee thanks for Thy great glory, O Lord God, heavenly King, God the Father almighty. O Lord, the only-begotten Son, Jesus Christ; QO Lord God, Lamb of God, Son of the Father, Who takest away the sins of the world, have mercy onus: Thou Who takest away the sins of the world, receive our prayer: Thou Who sittest at the right hand of the Father, have mercy onus. For Thou only art holy: Thou only art the Lord: Thou only, O Jesus Christ, with the Holy Ghost, art most high in the glory of God the Father. Amen. 3. THE COLLECT The priest kisses the altar, and, turning to the people, says: V. Dominus vobis- | cum. R. Et cum = spiritu tuo. Oremus. V. The Lord be with you. R. And spirit. Let us pray. with thy MASS OF THE CATECHUMENS 57 The Collect ALMIGHTY and everlasting God, Who hast granted Thy servants in the confession of the true faith, to acknowledge the glory of -an Eternal Trinity, and im the power of majesty to adore a Unity; we beseech Thee, that by the strength of this faith we may be defended from all adversity. Through Jesus Christ Our Lord Amen. 4. FROM THE EPISTLE TO THE CREED Refer to last pages for the Epistle of the day. Lesson from the Epistle of St. Paul to the Romans (XI). THE depth of the riches of the wisdom and of the knowledge of God! How mcompre- hensible are His judgments, and how unsearchable His ways! For who has known the mind of the Lord? Or who has been His counsellor? Or who has first given to Him, and recompense shall be made him? For of Him, and by Him, and m Him are all things. To him be glory forever. Amen. R. Deo gratias. R. Thanks be to God. The Gradual LESSED art Thou, O Lord, Who beholdest the deep, and sitteth on the cherubim. Blessed art Thou, O Lord, m the firmament of heaven, and worthy of praise forever. Alleluia! Alleluia! 58 MASS OF THE CATECHUMENS Before the Gospel UNDA cor meum ac labia mea, om- nipotens Deus, qui labia Isai prophet calculo mundasti igni- to: Ita me tua grata miseratione dignare mundare, ut sanctum Evangelium tuum dig- ne valeam nuntiare. Per Christum Domi- num nostrum. Amen. Jube Domine bene- dicere. Dominus sit in corde meo et in labiis meis, ut digne et competen- ter annuntiem Evange- Itum suum. Amen. LEANSE my heart and my lips, O almighty God, Who didst. cleanse the lips of the prophet Isaias with a burning coal; and vouchsafe, through Thy gracious mercy, so to purify me, that I may worthily proclaim Thy holy Gospel. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. Lord, blessing. The Lord be m my heart and on my Iips, that I may worthily and fittingly proclaim Thy grant ‘ His holy Gospel Amen. At Solemn Mass the deacon before singing the Gospel is blessed by the priest. panied by a procession, lights and incense. The singing of the Gospel is accom- In other Masses the celebrant, going to the Gospel side, reads the Gospel. The Gospel OMINUS cum. R. Et cum. spiritu tuo. vobis- HE Lord be with you. R. And with thy spirit. MASS OF THE CATECHUMENS 59 V. Sequentia sancti V. The continua- Evangelit secundum | tion of the Gospel ac- Mattheum (xxviii) 18- | cording to St. Matthew 20. (xxvill) 18-20. ~R. Gloria tibi, Do- R. Glory be to Thee, mine. O Lord. Here is read The Gospel Refer to last pages for the Gospel of the day. The following may be read for the Gospel. (Matt. XXVIII, 18-20) | T that time, Jesus said to His disciples: All | power is given to Me in heaven and on earth. Go ye, therefore, and teach all nations, baptizmg them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost; teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and behold, I am with you all days, even to the consummation of the world. R. Laus tibi, Christe! R. Praise be to Thee, O Christ. The priest kisses the Gospel, saying: Per evangelica dicta By the words of the deleantur nostra delicta. | Gospel may our sins be blotted out. In Solemn Mass the celebrant is incensed by the deacon after the Gospel. Here also the sermon is usually preached. 60 MASS OF THE CATECHUMENS 5. THE NICENE CREED The Creed, or profession of faith, was formulated by the Councils of Nicea and Constantinople in the fourth century. The priest recites it at the middle of the altar. At the INCARNATUs EsT both priest and people genuflect in honor of the mystery of the Incarnation of the Son of God. REDO in unum Deum, Patrem omnipotentem, Facto- rem cceli et terre, visi- biltum omnium et in- visibilium. Eteguin unum Dominum Jesum Christum, Filtum Der unigenitum, et ex Patre natum ante omnia se- cula. Deum de Deo; Lumen de _ Lumine; Deum verum de Deo vero; genitum, non fac- tum; consubstantialem Patri, per quem omnia facta sunt. Qui propter nos homines, et propter nostram salutem, de- scendit de ccelis [Here all kneel.} et incar- natus est de Spiritu Sancto, ex Maria Vir- gine: ET HOMO FACTUS EsT. Crucifixus etiam pro nobis: sub Pontio BELIEVE in one God, the Father almighty, Maker heaven and earth, and of all things visible and invisible. only-begotten Son of God, born of the Father before all ages. God of | God; Light of Light; | very God of very God; begotten, not) made; of one substance with the Father, by Whom all things were | made. Who for’ us men, and for our salva- tion, came down from heaven, [Here all kneel.] and was incarnate by the Holy Ghost of the Virgin Mary; AND WAS MADE MAN. He was crucified also for us, suffered under Pontius of And in one Lord Jesus Christ, the | MASS OF THE CATECHUMENS 61 Pilato passus et sepul- tus est. Et resurrexit tertia die secundum Scripturas; et ascendit in coelum, sedet ad dex- teram Patris: et ite- rum venturus est cum gloria judicare vivos et mortuos: cujus regni non erit finis. Et in Spiritum Sanc- tum, Dominum et vivI- Ieantem, qui ex Patre Filioque procedit: qui 2um Patre et Filio simul adoratur et conglorifica- cur; qui locutus est per orophetas. Et unam sanctam catholicam *t apostolicam Eccle- siam. Confiteor unum yaptisma in remissio- rem peccatorum. Et *xpectc resurrectionem nortuorum, et vitam venturi seculi, Amen. Pilate, and was buried. The third day He rose again according to the Scriptures; and as- cended into heaven, and sitteth at the right hand of the Father: and He shall come again with glory to judge both the living and the dead: of Whose kingdom there shall be no end. And I believe in the Holy Ghost, the Lord and Giver of life, Who proceedeth from the Father and the Son: Who together with the Father and the Son is worshiped and _ glori- fied; Who spoke by the Prophets. And, one, holy, catholic and apostolic Church. | confess one baptism for the remission of sins. And I look for the res- urrection of the dead, and the life of the world to come. Amen. The Second Part of the Mass, or the Mass of the Faithful This is the essential part of the Mass, containing the Sacrifice and the Eucharistic Banquet. It is called “The Mass of the Faithful’? because in the early centuries none but the baptized were allowed to assist at it. It is divided into various parts. These parts are: (1) the Offertory; (2) the Preface; (3) the Canon; (4) the Pater Noster; (5) from the Agnus Dei to the Dismissal or Ite Missa est; (6) the Conclusion. 1. THE OFFERTORY The Offertory is'the fivst act of the Sacrifice, in which the priest offers to God the bread and wine which are later to be consecrated into the Body and Blood of Christ. At this point it was customary in ancient times for the faithful to present the bread and wine for the Sacrifice, together with other gifts for religious and charitable purposes; hence the name “offertory.” In later ages the present offertory collection was made to take the place of the former practice. Turning to the people, the priest salutes them: | V. Dominus vobis- V. The Lord be with} cum. you. | R. Et cum spiritu R. And with thy) tuo. spirit. | MASS OF THE FAITHFUL 63 The Offertory Prayer LESSED be God the Father, and the only- begotten Son of God, as likewise the Holy Ghost; for He has shown mercy to us. At the offering of the bread USCIPE, CCEPT, O holy Pater, Father, Almighty, sancte omnipo- tens, eterne Deus, hanc immaculatam hostiam, quam ego indignus fa- mulus tuus offero tibi Deo meo vivo et vero, innumerabilibus pro peccatis, et offensio- nibus, et negligentiis meis, et pro omnibus circumstantibus; sed et pro omnibus fidelibus christianis, vivis atque defunctis; ut mihi et illis proficiat ad salutem in vitam eternam. ~ Amen. Everlasting God, this stainless host, which I, Thine unworthy serv- ant, offer unto Thee, my God, living and true, for mine Innumer- able sins, offenses, and negligences, and for all here present; as also for all faithful Chris- tians, both living and dead, that it may be profitable for my own and for their salvation unto life eternal. Amen. At taking wine and water 7 EUS, qui humane : substantie digni- tatem mirabiliter condi- disti, et murabilius re- formasti: da nobis per hujus aque et vini mys- GOD, Who hast wonderfully framed man’s - exalted nature, and still more wonderfully restored it: grant us, by the 64 MASS OF THE FAITHFUL terium, ejus divinitatis esse consortes, qui hu- manitatis nostre fieri dignatus est particeps, Jesus Christus, Filius tuus, Dominus noster; qui tecum vivit et reg- nat in unitate Spiritus Sancti Deus, per omnia seecula szeculorum. mystic signification of this commingling of water and wine, to be- come partakers of His Godhead Who vouch- safed to become partaker of our man- hood, Jesus Christ, Thy Son, our Lord; Who liveth and reigneth with Thee in the unity of the Holy Ghost, for ever and ever. Amen. At the offering of the wine Amen. FFERIMUS | tibi, Domine, calicem salutaris, tuam depre- cantes clementiam, ut In conspectu. divine Majestatis tug, pro nostra et totius mundi salute cum odore sua- vitatis ascendat. Amen. E offer unto Thee, O Lord, the chal- ice of salvation, be- seeching Thy clemency that, in the sight of Thy divine Majesty, It may ascend with the odor of sweetness, for our sal- | vation, and for that of the whole world. | Amen. Invocations N_ spiritu) humili- tatis, et In animo contrito, suscipiamur a te, Domine, et sic fiat N a humble spirit and a_ contrite heart may webereceived by Thee, O Lord; and MASS OF THE FAITHFUL 65 sacrificlum nostrum in conspectu tuo hodie, ut placeat tibi, Domine Deus. ENI, sanctificator, | omnipotens, #ter- ne Deus et_ benedic hoc. sacrificlum, tuo ‘sancto nomini prepa- ratum. ER intercessionem beatr Michaelis Archangeli, stantis a dextris altaris incensi, et omnium electorum suorum, incensum istud dignetur Dominus benedicere, et in odorem suavitatis accipere. Per Christum Dominum nostrum. Amen. Incensing of the NCENSUM istuda te benedictum as- cendat ad te, Domine, et descendat super nos misericordia tua. Iet our Sacrifice be so made in Thy sight this day that it may please Thee, O Lord God. OME, O Sanctifier, Almighty, Eternal God, and bless this Sac- rifice set forth to Thy holy name. The blessing of the incense at Solemn Mass Y the imtercession of blessed Michael the Archangel, stand- ing at the right hand of the Altar of Incense, and of all His elect, may the Lord vouch- safe to bless this incense, and receive it as an odor of sweetness. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. offerings and altar Y this incense which Thou hast blessed, O Lord, ascend to Thee, and may Thy mercy descend upon us. 66 MASS OF THE FAITHFUL Then the priest incenses the altar, saying: IRIGATUR, Do- mine, oratio mea sicut incensum in con- spectu. tuo: elevatio manuum mearum sacri- fictum vespertinum. Pone, Domine, custo- diam ori meo, et ostium circumstantie labiis meis. Ut non declinet cor meum in verba malitiz, ad excusandas excusa- tiones in peccatis. ET my prayer, O Lord, be directed as incense in Thy sight: and the lifting up of my hands as the eve- ning sacrifice. Set a watch, O Lord, before my mouth, and a door round about my lips. That my heart may not incline to evil words, to make excuses In sins, Giving the censer to the deacon, the priest says: CCENDAT in no- bis Dominus _ig- nem sui amoris, et flammam stern cari- tatis. Amen. AY the Lord en- kindle in us the fire of His love, and the flame of everlasting charity. Amen. Here at Solemn Mass the Celebrant is incensed by the deacon, who next incenses the clergy present in choir and the other ministers at the altar. At the washing of the fingers Psalm XX V AVABO inter inno- centes manus meas: et circumdabo altare tuum, Domine. WILL wash my hands among the innocent: and I will compass Thine altar, O Lord. MASS OF THE FAITHFUL 67 Ut audiam vocem Jaudis: et enarrem uni- versa mirabilia tua. Domine, dilexi de- corem domus tux, et Iocum habitationis glo- riz tue. Ne perdascum impiis, Deus, animam meam; et cum viris sanguinum vitam meam. In quorum manibus Iniquitates sunt: dex- tera eorum repleta est muneribus. Ego autem in inno- centia mea _ ingressus sum: redime me et miserere mei. Pes meus stetit in di- recto: in ecclesiis bene- dicam te, Domine. Gloria Patri, et Filio, et Spiritui Sancto. Sicut erat in prin- cipio, et nunc, et sem- per, et in secula secu- Jorum. Amen. That I may hear the voice of praise, and tell of all Thy wondrous works. O Lord, I have loved the beauty of Thy house, and the place where Thy _ glory dwelleth. Take not away my soul, O God, with the wicked, nor my_ life with men of blood. In whose hands are iniquities: their right hand is filled with gifts. But as for me, I have walked In my ino- cence: redeem me, and be merciful unto me. My foot hath stood in the right way: in the churches I will bless Thee, O Lord. Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost. As it was in the be- ginning, Is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen. 68 MASS OF THE FAITHFUL Oblation Before the middle of the altar the priest says: ye sancta Trinitas, hanc ob- lationem quam _ tibi offerimus ob memoriam passionis, _ resurrec- tionis, et ascensionis Jesu Christi, Domini nostri: et in honorem beatze Maria semper Virginis, et beati Joan- nis Baptiste, et sanc- torum Apostolorum Petri et Pauli, et is- torum et omnium Sanc- torum: ut illis proficiat ad honorem, nobis au- tem ad salutem: et ili pro nobis _ intercedere dignentur in ccelis, quo- rum memoriam agimus in terris. Per eumdem Christum §Dominum nostrum. Amen. ECEIVE, O Holy Trinity, this obla- tion, which we offer unto Thee, in memory of the passion, resur- rection, and ascension of our Lord Jesus Christ, and in honor of blessed Mary ever Virgin, of blessed John the Bap- tist, of the holy apostles Peter and Paul, of these and of all Thy saints: that it may be to their honor and to our sal- vation: and may they vouchsafe to intercede for us in heaven, whose memory we celebrate on earth. Through the same Christ our Lord. Amen. Invitation to prayer The priest kisses the altar, and turning toward the people, says: RATE, fratres, ut meum ac vestrum sacrificium acceptabile RAY, my brethren, that my _ sacrifice and yours may be ac- MASS OF THE FAITHFUL 69 ceptable to God the Father almighty. fiat apud Deum Patrem omnipotentem. The ministers answer: USCIPIAT Domi- AY the Lord receive nus sacrificium de the Sacrifice from manibus tuis, ad lau- | thy hands, to the praise dem et gloriam nominis | and glory of His Name, sui, ad utilitatem quo- | to our benefit, and to que nostram, totiusque | that of all His holy Ecclesiz suze sancte. Church. The priest replies in a low voice, Amen, and proceeds to say: The Secret Prayer ANCTIFY, we beseech Thee, O Lord our God, by the invocation of Thy holy Name, the victim of this oblation; and by it make us ourselves an eternal offering to Thee. Through Christ our Lord, etc. 2. THE PREFACE The Preface is an introduction to the Canon, or most solemn part of the Mass. It varies according to seasons. The one that follows is said on every Sunday of whe year that has no special Preface of its own. ER omnia sezcula ORLD without seeculorum. end. R. Amen. R. Amen. V. Dominus _ vobis- V. The Lord be with }cum. you. 70 MASS OF THE FAITHFUL R. Et cum tuo. V. Sursum corda. spiritu R. Habemus ad Do- minum. V. Gratias agamus Domino Deo nostro. R. Dignum et jus- tum est. ERE dignum et justum est, qu- um et salutare, nos tibi semper et ubique gra- tias agere, Domine sancte, Pater omni- potens, eterne Deus. Qui cum unigenito Filio tuo et Spiritu Sancto unus es Deus, unus es Dominus: non in untus singularitate persone, sed in unius Trinitate substantia. Quod enim de tua gloria, re- velante te, credimus, hoc de Filio’ tuo, hoc de Spiritu Sancto, sine differentia discretionis sentimus. Ut in con- fessione verze sempiter- R. And with thy spirit. Veet ae Ups esyoun hearts. R. We lift them up unto the Lord. V. Let us give thanks unto the Lord our God. R. It is worthy and just. T is truly worthy and just, right and profitable unto salva- tion, that we should at all times and in all places give thanks unto Thee, O holy Lord, Father almighty, eter- nal God. Who, with Thine only-begotten Son and the Holy Ghost, art one God, one Lord: not in the single- ness of one only Person, but in the Trinity of one Substance. For what we believe of Thy glory, as Thou hast revealed it, that we believe of Thy Son, and that of the Holy MASS OF THE FAITHFUL Ft neque Deitatis, et in personis proprietas, et In essentia unitas, et in majestate adoretur zqualitas. Quem lau- dant Angeli at que Archangeli, Cherubim quoque ac Seraphim, qui non cessant cla- mare quotidie, una voce dicentes: Ghost, without any dif- ference or inequality. That in the confession of the true and eternal Godhead, distinction in persons, unity in essence, and equality in majesty may be adored. Whom the Angels and Archangels, the Cherubim also and Seraphim, do _ praise; who cease not daily to cry out, with one voice | saying: Here the bell is rung thrice to give notice of the begin- ning of the Canon. ANCTUS, sanctus, sanctus, Dominus Deus Sabaoth. Pleni sunt celi et terra gloria tua. Hosanna in ex- celsis. Benedictus qui venit in nomine Do- mini. Hosanna in excelsis. OLY, Holy, Holy, Lord God of hosts. Heaven and earth are full of Thy glory. Ho- sanna in the highest. Blessed is he who com- eth in the name of the Lord. Hosanna in the highest. ag “ A A) Ne, RY WZ} 11 UN 3. THE CANON This is the most sacred part of the Mass. It consists of many prayers of very great antiquity; some of its words were used by Our Lord Himself at the Last Supper; it is called “Canon,” Le., rule or standard, because it is unchangeable in every Mass with but few exceptions. Prayer for the Whole Church The priest now prays in secret: E igitur, clementis- sime Pater, per Jesum Christum Filtum tuum Dominum nos- trum, supplices roga- mus ac petimus, uti accepta habeas et bene- dicas hec dona, hee munera, hec_ sancta sacrificia illibata, im primis, que tibi offeri- mus pro Ecclesia tua sancta catholica: quam pacificare, custodire, adunare, et regere dig- E, therefore, hum- bly pray and be- seech Thee, most merci- ful Father, through Jesus Christ, Thy Son, our Lord, that Thou wouldst accept and bless these gifts, these presents, these holy unspotted sacrifices, which, in the first place, we offer Thee for Thy holy Catholic Church: which vouchsafe to pacify, guard, unite, 74 CANON OF THE MASS neris toto orbe_ ter- rarum, una cum famu- Io tuo Papa nostra N., et Antistite nostro N., et omnibus orthodoxis, atque catholicae et apostolice fidei cul- toribus. and govern throughout the whole world, to- gether with Thy serv- ant N. our Pope; N. our Bishop; as also all orthodox believers and professors of the Catho- lic and Apostolic faith. The Commemoration of the Living EMENTO, Do- mine, famulorum famularumque tuarum, N. et N., EMEMBER, O Lord, Thy serv- ants and handmaids, N. and N., The priest pauses, and, joining bis bands, prays silently for those he wishes to pray for in particular; and proceeds: Et omnium_ circum- stantium, quorum tibi fides cognita est, et nota devotio: pro qul- bus tibi offerimus, vel qui tibr offerunt hoc sacrifictum laudis, pro se, suisque omnibus, pro redemptione ani- marum suarum, pro spe salutis et incolumitatis sue: tibique reddunt vota sua, eterno Deo, Vivo et vero. And all here present whose faith and devo- tion are known to Thee; for whom we offer, or who offer up to Thee this Sacrifice of praise for themselves and all pertaining to them for the redemp- tion of their souls, for the hope of their salva- tion and well-being, and who pay their vows un- to Thee, the eternal, living and true God. CANON OF THE MASS) 745 Prayer in honor of the Saints OMMUNICANTES, et memoriam ve- nerantes, In primis glo- riose semper Virginis Marie, Genitrici Dei et Domini nostri Jesu Christi: sed et bea- torum Apostolorum ac Martyrum tuorum, Petri et Pauli, Andree, Jacobi, Joannis, Thome, Jacobi, Phi- lippi, Bartholomei, Matthz, Simonis et Thaddei; Lini, Clett, Clementis, Xysti, Cor- nelii, Cypriani, Lau- rentii, Chrysogoni, HoapDniss.éet. Pauli, Cosme et Damiani: et omnium Sanctorum tuorum; quorum meri- tis precibusque conce- das, ut In omnibus pro- tectionis tue muniamur auxilio. Per eumdem Christum Dominum nostrum, Amen, N communion with, and honoring the memory, especially of the glorious ever Virgin Mary, Mother of our God and Lord Jesus Christ; as also of Thy blessed apostles and martyrs, Peter and Paul, Andrew, James, John, Thomas, James, Philip, Bartholomew, Matthew, Simon and Thaddeus; of Linus, Cletus, Clement, Sixtus, Cornelius, Cyprian, Lawrence, Chrysogo- nus, John and Paul, Cosmas and Damian: and of all Thy saints; by whose merits and prayers grant that we may in all things be de- fended by the aid of Thy protection. Through the same Christ our Lord. Amen. 76 CANON OF THE MASS Another Prayer of Oblation Here the bell is rung once to warn the faithful of the approaching consecration of the bread and wine. ANC igitur oblatio- HIS oblation,there- nem servitutis nos- fore, of our serv- tre, sed et cuncte | ice, and that of Thy familie tue, quesu- | whole family, we be- mus, Domine, ut placa- | seech Thee, O Lord, tus accipias; diesque | graciously to accept; nostros in tua pace | and to dispose our days disponas, atque ab | in Thy peace, and to zeterna damnatione nos | command us to be de- eripi, et in electorum | livered from _ eternal tuorum jubeas grege | damnation, and to be numerari. Per Chris- | numbered in the flock tum Dominum nos- | of Thine elect. Through trum. Amen. Christ our Lord. Amen. CONSECRATION AND ELEVATION The words of consecration which the priest uses are the same as those employed by Christ at the Last Supper, and effect the transubstantiation of the bread and wine into the Body and Blood of our Saviour. Immediately after the consecration of the bread, as also after that of the wine, the priest genuflects in adoration of the Real Presence of Christ, and then elevates the Sacred Species for the adoration of the faithful. The elevation in the Mass after the consecration was introduced toward the close of the twelfth century as a protest against the teaching of Peter the Chanter who held that the transubstantiation was not effected until after the consecration of the chalice. CANON OF THE MASS Ch UAM_ oblationem, tu Deus, in om- nibus, quesumus, bene- dictam, adscriptam, ratam, rationabilem, acceptabilemque facere digneris: ut nobis cor- pus et sanguis fiat dilectissimi Filii tui Domini nostri Jesu Christi. @y pridie quam pateretur, accepit panem in sanctas ac venerabiles manus suas, et elevatis oculis in celum, ad te Deum Patrem suum omnipo- tentem: tibr gratias agens, benedixit, fregit, deditque discipulis suis, dicens: Accipite, et manducate ex hoc omnes. HICH oblation do Thou, O God, we beseech Thee, vouch- safe to make in all things blessed, ap- proved, ratified, reason- able, and acceptable: that it may become for us the Body and Blood of Thy dearly beloved Son, our Lord Jesus Christ. HO, the day before He suffered, took bread into His holy and venerable hands, and with eyes lifted up toward heaven, unto Thee, O God, His al- mighty Father, giving thanks to Thee, did bless, break, and give unto His disciples, say- ing: All of you take and eat of this. While holding the Host with both bands, the priest pro- nounces over it the words of consecration: HOC EST ENIM CORPUS MEUM. FOR THIS IS MY BODY 78 CANON OF THE MASS At the elevation of the Host the bell is rung thrice. IMILI modo post- quam coenatum est, accipiens et hunc preclarum calicem in sanctas ac venerabiles manus suas: Item tibi gratias agens, bene- dixit, deditque dis- cipulis suis, dicens: Ac- cipite, et bibite ex eo omnes. N_ like manner, after supper, tak- ing also this excellent chalice into His holy and venerable hands: and giving thanks to Thee, He blessed, and gave to His disciples, saying: All of you take and drink of this. The priest then pronounces the following words of con- secration over the Chalice: HIC EST ENIM CALIX SANGUINIS MEI NOVI ET ETERNI TESTAMENTI: MYSTERIUM FIDEI; QUI PRO VOBIS ET PRO MUL- TIS EFFUNDETUR IN REMISSIONEM PECCATO- RUM. FOR THIS IS THE CHAL- ICE OF MY BLOOD OF THE NEW AND ETERNAL TESTAMENT: THE MYS- TERY OF FAITH; WHICH SHALL BE SHED FOR YOU AND FOR MANY, FOR THE REMISSION OF SINS. He then replaces the Chalice on the corporal, and says: Hec quotiescumque feceritis, In meI me- moriam facietis. Making a genuflection, be adores; As often as ye do these things, ye shall do them in remem. brance of Me. then, rising, be elevates the Chalice, and, replacing it upon the corporal, makes another genuflection. At the elevation of the Chalice the bell is rung thrice. CANON OF THE MASS 79 Commemoration of the Chief Mysteries of the Life of Our Lord DE et memores, Domine, nos servi tui, sed et plebs tua sancta, ejusdem Christi Filii tur Domini nostri tam beate passionis, necnon et ab _ inferis resurrectionis, sed et in celos gloriose ascen- sionis: offerimus pre- clare mayjestati tue, de tuis donis ac datis, hostiam puram, _hos- tiam sanctam, hostiam Immaculatam, panem sanctum vite eterne, et calicem salutis perpetue. HEREFORE,. O Lord, we Thy ser- vants, and likewise Thy holy people, calling to mind the blessed Pas- sion of the same Christ LDys-500,8 Our. Lords together with His Resurrection from the grave, and also His glorious ascension into heaven, offer unto Thy excellent majesty, of Thy gifts and presents, a pure victim, a holy victim, an Immaculate victim, the holy bread of eternal life, and the chalice of everlasting salvation. Prayers for the Benefits of the Sacrifice and Communion UPRA que pro- pitio ac sereno vultu respicere digneris, et accepta habere, PON which do Thou vouchsafe to look with favorable and gracious countenance, 80 CANON OF THE MASS sicuti accepta habere dignatus es munera pueri tui justi Abel, et sacrificium Patriarche nostri Abrahe; et quod tibi obtulit summus sacerdos tuus Melchise- dech, sanctum sacri- ficlum, immaculatam hostiam. and accept them, as Thou didst vouchsafe to accept the gifts of Thy just servant Abel, and the sacrifice of our patriarch Abraham, and that which Thy high-priest Melchise- dech offered unto Thee, a holy sacrifice, an unspotted victim. Bowing over the altar the priest prays: ie ed Sd kd er he il rogamus, omni- potens Deus, jube hec perferri per manus sancti angeli tui in sub- lime altare tuum, in conspectu divine majes- tatis tue, ut quotquot ex hac altaris partici- patione, sacrosanctum Filii tut Corpus et Sanguinem — sumpseri- mus, omni benedictione celesti et gratia re- pleamur. Per eumdem Christum Dominum nostrum. Amen, E humbly beseech Thee, almighty God, command _ these to be carried by the hands of Thy holy angel to Thine altar on high, m the presence of Thy divine majesty, that as many of us as shall, by partaking at this altar, receive the most sacred Body and Blood of Thy Son, may be filled with all heavenly blessing and grace. Through the same Christ our Lord. Amen. CANON OF THE MASS 81 Commemoration of the Dead EMENTO etiam, Domine, famu- lorum famularumque tuarum N. et N., qui nos precesserunt cum signo fidei, et dormiunt in somno pacis. EMEMBER, O Lord, Thy serv- ants and handmaids, N. and N., who have gone before us with the sign of faith, and sleep the sleep of peace. The priest then prays for the dead: PSIS, Domine, et omnibus in Christo quiescentibus, [locum refrigerii, lucis et pacis, ut indulgeas, depreca- mur. Per eumdem Christum Dominum nostrum. Amen. O these, O Lord, and to all who rest in Christ, grant, we pray Thee, a place of refreshment, of light, and of peace. Through the same Christ our Lord. Amen. Prayer for those Assisting at the Holy Sacrifice OBIS quoque pec- catoribus famulis tuis, de multitudine miserationum tuarum sperantibus partem ali- quam et societatem donare digneris, cum tuis sanctis Apostolis et Martyribus; cum O us also, Thy sin- ful servants, who hope in the multitude of Thy mercies, vouch- safe to grant some part and fellowship with Thy holy Apostles and Martyrs: with John, Stephen, Matthias, Bar- 82 Joanne, Stephano, Mat- thia, Barnaba, Ignatio, Alexandro, Marcellino, Petro, Felicitate, Per- petua, Agatha, Lucia, Agnete, Cecilia, Anas- tasia, et omnibus Sanc- tis tuis: Intra quorum nos consortium, non estimator meriti, sed veniz, quzsumus, lar- CANON OF gitor ..admitte. .. Per Christum Dominum nostrum. ER quem hec om- nia, Domine, sem- per bona creas, sancti- ficas, vivificas, bene- dicis, et prestas nobis. THE MASS nabas, Ignatius, Alex- ander, Marcellinus, Peter, Felicity, Perpe- tua, Agatha, Lucy, Agnes, Cecilia, An- astasia, and all Thy Saints: Into whose company, not weigh- ing our merits, but pardoning our offenses, we beseech Thee to admit us. Through Christ our Lord. Y Whom, O Lord, Thou dost always create, sanctify, quicken, bless, and be- stow upon us all these good things. Concluding Doxology, or Prayer of Praise, of the Canon ER ipsum, et cum ipso, et in ipso, est tibi Deo Patri omni- potenti, in unitate Spiritus Sancti, omnis honor et gloria. HROUGH HIM, and with Him, and in Him, is unto Thee, God the Father almighty, in the unity of the Holy Ghost, all honor and glory. PATER NOSTER 83 4. THE PATER NOSTER AND THE BREAKING OF THE HOST The Our Father is the most perfect of all prayers and was taught by Our Lord Himself to His disciples. For | this reason it has been added to the Canon, and has been placed here as a fitting preparation for Communion. It is preceded by a brief introduction, and followed by a short conclusion. The breaking of the Host symbolizes the Passion of Christ. In the days of the apostles the Eucharistic cele- bration was called “The Breaking of Bread,” in memory of the action of Our Lord at the Last Supper. V. Per omnia secula szeculorum. R. Amen. Oremus RAECEPTIS . salu- taribus moniti, et divina institutione for- mati, audemus dicere: TER NOSTER, qui es in calis, sanctificetur nomen tuum: adveniat regnum tuum: fiat voluntas tua sicut in celo, et im terra. Panem nostrum quotidianum da _ nobis hodie: et dimitte no- V. World without end. R. Amen. Let us Pray DMONISHED by Thy saving pre- cepts and following Thy divine institution, we make bold to say: UR: “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 for- give us our trespasses, 84 BREAKING OF THE HOST as we forgive those who trespass against us. bis debita nostra, sicut et nos dimittimus de- bitoribus nostris. Et | And lead us not into | ne nos inducas in ten- | temptation. tationem. R. Sed ltbera nos a R. But deliver us malo. — from evil. | The priest says inaudibly: Amen. | Amen. At Solemn Mass, the deacon here goes to the right of the priest and receives the paten from the subdeacon and in turn delivers it to the priest. IBERA nos, que- sumus, Domine, ab omnibus malis, pre- teritis, presentibus, et futuris: et intercedente beata et gloriosa sem- per Virgine Det Geni- trice Maria, cum beatis Apostolis tuis Petro et Paulo, atque Andrea, et omnibus Sanctis, da propitius pacem in die- bus nostris: ut ope misericordize tus ad- juti, et a peccato simus semper liberi, et ab omni_perturbatione securl. ELIVER us, we beseech Thee, O Lord, from all evils, past, present, and to come: and by the inter- cession of blessed and glorious Mary ever Virgin, Mother of God, together with Thy blessed Apostles Peter and Paul, and Andrew, and all the Saints, graciously give peace in our days: that, aided by the help of Thy mercy, we may be al- ways free from sin, and secure from all dis- turbance. THE COMMUNION 85 Taking the sacred Host, the priest breaks it in the center, saying: Per eumdem Do- minum nostrum Jesum Christum Filium tuum, qui tecum vivit et reg- nat in unitate Spiritus Sancti Deus. V. Per omnia secula seeculorum. R. Amen. Through the same our Lord Jesus Christ, Thy Son, Who liveth and reigneth with Thee in the unity of the Holy Ghost, God. V. World — without end. R. Amen. 56. THE COMMUNION The priest now prays for peace and forgiveness of sins as a proximate preparation for receiving the sacred Body and Blood of Christ. Immediately after Communion he recites various prayers of thanksgiving and petition. VY. Pax Domini sit semper vobiscum. R. Et cum = spiritu tuo. V. May the peace of the Lord be always with you. R. And with spirit. thy The priest drops a particle of the sacred Host in the Chalice, saying: AEC commixtio et consecratio cor- poris et sanguinis Do- mini nostri Jesu Christi fiat accipientibus nobis In vitam zeternam. Amen. Y this mingling and _ consecration of the Body and Blood of our Lord Jesus Christ be unto us that receive it effectual unto life everlasting. Amen. 86 THE COMMUNION Bowing, and striking bis breast, the priest says: GNUS Dei, qui tollis peccata mundi, miserere nobis. Agnus Dei, qui tollis peccata mundi, miserere nobis. Agnus Dei, qui tollis peccata mundi, dona nobis pacem. AMB of God, Who takest away the sins of the world, have mercy on us. Lamb of God, Who takest away the sins of the world, have mercy on us. Lamb of God, Who takest away the sins of the world, grant us Thy peace. Leaning toward the altar, be says the following prayers: OMINE Jesu Christe, qui dixisti Apostolis tuts, Pacem relinquo vobis, pacem mean do vobis: ne respicias peccata mea, sed fidem Ecclesiz tuz; eamque secundum vo- luntatem tuam_paci- ficare. et coadunare digneris. Qui vivis et regnas: Deus: in secula seeculorum. Amen. , OMIDNE Jesu Christe, Fili Der Vivi, qui ex voluntate Patris;:;cooperante LORD Jesus Christ, Who saidst to Thine Apostles, Peace I leave you, My peace I give you: look not upon my sins, but upon the faith of Thy Church; and _ vouch- safe to her that peace and unity which are agreeable to Thy will. Who livest and reignest God world without end. Amen. ORD Jesus Christ, Son of the living God, Who, according to the will of the Father, THE COMMUNION 87 Spirtu Sancto, per mortem tuam mundum vivificasti: libera me per hoc sacrosanctum cor- pus et sanguinem tuum ab omnibus iniquitati- bus meis, et universis malis: et fac me tuls semper inherere man- datis, et a te numquam separari permittas: qui cum eodem Deo Patre et Spiritu Sancto vivis et regnas Deus in se- cula seculorum. Amen. ERCEPTIO cor- poris tui, Domine Jesu Christe, quod ego indignus sumere pre- sumo, non mihi pro- veniat in judicium et condemnationem; sed pro tua pietate prosit mihi ad tutamentum mentis et corporis, et ad medelam percipien- dam. Qui vivis et reg- nas cum Deo Patre, in unitate Spiritus Sancti Deus per omnia secula seculorum. Amen. through the codpera- tion of the Holy Ghost, hast by Thy death given life to the world; de- liver me by this, Thy most sacred Body and Blood, from all my in- Iquities and from all evils; and make me ever cling to Thy com- mandments, and never suffer me to be sepa- rated from Thee; Who with the sarae God the Father, and the Holy Ghost, livest, etc. Amen. ET not the par- taking of Thy Body, O Lord Jesus Christ, which I, though unworthy, presume to receive, turn to my judgment and condem- nation; but by Thy mercy be it profitable to the safety and health both of soul and body. Who with God _ the Father, in the unity of the Holy Ghost, livest and reignest God world without end. Amen. 88 THE COMMUNION The priest takes the sacred Host in bis bands: ANEM celestem accipiam, et no- men Domini mnvocabo. WILL take the Bread of heaven, and will call upon the Name of the Lord. Here the bell is rung thrice to call attention to the approaching Communion, while the priest striking bis breast repeats the following three times: OMINE, non sum dignus ut intres sub tectum meum; sed tantum dic verbo, et sanabitur anima mea. ORD, I am not worthy that Thou shouldst enter under my roof; but only say the word, and my soul shall be healed. At the Priest’s Communion The priest receives the sacred Host, saying: ORPUS = Dominr nostri Jesu Christi custodiat animam me- am in vitam eternam. Amen. Quid retribuam Do- mino pro omnibus que retribuit mihi? Calicem salutaris accipiam, et nomen Domini invo- cabo. Laudans_ invo- cabo Dominum, et ab inimicis meis salvus ero. AY the Body of our Lord Jesus Christ preserve my soul to life everlasting. Amen. What return shall I make the Lord for all He has given to me? I will take the chalice of salvation and call upon the Name of the Lord, and shall be saved from my enemies. THE COMMUNION 89 The priest receives the Precious Blood: ANGUIS Domini nostri Jesu Christi custodiat animam meam in vitam eter- nam. Amen. AY the Blood of our Lord Jesus Christ preserve my soul to life everlasting. Amen. At the Communion of the Faithful The server or, at Solemn Mass, the Ministers now say the Confiteor on bebalf of the faithful who are to receive Holy Communion. After taking from the Tabernacle of the altar the cibo- rium, or vessel containing the Blessed Sacrament; and placing it upon the corporal, the priest makes a genu- flection, and, turning to the communicants, pronounces the Absolution: ISEREATUR tui omnipotens Deus, et dimissis peccatis tuis, perducat te ad vitam zeternam. R. Amen. NDULGENTIAM, + absolutionem, et remissionem pecca- torum tuorum tribuat tibl omnipotens et misericors Dominus. R. Amen. AY Almighty God have mercy upon thee, and forgive thee thy sins, and bring thee unto life everlasting. R. Amen. AY the Almighty and Merciful Lord grant thee pardon, Hh absolution, and remis- sion of thy sins. R. Amen. gO THE COMMUNION The priest elevates a particle of the Blessed Sacrament, and turning toward the people, says: CCE Agnus Del, ecce qui tollit pec- cata mundi, EHOLD the Lamb of God, behold Him Who taketh away the sins of the world. The be says three times: OMINE, non sum dignus ut intres sub tectum meum; sed tantum dic verbo, et sanabitur anima mea. ORD, I am not worthy that Thou shouldst enter under my roof; but only say the word, and my soul shall be healed. Descending the steps of the altar, the priest administers the Holy Communion, saying: ORPUS = Domini nostri Jesu Christi custodiat animam tuam In vitam eternam. Amen. HE Body of our Lord Jesus Christ preserve thy soul unto life everlasting. Amen. The priest, returning to the altar, replaces the ciborium in the tabernacle. Then the server pours a little wine in the Chalice, and the priest takes the first ablution, saying: UOD ore sumpsi- mus, Domine, pura mente capiamus; et de mnere temporali fiat nobis remedium sempiternum, HAT we have taken with our mouth, O Lord, may we receive with a _ pure heart; and of a tem- poral gift may it be- come to us an ever- lasting healing. THE COMMUNION gr Here the server pours wine and water over the priest’s fingers, and the priest, returning to the middle of the altar, wipes his fingers and takes the second ablution, saying: ORPUS tuum, Do- mine, quod sump- si, et Sanguis quem potavi, adhereat vis- ceribus meis: et presta, ut In me non remaneat scelerum macula, quem pura et sancta refe- Y Thy Body, O Lord, which I have received, and Thy Blood which I have drunk, cleave unto my inmost parts; and grant that no stain of sin may remain In me, who have been re- freshed with pure and holy mysteries. Who Itvest and reignest for- ever and ever. Amen. cerunt. sacramenta. Qui vivis et regnas in secula seculorum. Amen. The Communion Prayer E bless the God of heaven, and we will praise Him in the sight of all the living: because He has shown us His mercy. From the center of the altar the priest, turning to the people, says: V. Dominus _ vobis- V. The Lord be with cum. you. R. Et cum. spiritu R. And with thy tuo. spirit. Q2 CONCLUSION OF THE MASS Returning to the missal, the priest reads the Post communion Prayers. AY the receiving of this Sacrament, O Lord our God, profit us to the salvation of body and soul, together with the confession of an ever- Jasting holy Trinity and of the undivided Unity thereof. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, Thy Son, Who liveth and reigneth with Thee in the unity of the Holy Ghost forever and ever. Amen. 6. CONCLUSION OF THE MASS The Communion being over, the priest announces the conclusion of the Mass, and utters a last prayer that the action he has performed may be acceptable in God’s sight and profitable to those for whom it has been offered. This is followed by a blessing upon the people and the recitation of the last Gospel, which is usually taken from the first chapter of St. John and contains a most sublime profession of faith in the divinity and humanity of Christ. The Dismissal V. Dominus vobis- | V. The Lord be with cum. you. R. Et cum = spiritu R. And with — thy tuo. spirit. V. Ite, missa est; V. Go, the Mass is ended; Or, when the Gloria in Excelsis bas been omitted, he turns to the altar and says: V. Benedicamus V. Let us_ bless Domino. the Lord. R. Deo gratias. R. Thanks be to God. CONCLUSION OF THE MASS 93 Prayer to the Most Holy Trinity 1 Ale bua tbr, sancta ‘Trinitas, obsequium _ servitutis mies sweeten PLeeStasment sacrificium quod oculis tuze majestatis indig- nus obtuli, tibi sit ac- ceptabile, mihique, et omnibus pro quibus ilud obtuli, sit, te miserante, propitiabile. Per Christum Domi- num nostrum. Amen. AY the performance of my homage be pleasing to Thee, O Holy Trinity; and grant that the sacrifice which I, though unworthy, have offered up in the sight of Thy majesty, may be acceptable unto Thee, and may, through Thy mercy, be a pro- pitiation for myself, and all those for whom I have offered it. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. The priest turns toward the people at the word Deus, making the sign of the cross over them. The Blessing ENEDICAT _ vos omnipotens Deus, Pater, et Filrus, et Spiritus Sanctus. R. Amen. AY almighty God bless you; the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost. R. Amen. The Last Gospel V. Dominus _ vobis- cum. R. Et cum = spiritu tuo. V. The Lord be with you. R. And with thy spirit. 04 CONCLUSION OF THE MASS > Initium sancti Evangelii secundum Joannem. R. Gloria tibi, Do- mine. N_ principio erat Verbum, et Ver- bum erat apud Deum; et Deus erat Verbum. Hoc erat in principio apud Deum. Omnia per ipsum facta sunt, et sine Ipso factum est nihil quod factum est: in Ipso vita erat, et vita erat lux hominum; et lux in tenebris lucet, et tenebre eam non com- prehenderunt. Fuit homo missus a Deo, cui nomen erat Joannes. Hic venit in testimonium, ut testi- monium perhiberet de Iumine, ut omnes cre- derent per illum. Non erat ule lux; sed ut testimonium perhiberet de Jumine. Erat lux vera que illuminat +4 The beginning of the holy Gospel accord- ing to John. R. Glory be to Thee, O Lord. N_ the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. The same was in the beginning with God. All things were made by Him, and_ with- out Him was made nothing that was made: in Him was life, and the life was the light of men: and the light shineth im _ darkness, and the darkness did not comprehend it. There was a man sent from God, whose name was John. This man came for a witness, to testify concerning the light, that all might believe through him. He was not the light, but he was to testify concerning the light. This was the true Light, CONCLUSION OF THE MASS omnem hominem veni- entem in hunc mun- dum. In mundo erat, et mundus per ipsum factus est, et mundus eum non cognovit. In propria venit, et suieum non receperunt. Quot- - quot autem receperunt eum, dedit eis potes- tatem filios Det fiert, his, qui credunt in no- mine ejus, qui non ex - sanguinibus, neque ex | VERBUM Est et habitavit in no- voluntate carnis, neque ex voluntate viri, sed ex Deo nati sunt (He genuflects, saying:) ET CARO FACTUM bis; et vidimus gloriam ejus, gloriam quasi Uni- geniti a Patre, plenum gratia et veritatis, R. Deo gratias. 95 which enlighteneth every man that cometh into this world. He was in the world, and the world was made by Him, and the world knew Him not. He came unto His own, and His own received Him not. But as many as received Him to them He gave power to be made the sons of God, to those who believe in His name, who are born not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God. (He genuflects saying:) AND THE WORD WAS MADE FLESH, and dwelt among us; and we saw His glory, the glory as it were of the only-be- gotten of the Father, full of grace and truth. R. Thanks be to God, When a feast falls on a Sunday, or other day which bas a proper Gospel of its own, the Gospel of the day is read instead of the Gospel of St. Jobn. 96 PRAYERS AFTER MASS PRAYERS ORDERED BY POPE LEO XIII To be said kneeling after the celebration of Low Mass The priest with the people recites the Hail Mary thrice: then the following prayers. Salve Regina AIL! holy Queen, Mother of mercy, 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 valley of tears. Turn, then, most gracious advocate, thine eyes of mercy toward us, and after this our exile show unto us the blessed fruit of thy womb, Jesus. O clement, O loving, O sweet Virgin Mary! V. Pray for us, O holy Mother of God. R. That we may be made worthy of the prom- ises of Christ. Let us Pray GOD, our refuge and our strength, look down with favor upon Thy pecple, who cry to Thee; and through the intercession of the glorious and immaculate Virgin Mary, Mother of God, of her Spouse, Blessed Joseph, of Thy holy apostles, Peter and Paul, and of all the saints, mercifully and graciously hear the prayers, which we pour forth to Thee, for the conversion of sinners and the liberty and exaltation of Holy Mother Church, through the same Christ our Lord. Amen. PRAYERS AFTER MASS Q7 . MICHAEL the Archangel, defend us in battle; be our protection against the malice and snares of the devil. We humbly beseech Thee, O God, to command him; and do Thou, O prince of the heavenly host, by the divine power thrust ito hell Satan and the other evil spirits who roam through the world seeking the destruc- tion of souls. Amen. (Ind. of 300 days. — Leo XIII. Sept. 25, 1888.) (Ind. of 7 years, 7 quarantines. — Prius X. June 7, 1904.) Then is said three times tbe ejaculation: Most Sacred Heart of Jesus, have mercy on us. Prayers for Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament on page Igl. pu ad . a" a p S Bog wns Ce ives ‘E1 Prayers at Mass FORMING OUR INTENTION BEFORE MASS INTEND to assist at the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass, and to receive the Body and Blood of our Lord Jesus Christ, according to the rite of the holy Roman Catholic Church, to the praise of almighty God and of the whole court of heaven; for my benefit, and that of the whole Church on earth; for all those who have commended them- selves unto my prayers, in general and in particu- Jar; and for the happy estate of the holy Roman Catholic Church. Joy with peace, amendment of life, space for true repentance, the grace and comfort of the Holy Ghost, perseverance in good works, a con- trite and humble heart, and a happy consumma- tion of my life, grant unto me, O almighty and merciful Lord. Amen. OFFERING AT THE BEGINNING OF MASS TERNAL Father, I unite myself with the intentions and affections of our Lady of Sorrows on Calvary, and I offer Thee the Sac- I0O PRAYERS AT MASS rifice which Thy beloved Son Jesus made of Him- self on the cross, and now renews on this holy altar: (1) To adore Thee and give Thee the honor which is due to Thee, confessing Thy supreme dominion over all things, and the absolute de- pendence of everything upon Thee, Who art our one and last end. (2) To thank Thee for in- numerable benefits received. (3) To appease Thy justice, irritated against us by so many sins, and to make satisfaction for them. (4) To implore grace and mercy for myself, for —, for all afflicted and sorrowing, for poor sinners, for all the world, and for the holy souls in Purgatory. (Ind. of 300 days. — Prus X. July 8, 1904.) SPECIAL OFFERING FOR THE DYING MY God, I offer Thee all the holy Masses which will be said this day throughout the whole world for poor sinners who are now in their Iast agony, and who will die this day. May the Precious Blood of our Saviour Jesus Christ obtain for them mercy. (Ind. of 300 days, each time. — Prus X. Dec. 18, 1907.) At the Confiteor BLESSED Trinity, one God, Father, Son> and Holy Ghost, prostrate in spirit before Thee, I here confess in the sight of the whole court of heaven, and of all Thy faithful, my in- numerable treasons against Thy divine Majesty. I have sinned, O Lord, I have sinned: I have grievously offended through the whole course of PRAYERS AT MASS IOI my life, in thought, word, and deed; and there- fore am unworthy to lift my eyes to heaven, or so much as to speak Thy sacred Name: how much more am I unworthy to appear here nn Thy sanctuary, and to assist among Thy angels at 'these heavenly mysteries, which require so much purity, because Jesus Christ Himself is here in person, both Priest and Victim! But, O my God, Thy mercies are above all Thy works, and Thou wilt not despise a contrite and humble heart; and therefore I here venture to come into Thy temple, and with the poor publican, strike my breast and say, “God be merciful to me, a sinner.” When the Priest Goes to the Altar ET us adore the Heart of Jesus, which has loved us so much; let us prostrate ourselves before Him, and bewail the sins of which we have been guilty. Grant us, O Lord, a contrite and humble heart; Jet the homage of our adorations be as acceptable to Thee as if we offered Thee thousands of victims. At the Introit HE Lord hath opened the gates of heaven; He hath rained down manna to feed us; He hath given us the Bread of angels. Thy good- ness, O my God, hath prepared it for the poor and humble heart; blessed art Thou, O God of Israel, Thou only canst work such wonders for me. I will offer to Thee, in the presence of all Thy people, the homage of my love and gratitude. 102 PRAYERS AT MASS At the Kyrie FATHER of infinite mercy, have pity on Thy children; O Jesus, sacrificed for us, apply to us the merits of Thy Precious Blood; O Holy Ghost, the Sanctifier, descend into our hearts, and inflame them with Thy love. At the Gloria in Excelsis HAT happiness for us that the Son of the Most High should have been pleased to dwell among us, and have vouchsafed to offer us a dwelling in His divine Heart! Suffer us, O Lord, to mingle our voices with those of the angelic choir, to thank Thee for so great a favor; and let us say with them, “Glory to God in the highest heavens.’? O almighty Father, we praise Thee, we bless Thee, we adore Thee; we give Thee thanks for all the benefits which Thou hast lavished upon us without ceasmg. O Jesus, Lamb without spot, Who takest away the sins of the world, have mercy on us; Thou only art holy, Thou only art the Lord, Who reignest with the Father and the Holy Ghost in glory, and meritest all our homage on earth. At the Collect LORD vouchsafe favorably to hear the prayers which Thy priest offers to Thee for the Church and for me. PRAYERS AT MASS 103 I earnestly beseech Thee to grant me those graces and virtues of which I have need, in order to deserve Thy love. Fill my heart with eternal gratitude for all the blessings which Thou hast | conferred upon me, with a lively horror of sin, and with perfect charity toward my neighbor. Make my whole life worthy of one who is Thy child. I deserve not to be heard for my own sake, O my God, but I beseech Thy mercy through the infinite merits of Thy divine Son. O divine Jesus, mexhaustible fountain of all good things, open to us, we beseech Thee, the interior of Thy Heart; that having entered, by pious meditation, into this august sanctuary of divine love, we may fix forever there our hearts, as the place wherein are found the treasure, the repose, and the happiness of holy souls. At the Epistle HOU hast vouchsafed, O Lord, to teach us Thy sacred truths by the prophets and apostles; oh grant that we may so improve by their doctrine and examples in the love of Thy holy Name and of Thy holy law, that we may show forth by our lives whose disciples we are; that we may no longer follow the corrupt incli- nations of flesh and blood, but master all our passions; that we may be ever directed by Thy light, and strengthened by Thy grace, to walk in the way of Thy commandments, and to serve Thee with clean hearts. 104 PRAYERS AT MASS At the Gosepl LORD Jesus, Who, according to Thy Father’s will, hast declared unto the world the message of the Gospel; grant that we may receive It Into our minds, embrace it with our wills, preserve It in our memory, and practise it in our lives; and being united here with those elect sheep who hear Thy voice, may be numbered with them also at the last day at Thy right hand, and hear Thee say, “Come, ye blessed of My Father, possess you the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world.” At the Sermon WILL hear what the Lord will say unto me. O Jesus, Light of the world, enlighten my understanding, that I may understand Thy word, and cleanse my heart, that it may bring forth the fruits of the same. At the Creed FIRMLY believe — because God Who is infallible Truth hath so revealed it to the holy Catholic Church, and through the Church to us—lI firmly believe that there is one only God, in Three Divine Persons, equal and dis- tinct, Whose names are Father, Son, and Holy Ghost: that the Son became man, and through the operation of the Holy Spirit took flesh and a human soul in the womb of the most pure Virgin Mary, died for us upon the cross, rose again, ascended into heaven, and will come from thence at the end of the world to judge the living and PRAYERS AT MASS 105 dead, to give paradise to the good, and hell to the wicked, forever; and furthermore, upon the same motive, I believe everythmg that the holy Church believes and teaches. In this faith and for this faith I desire to live and die. Grant, O Lord, that my life may be comformable with my faith, that my faith may be animated by good works, that I may never be ashamed to declare myself a Catholic, and may constantly maintain the interests of Thy holy religion. Draw closer to me, Lord, the bonds that bind me to Thy holy Church; put into my heart a spirit of perfect obedience to its Iawful pastors. In its bosom I became Thy child, and in its bosom I desire to live and die. At the Offertory ETERNAL Father, Who wast pleased to Institute this most Holy Sacrifice of the New Law, wherein Thy only-begotten Son might be offered to Thee; I offer the same to Thy divine Majesty, and in union therewith I offer myself, and all that Thou hast bestowed upon me. Look upon me, and have mercy upon me. At the Washing of the Fingers MY Jesus, would that Thou couldst bear witness to the holiness of my life and the innocence of my heart! But, with the Prophet, I must cry out: It is in Thy mercy only that I place my hope; my consolation is in meditating on Thy promises to the penitent heart, and Thy 106 PRAYERS AT MASS faithfulness in performmg them: confounded at all that I have committed to this day, and en- couraged by the favors which Thou hast be- stowed upon me, I can but promise to correspond better with Thy graces than I have hitherto done. I will purify myself more and more with tears of penitence; I will bless Thee as I do this day; and I will sing of the wonders of Thy power and of Thy mercy. After the Washing of the Fingers MOST holy and adorable Trinity, vouchsafe to receive this our Sacrifice in remembrance of our Saviour’s Passion, Resurrection, and glorious Ascension: and grant that we may die with Him to our sins, rise with Him to a new life, and ascend with Him to Thee. Let those saints, whose memory we celebrate on earth, remember us before Thy throne in heaven, and obtain mercy for us, through the same Jesus Christ our Lord. At the Orate, Fratres HE creature can offer nothing to the Creator that can be worthy of His acceptance; I unite myself, therefore, to the sacrifice of Jesus Christ, which can alone merit anything in my behalf. I desire nothing but through Him and with Him. I have no wish beyond Him. O God of mercy, I seek nothing but Thy love. Gra- ciously accept the sacrifice of my heart and of my whole self, and may it, like the sacrifice of Jesus, be pleasing to Thee and unite us to Him. PRAYERS AT MASS 107 At the Secret Prayer ERCIFULLY hear our prayer, O Lord, and graciously accept this oblation which we Thy servants make to Thee; and as we offer it to the honor of Thy Name, so may it be to us here a means of obtaining Thy grace, and life everlasting hereafter. (Or, for a Saint’s Day) ANCTIFY, O Lord, we beseech Thee, these gifts which we offer Thee in this solemnity of Thy holy servant N. and so strengthen us by Thy grace, that both in prosperity and adversity our ways may be ever directed to Thy honor. At the Preface LORD, do Thou Thyself lift up my heart to Thee. Take from it all unholy thoughts, allearthly affections. Lift it wholly up to.heaven, where Thou art worthily adored, and to the altar, where Thou art about to manifest Thyself to me. My life is but one continual succession of Thy mercies; let it be one continual succession -of thanksgivings: and as Thou art now about to renew the greatest of all sacrifices, is it not meet that I should burst forth, in expressions of heart? felt gratitude? Suffer me, then, to join my feeble voice with the voices of all the heavenly spirits, and in union with them to say, in a transport of joy and admiration: 108 PRAYERS AT MASS HOLY, HOLY, HOLY, LORD GOD OF SABAOTH. HEAVEN AND EARTH ARE FULL OF THY GLORY. HOSANNA IN THE HIGHEST. BLESSED IS HE THAT COMETH IN THE NAME OF THE LORD. HOSANNA IN THE HIGHEST. At the Canon ETERNAL and most merciful Father, be- hold, we come to offer Thee our homage this day: we desire to adore, praise, and glorify Thee, and to give Thee thanks for Thy great glory, joining our hearts and voices with all Thy blessed in heaven, and with Thy whole Church upon earth. But acknowledging our great un- worthiness and innumerable sins, for which we are heartily sorry, and humbly beg Thy pardon, we dare not venture to approach Thee other- wise than in company of Thy Son, our Advocate and Mediator, Jesus Christ, Whom Thou hast - given us to be both our High Priest and Sacrifice. With Him, therefore, and through Him, we venture to offer Thee this Sacrifice; to His most sacred intentions we desire to unite ours; and with this offering which He makes of Himself, we desire to make an offering of our whole being to Thee. With Him, and through Him, we beseech Thee to exalt Thy holy Catholic Church through- out the whole world; to maintain her in peace, unity, holiness, and truth; to have mercy on all poor sinners; that we may be converted to Thee, PRAYERS AT MASS 109 finding mercy, through Jesus Christ Thy Son; through Whom we hope one day to be admitted into the company of all Thy saints and elect, whose memory we here celebrate, whose prayers ' we desire, and with whom we communicate in these holy mysteries. When the Priest Spreads bis Hands Over the Oblation Here the bell is rung to announce the approaching con- secration. IVE ear, we beseech Thee, to the prayers of Thy servant, who ts here appointed to make this oblation in our behalf; and grant it may be effectual for the obtaining of all those blessings which he asks for us. Behold, O Lord, we all here offer to Thee, in this bread and wine, the symbols of our perfect union. Grant, O Lord, that they may be made for us the true Body and Blood of Thy dear Son; that, being consecrated to Thee by this holy Victim, we may live in Thy service, and depart this life in Thy grace. At the Elevation MY LORD AND MY GOD These words are to be said with faith, piety and love while looking upon the Blessed Sacrament, either during the Elevation in the Mass, or when it is exposed on the altar. (Ind. of 7 years and 7 quarantines. — Pius X. May 18, 1907.) ITO PRAYERS AT MASS At the Memento for the Dead OFFER Thee again, O Lord, this Holy Sacrifice of the Body and Blood of Thine only Son, in behalf of the faithful departed, and in particular for the souls of [bere name whom you chiefly purpose to pray for] my parents [if dead,] relatives, benefactors, neighbors, etc. Likewise of such as I have in any way injured, or been the occasion of their sins; of such as have injured me, and been my enemies; of such as die in war, or have none to pray for them. To these, O Lord, and to all that rest in Christ, grant, we beseech Thee, a place of refreshment, light, and peace. At the Nobis quoque peccatoribus OUCHSAFE to grant the same to us, poor and miserable sinners: judge us not ac- cording to our demerits; but through the infinite multitude of Thy mercies, in which we hope, liberally extend to us Thy grace and pardon. We ask it of Thee in the name of Thy dear Son, Who liveth and reigneth eternally with Thee, and in that form of prayer which He Him- self has taught us. At the Pater Noster UR Father, Who reignest in heaven, come and reign in my soul, come and sanctify it by Thy presence; come and subject it to Thy holy will, and render it obedient to the inspirations of Thy grace. Extinguish in my heart every feeling of hatred and revenge; forgive me as I PRAYERS AT MASS III forgive. Grant to me such wisdom and such strength that I may triumph over all tempta- tions. Deliver me from all those evils which op- press me, and under which I groan. I come to Thee, as a child to his father, to be fed; as a subject to his prince, to be protected; as one afflicted, to his only succor, to be consoled and comforted. At the Libera nos ELIVER us, we beseech Thee, O Lord, from all evils past, present, and to come; and by the intercession of Blessed Mary, ever Virgin, and of all the saints, mercifully grant peace in our days, that by the assistance of Thy holy grace we may be always free from sin and secure from all disturbance. At the Pax Domini HY Body was broken, and Thy Blood shed for us: grant that the commemoration of this holy mystery may obtain for us peace; and that those who receive it may find everlasting rest. O Lamb of God, pure and spotless Victim, Who only canst satisfy the justice of an offended God, | vouchsafe to make me partaker of the merits of Thy sacrifice. What lessons of humility, meek- ness, charity, and patience dost Thou not give me! Impress these virtues upon my heart, that it may be to Thee a pleasant habitation, wherem Thou mayest repose as in an abode of peace. 112 PRAYERS AT MASS After the Agnus Dei N saying to Thy Apostles, Peace I leave with you, My peace I give unto you; Thou hast promised, O Lord, to all Thy Church, that peace which the world cannot give — peace with Thee, and peace with ourselves. Let nothing, O Lord, ever interrupt this holy peace; let nothing separate us from Thee, to Whom we heartily desire to be united through the blessed Sacrament of peace and reconciliation. Let this food of angels strengthen us in every Christian duty, so as never more to yield under temptations, or fall into our common weaknesses. At the Domine, non sum dignus OD only can be worthy of receiving God; how, then, can a soul so sinful as mine merit so great a happiness! But Thou, O Lord, re- gardest not Thy greatness, but Thy mercy. Thou willest that I come to Thee, as one sick to the physician who can heal him, as one poor to the rich man who can assist him. O God of love, behold at Thy feet the poorest, the most infirm of Thy creatures. Unite me to Thyself, and I shall become rich and whole in Thy sight. Work, I beseech Thee, this miracle, worthy of Thy omnipotence and charity. While the Priest Communicates SACRED Banquet, in which Christ is received, the memory of His Passion is renewed, the mind is filled with grace, and a pledge of future glory is given to us! PRAYERS AT MASS 113 Grant, O Lord Jesus, that we may so reverence the sacred mysteries of Thy Body and Blood, that we may ever find in ourselves the fruits of Thy Redemption. Act of Spiritual Communion for Those Who Do Not Intend to Communicate MY most loving Saviour, since I cannot have the happiness of receiving Thee this day, suffer me to gather up the precious crumbs that fall from Thy table, and to unite myself to Thy divine Heart by faith, hope, and charity. I confess I do not deserve the children’s bread; but I venture humbly to declare that, away from Thee, my soul is dried up with thirst, and my heart cast down with faintness. Come, then, into me, O my divine Jesus! come into my mind, to illuminate it with Thy light; come into my heart, to enkindle in it the fire of Thy love, and to unite it so intimately with Thine own, that it may be no more I that live, but Thou that livest In me, and reignest in me forever. Prayer During the Ablutions RANT us, O Lord, a part in the fruits of Thy death and Passion, the sacred memory of which we have this day commemorated. I adore Thy goodness, O gracious Lord, for Thy inestimable favor in admitting me to be present again at that Holy Sacrifice, where Thou art both Priest and Victim. Oh, make me always sensible 114 PRAYERS AT MASS of so great a blessing, and let not my unworthi- ness put a bar to Thy mercy and goodness. At the Communion ET it be now, O Lord, the effect of Thy | mercy, that we, who have been present at this Holy Mystery, may find the benefit of it in our souls, How sweet, O Lord, ts Thy spirit; Who, to show Thy sweetness toward Thy children, givest | them the most delicious Bread from heaven, and sendest the proud away empty. At the Postcommunions OUR forth upon us, O Lord, the spirit of Thy love, that, by Thy mercy, Thou mayest make those of one mind whom Thou hast fed with one celestial food.’ Through our Lord Jesus Christ, Who liveth and reigneth with Thee, in the unity of the Holy Spirit forever and ever. Amen. We give Thee thanks, O God, for Thy mercy, in admitting us to have a part in offering this Sacrifice to Thy holy Name: accept it now to Thy glory, and be ever mindful of our weakness. For a Saint’s Day E have received heavenly mysteries, O Lord, in the commemoration of the Blessed Mary ever Virgin, of blessed N., and all Thy saints; grant, we beseech Thee, that what we celebrate In time, we may obtain in the joys of eternity. Through Christ our Lord. PRAYERS AT MASS 1154 At the Last Gospel ETERNAL Word, speak to my soul, which adores Thee in profound silence; Thou Who art the great Creator of all things, abandon | not, I beseech Thee, Thy own creature; be Thou my life, my light, and my all. O Light Eternal, enlighten me as to this present life, and in the life to come. Reign in me as in Thine own mheritance; for Thou, O Lord, hast made me; Thou hast re- deemed me. May I be ever Thine! PRAYERS ORDERED BY POPE LEO XIII To be said kneeling after the celebration of Low Mass The priest with the people recites the Hail Mary thrice: then the following prayers. Salve Regina AIL! holy Queen, Mother of mercy, 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 valley of tears. Turn, then, most gracious advocate, thine eyes of mercy towards us, and after this our exile show unto us the blessed fruit of thy womb, Jesus. O clement, O loving, O sweet Virgin Mary! V. Pray for us, O holy Mother of God. R. That we may be made worthy of the promises of Christ. 116 PRAYERS AT MASS Let us Pray GOD, our refuge and our strength, look down with favor upon Thy people, who cry to Thee; and through the intercession of the glorious and immaculate Virgin Mary, Mother of God, of her spouse, Blessed Joseph, of Thy Holy Apostles, Peter and Paul, and of all the Saints, mercifully and graciously hear the prayers, which we pour forth to Thee, for the conversion of sinners and the liberty and exaltation of Holy Mother the Church, through the same Christ our Eords= Amen: Gy" . MICHAEL the Archangel, defend us in bat- tle; be our protection against the malice and snares of the devil. We humbly beseech Thee, O God, to command him; and do Thou, O prince of the heavenly host, by the divme power thrust into hell Satan and the other evil spirits who roam through the world seeking the destruction of souls. Amen. (Ind. of 300 days. — Leo Xu. Sept. 25, 1888.) (Ind. of 7 years, 7 quarantines. — Pius X. June 7, 1904.) Then is said three times the ejaculation: Most Sacred Heart of Jesus, have mercy on us. Prayers for Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament on page 19 Daily Mass for the Dead OFFERING BEFORE MASS Prayer of St. Alphonsus Y God! I recommend to Thee the souls of my relatives, my benefactors, my friends, and my enemies, and of those who are in pur- gatory on my account. I recommend to Thee the souls of evangelical Jaborers, of religious and priests, and especially of those who had charge of my soul. I recommend to Thee the souls of those who were most devout to the Passion of our Lord, to the Blessed Sacrament, to the sacred Heart of Jesus, and to the Blessed Virgin Mary, the souls who are most abandoned, those who suffer most, and those who are nearest to entrance into paradise. 118 MASS FOR THE DEAD THE BEGINNING OF THE MASS Prayers at the Foot of the Altar Priest. In nomine Pa- tris, Fk et Fil, et Spiri- tus Sancti. Amen. Ant. Introibo ad al- tare Dei. Ministers. Ad Deum, quiletificat juventutem meam. P. Adjutorium nos- trum in nomine Domini. M. Qui fecit caelum et terram. Priest. In the Name of the Father, 44 and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost. Amen. Ant. I will go unto the altar of God. Ministers. ‘To God, Who giveth joy to my youth. P. Our help is m the name of the Lord. M. Who hath made heaven and earth. Then the priest says the Confiteor: P. Confiteor Deo omnipotenti, etc. M. Misereatur tut omnipotens Deus, et dimissis peccatis tuis, perducat te ad vitam zternam. P. Amen. PIT On fe $73ta almighty God, ete. M. May almighty God have mercy upon thee, and forgive thee thy sins, and bring thee unto life everlasting. P. Amen. The Ministers now say the Confiteor in bebalf of the people: Ce RGEOR Deo omnipotenti, beatze Mariza semper Virgini, beato Michaeli CONFESS. ‘tej almighty God, to blessed Mary ever Vir- gin, to blessed Michael MASS FOR Archangelo, beato Joanni Baptiste, sanctis Apostolis Petro et Paulo, omnibus Sanctis (et tibi, Pater) quia pec- cavi nimis cogitatione, verbo, et opere, mea culpa, mea culpa, mea maxima culpa. Ideo precor beatam Mariam semper Virgmem, be- atum Michaelem Arch- angelum, beatum Joan- nem Baptistam, sanctos Apostolos Petrum et Paulum, omnes Sanc- tos et te, Pater, orare pro me ad Dommum Deum nostrum. P. Misereatur vestri omnipotens Deus, et dimissis peccatis ves- tris, perducat vos ad vitam eternam. M. Amen. P. Indulgentiam, absolutionem, et remis- sionem peccatorum THE DEAD 119 the archangel, to blessed John the Bap- tist, to the holy apos- tles Peter and Paul, and to all the saints (and to you, Father) that I have sinned ex- ceedingly in thought, word, and deed, through my fault, through my fault, through my most grievous fault. ‘There- fore I beseech blessed Mary ever Virgin, blessed Michael the archangel, blessed John the Baptist, the holy apostles, Peter and Paul, and all the saints and you, Father, to pray to the Lord our God, for me. P. May almighty God have mercy on you and, having for- given you your sins, bring you to life ever- lasting. M. Amen. P. May the almighty and merciful God grant us pardon, absolution, 120 nostrorum, tribuat nobis omnipotens et misericors Dominus. M. Anien. V. Deus, tu con- versus vivificabis nos. R. Et plebs tua leta- bitur in te. V. Ostende nobis, Domine, misericordiam tuam. R. Et salutare tuum da nobis. V. Domine, exaudi orationem meam. R. Et clamor meus ad te veniat. MASS FOR THE DEAD and remission of our sins. M. Amen. V. Thou wilt turn again, O God, and quicken us. R. And Thy people will rejoice in Thee. V. Show us, O Lord, Thy mercy. R. And grant us Thy salvation. V. O Lord, hear my prayer. R. And let my cry come unto Thee. V. The Lord be with you. R. And with spirit. Let us pray. thy Going up to the altar the priest says silently: V. Dominus — vobis- cum. R. Et cum = spiritu tuo. Oremus. UFER a= nobis, quesumus, Do- mine, Iniquitates nos- tras: ut ad_= sancta sanctorum puris merea- mur mentibus imtroire. Per Christum Domt- num nostrum. Amen. AKE away from us our iniquities, we beseech Thee, O Lord; that we may be worthy to enter with pure minds into the Holy of holies. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. MASS FOR THE DEAD RAMUS te, Do- mine, per merita sanctorum tuorum quo- rum reliquize hic sunt, et omnium sanctorum, ut indulgere digneris omnia peccata mea. Amen. I2I E beseech ‘Thee, O Lord, by the merits of Thy saints whose relics are here, and of all the saints, that Thou wouldst vouchsafe to forgive me all my sins. Amen. The Introit EQUIEM eter- nam dona eis, Do- mine: et lux perpetua luceat eis. Ps. 64, 2-3. Te decet hymnus Deus in Sion; et tibi reddetur votum in Jerusalem: exaudi orationem mean; ad te omnis ERNAL rest give to them, O Lord; and let perpetual light shine upon _ them. Ps. 64, 2-3. A hymn, O God, becometh Thee in Sion; and a vow shall be paid to Thee in Jeru- salem: O Lord, hear my caro veniet. Requiem, | prayer; all flesh shall etc. 1s repeated. cometo Thee. Eternal rest, etc, The Kyrie YRIE, eleison, Ministers. Kyrie eleison, P. Kyrie eleison, ORD, have mercy, Ministers. Lord, have mercy, P. Lord, have mercy, 122 MASS FOR M. Christie eleison, P. Christe eleison, M. Christe eleison, P. Kyrie eleison, M. Kyrie eleison, P. Kyrie eleison. THE DEAD M. Christ, have mercy, P. Christ, have mercy, M. Christ, have mercy, P. Lord have mercy, M. Lord, have mercy, P. Lord, have mercy. The Collect V. Dominus vobis- cum. R. Et cum tuo. spiritu FOR BISHOPS Oremus BUSS aqui apostolicos dotes famulos tuos pontificali (vel sacer- dotali) fecisti dignitate vigere, presta, que- sumus, ut eorum quoque perpetuo aggre- gentur consortio. Per Christum Dominum nostrum. inter sacer- V. The Lord be with you. R. And with thy spirit. OR PRIESTS Let us Pray GOD, Who among Thy apostolic priests didst adorn Thy servants with the pon- tifical (or priestly) dig- nity, grant, we beseech Thee, that they may also be associated with Thine apostles in ever- lasting fellowship. Through Christ our Lord. i MASS FOR THE DEAD 123 FOR DECEASED BRETHREN, FRIENDS, AND BENEFACTORS EUS veniz largi- tor, et humane salutis amator: que- sumus clementiam tuam; ut nostre con- gregationis fratres, propinquos, et bene- factores, qui ex hoc seculo transierunt beata Maria semper Virgine intercedente cum omnibus sanctis tuis, ad perpetue beati- tudinis consortium per- venire concedas. GOD, Who §art ever ready to for- give sins and Who ever seekest the salvation of men: we _ most humbly entreat of Thy mercy that, through the intercession of Blessed Mary, ever a Virgin and of all Thy saints, the brethren, friends, and benefactors of our congregation, who have passed out of this world, may to- gether enjoy that hap- piness which hath no end. FOR THE SOULS OF THE FAITHFUL DEPARTED IDELIUM Deus omnium conditor et redemptor; anima- bus famulorum famu- Jarumque tuarum re- missionem cunctorum tribue peccatorum; ut indulgentiam, quam semper optaverunt, plis GOD the Creator and Redeemer of all the faithful, to the souls of Thy servants and of Thine hand- maidens grant the pardon of all their sins, that, through our de- yout prayers, they may 124 MASS FOR THE DEAD supplicationibus con- | rejoice in the full for- sequantur. Qui vivis, | giveness for which at etc. all times they have hoped. Who livest, ete. The Epistle Lectio libri Apoca- Lesson from the lypsis beati Joannis | book of the Apocalypse Apostoli. (xiv, 13.) of St. John the Apos- N diebus illis: Au- divi vocem de celo, dicentem mihi: Scribe: Beati mortui, qui in Domino moriun- tur. Amodo jam dicit Spiritus, ut requiescant a Jaboribus suis: opera enim Ulorum sequuntur illos. Gradual. Requiem geternam dona eis, Do- mine; et lux perpetua luceat eis. V. Ps. 111, 7. In memoria externa erit justus; ab audi- tione mala non timebit. Tractus. Absolve, Do- mine, animas omnium tle. (xiv, 13.) N those days, I heard a voice from heaven, saying to me, Write, Blessed are the dead, who die in the Lord. From hence- forth now, saith the Spirit, that they may rest from their labors, for their works follow them. Gradual. Eternal rest give to them, O Lord; and let perpetual light shine upon them. V. Ps. 111,7. The just shall be in everlasting remembrance; he shall not fear the evil hearing. Tract. Loose, O Lord, the souls of the MASS FOR THE DEAD fidelitum defunctorum ab omni vinculo delic- torum: V. Et gratia tua ilis succurrente, mereantur evadere ju- dicium ultionis: V. Et lucis eterne beatitu- dine perfrul. 125 faithful departed from every bond of sin: V. Helped by Thy grace, may they be counted worthy to es- cape from the avenging judgment: V. And evermore in joy to look upon that light which is Thyself. The Sequence 1 Biles ire, dies illa Solvet seclum in fa- villa, Teste David cum Sibylla. Quantus tremor est futurus, Quando Judex est ven- turus, Cuncta stricte discus- surus! Tuba mirum spargens sonum Per sepulchra num, Coget omnes ante thro- num. regio- AY of wrath, O Day of mourning, Lo, the world in ashes burning — Seer and Sibyl gave the warning. O what fear man’s bosom rendeth, When from heaven the Judge descendeth, On whose sentence all dependeth! Wondrous sound the trumpet flingeth, Through earth’s sepul- chres it ringeth, All before the throne it bringeth. MASS FOR 126 Mors stupebit et natura, Cum resurget creatura, Judicanti responsura. Liber scriptus profere- Hw, In quo totum contine- tur, Unde mundus judicetur. Judex ergo cum sedebit, Quidquid latet appare- bit: Nil inultum remanebit. Quid sum miser tunc dicturus? Quem patronum roga- turus, Cum vix justus sit secu- rus? Rex tremende majes- tatis, Qui salvandos salvas gratis THE DEAD Death is struck, and nature quaking, Atiecne ait 1Omyis awaking — To its Judge an answer making. Lo, the book, exactly worded, Wherein all hath been recorded — Thence shall judgment be awarded. When the Judge His seat attaineth, And each hidden deed arraigneth, Nothing unavenged re- maineth. What shall I, frail man, be pleading? Who for me be inter- ceding When the just mercy needing? are King, of majesty tre- mendous, Who dost free salvation send us. MASS FOR THE DEAD Salva me, fons pietatis. Recordare, Jesu pie, Quod sum causa tue vie; Né me perdas illa die. Querens me, sedisti Ias- sus; Redemisti, crucem passus: Tantus labor non sit cassus. Juste Judex ultionis, Donum fac remissionis Ante diem rationis. Ingemisco tanquam reus, Culpa rubet vultus meus; Supplicanti parce, Deus. Qui Mariam absolvisti, 127 Fount of pity, then befriend us. Think, kind Jesus, my salvation Caused Thy wondrous Incarnation — Leave me not to repro- bation. Faint and weary Thou hast sought me, On the cross of suffering bought me; Shall such grace be vainly brought me? Righteous Judge of ret- ribution, Grant Thy gift of ab- solution Ere that reck’ning day’s conclusion. Guilty, now I pour my moaning, All my shame with anguish owning: Spare, O God, Thy sup- pliant groaning. Thou the sinful Mary savest, 128 Et Jatronem exaudisti, Mihi quoque spem de- disti. Preces mez non sunt digne: Sed tu bonus fac be- nigne, Ne perenni cremer igne. Inter oves locum presta, Et ab hoedis me se- questra, Statuens in parte dex- tra. Confutatis maledictis, Flammis acribus ad- dictis, Voca me cum _ bene- dictis. Oro supplex et acclinis, Cor contritum quasi cinis: Gere curam mei finis. MASS FOR THE DEAD Thou the dyimg thief forgavest, And to me a_ hope vouchsafest. Worthless are my prayers and sighing, Yet, good Lord, in grace complying, Rescue me from fires undying. With Thy favored sheep, oh, place me; Nor among the goats abase me, | But to Thy right hand upraise me. While the wicked are confounded, Doomed to flames of woe unbounded, Call me, with Thy saints surrounded. Low I kneel, with heart submission; See, like ashes, my con- trition — Help me in my last condition. MASS FOR THE DEAD Lacrymosa dies illa, Qua resurget ex favilla Judicandus homo reus. Huic ergo parce, Deus: Pie Jesu Domine, Dona eis requiem. Amen. 129 Ah, that day of tears and mourning, From the dust of earth returning, Man for Judgment must prepare him — Spare, O God, in mercy spare him. Lord, Who didst our souls redeem, Granta blesséd requiem. Amen. Munda Cor Meum UNDA cor meum, ac labia mea, om- nipotens Deus, qui la- bia Isaie Prophete calculo mundasti_ ig- nito: ita me tua grata miseratione dignare mundare, ut sanctum Evangelium tuum digne valeam nuntiare. Per Christum Dominum nostrum. Amen. LEANSE my heart and my lips, O almighty God, Who didst cleanse with a burning coal the lips of the Prophet Isaias; and vouchsafe in Thy loving kindness so to purify me that I may be enabled worthily to announce Thy holy Gospel. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. 130 MASS FOR THE DEAD The Gospel V. Dominus _ vobis- V. The Lord be with cum. you. R. Et cum spiritu R. And with thy tuo. spirit. - Sequentia sancti +4 Continuation of Evangelii © secundum | the holy Gospel ac- Joannem v1, 51-55. R. Gloria tibi, Do- mine. N ilo tempore: Dixit Jesus turbis Judzorum: Ego sum panis vivus, qui de czlo descendi. Si quis man- ducaverit ex hoc pane, vivet in eternum: et panis, quem ego dabo, caro mea est pro mundi vita. Litigabant ergo Judi ad invicem, di- centes: Quomodo po- test hic nobis carnem suam dare ad mandu- candum? Dixit ergo eis Jesus: Amen, amen dico vobis: Nisi man- ducaveritis carnem Filit hominis, et biberitis ejus sanguinem, non cording to John vi, s1- 55+ R. Glory be to Thee, O Lord. T that time, Jesus said to the multi- tudes of the Jews: I am the living bread, which came down from heaven. If any man eat of this bread he shall live for ever: and the bread that I will give, is My flesh for the life of the world. The Jews therefore strove among themselves, say- ing, How can this man give us his flesh to eat? Then Jesus said to them, Amen, amen, I say unto you, Except you eat the flesh of the Son of man, and drink MASS FOR THE DEAD habebitis vitam in vo- bis. Qui manducat meam carnem, et bibit meum sanguinem, ha- bet vitam eternam: et ego resuscitabo eum in novissimo die. 131 His blood, you shall not have life in you. He that eateth My flesh, and drinketh My blood, hath everlasting life: and I will raise him up in the last day. The Offertory V. Dominus _ vobis- cum. R.. Et. cum; spiritu tuo. Oremus. OMINE ees Oh TiS PENSE ek glorie, libera animas omnium fidelium de- functorum de pcoenis in- ferni, et de profundo Iacu; libera eas de ore leonis, ne absorbeat eas tartarus, ne cadant in obscurum; sed signifer sanctus Michael repre- sentet eas in lucem sanctam: Quam olim Abrahze promisisti, et semini ejus. V. Hos- tias et preces_ tibi, Domine, laudis offeri- mus: tu suscipe pro V. The Lord be with you. R. And with spirit. Let us pray. LORD Jesus Christ, Thou Who art the King of glory, save the souls of all the faithful departed from the pains of hell and from the deep pit; save them from the lion’s mouth, nor suffer the fiery Jake to swallow them up, nor endless darkness to enshroud them. Rather do Thou bid holy Michael, Thy standard-bearer, to bring them forth into glorious light: even as of old-time Thou didst thy 132 animabus illis, quarum hodie memoriam, faci- mus: fac eas, Domine, de morte transire ad vitam: Quam _ olim Abrahz promisisti, et semini ejus. MASS FOR THE DEAD promise to Abraham and to his seed. V. To- gether with our prayers we offer Thee, O Lord, the sacrifice of praise: do Thou receive it in behalf of the souls whom this day we have in mind: Jead them, O Lord, from death into life. Even as of old- time thou didst promise to Abraham and to his seed. The Offering of the Bread and Wine ECEIVE, O holy SCIPE, sancte Pater, omnipotens zeterne Deus, hanc im- maculatam hostiam, quam ego indignus fa- mulus tuus offero tibi Deo meo vivo et .vero, pro. imnumerabilibus peccatis, et offensioni- bus, et negligentiis meis, et pro omnibus circum- stantibus, sed et pro omnibus fidelibus Chris- tianis vivis atque de- functis: ut mihi et illis proficiat ad salutem in vitam eternam. Amen. Father, and eternal God, this spotless host, which I, Thine unworthy serv- ant, offer unto Thee, my living and true God, for my countless sins, trespasses, and omis- sions; likewise for all here present, and for all faithful Christians, whether living or dead, that it may avail both me and them to salva- tion, unto life everlast- ing. Amen. almighty | MASS FOR THE DEAD 133 The priest pours wine and water into the Chalice. EUS, qui humane substantia digni- tatem mirabiliter con- didisti, et mirabilius re- formasti: da nobis per hujus aque et vini mysterium, ejus divini- tatis esse consortes, qui humanitatis nostre fieri dignatus est particeps, Jesus Christus Filius tuus Dominus noster: Qui tecum vivit et reg- nat in unitate Spiritus sancti Deus: per omnia secula seeculorum. Amen. Offerimus tibi, Do- mine, calicem salutaris, tuam deprecantes clementiam, ut in con- spectu divine majesta- tis tue, pro nostra et totius mundisalutecum odore suavitatis ascen- dat. Amen. In spiritu humilitatis et in animo contrito suscipamur a te, Do- mine, et sic fiat sacri- ficlum nostrum in con- GOD, Who in creating man didst exalt his nature very wonderfully, and still more wonderfully re- formed it, grant that, by the mystery of this water and wine, we may be made partakers of His divine nature, Who vouchsafed to be- come partaker of our human nature, namely, Jesus Christ our Lord, Thy Son, Who with Thee, in the unity, etc. Amen. We offer unto Thee, O Lord, the chalice of salvation, beseeching Thy clemency that it may ascend before Thy divine Majesty as a sweet odor for our salvation and for that of the whole world. Amen. Accept us, O Lord, in the spirit of humility and contrition of heart; and grant that the sac- rifice we offer in Thy 134 spectu tuo hodie, ut placeat tibi, Domine Deus. Veni sanctificator, omnipotens, eterne Deus, et benedic hoc sacrificlum tuo sancto nomini preparatum. MASS FOR THE DEAD sight this day may be pleasing to Thee, O Lord God. Come, O almighty and eternal God, the sanctifier, and bless this sacrifice, prepared for the glory of Thy holy Name. The Washing of the Fingers AVABO inter in- nocentes manus meas: et circumdabo altare tuum, Domine. Ut audiam vocem laudis: et enarrem uni- versa mirabilia tua. Domine, dilext’ de- corem domus tus, et locum habitationis glorie tue. Ne perdas cum impiis, Deus, animam meam: et cum viris sanguinum vitam meam. In quorum manibus iniquitates sunt: dex- tera eorum repleta est muneribus. Ego autem in Inno- WILL wash my hands among the innocent: and will com- pass Thy altar, O Lord. That I may hear the voice of praise: and tell of all Thy marvel- Ious works. O Lord, I have loved the beauty of Thy house, and the place where Thy glory dwelleth. Take not away my soul, O God, with the wicked: nor my life with bloody men. In whose hands are iniquities: their right hand is filled with gifts. But as for me, I have MASS FOR THE DEAD centia mea _ ingressus sum; redime me, et miserere mel. Pes meus stetit in directo: in_ ecclesiis benedicam te, Domine. Prayer to the USCIPE, sancta Trinitas, hance ob- Jationem, quam tibi offerimus ob memoriam passionis, resurrec- tionis, et ascensionis Jesu. Christr Domini nostri: et in honorem beatae Marie semper virginis, et beati Joan- nis Baptista, et sanc- torum apostolorum Petri et Pauli, et is- torum, et omnium sanctorum: ut illis pro- ficiat ad honorem, nobis autem ad salutem: et ili pro nobis inter- cedere dignentur in celis, quorum memo- riam agimus in telris. Per eumdem Christum Dominum nostrum. Amen. 135 walked In my _ iInno- cence; redeem me, and have mercy on me. My foot hath stood in the direct way: in the churches I will bless Thee, O Lord. Blessed Trinity ECEIVE; 0” holy Trinity, this ob- Jation offered up by us to Thee in memory of the Passion, Resurrec- tion, and Ascension of our Lord Jesus Christ, and in honor of blessed Mary, ever a virgin, of blessed John the Baptist, of the holy apostles Peter and Paul, of these, and of all the saints, that it may be available to their honor and to our salvation; and may they whose memory we celebrate on earth vouchsafe to intercede for us in heaven. Through the same Chrrs't’o urjpbomdt Amen. 136 MASS FOR THE DEAD The Orate Fratres RATE, fratres, ut meum ac vestrum sacrifictum acceptabile fiat apud Deum Patrem omnipotentem. Server. Suscipiat Dominus sacrifictum de manibus tuis, ad lau- dem et gloriam nominis sul, ad utilitatem quo- que nostram, totiusque Ecclesize sue sancte. RETHREN, pray that my sacrifice and yours may be well pleasing to God the Father almighty. Server. May the Lord receive this sacrifice at thy hands to the praise and glory of His Name, to our own benefit, and to that of all His Holy Church. The Secret Prayers FOR DECEASED BISHOPS AND PRIESTS USCIPE, Domine, quesumus pro animabus famulorum tuorum pontificum (seu sacerdotum), quas offe- rimus hostias: ut qui- bus in hoc seeculo ponti- ficale (seu sacerdotale), donasti meritum, in celesti regno — sanc- torum tuorum jubeas jungi consortio. Per Dominum. ECEIVE, we _ be- seech Thee, O Lord, for the souls of departed bishops (or priests), Thy servants, the sacrifice we offer: in this world Thou didst raise them to pontifical (or sacerdo- tal rank), bid them now to enter into the company of Thy saints. Through Christ our Lord. MASS FOR THE DEAD 137 FOR DECEASED BRETHREN, FRIENDS, AND BENEFACTORS EUS cujus miseri- cordiz non est nu- merus, suscipe propi- tius preces humilitatis nostre: et animabus fratrum, propinquo- rum et benefactorum nostrorum, quibus tui nominis dedisti confes- sionem, per hee sacra- menta salutis nostre, cunctorum remissionem tribue peccatorum. GOD, Whose mercy is bound- Icss, favorably receive our humble prayers, and by means of these sacraments of our sal- vation, grant to the souls of our brethren, kinsfolk and _ benefac- tors, who by Thy grace did confess Thy Name, the remission of all their sins. FOR ALL THE FAITHFUL DEPARTED OSTIAS quesumus Domine, quas tibt pro animabus famulo- rum _ famularumque tuarum offerimus pro- pitiatus imtende: ut quibus fidet christians meritum contulisti do- nes et premium. Per Dominum nostrum Je- sum Christum, Filtum tuum, qui tecum vivit et regnat, in unitate Spiritus Sancti Deus. ERCIFULLY look down upon. this sacrifice which we offer to Thee for the souls of Thy servants, O Lord, we beseech Thee; that to those to whom Thou didst grant the merit of Christian faith, Thou mayest also grant its reward. Through Jesus Christ, Thy Son our Lord, Who liveth and reigneth with Thee in the unity of the Holy Ghost. 138 MASS FOR THE DEAD The Preface V. Per omnia secula szeculorum. R. Amen. V. Dominus cum. R. Et cum spiritu tuo. V. Sursum corda. vobis- R. Habemus ad Do- minum. V. Gratias agamus Domino Deo nostro. R. Dignum et jus- tum est. ERE dignum et Justumest, equum et salutare, nos tibi semper, et ubique gratias agere; Domine sancte, Pater omni- potens, e«terne Deus; per Christum Domi- num nostrum. In quo nobis spes beat resur- rectionis effulsit, ut quos contristat certa moriendi conditio, eos- V. World without end. R. Amen. V. The Lord be with you. R. And with spirit. Vietatt- up hearts. R. We lift them up unto the Lord. VER etirs give thanks to the Lord our God. Rant just. thy your is meet and T is truly meet and just, right and salutary, that we should always, and in all places, give thanks to Thee, O holy Lord, Father almighty, eter- nal God. Through Christ our Lord; in Whom the hope of a happy resurrection has shone on us, so that those whom the certain MASS FOR THE DEAD dem consoletur future Immortalitatis promis- sio. Tuis enim fide- libus, Domine, vita mutatur, non tollitur, et dissoluta terrestris hujus incolatus domo vterna in celis habi- tatio comparatur. Et ideo cum Angelis et Archangelis, cum Thro- nis et Dominationibus, cumque omni militia celestis exercitus, hym- num gloria tue cani- mus, sine fine dicentes: ANCTUS, Sanctus, Sanctus, Dominus Deus Sabaoth. Pleni sunt celi et terra gloria tua. Hosanna in ex- celsis. Benedictus qui venit In nomine Do- mint Hosanna in excelsis. 139 fate of dying renders sad, may be consoled by the promise of future immortality. For with regard to Thy faithful, O Lord, life is changed, not taken away, and the house of their earthly dwelling being destroyed, an eternal dwelling in heaven is obtained. And therefore with angels and archangels, with thrones and domi- nations, and with all the army of heaven, we sing a hymn to Thy glory saying without ceasing: OLY, Holy, Holy. Lord God of hosts, Heaven and earth are full of Thy glory. Ho- sanna in the _ highest. Blessed is He who cometh in the name of the Lord. Hosanna in the highest. 140 MASS FOR THE DEAD THE CANON E igitur, clementis- sime Pater, per Jesum Christum Filium tuum Dominum nos- trum, supplices roga- mus ac petimus, uti accepta habeas, et benedicas, hee dona, hec munera, hec sancta sacrificia illibata, imprimis que tibi offerimus pro Ecclesia tua sancta catholica, quam pacificare custo- dire, adunare, et regere digneris toto orbe ter- rarum, una cum famulo tuo Papa nostro N., et Antistite nostro N., et omnibus orthodoxis, at- que catholice et apos- tolicee fidei cultoribus. EMENTO, Do- mine, famulorum famularumque tuarum, N. et N. Et omnium circumstantium, quo- rum tibi fides cognita est et nota devotio, pro quibus tibi offerimus E therefore humbly pray and beseech Thee, most merciful Father, through Jesus Christ Thy Son our Lord, to accept and bless these gifts, these presents, these holy unspotted __ sacrifices, which in the first place we offer Thee for Thy holy Catholic Church, to which vouchsafe to grant peace, as also to preserve, unite and govern it throughout the world; together with Thy servant N., our Pope, and our Bishop N., as also all orthodox believers and professors of the Catho- lic and Apostolic faith. EMEMBER, O Lord, Thy serv- ants and handmaids, N. and N. And all here present whose faith and devotion are known unto Thee, for whom we offer, or who offer MASS FOR THE DEAD vel qui tibi offerunt hoc sacrificium lJaudis, pro se, suisque omni- bus, pro redemptione animarum suarum, pro spe salutis et incolumi- tatis sue, tibique red- dunt vota sua, eterno Deo, vivo et vero. OMMUNICANTES et memoriam ve- nerantes, in primis glo- riose semper Virginis Marie, Genitricis Dei et Domini nostri Jesu Christi: sed et beato- rum Apostolorum ac Martyrum tuorum, Petri et Pauli, Andree, Jacobi, Joannis, Tho- mz, Jacobi, Philippi, Bartholomei, Matthei, Simonis et Thaddei, Lini, Cleti, Clementis, Xysti, Cornelii, Cy- priani, Laurenti, Chry- sogoni, Joannis et Paull, Cosme et Damiani, et omnium Sanctorum 141 up to Thee, this sacri- fice of praise, for them- selves, their families, and friends, for the redemption of their souls, for the health and salvation they hope for, and for which they now pay their vows unto Thee, the eternal, liv- ing, and true God. N communion with, and honor- ing the memory, es- pecially of the glorious ever Virgin Mary, Mother of our Lord and God Jesus Christ; as also of Thy blessed apostles and martyrs, Peter and Paul, Andrew, James, John, Thomas, James, Philip, Bartholomew, Mat- thew, Simon and Thad- deus, Linus, Cletus, Clement, Sixtus, Cor- nelius, Cyprian, Law- rence, Chrysogonus, John and Paul, Cosmas and Damian, and all 142 tuorum; quorum meri- tis precibusque conce- das, ut in omnibus pro- tectionis tue muniamur auxilio. Per eumdem Christum Dominum nostrum., Amen. ANC igitur obla- tionem _servitutis nostre, sed et cunctze familie tue, quesu- mus, Domine, ut placa- tus accipias: diesque nostros in tua pace dis- ponas, atque ab eterna damnatione nos eripl, et in electorum tuorum jubeas grege numerari. Per Christum Domi- num nostrum. Amen. UAM oblationem tu, Deus, in om- nibus, quesumus bene- dictam, adscriptam, ratam, rationabilem, acceptabilemque facere digneris: ut nobis cor- MASS FOR THE DEAD Thy saints; through whose merits and prayers grant that we may in all things be defended by the help of Thy protection. Through the same Christ, our Lord. Amen. HEREFORE, we beseech Thee, O Lord, graciously to re- ceive this oblation which we Thy servants, and with us Thy whole family, offer up _ to Thee: dispose our days in Thy peace; com- mand that we be saved from eternal damnation and numbered among the flock of Thine elect. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. ND do Thou, O God, vouchsafe in all respects to bless, consecrate, and ap- prove this our oblation, to perfect it and to render it well-pleasing ‘MASS FOR THE DEAD } pus et sanguis fiat dilec- tissimi Filtt tur Domini nostri Jesu Christi. QU! pridie quam pateretur, accepit panem in sanctas ac venerabiles manus suas, et elevatis oculis in celum ad te Deum Patrem suum omnipo- tentem, tibi gratias -agens, benedixit, fregit, deditque discipulis suis, dicens: Accipite, et manducate ex hoc omnes. Hoc EST ENIM CorPUS MEUM. IMILI modo post- quam ccenatum est, accipiens et hunc preclarum calicem in sanctas ac venerabiles manus suas: Item tibi gratias agens benedixit, deditque discipulis suis, dicens: Accipite, et bi- bite ex eo omnes: 143 to Thyself, so that it may become for us the Body and Blood of Thy most beloved Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. HO, the day before He suffered, took bread into His holy and venerable hands, and having lifted up His eyes to heaven, to Thee, God, His almighty Father, giving thanks to Thee, did_ bless, break, and give unto His disciples, saying: All of you take and eat of this. For THis 1s My Bopy. N_ like manner, after He had supped, taking also into His holy and venerable hands this goodly chalice, again giving thanks to Thee, He blessed it, and gave it to His disciples, saying: All of you take and drink of this. 144 Hic EST ENIM CALIX SANGUINIS MEI, NOVI ET ZETERNI. TESTAMENTI: MYSTERIUM FIDEI, QUI PRO VOBIS ET PRO MUL- TIS EFFUNDETUR IN REMISSIONEM PECCA- TORUM. Hee quotiescumque feceritis, in mel memo- riam facietis. NDE et memores, Domine, nos servi tui, sed et plebs tua sancta, eyusdem Christi Filit tur Domini nostri, tam beat passionis, necnon et ab _ inferis resurrectionis, sed et in clos gloriosz ascen- sionis: offerimus pre- clare majestati tue de tuis donis ac datis, hostiam puram, hosti- am sanctam, hostiam immaculatam, panem sanctum vite eterne, et calicem.salutis perpetuz. MASS FOR THE DEAD For THIS IS THE CHALICE OF My Boop, OF THE NEW AND EVER- LASTING TESTAMENT, THE MYSTERY OF FAITH, WHICH FOR YOU AND FOR MANY SHALL BE SHED UNTO THE RE- MISSION OF SINS. As often as ye shall do these things, ye shall do them in memory of Me. HEREFORE,. .O Lord, we, Thy servants, as also Thy holy people, calling to mind the blessed Pas- sion of the same Christ, Thy Son, our Lord, His > Resurrection from the grave, and His glorious Ascension into heaven, offer up to Thy most excellent majesty of Thine own gifts be- stowed upon us, a pure Victim, a holy Victim, an immaculate Victim, the holy Bread of eternal life, and the chalice of everlasting salvation. MASS FOR THE DEAD yee que pro- pitio ac sereno vultu respicere digneris, et accepta habere sicutti accepta habere digna- tus es munera pueri tui justr Abel, et sacrifi- cium Patriarche nostri Abrahe; et quod tibt obtulit summus sacer- dos tuus Melchisedech, sanctum sacrificum, Im- maculatam, hostiam. UPPLICES te ro- gamus, omnipotens Deus, jube hec perferri per manus sancti angeli tur in sublime altare, tuum, in conspectu di- vine majestatis tua, ut quotquot ex hac altaris participatione sacrosanctum Filii tui corpus et sanguinem sumpserimus, 0 mn I benedictione celesti, et gratia repleamur. Per eumdem Christum Do- minum nostrum. Amen. 145 PON which vouch- safe to look with a propitious and serene countenance, and ac- cept them, as Thou didst vouchsafe to accept the gifts of Thy just servant Abel, and the sacrifice of our patriarch Abraham, and that which Thy highpriest | Melchise- dech offered to Thee, a holy sacrifice and an unspotted victim. OST humbly do we beseech Thee, al- mighty God, to com- mand these things to be carried by the hands of Thy holy angel to the altar on high, in sight of Thy divine majesty, that as many as shall partake of the most sacred Body and Blood of Thy Son at this altar may be filled with every heavenly grace and _ blessing. Through the same Christ our Lord. Amen, 146 EMENTO etiam, Domine, famulo- rum _ famularumque tuarum N. et N., qui nos precesserunt cum signo fidei, et dormiunt in somno pacis. PSIS, Domine, et omnibus in Christo quiescentibus, locum refrigerii, lucis et pacis, ut indulgeas, depreca- mur. Per eumdem Christum Dominum nostrum. Amen. OBIS quoque pec- catoribus famulis tuis, de multitudine miserationum tuarum sperantibus, partem aliquam, et societatem donare digneris, cum tuis sanctis apostolis et martyribus: cum Jo- anne, Stephano, Mat- thia, Barnaba, Ignatio, Alexandro, Marcellino, Petro, Felicitate, Per- petua, Agatha, Lucia, MASS FOR THE DEAD E mindful, O Lord, of Thy servants N. and N., who are gone before us with the sign of faith, and rest in the sleep of peace. O these, O Lord, and to all who rest in Christ, grant, we beseech Thee, a place of refreshment, light and peace. Through the same Christ our Lord. Amen. O us sinners, also, Thy servants, who put our trust in the multitude of Thy mercies, vouchsafe to grant some part and fellowship with Thy holy apostles and martyrs: with John, Stephen, Matthias, Barnabas, Ignatius, Alexander, Marcellinus, Peter, Felicity, Per- petua, Agatha, Lucy, MASS FOR THE DEAD Agnete, Cecilia, Ana- stasia, et omnibus sanctis tuis: intra quo- rum nos consortium, non estimator meriti, sed venia, quesumus, Jargitor admitte. Per Christum Dominum nostrum. ER quem hec omnia, Domine, semper bona _ creas, sanctificas, vivificas, benedicis, et prestas nobis. ER ipsum, et cum Ipso, et In Ipso, est tibt Deo Patri omni- potenti, In unitate Spiritus Sancti, omnis honor et gloria. 147 Agnes, Cecilia, Ana- stasia, and with all Thy saints. Into their company do Thou, we beseech Thee, admit us, not weighing our merits, but freely par- doning our offenses: through Christ our Lord. Y Whom, O Lord, Thou dost always create, sanctify, quick- en, bless, and give us all these good things. HROUGH Hin, and with Him, and in Hin, is to Thee, God the Father almighty, in the unity of the Holy Ghost, all honor and glory. The Pater Noster V. Per omnia szcula seeculorum. R. Amen. V. World without end. R. Amen. 148 Oremus RAECEPTIS | salu- taribus moniti, et divina institutione for- mati, audemus dicere: TOES Noster, qui es In celis, sancti- ficetur nomen tuum: adveniat regnum tuum: fiat voluntas tua sicut in celo, et in terra. Panem nostrum quoti- dianum da nobis hodie: et dimitte nobis debita nostra, sicut et nos dimittimus debitoribus nostris. Et ne nos in- ducas in tentationem. R. Sed libera nos a malo. MASS FOR THE DEAD Let us Pray HERETO ad- monished by wholesome _ precepts, and in words taught us by God Himself we presume to pray: UR Father, Who art in heaven, hal- lowed 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 tres- pass against us. And lead us not into tempta- tion. R. But deliver us from evil. The priest says inaudibly Amen. IBERA nos, que- sumus, Domine, ab omnibus malis, pre- teritis, presentibus, et futuris: et intercedente beata et gloriosa semper Virgine Dei Genitrice Maria, cum _beatis Amen. () aes us, we beseech Thee, O Lord, from all evils, past, present, and to come: and by the in- tercession of the blessed and glorious Mary ever Virgin, Mother of God, MASS FOR THE DEAD Apostolis tuis Petro et Paulo, atque Andrea, et omnibus Sanctis, da propitius pacem in die- bus nostris: ut ope misericordie tue ad- juti, et a peccato simus semper liberi, et ab omni perturbatione se- curl. Per eumdem Do- minum nostrum Jesum Christum Filrum tuum, qui tecum vivit et reg- nat in unitate Spiritus sancti Deus. V. Per omnia szcula seeculorum. R. Amen. 149 together with Thy blessed apostles Peter and Paul, and Andrew, and all the saints, mer- cifully grant peace in our days: that by the assistance of Thy mercy we may be always free from sin, and secure from all disturbance. Through the same Jesus Christ, Thy Son, our Lord, Who with Thee in the unity of the Holy Ghost liveth and reigneth God. V. World without end. R. Amen. The Communion V. Pax Domini sit semper vobiscum. R. Et cum = spiritu tuo. AEC commixtio et consecratio cor- poris et sanguinis Do- mini nostri Jesu Christi, fiat accipientibus nobis in vitam eternam. Amen. V. May the peace of the Lord be always with you. R. And with thy spirit. Y this commin- gling and conse- crating of the Body and Blood of our Lord Jesus Christ avail us who receive it unto life everlasting. Amen. 150 GNUS Dei, qui tollis peccata mun- di: dona eis requiem. Agnus Dei, qui tollis peccata mundi: dona eis requiem. Agnus Dei, qui tollis peccata mundi: dona els requiem sempiter- nam. OMINE Jesu Christe, Fili Det Vivi, qui ex voluntate Patris, cooperante Spiritu Sancto per mor- tem tuam mundum vivificasti: libera me per hoc sacrosanctum corpus et sanguinem tuum ab omnibus ini- quitatibus meis, et universis malis: et fac me tuis semper in- herere mandatis: et a te numquam separari permittas: qui cum eodem Deo Patre et Spiritu Sancto vivis et MASS FOR THE DEAD AMB of God, Who takest away the sins of the world: give unto them rest. Lamb of God, Who takest away the sins of the world: give unto them rest. Lamb of God, Who takest away the sins of the world: give unto them rest forevermore. ORD Jesus Christ, Son of the living God, Who, according to the will of Thy Father, through the co- operation of the Holy Ghost, hast by Thy death given life to the world: deliver me by this Thy most sacred Body and Blood from all my iniquities and from all evils. Make me to cleave to Thy commandments an d suffer not that at any time I be separated from Thee, Who with MASS FOR THE DEAD regnas Deus in secula seculorum. Amen. Perceptiocorporistul, Domine Jesu Christe, quod ego indignus su- mere presumo, non mihi proveniat in Jju- diclum et condemna- tionem: sed pro tua pietate prosit mihi ad tutamentum mentis et corporis, et ad mede- Jam percipiendam. Qui Vivis et regnas cum Deo Patre in unitate Spiri- tus Sancti Deus, per omnia scula secu- lorum. Amen. Panem celestem acci- piam, et nomen Do- mini invocabo. 151 the same God the Father and the Holy Ghost livest and reignest world without end. Amen. Let not the partaking of Thy Body, O Lord Jesus Christ, which I, all unworthy, presume to receive, turn to my judgment and condem- nation; but, do Thou make it to avail me to my healing and safe keeping in body and in soul. Who livest and reignest with God the Father, in the unity of the Holy Ghost, world without end. Amen. I will take the Bread of heaven and will call upon the Name of the Lord. The priest repeats three times OMINE, non sum dignus, ut intres sub tectum meum: sed tantum dic verbo, et sanabitur anima mea. ORD, I am _ not worthy that Thou shouldst enter under my roof; but only say the word, and my soul shall be healed. 152 ORPUS Domini nostri Jesu Christi custodiat animam me- am in vitam eternam. Amen. UID © retribuam Domino pro om- nibus que _ retribuit mihi? Calicem salu- taris accipiam, et nomen Domini invo- cabo. Laudans invo- cabo Dominum, et ab Inimicis meis salvus ero. ANGUIS Domini nostri Jesu Christi custodiat animam me- am in vitam eternam. Amen. UOD ore’ sump- simus, Domine, pura mente capiamus; et de munere temporali fiat nobis remedium sempiternum. re ———E—E—E—E—E—E—E—————ee es MASS FOR THE DEAD Y the Body of our Lord Jesus Christ keep my soul unto life everlasting. Amen. HAT shall I render unto the Lord for all the things that He hath rendered unto me? I will take the chalice of salvation and will call upon the Name of the Lord. With praises will I call upon the Lord, and I shall be saved from all mine enemies. AY the Blood of our Lord Jesus Christ keep my soul unto life everlasting. Amen. RANT, O Lord, that what we have taken with our mouth we may receive with a pure mind; that of a temporal gift it may become to us an eternal remedy. MASS FOR THE DEAD ORPUS tuum, Do- mine, quod sumpsi, et sanguis quem potavi, adhereat visceribus meis; et presta, ut in me non remaneat sce- -lerum macula, quem pura et sancta refece- runt sacramenta. Qui Vivis et regnas in szecula seeculorum. Amen. 153 Y Thy Body, O Lord, which I have received, and Thy Blood which I have drunk, cleave to my bowels; and grant that no stain of sim may remain in me, who have been refreshed with pure and holy sacraments. Who livest and reignest forever. Amen. The Communion Prayer UX eterna luceat eis, Domine: Cum Sanctis tuis in eternum, quia plus es. Requiem eternam dona eis, Domine, et lux > perpetua luceat eis. Cum Sanctis tuis in zternum, quia pilus es. Y light eternal shine upon them, O Lord: With Thy saints forever, because Thou art merciful. Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon them. With Thy saints for- ever, because Thou art merciful. The Postcommunion V. Dominus _ vobis- cum. R. Et cum spiritu tuo. V. The Lord be with you. R. And with spirit. thy 154 MASS FOR THE DEAD FOR DECEASED BISHOPS OR PRIESTS ROSIT, quesumus Domine, anima- bus famulorum tuorum pontificum (seu sacer- dotum) misericordize tuz implorata clemen- tia: ut ejus, In quo speraverunt, et credide- runt, eternum capiant, te miuserante, consor- tium. Per Dominum. E beseech Thee, O Lord, that Thy clemency, which we im- plore, may benefit the souls of Thy servants who are Bishops (or priests); that by Thy mercy they may par- take of that in which they hoped and_ be- lieved. Through our Lord. FOR DECEASED BRETHREN, FRIENDS AND BENEFACTORS RAESTA quesumus omnipotens et mi- sericors Deus: ut anime fratrum, propinquorum, et benefactorum nos- trorum, quibus hoc sacrifictum Jaudis tue obtulimus majestati; per hujus virtutem sac- ramenti a peccatis om- nibus expiate lucis per- petuez, te miserante, recipiant beatitudinem. RANT, we beseech Thee, almighty and merciful God, that the souls of ourbrethren, kinsfolk and benefac- tors, for whom we offer up to Thy majesty this sacrifice of praise, may by virtue of this Sacrament be cleansed from all sin and by Thy mercy receive the hap- piness of eternal light. MASS FOR THE DEAD 155 FOR ALL THE FAITHFUL DEPARTED NIMABUS quesu- mus, Domine, fa- mulorum famularum- que tuarum oratio pro- ficiat supplicantium: ut eas et a peccatis omni- bus exuas, et tue re- demptionis facias esse participes. Qui vivis et regnas in secula seculorum. Amen. E beseech Thee, O Lord, that the prayers of Thy sup- pliants may benefit the souls of Thy servants; that Thou mayest de- liver them from all their sms, and make them partakers of Thy Redemption. Who livest and reignest for- ever and ever. Amen. Conclusion of the Mass V. Dominus _ vobis- cum. R. Et cum = spiritu tuo. V. Requiescant in pace. R. Amen. LACEAT tibi sancta Trinitas, obsequium _ servitutis meses et preesta,’ UC sacrificium quod oculis tue majestatis indignus obtuli, trbi sit accepta- bile, mihique et omni- bus pro quibus illud V. The Lord be with you. R. And with spirit. V. May they rest in peace. R. Amen. ET the offering of my homage be pleasing to Thee, O Holy Trinity; and grant that the sacrifice which I, unworthy as I am, have offered up in the sight of Thy Majesty, may be ac- thy 156 obtuli sit, te miserante, propitiabile. Per Chris- tum Dominum nos- trum. Amen. V. Dominus vobis- cum. R. Et cum spiritu tuo. V. Inittum sancti Evangelit secundum Joannem. R. Gloria tib1, . Do- mine. N_ principio erat Verbum, et Ver- bum erat apud Deum, et Deus erat Verbum. Hoc erat in principio apud Deum. Omnia per ipsum facta sunt, et sine ipso factum est nihil quod factum est. In ipso vita erat, et vita erat lux hominum: et lux in tenebris lucet, et tenebre eam non com- prehenderunt. F uit homo missus a Deo, cui nomen erat Joannes. MASS FOR THE DEAD ceptable to Thee, and by Thy mercy be a propitiation for me and for all for whom I have offered it. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. V. The Lord be with you. R. And with thy spirit. V. The beginning of the holy Gospel accord- ing to St. Jobn. R. Glory be to Thee, O Lord. N_ the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. The same was in the beginning with God. All things were made by Him: and without Him was made nothing that was made. In Him was life, and the life was the light of men: and the _ light shineth in darkness, and the darkness did not comprehend it. MASS FOR THE DEAD Hic venit in testimo- nium, ut testimonium perhiberet de lIumine, ut omnes crederent per lum. Non erat ille lux, sed ut testimonium perhiberet de Jumine. Erat lux vera que il- Juminat omnem homi- nem venientem in hunc mundum. In mundo erat, et mundus per ipsum factus est, et mundus eum non cog- novit. In propria ve- nit, et sul eum non receperunt. Quotquot autem receperunt eum, dedit eis potestatem filios Dei fiert, his qui credunt in nomine ejus. Qui non ex sanguinibus, neque ex voluntate car- nis, neque ex voluntate viri, sed ex Deo nati sunt. [He ' genuflects, saying] 157 There was a man sent from God, whose name was John. This man came for a witness, to bear witness of the light, that all men might believe through him. He was not the light, but was to bear witness of the light. That was the true light which enlighteneth every man that cometh into this world. He was in the world, and the world was made by Him, and the world knew Him not. He came unto His own, and His own received Flim not. But as many as received Him, to them He gave power to be made the sons of God, to them that be- lieve in His name, who are born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God. [Here he genuflects, saying] 158 MASS FOR THE DEAD Et Verbum caro fac- tum est, et habitavit in nobis et vidimus glo- riam ejus, gloriam quasi unigeniti a Patre, ple- num gratie et veritatis. R. Deo gratias. And the Word was made Flesh, and dwelt among us and we saw His glory, the glory as of the only-begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth. R. Thanks be to God. aan aS ate eet EON dh po | | s Allie Coe: 7 ue ak eu a bee) ine A 0. pyss WA t The Ritual for the Celebration of SMlatrimonp The priest, vested in a surplice and white stole (or vested as for Mass, but without maniple, if the Nuptial Mass is to follow), attended by the server holding a vessel of holy water, asks, in the vernacular, in the hearing of two or more witnesses, the bridegroom and the bride sepa- rately, concerning their consent. First he asks the bride- groom, who stands at the right hand of the bride: WILT thou take N., here present, for thy *? lawful wife, according to the Rite of our holy Mother the Church? R. I will. The priest then asks the bride: WILT thou take N., here present, for *? thy lawful husband, according to the Rite of our holy Mother the Church? R. I will. The consent must be expressed by both. Having obtained this mutual consent, the priest bids the man and woman join their right hands. In most places it 1s customary for the man and woman to pledge themselves one to the otber as follows, repeating these words after the priest: 160 CELEBRATION OF MATRIMONY First the bridegroom says: N. N., take thee, N. N., for my lawful ¥ wife, to have and to hold, from this day forward, for better, for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and im health, until death do us part. Then the bride says: N. N., take thee, N. N., for my lawful % husband, to have and to hold, from this day forward, for better, for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health, until death do us part. The priest then says: GO conjungo vos In matrimonium, in nomine Patris, 44 et Fil, et Spiritus Sancti. Amen. JOIN you together in marriage, in the name of the Father, 44 and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost. Amen. The priest then sprinkles them with boly water. This done, the priest blesses the ring, saying: DJUTORIUM nos- trum in nomine Domini. R. Qui fecit czlum et terram. V. Domine, _ exaudi orationem meam. R. Et clamor ad te veniat. meus UR help is in the name of the Lord. R. Who hath made heaven and earth. V. O Lord, hear my prayer. R. And let my cry come unto Thee. CELEBRATION OF MATRIMONY V. Dominus — vobis- cum. R. Et cum. spiritu tuo. Oremus ENEDIC, +4 Do- mine, annulum hunc, quem nos in Tuo nomine ~ benedicimus, + ut que eum gesta- verit, fidelitatem inte- gram suo sponso tenens, in pace et voluntate Tua permaneat, atque in mutua charitate sem- per vivat. Per Chris- tum Dominum nostrum. R. Amen. 161 V. The Lord be with you. R. And gewitls spirit. thy Let us Pray LESS, + O Lord, this ring, which we bless 44 in Thy name, that she who shall wear it, keeping true faith unto her spouse, may abide in Thy peace and in obedi- ence to Thy will, and ever live in mutual love. Through Christ our Lord. R. Amen. Then the priest sprinkles the ring with boly water in the form of a cross; and the bridegroom having received the ring from the band of the priest places it on the third finger of the left band of the bride, saying: With this ring I thee wed and I plight unto thee my troth. Then the priest says: N_ nomine Patris, BK et Fill, et Spiri- tus Sancti. Amen. N the name of the Father +4 and of the Son and of the Holy Ghost. Amen. 162 CELEBRATION OF MATRIMONY This done, the priest adds: V. Confirma hoc, Deus, quod operatus es in nobis. R. A templo sancto tuo quod estin Jerusalem. V. Kyrie eleison. R. Christe eleison. V. Kyrie eleison. Pater noster (inaudt- bly). V. Et ne nos tnducas in tentationem. R. Sed libera nos a malo. V. Salvos fac servos tuos, R. Deus meus, spe- rantes in te. V. Mitte mine, sancto. R. Et de Sion tuere eos. V. Esto eis, Domine, turris fortitudinis, eis, Do- auxillum de R. A facie mimici. V. Confirm, O God, that which Thou hast wrought in us. R. From Thy holy temple which is in Jerusalem. V. Lord, have mercy. RICHrist.-nwyve mercy. V. Lord, have mercy. Our Father (inaudi- bly). V. And lead us not into temptation. R. But deliver us from evil. V. Save Thy serv- ants, R. O my God, who put their trust in Thee. V. Send them help, O Lord, from Thy holy place. R. And defend them out of Sion. V. Be unto them, O Lord, a tower of strength, R. From the face of the enemy. CELEBRATION V. Domine — exaudi, orationem meam. R. Et clamor meus ad te veniat. V. Dominus __ vobis- cum. R. Et cum = spiritu tuo. Oremus ESPICE, quesu- mus, Domine, su- per hos famulos tuos, et institutis tuis, quibus propagationem humani generis ordinasti, be- nignus assiste, ut qui te auctore junguntur, te auxiliante — serventur. Per Christum Domi- num nostrum, Amen. OF MATRIMONY 163 V. O Lord, hear my prayer. R. And let my cry come unto Thee. V. The Lord be with you. R. And with thy spirit. Let us Pray OOK down, we be- seech Thee, O Lord, upon these Thy servants, and graciously protect this Thine or- dinance, whereby Thou hast provided for the propagation of man- kind; that those who are joined together by Thine authority may be preserved by Thy help. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. After this, if the Nuptial Benediction is to be given, the Mass is said pro Sponso et Sponsa, as follows; at which the newly-married parties kneel at the altar-rail (or on foot-stools, according to custom), the man on the right, and the woman on the left. 164 MASS FOR BRIDEGROOM AND BRIDE The Mass for Bridegroom and Bride The Introit EUS Israel con- jungate vos. ect ipse sit vobiscum, qui misertus est duobus unicis: et nunc, Dom- mine, fac eos plenius benedicere te. Psi 127, meta tat omnes qui timent Dominum: qui ambu- Jant in viis ejus. V. Gloria Patri, etc. Deus Israel jungat vos, etc. con- AY the God of Israel joi you together: and may He be with you who was merciful to two only children: and now, O Lord, make them bless Thee more fully. Ps. 127, 1. Blessed are all they that fear the Lord: that walk m His ways. V. Glory be to the Father, etc. May the Israel, etc. God of The Collect XAUDI nos, om- nipotens et miseri- cors Deus: ut quod nostro ministratur officio, tua benedictione potius impleatur. Per Dominum, etc. RACIOUSLY hear us, Almighty and merciful God, that what is performed by our ministry may be abun- dantly filled with Thy blessing. Through, etc. The Epistle (Eph., v, 22-33) RATRES: Miuli- eres VIris suis sub- dite sint, sicut Domino: RETHREN: Let women be sub- ject to their husbands, MASS FOR BRIDEGROOM AND BRIDE quoniam vir caput est mulieris: sicut Christus caput est Ecclesie: Ipse, salvator corporis ejus. Sed sicut Ec- clesia subjecta est Christo, ita et mulieres viris suis in omnibus. Viri, diligite uxores ves- tras, sicut et Christus dilexit Ecclesiam, et seilpsum _ tradidit pro ea, ut illam_ sancti- ficaret, mundans __la- vacro aque in verbo vite, ut exhiberet Ipse sibi gloriosam Ecclest- am, non habentem ma- culam, aut rugam, aut aliquid hujusmodi, sed ut sit sancta et imma- culata. Ita et viri debent diligere uxores suas, ut corpora sua. Qui suam uxorem diI- ligit, serpsum diligit. Nemo enim unquam carnem suam odio ha- buit: sed nutrit, et fovet eam, sicut et Christus Ecclesiam: quia membra_ sumus corporis ejus, de carve 165 as to the Lord; be- cause the husband is head of the wife, as Christ ts Head of the Church. He is the Saviour of His body. Therefore as the Church Is subject to Christ, so also let wives be to their husbands im all things. Husbands, love your wives, as Christ also loved the Church, and delivered Himself up for it, that He might sanctify it, cleansing it with the laver of water in the word of life, that He might present it to Himself a glorious Church, not having spot or wrinkle, or any such thing, but that it should be holy, and without blemish. So also men ought to love their wives, as their own bodies. He that loveth his wife, loveth himself. For no man ever hated his own flesh, but nourisheth and cherisheth it, as also 166 ejus, et de ossibus ejus. Propter hoc relinquet homo patrem et ma- trem suam, et adherebit uxori suze: et erunt duo In carne una. Sacra- mentum hoc magnum est, ego autem dico in Christo, et m Ecclesia. Verumtamen et vos singuli, unusquisque uxorem suam, sicut seipsum_ diligit: uxor autem timeat virum suum. MASS FOR BRIDEGROOM AND BRIDE Christ doth the Church: for we are members of His body, of His flesh, and of His bones. For this cause a man shall leave his father and mother, and shall cleave to his wife, and they shall be two in one flesh. This mystery Is great, but I speak in Christ, and in the Church. Nevertheless, let each of you love his wife as he loveth him- self; and let the wife fear her husband. The Gradual (Ps. 127, 3) XOR tua sicut vitis abundans in la- teribus domus tue. V. Filt tui sicut novelle olivarum in circuitu. mense tue. Alleluia, alleluia. Ps. 19, 3. Mittat vo- bis Dominus auxilium de sancto, et de Sion tueatur vos. Alleluia. HY wife shall be as a fruitful vine on the walls of thy house. V. Thy children as olive plants round about thy table. Alleluia, alleluta. Ps. 19, 3. May the Lord send you help from the sanctuary, and de- fend you out of Sion. Alleluia. MASS FOR BRIDEGROOM AND BRIDE 167 After Septuagesima, instead of Alleluia and V. is said the Tract (Ps. 127, 4-6) CCE sic benedice- tur omnis homo qui timet Dominum. V. Benedicat tibi Dominus ex Sion; et videas bona Jerusalem omnibus. diebus_ vite tue. V. Et videas filios filiorum tuorum; pax super Israel. EHOLD, thus shall every, man be blessed that feareth the Lord. V. May the Lord bless thee out of Sion; and mayest thou see the good things of Jeru- salem all the days of thy life. V. And mayest thou see thy children’s children: peace upon Israel. At Easter-tide the Gradual is omitted, and in its place is said: LLELUIA, Alle- luia. Mittat vo- bis Dominus auxilium de sancto: et de Sion tueatur vos. Alleluia. Ps. 133, 3. Benedicat vobis Dominus ex Sion: qui fecit celum et ter- ram. Alleluia. LLELUIA, Alle- Jura. May the Lord send you help from the sanctuary: and defend you out of Sion. Alleluia. Ps. 133, 3. May the Lord bless you out of Sion: who hath made heaven and earth. Alleluia. 168 MASS FOR BRIDEGROOM AND BRIDE The Gospel (Matt. xix, 3-6) N_ illo tempore: Accesserunt ad Jesum Phariszei tentan- tes eum, et dicentes: St licet homimi dri- mittere uxorem suam, quacumque ex causa? Qui respondens, ait eis: Non legistis, quia qui fecit hominem ab initio, masculum et feminam fecit eos? et dixit: Propter hoc dimittet homo patrem et ma- trem, et adherebit uxori suze, et erunt duo in carne una. Itaque jam non sunt duo, sed una caro. Quod ergo Deus conjunxit, homo non separet. T that time there came to Jesus the Pharisees, tempting Him, and saying: Is it lawful for a man to put away his wife for every cause? And He an- swered and_ said to them: Have ye not read, that He who made man from the be- ginning, made them male and female? and said: For this cause shall a man leave father and mother, and shall cleave to his wife, and the two shall be one flesh. Therefore now they are not two, but one flesh. What there- fore God hath joined together, Jet no man put asunder. The Offertory N te speravi, Do- mine: dixi, Tu es Deus meus: in manibus tuis tempora mea. N Thee, O Lord, have I put my trust: I said, Thou art my God: my lot is in Thy hands. MASS FOR BRIDEGROOM AND BRIDE 169 The Secret Prayer USCIPE, quesu- mus, Domine, pro sacra connubii lege mu- nus oblatum: et cujus Jargitor es operis, esto dispositor. Per Domi- num nostrum Jesum Christum, Filium tu- um, qui tecum vivit et regnat, etc. ECEIVE, we _ be- seech Thee, O Lord, the gift which we here offer up in behalf of Thy holy law of marriage: and as Thou art the giver of the work, be Thou also the disposer thereof. Through our Lord, ete. After the Pater Noster the priest stands at the Epistle side of the altar, and turns toward the bridegroom and bride, who kneel before the altar, saying over them tbe. following prayers: Oremus ROPITIARE, Do- mine, supplica- tionibus nostris, et Institutis tuis, quibus propagationem humant generis ordinasti, be- nignus assiste: ut quod te auctore jungitur, te auxiliante servetur. Per Dominum nostrum Jesum Christum, etc. Server. Amen. Let us Pray E favorable, O Lord, unto our prayers, and graciously protect Thine or- dinance, whereby Thou hast provided for the propagation of man- kind; that what is now jomed together by Thine authority may be preserved by Thy help. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, etc. Server. Amen. 170 Oremus EUS, qui potestate virtutis tue de ni- hilo cuncta fecisti: qui dispositis universitatis exordis, homini ad, imaginem Dei facto, ideo inseparabile mulie- ris adjutorlum con- didisti, ut femineo corport de virili dares carne principium, do- cens quod ex uno pla- cuisset Institul, num- quam licere disjungi: Deus, qui tam excellenti mysterio conjugalem copulam consecrasti, ut Christi et Ecclesiz sac- ramentum presignares in foedere nuptiarum: Deus, per quem mulier jungitur viro, et socie- tas principaliter ordi- nata ea benedictione donatur que sola nec per originalis peccatti poenam nec per diluvit est ablata sententiam: respice propitius super hanc famulam tuam, que maritali jungenda MASS FOR BRIDEGROOM AND BRIDE Let us Pray GOD who by the might of Tihy power didst make all things out of nothing; who, when the founda- tions of the world were laid, and man was made in the image of God, didst so ordain the in- separable aid of woman, as to give her body its origin from that of man: teaching thereby that whatit had pleased Thee to fashion out of one could never be lawfully put asunder: O God, who hast consecrated wedlock to so excellent a mystery, that in the marriage covenant Thou wouldst foreshow the mysterious union of Christ with His Church: O God, by whom woman Is Joined to man, and that union, established in the beginning, is gifted with a blessing, which alone was not taken away, either in MASS FOR BRIDEGROOM AND BRIDE consortio, tua se expetit protectione muniri: sit in ea Jugum dilectionis et pacis; fidelis et casta nubat in Christo imi- tatrixque sanctarum permaneat feminarum: sit amabilis viro suo, ut Rachel, sapiens, ut Rebecca, lJongeva et fidelis, ut Sara: nihil in ea ex actibus suis ille auctor prevaricationis usurpet; nexa fider mandatisque permane- at; uni thoro juncta, contactus illicitos fugi- at; muniat infirmitatem suam robore discipline; sit verecundia gravis, pudore venerabilis, doc- trinis celestibus eru- dita; sit foecunda in sobole, sit probata et innocens; et ad beato- rum requiem, atque ad celestia regna perve- niat; ut videant ambo filios filiorum suorum usque in tertiam et quartam generationem, et ad optatam per- veniant senectutem. 171 punishment of original sin, or by the sentence of the flood: look gra- ciously down upon this Thy handmaid, now about to be jomed in marriage, who heartily desires to be strength- ened by Thy protec- tion: may it be to her a yoke of love and peace; faithful and chaste may she marry in Christ, and be a fol- lower of holy matrons; may she be pleasing to her husband _ like Rachel, wise like .Re- becca, long-lived and faithful like Sarah. In none of her deeds may that first author of transgression have any share; may she abide frmly knit unto the faith and the command- ments; joined in one union, may she remain ever constant thereto; may she fortify her weakness by the strength of a chastened life; in shamefacedness 172 Per eumdem Domi- num nostrum Jesum Christum, Filtum tu- um, qui tecum vivit et regnat in unitate Spiri- tus Sancti Deus, per omnia secula secu- lorum. R. Amen. MASS FOR BRIDEGROOM AND BRIDE be grave, in modesty worthy of respect, in heavenly doctrines Iearned; may she be fruitful in offspring; may she be approved and blameless; and attain unto the rest of the Blessed, and unto the heavenly kingdom; that they both see their children’s children unto the third and fourth generation and _ arrive at a happy old age. Through the same our Lord Jesus Christ, etc. R. Amen. Tie Communion CCE sic benedice- tur omnis homo, qui timet Dominum, et videas filios filiorum tuorum: pax super Israel. EHOLD, thus shall every man be blessed that feareth the Lord: and mayest thou see thy children’s children: peace upon Israel. The Postcommunion UAESUMUS, om- nipotens Deus, instituta providentiz E beseech Thee, O God almighty, to accompany with Thy MASS FOR BRIDEGROOM AND BRIDE tue pio favore comitare: ut quos legitima socie- tate connectis, longeva pace custodias. Per Dominun, etc. 173 gracious favor what Thy providence hath ordained; and preserve in continual peace those whom Thou hast joined in lawful union. Through our Lord, ete. After the Ite Missa Est or Benedicamus Domino, tbe priest turns toward the bridegroom and bride, saying: EUS Abraham, Deus Isaac, et Deus Jacob sit vobis- cum, et ipse adimpleat benedictionem suam in vobis; ut videatis fiiios filiorum vestro- rum, usque ad tertiam et quartam generatio- nem; et postea vitam zternam habeatis sine fine, adjuvante Do- mino nostro Jesu Christo: qui cum Patre et Spiritu Sancto vivit et regnat Deus, per omnia secula seculo- rum. R. Amen. AY the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob be with you, and may He fulfil His blessing upon you; that you may see your chil- dren’s children unto the third and fourth gen- eration; and may afterwards have ever- lasting life, without end, by the help of our Lord Jesus Christ, who, with the Father and the Holy Ghost, liveth and reigneth God, world without end. R. Amen. The priest then spinkles them with holy water. After- wards, bowing down before the altar, he says the Placeat, gives the Blessing, and ends the Mass as usual. VESPERS FOR SUNDAYS Vespers form the part of the priest’s daily office which is recited in the afternoon or evening. In ancient times | they were chanted by the faithful every day, and this venerable custom is still retained by certain Religious Orders. After the prayers of praise which accompany the Sacrifice of the Mass there are no others so solemn as the vesper prayers. Coming into the sanctuary with his assistants the celebrant first kneels before the altar and recites the following prayer: PERI, Domine, os meum ad_ benedi- cendum nomen sanc- tum tuum: munda quoque cor meum ab omnibus vanis, per- versis, et alienis cogita- tionibus: intellectum lumina, affectum in- flamma, ut digne, attente, ac devote hoc officitum recitare vale- am, et exaudiri merear ante conspectum di- LORD, open Thou my mouth that I may bless Thy holy Name; cleanse my heart from all vain, evil, and wandering thoughts; enlighten my _ under- standing; kindle my affections, that I may worthily, attentively, and devoutly recite this office, and may deserve to be heard before the presence of Thy divine VESPERS. FOR SUNDAYS vine majestatis tue. Per Christum Domi- num nostrum. R. Amen. Domine, in unione illus divine Intentionis, qua Ipse in terris Iaudes Deo persolvisti, has tib1 horas persolvo. 175 Majesty. Through Christ our Lord. R. Amen Lord, in union with that divine intention wherewith Thou didst Thyself praise God while on earth, I offer these hours unto Thee. The celebrant and bis attendants then proceed to the bench, on the Epistle side of the sanctuary; and after saying in silence the Our Father and the Hail Mary, the celebrant intones: 1D eee in adjutorium OME unto my meum intende. help, O God. R. Domine, ad adju- vandum me festina. V. Gloria Patri, et Filio, et Spiritui Sancto. R. Sicut erat in prin- ciplo, et nunc, et semper, et in secula seculorum. 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. Instead of Alleluia from Septuagesima to Palm Sunday inclusively, is said: Laus tibi, Domine, Rex eterne gloriz. Praise to Thee, O Lord, King of eternal glory. 176 VESPERS FOR SUNDAYS During Easter-tide the Psalms are all said with this one Antiphon: Alleluia. Ant. Dixit Dominus. | Ant. The Lord said. Psalm CIX This psalm commemorates Christ as King, Priest, and Supreme Judge. IXIT Dominus Domino meo: Se- de a dextris meis: Donec ponam inimi- cos tuo scabellum pe- dum tuorum. Virgam virtutis tuz emittet Dominus ex Sion: dominare In medio inimicorum tuo- rum. Tecum principium in die virtutis tuz in splen- doribus sanctorum: ex utero ante luciferum genul te. Juravit Dominus, et non poenitebit eum: Tu es sacerdos In zternum secundum ordinem Melchisedech. HE Lord said un- to my Lord: Sit Thou at My right hand: Until I make Thine enemies: Thy foot- stool, The Lord will send forth the sceptre of Thy power out of Sion: rule Thou in the midst of Thine enemies. Thine shall be do- minion in the day of Thy power, amid the brightness of the saints: from the womb before the day-star have I begotten Thee. The Lord hath sworn, and He will not repent: Thou art a priest for ever after the order of Melchisedech. VESPERS’ FOR SUNDAYS Dominus a_ dextris tuis confregit in die ire sue reges. Judicabit in nationt- bus, implebit ruimas: conquassabit capita in terra multorum. De torrente in via bibet, propterea_ exal- tabit caput. Gloria Patri, etc. Ant. Dixit Dominus Domino meo: Sede a dextris meis. Ant. Magna opera Domini. 177 The Lord upon Thy right hand: hath over- thrown kings in the day of His wrath. He shall judge among the nations; He shall fill them with ruins: He shall smite in sunder the heads in the land of many. He shall drink of the brook in the way: therefore shall He lift up His head. Glory be to Father, etc. Ant. The Lord said unto my Lord: Sit Thou at My right hand. Ant. Great are the works of the Lord. the Psalm CX The benefits of Christ to His mystical body, the Church, are here enumerated and extolled. ONFITEBOR tib1, Domine, in toto corde meo: in con- silio justorum, et con- gregatione. WILL praise Thee, O Lord, with my whole heart: in the assembly of the just, and in the congregation, 178 Magna opera Do- mini: exquisita in omnes voluntates ejus. Confessio et magni- ficentia opus ejus, et justitia ejus manet in seculum secull. Memoriam fecit mi- rabiluum suorum mi- sericors et miserator Dominus: escam dedit timentibus se. Memor erit in secu- lum testamenti sui: virtutem operum suorum annuntiabit populo suo: Ut det illis heredita- tem gentium: opera manuum ejus veritas et judicium. Fidelia omnia man- data ejus, confirmata In seculum seculi, facta in veritate et equitate. Redemptionem misit populo suo: mandavit in sternum testamen- tum suum. VESPERS FOR SUNDAYS Great are the works of the Lord: sought out are they according unto all His pleasure. His work is His praise and His honor: and His Justice endureth for ever and ever. A memorial hath the merciful and gracious Lord made of His mar- vellous works: He hath given meat unto them that fear Him. He shall ever be mindful of His cove- nant: He shall show forth to His people the power of His works: That He may give them the heritage of the Gentiles: the works of His hands are truth and judgment. All His command- ments are faithful: they stand fast forever and ever, they are done in truth and equity. He hath sent redemp- tion unto His people: He hath commanded His covenant forever. VESPERS FOR SUNDAYS Sanctum et terrible nomen ejus: initium sa- pientie timor Domini. Intellectus bonus omnibus facientibus eum: laudatio ejus manet in szeculum se- cull. Gloria Patri, etc. Ant. Magna opera Domini: exquisita in omnes voluntates ejus. Ant. Qui timet Do- minum. 179 Holy and terrible is His name: the fear of the Lord is the be- ginning of wisdom. A good understand- ing have all they that do thereafter: His praise endureth forever and ever. Glory be to the Father, etc. Ant. Great are the works of the Lord: sought out are they according unto all His pleasure. Ant. He that feareth the Lord. Psalm CXI In this psalm the happiness and rewards of the just man, the faithful members of Christ’s mystical body, are declared. EATUS vir, qu! trmet Dominum; in mandatis ejus volet nimis. Potens in terra erit semen ejus: generatio rectorum benedicetur. LESSED is the man that feareth the Lord: he shall de- light exceedingly m His commandments. His seed shall be mighty upon earth: the generationoftheupright shall be blessed. 180 Gloria et divitiz in domo ejus, et justitia ejus manet in seculum seecull. Exortum est in tene- bris Jumen rectis: mi- sericors, et miserator, et justus. Jucundus homo, qui miseretur et commodat, disponet sermones suos In judicio: quia in gzternum non commo- vebitur. In memoria eterna erit justus: ab auditi- one male non timebit. Paratum cor ejus sperare in Domino, con- firmatum est cor ejus: non commovebitur do- nec despiciat inimicos suos. Dispersit, dedit pau- peribus; justitia ejus manet in saeculum seeculi: cornu ejus ex- altabitur in gloria, VESPERS FOR SUNDAYS Glory and riches shall be in his house: and his justice endureth for ever and ever. Unto the upright there hath risen up light in the darkness: he Is merciful, and compas- sionate, and just. Acceptable is the man whois merciful and Iend- eth: he shall order his words with judgment, for heshall not be moved for ever. The just man shall be in everlasting remem- brance: he shall not be afraid for evil tidings. His heart is ready to hope in the Lord: his heart is strengthened, he shall not be moved until he look down upon his enemies. He hath dispersed abroad, he hath given to the poor; his justice endureth for ever and ever: his horn shall be exalted in glory. VESPERS FOR SUNDAYS Peccator videbit, et irascetur; dentibus suis fremet et tabescet: de- siderlum peccatorum peribit. Gloria Patri, etc. Ant. Qui timet Do- minum in mandatis ejus cupit nimis. Ant. Sit nomen Domini. 181 The wicked shall see it and shall be wroth; he shall gnash with his teeth, and pine away: the desire of the wicked shall perish. Glory be to the Father, etc. Ant. He that fear- eth the Lord: he shall delight exceedingly in His commandment. Ant. May the name of the Lord. Psalm CXII Here the Psalmist is praising the greatness of the Lord in His glory and in His condescension to man. AUDATE, puert, Dominum: l[au- date nomen Domini. Sit nomen Domini benedictum: ex hoc nunc, et usque in seeculum. A solis ortu usque ad occasum: laudabile nomen Domini. RAISE the Lord, ye children: praise ye the Name of the Lord. Blessed be the Name of the Lord: from this time forth for evermore. From the rising up of the sun unto the going down of the same: the Name of the Lord is worthy to be praised. 182 Excelsus super om- nes gentes Dominus: et super celos gloria ejus. Quis sicut Dominus Deus noster, qui in altis habitat: et humilia re- . spicit in celo et in terra? Suscitans a terra in- opem: et de stercore erigens pauperem: Ut collocet eum cum principibus: cum prin- cipibus populi sul. Qui habitare facit sterilem in domo: ma- trem filiorum letantem. Gloria Patri, etc. Ant. Sit nomen Domini benedictum in secula. Ant. Deus autem noster. VESPERS FOR SUNDAYS The Lord is high above all nations: and His glory above the heavens. Who is like unto the Lord our God, Who dwelleth on high: and regardeth the things that are lowly in heaven and on earth? Who raiseth up the needy from the earth: and lifteth the poor out of the dunghill; That He may set him with the princes: even with the princes of His people. Who maketh the bar- ren woman to dwell in her house: the joyful mother of children. Glory be to Father, etc. Ant. Blessed be the Name of the Lord for evermore. Ant. But our God. the VESPERS FOR SUNDAYS 183 Psalm CXIII Literally this Psalm refers to the ltberation of the chosen people of God from the bondage of Egypt, and to the vanity of idol worship. In its spiritual sense it has reference to the redemption of mankind from the tyranny of sin, and exhorts man to put his trust not in earthly treasures but in the blessings of heaven. N exitu Israel de AEgypto: domus Jacob de populo bar- baro, Facta est Judea sanctificatio ejus: Israel potestas ejus. Mare vidit, et fugit: Jordanis conversus est retrorsum. Montes exultaverunt ut arietes: et colles sicut agni ovium. Quid est tibi, mare, quod fugisti: et tu, Jordanis, quia con- versus es retrorsum? Montes, exultastis sicut arietes: et colles, sicut agni ovium? HEN Israel came out of Egypt: the house of Jacob from among a strange people, Judea was made His sanctuary: and _ Israel His dominion. The sea saw it, and fled: Jordan was turned back. The mountains skipped like rams: and the little hills like the lambs of the flock. What aileth thee, O thou sea, that thou fleddest: and thou, Jordan, that thou wast turned back? Ye mountains, that ye skipped like rams: and ye little hills, like the lambs of the flock? 184 A facie Domini mota est terra: a facie Det Jacob. Qui convertit petram in stagna aquarum: et rupem in fontes aqua- rum. Non nobis, Domine, non nobis: sed nomini tuo da gloriam. Super misericordia tua, et veritate tua: nequando dicant gentes, Ubi est Deus eorum? Deus autem noster in celo: omnia que- cumque voluit fecit. Simulacra gentium argentum et aurum: opera manuum homi- num. Os habent, et non loquentur: oculos ha- bent, et non videbunt. Aures habent, et non audient: nares habent, et non odorabunt. Manus habent, et non palpabunt; pedes VESPERS FOR SUNDAYS At the presence of the Lord the earth was moved: at the presence of the God of Jacob. Who turned the rock into a standing water: and the stony hill into a flowing stream. Not unto us, O Lord, not unto us: but unto Thy Name give the glory. For Thy mercy, and for Thy truth’s sake: lest the Gentiles should say, Where is their God? But our God is in heaven: He hath done all things whatsoever He would. The idols of the Gentiles are silver and gold: the work of the hands of men. They have mouths, and speak not: eyes have they, and see not. They have ears, and hear not: noses have they, and smell not. They have hands, and feel not: they have VESPERS FOR SUNDAYS habent, et non ambula- bunt: non clamabunt in gutture suo. Similes illis fant, qui factunt ea: et omnes qui confidunt in eis. Domus Israel spera- vit in Domino: adjutor eorum et protector -eorum est. Domus Aaron spera- vit in Domino: adjutor eorum et protector eorum est. Qui timent Domi- num, speraverunt in Domino: adjutor eorum et protector eorum est. Dominus memor fuit nostri, et benedixit no- bis. Benedixit domui Israel: benedixit domut Aaron. Benedixit omnibus, qui timent Dominum: pusillis cum mayoribus. Adjiciat Dominus su- per vos: super vos, et super filios vestros. 185 feet, and walk not; neither shall they speak through their throat. Let them that make them become like unto them: and all such as put their trust in them. The house of Israel hath hoped in the Lord: He is their helper and protector. The house of Aaron hath hoped in the Lord: He ts their helper and protector. They that fear the Lord have hoped in the Lord: He is their helper and protector. The Lord hath been mindful of us: and hath blessed us. He hath blessed the house of Israel: He hath blessed the house of Aaron. He hath blessed all that fear the Lord: both small and great. May the Lord add blessmgs upon you: upon you, and upon your children. 186 Benedicti vos a Domino: qui fecit ceelum et terram. Czlum celi Domino, terram autem debit filiis hominum. Non mortur l[auda- bunt te, Domine: ne- que omnes, qui de- scendunt in infernum. Sed nos qui vivimus, | benedicimus Domino: ex hoc nunc, et usque in seeculum. Gloria Patri, etc. Ant. Deus autem noster in celo: omnia quecumque voluit, fecit. Capitulum ENEDICTUS Deus, et Pater Domini nostri Jesu Christi, Pater miseri- cordiarum, et Deus to- tius consolationis, qui consolatur nos in omni tribulatione nostra. R. Deo gratias. VESPERS FOR SUNDAYS Blessed be ye of the Lord: Who hath made heaven and earth. The heaven of heavy- ens is the Lord’s: but the earth hath He given to the children of men. The dead shall not praise Thee, O Lord: neither all they that go down into hell. But we that live bless the Lord: from this time forth for evermore. Glory be to the Father, etc. Ant. But our God is in heaven: He hath done all things what- soever He would. Little Chapter LESSED be God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies, and God of all consola-— tion, Who comforteth | us in all our tribulation. R. Thanks be to God. VESPERS FOR SUNDAYS 187 Hymn In this sublime poem we have a commemoration of the work of the first day of creation, when light was made. The translation is by Cardinal Newman. Certain seasons of the year have a special Hymn which is used in place of the present one. UCIS Creator optime, Lucem dierum_profe- rens, Primordiis [ucis nove Mundi parans originem: Qui mane junctum vesperi Diem vocari precipis; Ilabitur tetrum chaos, Audi preces cum fle- tibus. Ne mens gravata cri- mine, Vite sit exul munere, Dum nil perenne cogi- tat, ATHER of Lights, by Whorn each day Is kindled out of night, Who, when the heavens were made, didst lay Their rudiments in light; Thou Who didst bind and blend in one The glistening morn and evening pale, Hear Thou our plaint, when light is gone, And lawlessness and strife prevail. Hear, lest the whelming weight of crime Wreck us with life in view; Lest thoughts and schemes of sense and time 188 Seseque culpis iligat. Celeste pulset ostium; Vitale tollat premium: Vitemus omne noxium: Purgemus omne pessi- mum. Presta, Pater piissime, Patrique compar unice, Cum Spiritu Paraclito, Regnans per omneszcu- Jum. Amen. V.iDuim igatt wel Domine, oratio mea R. Sicut incensum in conspectu tuo, VESPERS FOR SUNDAYS Earn us a sinner’s due. So may we knock at heaven’s door, And strive the im- mortal prize to win, Continually and _ ever- more Guarded without and pure within. Grant this, O Father, only Son, And Spirit, God of grace, To Whom all worship shall be done In every time and place. Amen. V. Let my prayer, O Lord, be directed R. As incense in Thy sight. The Magnificat This magnificently sublime Canticle was uttered by the Blessed Virgin Mary upon her visit to her cousin Eliza- beth, shortly after her conception of Christ when saluted by Elizabeth as Mother of the Lord. It is a song of thanksgiving for the graces and privileges she had received from God. GNIFICAT ani- ma mea Dominum. Et exultavit spiritus meus in Deo salutari meo. Quia respexit humi- litatem ancille sue: ecce enim ex hoc bea- tam me dicent omnes generationes. Quia fecit mihi mag- na qui potens est: et sanctum nomen ejus. Et misericordia ejus a progenie in progenies, timentibus eum. Fecit potentiam in brachio_ sui: dispersit superbos mente cordis sul. Deposuit potentes de sede, et exaltavit humi- les. Esurientes implevit bonis, et divites dimisit inanes. VESPERS FOR SUNDAYS 189 Y soul doth mag- nify: the Lord. And my spirit re- joiceth: in God my Saviour. Because He _ hath looked down on the lowliness of His hand- maid: for behold hence- forth all generations will call me blessed. Because the Mighty One hath done great things for me: and holy is His Name. And His mercy is from generation to gen- eration: on those who fear Him. He showeth might in His arm: He scattereth the proud in the conceit of their heart. He casteth down the mighty from their throne: and _ exalteth the lowly. He filleth the hungry with good things: and the rich He sendeth away empty. 190 VESPERS FOR SUNDAYS Suscepit Israel pue- He hath received His rum suum, recordatus | servant Israel: being misericordise sue. mindful of His mercy. Sicut Iocutus est ad As He spake to our patres nostros: Abra- | fathers: to Abraham ham, et semini ejus in | and to his seed for ever. seecula. Gloria Patri, etc. Glory be to the Father, etc. The Canticle being completed and the anthem repeated, there follows immediately the versicle: V. Dominus _ vobis- V. The Lord be cum. with you. AR. Et cum spiritu R. And with thy tuo. Spirit. Here follows the Collect proper to the day, together with any commemorations that may occur. After the last prayer there is added: VY. Dominus _ vobis- V. The Lord be with cum. , you. R. Et cum spiritu R. And with thy tuo. spirit. V. Benedicamus Do- V. Let us bless the mino. Lord, .¢ R. Deo gratias. ‘R. Thanks be to God. V. Fidelium, anime, V. May the souls of per misericordiam Dei, | the faithful departed, requiescant In pace. through the mercy of God, rest in peace. R. Amen. / RR. Amen. Vespers terminate with the Our Father, said silently. EPI ASP Pe SOS CoAT S CATARINA SEN. SMECHTILD Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament This devout service dates from the thirteenth century. Its purpose is to express faith in the Real Presence of Christ in the Eucharist, to adore His majesty, to obtain His blessing, to make reparation for outrages and insults offered to God, and to return Him thanks for His many benefits. When the Sacred Host has been exposed, an indulgence of 7 years and 7 quarantines may be gained by looking at it devoutly and saying: “My Lord and my God!” (Pius X. May 18, 1907.) Hymns to the Blessed Sacrament After the Blessed Sacrament bas been placed on the altar the two following hymns of veneration are sung: O Salutaris Hostia Gypeetr Rls SAVING Victim! Hostia, opening wide Que celi pandis os- The gate of heaven to tium: man below! Bella premunt hostilia: | Our foes press on from every side; Da robur, fer auxilium. Thine aid supply, Thy strength bestow. Uni trinoque Domino To Thy great Name be endless praise, 192 BENEDICTION OF THE BLESSED SACRAMENT Sit sempiterna gloria, Qui vitam sine termino Nobis donet in patria. O grant us Immortal Godhead! One in Three! endless length of days In our true native land with Thee! Tantum Ergo ANTUM ergo Sa- cramentum, Veneremur cernui; Et antiquum documen- tum Novo cedat ritui; Prestet fides supple- mentum Sensuum defectui. Genitori, Genitoque Laus et jubilatio; Salus, honor, virtus quoque Sit et benedictio; Procedenti ab utroque Compar sit Jaudatio. Amen. OWN in adoration falling, Lo! the Sacred Host we hail! Lo! o’er ancient forms departing, Newer rites of grace prevail; Faith for all defects supplying Where the feeble senses fail. To the everlasting Father, And the Son Who reigns on high, With the Holy Ghost proceeding Forth from each eter- nally, Be salvation, honor, blessing, Might, and _ endless majesty. Amen. V. Panem de _ celo preestitisti els. R. Omne delecta- mentum in se _ haben- tem. BENEDICTION OF THE BLESSED SACRAMENT 193 Still kneeling, the priest sings: V. Thou gavest them Bread from heaven. R. Having in it all manner of sweetness. During Easter-tide, and during the octave of Corpus Christi, Alleluia is added to V. and R. Rising, be sings the following prayer: Oremus EUS, qui nobis, sub sacramento mira- bili, passionis tue me- moriam reliquisti: tri- bue, quesumus, Ita nos corporis et sanguinis tul sacra mysteria venera- ri, tu redemptionis tuze fructum in nobis jugiter sentiamus. Qui vivis et regnas in secula seeculorum. R. Amen. Let us Pray GOD, Who in this wonderful Sacra- ment hast left us a me- morial of Thy Passion, grant us, we beseech Thee, so to reverence the sacred mysteries of Thy Body and Blood that we may ever find in our souls the fruit of Thy Redemption. Who livest and reignest for- ever and ever. R. Amen. At the Benediction While the Benediction is being given, devoutly repeat some prayer in honor of the Blessed Sacrament, such as: “My Lord and my God!” or simply ask, in your own words, Christ’s blessing upon you, and upon those for whom you wish to pray. 194. BENEDICTION OF THE BLESSED SACRAMENT The Divine Praises An Act of Reparation for profane language after the Blessing. LESSED be God. Blessed be His holy Name. Blessed be Jesus Christ, true God and true man. Blessed be the Name of Jesus. Blessed be His most Sacred Heart. Blessed be Jesus in the Most Holy Sacrament of the Altar. Blessed be the great Mother of God, Mary most holy. Blessed be her holy and immaculate conception. Blessed be her glorious assumption. Blessed be the name of Mary, Virgin and Mother. Blessed be St. Joseph, her most chaste spouse. Blessed be God in His angels and in His saints. (Ind. of 2 years for every public recital after Mass or Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament. —Lro XIII. Feb. 2, 1897.) Y the Heart of Jesus in the most Blessed Sacrament be praised, adored, and loved with grateful affection, at every moment, in all the tabernacles of the world, even to the end of time. Amen. (Ind. of 100 days, once a day. — Prius IX. Feb. 29, 1868.) Hymn of Thanksgiving After the Blessed Sacrament bas been replaced in the Tabernacle all rise and sing: BENEDICTION OF THE BLESSED SACRAMENT 195 Psalm CXVI AUDATE Domi- num, omnes gen- tes: laudate eum, omnes populi. Quoniam confirmata est super nos misericor- dia ejus: et veritas Do- mini manet in eternum. Gloria Patri, etc. PRAISE the Lord, all ye nations: praise Him, all ye people. For His mercy is con- firmed upon us: and the truth of the Lord endureth for ever. Glory be to the Father, etc. Hymn of Thanksgiving OLY GOD, we praise Thy Name! Lord of all, we bow before Thee! All on earth Thy sceptre claim, All in heaven above adore Thee: || : Infinite Thy vast domain, Everlasting is Thy reign. : || Hark! the loud celestial hymn Angel choirs above are raising; Cherubim and Seraphim, In unceasing chorus praising, || : Fill the heavens with sweet accord; Holy, Holy, Holy Lord! : || Holy Father, Holy Son, Holy Spirit, Three we name Thee, While in essence only One, Undivided God we claim Thee; || : And adoring bend the knee, While we own the mystery. : || ee) iN ———s =| SSS IS eh .cTas bee PAA Z DEVOTIONS FOR THE HOLY- DAYS AND SPECIAL FEASTS FEAST OF THE CIRCUMCISION OF OUR LORD (January 1) ND after eight days were accomplished that the Child should be circumcised, His name was called Jesus. V. Blessed is He that cometh. R. In the name of the Lord. Let us Pray GOD, Who by the fruitful virginity of Blessed Mary hast given unto mankind the rewards of eternal salvation, grant, we beseech Thee, that we may feel that she intercedes for us, through whom we have been made worthy to receive the Author of life, our Lord Jesus Christ, Thy Son. Amen. PRAYERS fOR HOLYDAYS AND FEASTS 197 A New Year’s Prayer MOST bountiful God, I sincerely and hum- bly thank Thee for all Thy many benefits to me during the past year, and for the privilege of beginning a new year. Do Thou mercifully continue Thy gracious help and protection, so that I may not only spend this year in Thy service, but may also increase from day to day in fervor and in the performance of good works. May all my thoughts, words and actions be for Thy greater honor and glory, for my own sanc- tification and for the good of souls. These favors I ask from Thy goodness through the merits of our Lord Jesus Christ, Who for our salvation first shed His Precious Blood on this day. Amen. FEAST OF THE EPIPHANY (January 6) NT, All they from Saba shall come, bringing gold and frankincense, and showing forth praise to the Lord. V. We have seen His star in the East. R. And are come with gifts to adore the Lord. Let us Pray GOD, Who by the leading of a star didst on this day manifest Thine only-begotten Son to the Gentiles, mercifully grant that we, who know Thee now by faith, may be brought to the contemplation of Thy glorious majesty. Through the same Christ our Lord. Amen. 198 PRAYERS FOR HOLYDAYS AND FEASTS FEAST OF THE PURIFICATION OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY, OR CANDLEMAS DAY (February 2) NT. After the days of the purification of Mary were fulfilled, according to the Law of Moses, they carried Jesus to Jerusalem to present Him to the Lord. V. A light to the revelation of the Gentiles. R. And the glory of Thy people Israel. Let us Pray LMIGHTY and everlasting God, we humbly beseech Thy majesty that as Thine only- begotten Son was this day presented in the Temple in the substance of our flesh, so we also may, with purified hearts, be presented unto Thee. Through the same Christ our Lord. Amen. THIRTY DAYS’ PRAYER TO THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY IN HONOR OF THE SACRED PASSION OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST By the devout recital of this prayer, each day for thirty days, we may hope to obtain our lawful request. It is also recommended as a proper devotion for every day in Lent, and all the Fridays throughout the year. ER glorious and blessed Mary, Queen of Virgins, Mother of Mercy, hope and comfort of dejected and desolate souls, through that sword of sorrow which pierced thy tender heart while thine only Son, Christ Jesus, our PRAYERS FOR HOLYDAYS AND FEASTS 199 Lord, suffered death, and ignominy on the Cross: through that filial tenderness and pure love He had for thee, grieving m thy grief, whilst from His Cross He recommended thee to the care and protection of His beloved disciple, St. John, take pity, we beseech Thee, on our poverty and necessi- ties; have compassion on our anxieties and cares; assist and comfort us in all our infirmities and miseries. ‘Thou art the Mother of Mercies, the sweet Consolatrix and refuge of the needy and the orphan, of the desolate and afflicted. Cast, therefore, an eye of pity on us, forlorn children of Eve, and hear our prayer: for since, m just punishment of our sins, we are encompassed by evils, whither can we fly for more secure shelter than to thy maternal protection? Attend, there- fore, with an ear of pity, we beseech thee, to our humble and earnest request. We ask it through the mercy of Jesus Christ, thy Son, the Redeemer of the world. We ask it through the anguish of mind wherewith thy beloved Son, our dear Saviour, was overwhelmed on Mount Olivet, when he besought His eternal Father to remove from Him, if possible, the bitter chalice of His future passion. We ask it through the threefold repetition of His prayer in the garden, from whence afterwards, with mournful tears, thou didst accompany Him to the doleful stations of His sufferings and death. We ask it through the welts and sores of His virginal flesh, occasioned by the cords and whips wherewith He was bound and scourged when stripped of His seamless garment, for which His executioners afterwards 200 PRAYERS FOR HOLYDAYS AND FEASTS cast lots. We ask it through the scoffs and ignominies by which He was insulted, the false accusations and unjust sentence by which He was condemned to death, and which He bore with heavenly patience. We ask it through His bitter tears and sweat of blood, His silence and resig- nation, His sadness and grief of heart. We ask it through the blood which trickled from His royal and sacred head, when struck with the sceptre of a reed and pierced with His crown of thorns. We ask it through the torments He endured, when His hands and feet were cruelly fastened to the tree of the Cross. We ask it through His vehement thirst and bitter potion of vinegar and gall. We ask it through His dereliction on the Cross, when He exclaimed: “My God, My God, why hast Thou forsaken Me?” We ask it through His mercy extended to the good thief, and through His recommending His precious soul into the hands of His eternal Father before He expired, saying: ‘All is consummated.” We ask it through the blood mixed with water which issued from His sacred side when pierced with a lance, and whence a flood of grace and mercy hath flowed upon us. We ask it through His im- maculate life, bitter passion, and ignominious death upon the Cross, at which nature itself was thrown into convulsions, by the bursting of rocks, the rending of the veil of the Temple, the earth- quake, and the darkness of the sun and moon. We ask it through His descent into hell, where He comforted the saints of the Old Law, and led captivity captive. We ask it through His glorious PRAYERS FOR HOLYDAYS AND FEASTS = 20I victory over death, His triumphant ascension into heaven, and through the grace of the Holy Ghost, infused into the hearts of the disciples when He descended on them in the form of fiery tongues. We ask it through His awful appear- ance on the last day, when He shall come to judge the living and the dead. We ask it through the compassion He bore thee, and the ineffable joy thou didst feel at thine assumption into heaven, where thou art absorbed in the sweet contempla- tion of His divine perfections. O glorious and ever blessed Virgin, comfort the hearts of thy supplicants, by obtaining for us — (here mention your request). And as we are persuaded that our divine Saviour honors thee as His beloved mother, to whom He can refuse nothing, so let us experi- ence the efficacy of thy powerful mtercession, according to the tenderness of thy maternal affection, and the charity of His amiable Heart, which mercifully granteth the requests, and com- plieth with the desires of those who love and fear Him. O most blessed Virgm! besides the object of our present petition, and whatever else we may stand in need of, obtain for us of thy dear Son, our Lord and our God, lively faith, firm hope, perfect charity, true contrition, a horror of sin, love of God and our neighbor, contempt of the world, and patience and resignation under the trials and difficulties of this life. Obtain likewise for us, O Sacred Mother of God, the gift of final perseverance, and the grace to receive the last Sacraments worthily at the hour of death. Last- ly, obtain, we beseech thee, for our parents, our 202 PRAYERS FOR HOLYDAYS AND FEASTS relatives, and our benefactors, whether living or dead, life everlasting. Amen. FEAST OF ST. JOSEPH (March 10) NT. Behold the faithful and wise servant, whom the Lord made ruler over His house- hold. V. The Lord Ioved him and adorned him. R. He clothed him with a robe of glory. Let us Pray ELP us, we beseech Thee, O Lord, through the merits of the blessed patriarch Joseph, spouse of Thy most holy Mother, that, what we cannot of ourselves obtain, Thou mayest grant us at his petition. Who livest and reignest world without end. Amen. V. Pray for us, blessed St. Joesph. R. That we may be made worthy of the prom- ises of Christ. MEMORARE TO ST. JOSEPH EMEMBER, O most pure spouse of the Blessed Virgin Mary, my sweet protector, St. Joseph! that no one ever had recourse to thy protection or implored thy aid without obtain- ing relief. Confiding therefore in thy goodness, I come before thee, and humbly supplicate thee. PRAYERS FOR HOLYDAYS AND FEASTS 203 O despise not my petitions, foster-father of the Redeemer, but graciously recetve them. Amen. (Ind. of 300 days, once a day.—Pius IX. June 26, 1863.) THIRTY DAYS’ PRAYER TO ST. JOSEPH For a Happy Death and Other Good Intentions ER-BLESSED and glorious Joseph, kind and indulgent father, and compassionate friend of all in sorrow, through that bitter grief with which thy heart was saturated when thou didst behold the sufferings of the Infant Saviour, and in thy prophetic view didst contemplate His most ignominious passion and death, take pity, I beseech thee, on my poverty and necessities, counsel me in my doubts, and console me in all my anxieties. Thou art the good father and pro- tector of orphans, the advocate of the defenseless, the patron of those who are in need and desola- tion. Do not, then, disregard the petition of thy poor child; my sins have drawn down upon me the just displeasure of my God, and hence I am surrounded with sorrows. To thee, O amiable guardian of the poor neglected family of Naza- reth, do I fly for shelter and protection. Listen, then, I entreat of thee, with a father’s solicitude, to the earnest prayer of thy poor supplicant, and obtain for me the objects of my petition. I ask it by the infinite mercy of the eternal Son of 203A PRAYERS FOR HOLYDAYS AND FEASTS God, which induced Him to assume our nature and be born into this world of sorrow. I ask it by the grief which filled thy heart, when, ignorant of the mystery wrought in thy immaculate spouse, thou didst fear thou shouldst be separated from her. I ask it by that weariness, solicitude, and suffering which thou didst endure when thou soughtest in vain at the inns of Bethlehem a shelter for the sacred Virgin and a birthplace for the Infant God, and when, being everywhere refused, thou wert obliged to consent that the Queen of heaven should give birth to the world’s Redeemer in a wretched stable. I ask it by that most sad and painful duty imposed on thee when, the divine Child being eight days old, thou wert obliged to inflict a deep wound on His tender body, and thus be the first to make flow that sacred blood which was to wash away the sins of the world. J ask it by the sweetness and power of that sacred name, Jesus, which thou didst confer on the adorable Infant. I ask it by that mortal anguish inflicted on thee by the prophecy of holy Stmeon, which declared the Child Jesus and His Mother the future victims of their love and our sins. I ask it through that sorrow and anguish which filled thy soul when the angel declared to thee that the life of the Child Jesus was sought by His enemies, from whose impious designs thou wert obliged to fly with Him and His blessed Mother into Egypt. I ask it by all the pains, fatigues, and toils of that long and PRAYERS FOR HOLYDAYS AND FEASTS 203B perilous pilgrimage. I ask it by all the sorrows thou didst endure when in Egypt thou wert not able, even by the sweat of thy brow, to procure poor food and clothing for thy most poor family, I ask it by all the grief thou didst feel each time the divine Child asked for a morsel of bread and thou hadst it not to give Him. I ask it by all thy solicitude to preserve the sacred Child and the immaculate Mary during thy second journey when thou wert ordered to return to thy native country. I ask it by thy peaceful dwelling in Nazareth, in which so many joys and sorrows were mingled. I ask it by thy extreme affliction in being deprived three days of the company of the adorable Child. I ask it by thy joy at finding Him in the temple, and by the ineffable consola- tion imparted to thee in the cottage of Nazareth with the company and society of the little Jesus. I ask it by that wonderful condescension by which He subjected Himself to thy will. I ask it through that dolorous view, continually in thy mind, of all thy Jesus was to suffer, I ask it by that pain- ful contemplation, which made thee foresee the divine little hands and feet, now so active in serving thee, one day to be pierced with cruel nails; that head which rested gently on thy bosom, crowned with sharp thorns; that delicate body which thou didst tenderly fold in thy mantle and press to thy heart, stripped and extended on a cross. | ask it by that heroic sacrifice of thy will and best affection by which thou didst 203C PRAYERS FOR HOLYDAYS AND FEASTS offer up to the Eternal Father the last awful moment when the Man-God was to expire for our salvation. I ask it by that perfect love and conformity with which thou didst receive the divine order to depart from this life, and from the company of Jesus and Mary. I ask it by that exceeding great joy which filled thy soul when the Redeemer of the world, triumphant over death and hell, entered into the possession of His kingdom, and conducted thee also into it with especial honors. I ask it through Mary’s glorious assumption, and through that interminable bliss which with her thou wilt eternally derive from the presence of God. O good father! I beseech thee by all thy sufferings, sorrows, and joys to hear me and to obtain the grant of my eurnest petitions. (Here name them, or reflect on them.) Obtain for all those who have asked thy prayers all that is useful to them in the designs of God; and finally, my dear protector, be thou with me and all who are dear to me in our last moments, that we may eternally chant the praises of Jesus, Mary and Joseph. Amen., PRAYERS FOR HOLYDAYS AND FEASTS 203D Hymn Dear Guardian of Mary! fond Guide of her Child! Life’s ways are full weary, the desert is wild; Bleak sands are all round us, no home can we see; Sweet Spouse of our Lady! we Iean upon thee. For thou to the pilgrim art Father and Guide, And Jesus and Mary felt safe by thy side; Ah, blesséd Saint Joseph, how safe should I be, Sweet Spouse of our Lady! if thou wert with me! O blessed Saint Joseph! how great was thy worth, The one chosen shadow of God upon earth, The Father of Jesus—ah then wilt thou be, Sweet Spouse of our Lady! a father to me? When the treasures of God were unsheltered on earth, Safe keeping was found for them both in thy worth; O Father of Jesus, be father to me, Sweet Spouse of our Lady! and I will love thee. God chose thee for Jesus and Mary, wilt thou Forgive a poor exile for choosing thee now? There’s no saint in heaven, Saint Joseph, like thee; Sweet Spouse of our Lady! ah deign to love me! V. Pray for us, blessed St. Joseph. R. That we may be made worthy of the prom- ises of Christ. ian A ni "4 yy Gi NA N) Al uM ‘na \ Devotions for Holy Week OLY Week opens with Palm Sunday, which com- memorates the triumphal entry of Christ into Jerusalem. The ceremony of Palm Sunday is one of the most impressive of the year and consists of the solemn blessing of the palm, of a procession and of the Mass, during which the Passion of our Lord is read. The most solemn parts of this week, however, are the Iast three days, which recall the passion, death, and burial of our Lord. On Wednesday afternoon, therefore, begins the venerable and impressive office of Tenebrae, consisting of Matins and Lauds of the divine office for the following day. This service is also held on the afternoons of Holy Thursday and Good Friday. It is made up of Psalms and extracts from the Prophets, St. Paul and the Church Fathers, expressive of lamentation and sorrow over the Passion and death of the Redeemer. The name Tenebrae (darkness) is given this office because during it the lights in the sanctuary are gradually extinguished until but one remains. This is then carried behind the altar until the concluding prayer has been said. Then a noise is made, and the light hidden behind the altar is brought back to the sanctuary. The extinction of the lights one after the other signifies the abandonment of Christ by His disciples; the candle taken behind the altar represents the death and burial of our Lord; the darkness of the sanctuary and the noise there made refer to the obscuring of the sun and the DEVOTIONS FOR HOLY WEEK 205 earthquake that occurred at the time of the Saviour’s death, and the light brought back to the sanctuary symbolizes the Resurrection. During these final days of Holy Week the Church anticipates the time for celebrating Matins and Lauds in order to make the sublime office of Tenebrae more con- venient for the laity. All the faithful, therefore, who can possibly do so, should be present at these ancient and venerable mourning services in memory of the Passion and death of our Redeemer. HOLY OR MAUNDY THURSDAY N many cathedrals and other churches there is still observed on this day the ancient custom of washing the feet of certain poor men, or ecclesiastics, in Imitation of our Lord, who washed the feet of the disciples at the Last Supper. This ceremony is called “maundy,” from the Latin “mandatum’”’ (command), because our Lord, after washing the disciples’ feet, commanded that they should do the same, one to another. In ancient times, also, Holy Thursday was the day on which those who had been doing public penance during Lent were reconciled with the Church. To-day the chief observances of Holy Thursday are three: (1) in the morning the Mass and procession of the Blessed Sacrament to the repository, in commemoration of the institution on this day of the Holy Eucharist: (z) in Cathedral churches, the blessing by the Bishop of the holy oils used in administering Baptism, Confirmation and Extreme Unction during the year: (3) the stripping of the altars after Vespers in memory of the parting of our Lord’s garments at the crucifixion. NT. While they were at supper Jesus took bread, and blessed, and broke, and gave to His disciples. V. A new commandment I give you. R. That you love one another as I have loved you. 206 DEVOTIONS FOR HOLY WEEK Let us Pray GOD, from Whom Judas received the punishment of his guilt and the thief the reward of his contrition, grant us the fruit of Thy mercy, that, as our Lord Jesus Christ in His Passion gave recompense to each according to his merits, so may He deliver us from our sins and bestow on us the grace of His Resur- rection. Who liveth and reigneth, forever and ever. Amen. Prayers for a Visit to the Repository ING, my tongue, the Saviour’s glory, Of His Flesh the mystery sing: Of His Blood all price exceeding, Shed by our immortal King, Destined, for the world’s redemption, From a noble womb to spring. Of a pure and spotless virgin Born for us on earth below, He, as man with man conversing, Stayed, the seeds of truth to sow; Then He closed in solemn order Wondrously His life of woe. On the night of the Last Supper, Seated with His chosen band, He the Paschal victim eating, First fulfils the Law’s command; Then as food to all His brethren Gives Himself with His own hand. DEVOTIONS FOR HOLY WEEK 207 Word made flesh, the bread of nature By His word to Flesh He turns, Wine into His Blood He changes: — What though sense no change discerns? Only be the heart in earnest, Faith her lesson quickly learns. Down m adoration falling, Lo! the sacred Host we hail; Lo! o’er ancient forms departing, Newer rites of grace prevail; Faith for all defects supplying, Where the feeble senses fail. To the everlasting Father, And the Son, Who reigns on high, With the Holy Ghost proceeding Forth from each eternally, Be salvation, honor, blessing, Might and endless majesty. Amen. V. Thou hast given them Bread from heaven. R. Containing all manner of sweetness. Let us Pray GOD, Who hast left us, in this wonderful Sacrament, a perpetual memorial of Thy Passion, grant us, we beseech Thee, so to rever- ence the sacred mysteries of Thy Body and Blood that we may ever find in our souls the fruit of Thy Redemption. Who livest and reignest, for- ever and ever. Amen. (Ind. of 300 days, once a day.—Pius VII. Aug. 24, 1818.) 208 DEVOTIONS FOR HOLY WEEK Act of Reparation N the name of the Father, etc. Most adorable Saviour, by the most won- derful prodigy of Thy love for us, Thou dost shut Thyself up m the most Blessed Sacrament of the altar m order to be the perpetual sacrifice of the New Law, the innocent victim of our sins, the celestial food of our souls, our kind physician, our good master, our powerful mediator, and our loving father. But, alas, with what infinite in- gratitude on our part, Thine infinite kindness Is repaid. Prostrate before Thine altar, where Thou art as really present as in the highest heavens, we come to make reparation for all the injuries and for all the megratitude inflicted on Thy loving Heart in this Sacrament. O divine Jesus, grant us to make a fitting reparation for all blasphemies, for all profana- tions, and all sacrileges ever committed; for the want of devotion and neglect of preparation for Holy Communion, for the little fruit we have drawn from it. Pardon, O Lord, pardon for so many Christians who know Thee not and who offend Thee; for so many heretics who insult Thee; for so many impious men and apostates who persecute Thee. By the fervor of our love we would wish to make amends to Thee for all their contempt and for all their sacrileges. How happy should we be, O Jesus, could we but make reparation to Thy glory by our respect, by our zeal, aye, even by the shedding of our DEVOTIONS FOR HOLY WEEK 209 blood. At least, most adorable Saviour, grant us the grace to love Thee in the most Holy Sacrament of the altar with the most tender, the most generous, the most perfect, the most constant love. Virgin most holy, by thy holy and immaculate heart, make us enter into the adorable Heart of thy divine Son, Jesus Christ. O sweet St. Joseph, obtain for me the gift of prayer and of perpetual union with Jesus and Mary. Amen. Prayers for Daily Communion SWEETEST Jesus, Who came into this world to enrich the souls of all with Thy grace, and Who, in order to preserve and increase it in their midst in the most august Sacrament of the Eucharist gave Thyself to be a salutary remedy for our infirmities and divine food to sus- tain our weakness; we humbly beg of Thee merci- fully to pour out upon all men Thy holy Spirit, which may enable them, if stained with any mor- tal guilt, to recover the life of grace Jost by sin, and return to Thee; while those who through Thy great mercy are still united with Thee, may daily, so far as each may be able, approach Thy heavenly table, where they may find strength, and an antidote for their daily faults, may nour- ish the life of grace within them and, being more and more purified, may attain to everlasting happiness in heaven. Amen. (Ind. of 300 days once a week. — Prius X. June 3, 1905.) 210 DEVOTIONS FOR HOLY WEEK Tantum Ergo OWN in adoration falling, Lo! the sacred Host we hail; Lo! o’er ancient forms departing, Newer rites of grace prevail; Faith for all defects supplying, Where the feeble senses fail. To the everlasting Father, And the Son, Who reigns on high, With the Holy Ghost proceeding Forth from each eternally, Be salvation, honor, blessing, Might and endless majesty. Amen. V. Thou hast given them Bread from heaven R. Containing all manner of sweetness. Let us Pray GOD, Who hast Ieft us, in this wonderful Sacrament, a: perpetual memorial of Thy Passion: grant us, we beseech Thee, so to rever- ence the sacred mysteries of Thy Body and Blood that we may ever find in our souls the fruit of Thy Redemption. Who livest and reignest, for- ever and ever. Amen. (Ind. of 300 days. — Pius VII. Aug. 24, 1818.) Upon That Hallowed Night PON that hallowed night Christ with His brethren ate, Obedient to the olden Law, The Pasch before Him set. DEVOTIONS FOR HOLY WEEK 211 Which done — Himself entire, The true, incarnate God, Alike on each, alike on all, His sacred hands bestowed. He gave His Flesh; He gave His Precious Blood; and said: “Receive and drink ye all of this, For your salvation shed.” Thus did the Lord appoint This sacrifice sublime, And made His priests its ministers Through all the bounds of time. Farewell to types! Henceforth We feed on angels’ food: The guilty slave — oh, wonder! — eats The body of his God! O blessed Triune Deity! Visit our hearts, we pray; And Jead us on through Thine own paths To Thy eternal day. Amen. Act of Devout Affection to Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament EHOLD, my dear and Joving Jesus, where- unto Thy great excess of charity has arrived. Thou, of Thy sacred Flesh and most Precious Blood, hast prepared for me a divine banquet, wherein to give me all Thyself. Oh, what has moved Thee to this transport\of love? Most certainly Thy loving Heart alone. O ever-adorable Heart of my Jesus! burning furnace of divine love! 212 DEVOTIONS FOR HOLY WEEK receive into Thy sacred wound my poor soul, that, i Thy school of charity, it may ever learn how to love this God Who has given me such wonderful proofs of His divine love. Amen. (Ind. of 100 days. — Prus VII. Feb. 9, 1818.) The Word Descending (From Verbum supernum) HE Word, descending from above, Though with the Father still on high, Went forth upon His work of love, And soon to life’s last eve drew nigh. He shortly to a death accursed By a disciple shall be given; But to His twelve disciples first He gives Himself, the Bread of heaven. Himself in either kind He gave: He gave His Flesh, He gave His Blood; Of flesh and blood all men are made; And He of man would be the food. At bicth our brother He became; At board Himself as food He gives; To ransom us He died in shame; As our reward in bliss He lives. O saving Victim! opening wide The gate of heaven to man below! Our foes press on from every side; Thine aid supply, Thy strength bestow, DEVOTIONS FOR HOLY WEEK 213 To Thy great name be endless praise, Immortal Godhead, one in three! Oh, grant us endless Iength of days, In our true native land with Thee. Amen. Indulgences for Holy Thursday 1. Plenary, to all who on Holy Thursday, either in public or private, shall for one hour practise some devo- tion in remembrance of the institution of the most Holy Eucharist; to be gained after confession and communion on that day, or some day in the following week, a prayer for the Pope being added. 2. Plenary once for a visit to the repository on Holy Thursday and Good Friday. Conditions: Confession, Communion, prayers for the Holy Father’s intention. 3. Ten years and ten quarantines for every further visit, with prayers for the Pope. (Prus IX. June 18, 1876.) DEVOTIONS FOR GOOD FRIDAY HIS day is called “good” because on it the conde- scension and goodness of God were exceedingly manifested toward mankind in the death of the Saviour of the world. Its ceremonies may be divided into four parts. (1) The Mass of the Catechumens, which consists of lessons from the Old Testament, foretelling the Redemp- tion of the nations by Christ and typifying His immola- tion in the sacrifice of the Paschal Iamb. A prayer for forgiveness of sin Is also offered and this first part of the day’s ceremonies is concluded with the reading of the Passion of our Lord according to St. John. (2) Next follow the Good Friday supplications, in which solemn intercessions are made for the whole human race, for the Church, the Pope, Bishops, priests, deacons, and all the other clergy and the laity; for catechumens, for here-~ tics, schismatics, Jews and pagans; for the unfortunate, the sick, prisoners, travelers and sailors. This is the only day in the year on which the Church prays publicly and solemnly for those outside her communion. (3) The 214 DEVOTIONS FOR HOLY WEEK adoration of the cross constitutes the third part of today’s ceremonies. The cross is three times held up before the people and gradually unveiled, so that they may look upon the instrument of their salvation. At this same time those assisting the priest genuflect in adoration. The cross is then placed on a cushion before the altar, and solemnly venerated first by the celebrant and his ministers and then by all the faithful. Meanwhile are read or sung the reproaches uttered by the Messiah against those who had rejected Him. The hymn “Crux fidelis,” “Faithful Cross,” terminates this third part. (4) Good Friday service ends with the Mass of the Pre- sanctified, which is not a real sacrifice since there Is no consecration on that day. The Church is so absorbed with the thought of our Lord’s death on this, its sorrow- ful anniversary, that she does not renew the tmmolation of the divine Victim on the altar. The Mass of the Presanctified is, therefore, ‘mn reality only a Communion service. It begins with the procession to the repository during which the beautiful hymn “Vexilla Regis’’ is sung. The sacred Host which was consecrated the day before is now brought back to the altar and incensed, and the priest takes wine and water into the chalice and again incenses the oblation and the altar. After washing his fingers he says the “Orate fratres’? and the “Pater Noster,” elevates and breaks the Host, and con- cludes the service wit: his Communion and the taking of the ablutions. Besides the celebrant, only those in danger of death are allowed to receive Holy Communion on Good Friday. NT. Toward the ninth hour Jesus cried out with a loud voice: My God, Why hast Thou forsaken Me? And bowing His head, He gave up the ghost. V. Lord, remember me. R. When Thou comest into Thy kingdom. DEVOTIONS FOR HOLY WEEK 215 Let us Pray OOK down, we beseech Thee, O Lord, upon us for whose sake our Lord Jesus Christ hesitated not to yield Himself into the hands of sinners, and to suffer the torments of the cross. Who liveth and reigneth forever and ever. Amen. Abroad the Regal Banners Fly (Vexilla Regis) BROAD the regal banners fly, Now shines the cross’s mystery; Upon it Life did death endure, And yet by death did life procure. Who, wounded with a direful spear, Did, purposely to wash us clear From stain of sin, pour out a flood Of precious Water mixed with Blood. That which the Prophet-King of old Hath in mysterious verse foretold, Is now accomplished, whilst we see God ruling nations from a Tree. O lovely and refulgent Tree, Adorned with purpled majesty; Culled from a worthy stock, to bear Those Limbs which sanctifiéd were. Blest Tree, whose happy branches bore The wealth that did the world restore; The beam that did that Body weigh Which raised up hell’s expected prey. 216 DEVOTIONS FOR HOLY WEEK Hail, Cross, of hopes the most sublime! Now in this mournful Passion time, Improve religious souls in grace, The sins of criminals efface. Blest Trinity, salvation’s spring, May every soul Thy praises sing; To those Thou grantest conquest by The holy Cross, rewards apply. The Seven Words upon the Cross NCLINE unto my aid, O God. R. O Lord, make haste to help me. Glory be to the Father, etc. The First Word ATHER, forgive them for they know not what they do. V. We adore Thee, O Christ, and we bless Thee. R. Because by Thy holy cross Thou hast redeemed the world. MY beloved Jesus, Who for the love of me didst agonize on the cross that Thou mightest pay by Thy sufferings the debt due to my sins, and didst open Thy divine mouth to obtain my pardon from eternal justice, have mercy on all the faithful in their agony, and on myself when I shall be in that extremity, and, by the merits of Thy most Precious Blood shed for our salvation, give us so lively a sorrow for DEVOTIONS FOR HOLY WEEK 217 our sins that we may breathe out our souls into the bosom of Thine infinite mercy. Glory be to the Father, etc. (three times). V. Have mercy on us, O Lord. R. Have mercy on us. O my God, I believe in Thee, I hope in Thee, I love Thee, and I repent of having offended Thee by my sins. The Second Word HIS day Thou shalt be with Me m paradise. V. We adore Thee, O Christ, and we bless Thee. R. Because by Thy holy cross Thou hast redeemed the world. BELOVED Jesus, Who for the love of me didst agonize on the cross, and with such readiness and bounty didst respond to the faith of the Good Thief, who in the midst of Thy humiliation acknowledged Thee to be the Son of God: O Thou Who didst assure him of para- dise, have mercy on all the faithful in their agony, and on me also when I shall be in that extremity, and, through the merits of Thy most Precious Blood, revive in our souls a faith so firm and constant that it may not waver at any suggestion of the devil, so that we also may obtain the blessed reward of heaven. Glory be to the Father, etc. (three times). Have mercy, etc. 218 DEVOTIONS FOR HOLY WEEK The Third Word EHOLD Thy Son; behold thy Mother. V. We adore Thee, O Christ, and we bless Thee. R. Because by Thy holy cross Thou hast redeemed the world. BELOVED Jesus, Who for the love of me didst agonize on the cross, and, forgetting Thy sufferings, didst leave us as a pledge of Thy love Thine own most holy Mother, that through her we might confidently have recourse to Thee In our greatest need: have mercy on all the faith- ful in their agony, and on me also when I shall be in that extremity, and, through the mterior martyrdom of this Thy dear Mother, awaken in our hearts a firm hope in the infinite merits of Thy most Precious Blood, that we may avoid the eternal damnation which our sins have de- served. Glory be to the Father, etc. (three times). Have mercy, etc. The Fourth Word Y God! My God! why hast Thou forsaken Me? V. We adore Thee, O Christ, and we bless Thee. R. Because by Thy holy cross Thou hast redeemed the world. BELOVED Jesus, Who for the love of me didst agonize on the cross, and, heaping suffering on suffering, didst endure with infinite DEVOTIONS FOR HOLY WEEK 219 patience not only Thy many bodily tortures, but the most heavy affliction of spirit through the dereliction of Thine eternal Father: have mercy on all the faithful mm their agony, and on me also ~when I shall be in that extremity, and, through the merits of Thy most Precious Blood, give us - grace to suffer with true patience all the pains and afflictions of our agony, that, uniting them with Thme, we may be partakers of Thy glory in paradise. Glory be to the Father, etc. (three times). Have mercy, etc. The Fifth Word THIRST. V. We adore Thee, O Christ, and we bless Thee. R. Because by Thy holy cross Thou hast redeemed the world. BELOVED Jesus, Who didst agonize on the cross for the love of me, and Who, not satisfied with all the ignominy and suffering, wouldst willingly have suffered yet more, so that all men might be saved — as was clearly proved when all the torrents of Thy Passion would not allay the thirst of Thy tender Heart: have mercy on all the faithful in their agony, and on me also when I shall be in that extremity, and, through the merits of Thy most Precious Blood, enkindle such a fire of charity in our hearts as may cause them to burn with the desire of uniting themselves, to Thee for all eternity. Glory be to the Father, etc. (three times). Have mercy, etc. 220 DEVOTIONS FOR HOLY WEEK The Sixth Word T IS consummated. V. We adore Thee, O Christ, and we bless Thee. R. Because by Thy holy cross Thou hast redeemed the world. BELOVED Jesus, Who for the love of me didst agonize on the cross, and from that throne of truth didst announce the completion of the work of our Redemption, through which, from being the children of wrath and perdition, we are become the children of God and the heirs of heaven: have Mercy on all the faithful in their agony, and on me also when I shall be in that extremity, and, through the merits of Thy most Precious Blood, detach us entirely from the world and from ourselves, and at the moment of our agony give us grace sincerely to offer Thee the sacrifice of our life in expiation of our sins. Glory be to the Father, etc. (three times). Have mercy, etc. The Seventh Word ATHER, into Thy hands I commend My spirit. V. We adore Thee, O Christ, and we bless Thee. R. Because by Thy holy cross Thou hast redeemed the world. BELOVED Jesus, Who didst agonize on the cross for the love of me, and Who, in com- pleting this great sacrifice, didst accept the will DEVOTIONS FOR HOLY WEEK 221 of Thine eternal Father, by resigning Thy spirit into His hands, and then bowing Thy head and dying: have mercy on all the faithful in their agony, and on me also when [ shall be in that extremity, and, through the merits of Thy most Precious Blood, give us, in our agony, an entire conformity to the divine will, that we may be ready either to live or die according as it shall best please Thee, desiring nothing but the accomplishment of Thy blessed will n us. Glory be to the Father, etc. (three times). Have mercy, etc. A Prayer to Our Blessed Lady of Sorrows HOLY Mother, most afflicted by the bitter sorrow which thou didst endure at the foot of the cross during the three hours’ agony of Jesus: vouchsafe to assist all of us, the children of thy sorrows, in our last agony, that through thine intercession we may pass from the bed of death to form a crown for thee in the heavenly paradise. Hail Mary, etc. (three times). O Mary, Mother of grace, Mother of mercy, Protect us from the enemy, And receive us at the hour of death. V. From sudden and unlooked-for death, R. O Lord, deliver us. V. From the snares of the devil, R. O Lord, deliver us. V. From everlasting death, R. O Lord, deliver us. 222 DEVOTIONS FOR HOLY WEEK Let us Pray GOD, Who for the salvation of mankind didst give an example and a help im the Passion and death of Thy Son: grant, we beseech Thee, that in the hour of our death we may experience the effects of this Thy charity, and deserve to be partakers in the glory of Him our Redeemer, through the same Jesus Christ our Lord. R. Amen. ESUS, Mary, and Joseph, I give you my heart and my soul. Jesus, Mary, and Joseph, assist me in my last agony. Jesus, Mary, and Joseph, may I breathe forth my soul in peace with you. (Ind. of 7 years and 7 quarantimes, each time. — Leo XIII. Dec. 8, 1897.) GOOD FRIDAY REPROACHES Y people! what have I done to thee? Or in what have I grieved thee? Answer Me. Because I brought thee out of the land of Egypt: thou hast prepared a cross for thy Saviour. Holy God. Holy God. Holy and strong God, Holy and strong God. Holy and immortal God! have mercy on us. Holy and immortal God! have mercy on us. DEVOTIONS FOR HOLY WEEK 223 ECAUSE I led thee through the desert forty years and fed thee with manna and brought thee into an excellent land; thou hast prepared a cross for thy Saviour. Holy God. Holy God. Holy and strong God. Holy and strong God. Holy and immortal God! have mercy on us. Holy and immortal God! have mercy on us. HAT more should I have done to thee, and have not done? I have planted thee for My most beautiful vineyard: and thou hast proved very bitter to Me: for m My thirst thou gavest Me vinegar to drink; and with a spear thou hast pierced the side of thy Saviour. Holy God. Holy God. Holy and strong God. Holy and strong God. Holy and immortal God! have mercy on us. Holy and immortal God! have mercy on us. OR thy sake I scourged Egypt with her first- born; and thou hast delivered Me to be scourged. I brought thee out of Egypt, having drowned Pharao in the Red Sea; and thou hast delivered Me over to the chief priests. I opened the sea before thee; and thou with a spear hast opened My side. I went before thee m a pillar of the cloud; and thou hast brought Me to the palace of Pilate. 224 DEVOTIONS FOR HOLY WEEK I fed thee with manna in the desert; and thou hast beaten Me with buffets and scourges. I gave thee wholesome water to drink out of the rock; and thou hast given Me gall and vinegar. For thy sake I struck the kings of the Chanaan- ites; and thou hast struck My head with a reed. I gave thee a royal sceptre; and thou hast given Me a crown of thorns. I have exalted thee with great strength; and Thou hast hanged Me on the gibbet of the cross. Y people! what have I done to thee? Or in what have I grieved thee? Answer Me. On Good Friday, it is most appropriate to say “The Stations of the Cross,”’ see page 371. DEVOTIONS FOR HOLY SATURDAY Originally the service of this day was celebrated during the Iate hours of Saturday night as an Easter vigil. The faithful watched in the Church all night, awaiting the dawn, the hour of the Resurrection, when the joyful Mass of Easter would be celebrated. Meanwhile, the long preparation of the catechumens was concluded with solemn Baptism, their resurrection to newness of life. Holy Saturday ceremonies are as follows. (1) The blessing of the new fire and the Paschal candle. The new fire struck from flint represents Christ the corner-stone and light of the world. The Paschal candle symbolizes the radiance and glory of His Resurrection. (2) Next follow twelve prophecies taken from the Old Testament accompanied by prayers. These lessons, intended prin- cipally for the candidates for Baptism, contain types of the Redemption, of the Resurrection, of Baptism and of the Church. (3) After this comes the blessing of the baptismal font, which in early days was followed by Baptism and Confirmation of the candidates who were prepared for these Sacraments. (4) Finally there are the DEVOTIONS FOR HOLY WEEK 225 Litany of the Saints and the Mass. Immediately after the Communion, first vespers of Easter are sung. NT. In the end of the Sabbath when it began to dawn toward the first day of the week, came Mary Magdalen and the other Mary to see the sepulchre. V. His place is in peace. R. And His abode in Sion. Let us Pray GOD, Who dost gladden us by the annual expectation of the Resurrection of Thy Son, mercifully preserve in us the spirit of adoption which we received in holy Baptism, that we may ever show forth a pure service in Thy sight. To Jesus in the Sepulchre ESU! as though Thyself wert here, I draw in trembling sorrow near; And, hanging o’er Thy form divine, Kneel down to kiss these wounds of Thine. Hail, awful brow! hail, thorny wreath! Hail, countenance now pale in death! Whose glance but late so brightly blazed, That angels trembled as they gazed. And hail to thee, my Saviour’s side; And hail to thee, thou wound so wide; Thou wound more ruddy than the rose, True antidote of all our woes! Oh, by those sacred hands and feet For me so mangled! I entreat, My Jesu, turn me not away, But let me here forever stay. EN aT pee > 2 \s ———J a ANE Prayers for Paschaltive EASTER SUNDAY NT. Christ our Pasch is immolated; there- fore let us feast with the unleavened bread of sincerity and truth. Alleluia! V. This is the day which the Lord hath made. Alleluia. R. Let us be glad and rejoice therein. Alleluia. Let us Pray '@) GOD, Who through Thine only-begotten Son hast on this day overcome death and opened unto us the gate of everlasting life, follow up with Thine aid the desires which Thou didst forestall with Thme inspiration. Through the same Christ our Lord. Amen. PRAYERS FOR PASCHALTIDE 227 The Paschal Sequence HRIST the Lord is risen today; Christians, haste your vows to pay; Offer ye your praises meet At the Paschal Victim’s feet; For the sheep the Lamb hath bled, Sinless m the sinner’s stead. Christ the Lord is risen on high; Now He lives, no more to die. Christ, the Victim undefiled, Man to God hath reconciled, When in strange and awful strife Met together death and life; Christians, on this happy day, Haste with joy your vows to pay. Christ the Lord is risen on high; Now he lives, no more to die. Say, O wond’ring Mary, say What thou sawest on the way. “T beheld where Christ had lain, Empty tomb and angels twain; I beheld the glory bright Of the risen Lord of light; Christ, my hope, is risen again, Now He lives, and lives to reign.” Christ, who once for sinners bled, Now the first-born from the dead, Throned in endless might and power, Lives and reigns forevermore. Hail, eternal hope on high! Hail, Thou King of victory! Hail, ‘Fhou Prince of life adored! Help and save us, gracious Lord. 228 PRAYERS FOR PASCHALTIDE ROGATION DAYS In the fifth century, St. Mamertus, Bishop of Vienne, appointed three days of public prayer and procession for his diocese In consequence of certain great calamities, such as fire, earthquakes, and other scourges which were devastating his country. During these processions, Lit- anies were recited to appease the anger of God. This custom later became universal, and the three days before Ascension were set aside by the Church as the time for these public prayers. Even before St. Mamertus, it was customary in Rome to have a procession of this kind on St. Mark’s day, April 25, which procession became known as the Greater Litanies. The three days before Ascen- sion are called Rogation Days, or days of intercession, At the present time these are days of special prayer for the coming harvest. The Litany of the Saints is most appropriate for these days. See page 445. NT. Ask and you shall receive, seek and you shall find, knock and it shall be opened to you; for every one that asketh receiveth and he that seeketh findeth, and to him that knocketh It shall be opened. V. He heard my voice from His holy temple. R. And my cry before Him came into His ears Let us Pray RANT, we beseech Thee, almighty God, that we, who in our affliction confide in Thy lov- ing kindess, may be ever defended by Thy pro- tection against all adversity. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. PRAYERS FOR PASCHALTIDE 229 ASCENSION DAY NT. God is ascended in jubilee, and the Lord with the sound of trumpet. Alleluia. V. The Lord is in Sina, in the holy place. Alleluia. R. Ascending on high, He hath led captivity captive. Alleluia! Let us Pray RANT, we beseech Thee, almighty God, that we who believe Thine only-begotten Son, our Redeemer, to have this day ascended into heaven, may ourselves dwell in spirit amid hea- venly things. Through the same Christ our Lord. Amen. WHITSUNDAY, OR PENTECOST NT. There came suddenly a sound from heaven as of a mighty wind coming where they were sitting; and they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, speaking the wonderful works of God. Alleluia. V. Come, O Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of Thy faithful. Alleluia. R. And kindle in them the fire of Thy love. Alleluia, Let us Pray GOD, Who on this day didst teach the hearts of Thy faithful, by the light of Thy Holy Spirit: grant us by the same Spirit to have a right judgment in all things, and evermore to rejoice in His holy comfort. Through our Lord Jesus Christ. Amen. 230 PRAYERS FOR PASCHALTIDE PENTECOSTAL SEQUENCE (VENI SANCTE SPIRITUS) OLY Spirit! Lord of light, From Thy clear celestial height, Thy pure beaming radiance give. Come, Thou Father of the poor! Come, with treasures which endure, Come, Thou light of all that live. Thou, of all consolers best, Visiting the troubled breast, Dost refreshing peace bestow; Thou im toil art comfort sweet; Pleasant coolness in the heat; Solace in the midst of woe. Light immortal! light divine! Visit Thou these hearts of Thine, And our inmost being fill. If Thou take Thy grace away, Nothing pure in man will stay; All his good is turn’d to ill. Heal our wounds — our strength renew; On our dryness pour Thy dew; Wash the stains of guilt away; Bend the stubborn heart and will; - Melt the frozen, warm the chill; Guide the steps that go astray. PRAYERS FOR PASCHALTIDE 231, Thou, on those who evermore Thee confess and Thee adore, In Thy sevenfold gifts descend; Give them comfort when they die; Give them life with Thee on high; Give them joys which never end. Amen. (Ind. of 300 days on Whitsunday; 100 days on other days. Prayers for intention of Pope to be added. — Pius VI. May 26, 1796.) PRAYER TO THE HOLY SPIRIT FOR THE CHURCH HOLY SPIRIT, Creator, be propitious to the Catholic Church; and by Thy heavenly power make it strong and secure against the attacks of its enemies; and renew in charity and grace the spirit of Thy servants, whom Thou hast anointed, that they may glorify Thee and the Father and His only-begotten Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. (Ind. of 300 days once a day. — Leo XIII. Aug. 26, 1889.) PRAYER FOR THE NATIONS OLY SPIRIT, Spirit of truth, come into our hearts; shed the brightness of Thy light on all nations, that they may be one in faith and pleasmg to Thee. (Ind. of 100 days once a day.—Leo XIII. July 31, 1897: ) 232 PRAYERS FOR HOLYDAYS AND FEASTS FEAST OF CORPUS CHRISTI NT. I am the living Bread that came down from heaven: if any man shall eat of this Bread, he shall live forever. V. Thou hast given them Bread from heaven. Alleluia. R. Having in itself all manner of sweetness. Alleluia. Let us Pray GOD, Who mm this wonderful Sacrament hast left us a memorial of Thy Passion, grant us, we beseech Thee, so to reverence the sacred mysteries of Thy Body and Blood that we may ever find in our souls the fruit of Thy Redemp- tion. Who livest and reignest forever and ever. Amen. FEAST OF SS. PETER AND PAUL (June 29) NT. Peter, the Apostle, and Paul, the Doctor of the nations, these have taught us Thy law, O Lord. __Y. Thou shalt make them princes over all the earth. R. They shall remember Thy Name, O Lord. Let us Pray GOD, Who hast made holy this day by the martyrdom of Thine apostles, Peter and Paul, grant unto Thy Church that as through them she first received the faith, so may she in all things follow their precepts. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. PRAYERS FOR HOLYDAYS AND FEASTS 233 FEAST OF THE ASSUMPTION (August 15) NT. Mary hath been taken up into heaven: the angels rejoice, and, blessing God, praise Him with one voice. V. The holy Mother of God is exalted. R. Above the choirs of angels to the heavenly kingdom. Let us Pray LORD, may we obtain salutary help this venerable feast day on which the holy Mother of God suffered death for a time, but could not be held by its bonds — she who brought forth in the flesh Thy Son, our Lord. Who liveth and reigneth forever and ever. Amen. PRAYER OF ST. ALOYSIUS GONZAGA HOLY Mary, my mistress, into thy blessed trust and special custody, and into the bosom of thy mercy I this day, every day, and in the hour of my death, commend my soul and my body: to thee I commit all my anxieties and miseries, my life and the end of my life, that by thy most holy intercession and by thy merits all my actions may be directed and disposed ac- cording to thy will and that of thy Son. Amen. (Ind. of 200 days. — Leo XIII. March 15, 1890.) f) Ember Daps The Ember Days are kept on Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday in a week of each of the four seasons of the year. They fall after Ash Wednesday, after Whitsunday, after September 14, and after December 13. Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday were days of par- ticular devotion in the early Church: Wednesday, as recalling the betrayal of our Lord, and Friday in memory of His Passion, Saturday was later added to these days of prayer and penance as a continuation of Friday, and as far back as the second century they were set apart as Sta- tional days, that is, as days of special religious service and fasting. The Ember Days, although the occasion of their in- stitution is uncertain, are a reminder of these ancient days of devotion. Their purpose is to thank God for the fruits of the earth and other gifts of nature, to teach moderation in their use, and to assist the needy. From the time of Pope Gelasius in the fifth century it has been allowed to confer the diaconate and priesthood on the Saturdays of Ember weeks. NT. Bless the Lord, O my soul, and never forget all He hath done for thee. V. Lord, Thou hast been our refuge. R, From generation to generation. PRAYERS FOR HOLYDAYS AND FEASTS 235 Let us Pray RANT, we beseech Thee, almighty God, that as year by year we devoutly keep these holy observances, we may be pleasing to Thee both in body and soul. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. IN HONOR OF CHRIST'S BETRAYAL AND PASSION GOD, Who for the world’s Redemption wast pleased to be born, circumcised, rejected by the Jews, betrayed by the kiss of the traitor Judas, bound with chains, led like an mnocent Iamb to sacrifice, and shamefully presented before Annas, Caiphas, Pilate, and Herod, accused by false witnesses, beaten with whips, buffeted, insulted, spat upon, crowned with thorns, smitten with a reed, blindfolded, stripped of Thy garments, fastened with nails to the cross and lifted up on high, reputed among thieves, made to drink gall and vinegar and wounded by a lance; oh, by these most sacred suffermgs, which, unworthy as I am, I thus commemorate, and by Thy holy cross and death, deliver me, Lord, from the pains of hell, and deign to Jead me where Thou didst lead the penitent thief, who was crucified by Thy side. Who, with the Father and the Holy Ghost, lIrvest and reignest, forever and ever. Amen. Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory be to the Father, etc., five times. (Ind. of 300 days, once a day.—Pivs VII. Aug. 25, 1820.) 236 PRAYERS FOR HOLYDAYS AND FEASTS PRAYER FOR GOD’S BLESSING ON OUR LABORS LORD, graciously look down upon Thy servants and upon the work of their hands, and do Thou, Who givest food to every creature, bless and preserve the fruits of the earth, that the needy may be filled with good things and that all may praise the glory of Thy bounty. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. FOR VOCATIONS TO THE PRIESTHOOD NT. Why stand ye all the day idle, go ye into my vineyard. V. Ask the Lord of the harvest. R. That He send laborers into His vineyard. Let us Pray OD, who willest not the death of the sinner, but rather that he be converted and live; grant, by the intercession of blessed Mary ever Virgin and of all the saints, laborers for Thy Church, fellow laborers with Christ, to spend and consume themselves for souls. Through the same Jesus Christ, etc. Amen. (Ind. of 300 days. — Prus X. March 30, 1908.) FEAST OF ALL SAINTS (November 1) NT. Let us all rejoice in the Lord, celebrat- ing a festival day in honor of all the saints, at whose solemnity the angels rejoice and give praise to the Son of God. V. Rejoice in the Lord, O ye just. R. Praise becometh the upright. PRAYERS FOR HOLYDAYS AND FEASTS = 237 Let us Pray LMIGHTY and everlasting God, by Whose favor we venerate in one solemnity the merits of all Thy saints: we beseech Thee that through the multitude of our intercessors Thou wouldst bestow upon us the fulness of Thy mercy, which we long for. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. The Litany of the Saints is a very suitable prayer for this great feast-day. See page 445. ALL SOULS’ DAY (November 2) NT. Lord Jesus Christ, King of glory, de- liver the souls of all the faithful departed from the pains of hell, and from the depths of the pit: deliver them from the mouth of the lion, lest hell swallow them up, lest they fall into dark- ness: but let the standard-bearer, St. Michael, bring them into the holy light. Which Thou didst promise of old to Abraham, and to his seed. V. Accept, O Lord, our prayers in behalf of those souls whom we this day commemorate. R. Grant that they may pass from death to life. Let us Pray GOD, the Lord of mercies, grant to the souls of Thy servants and handmaids a place of refreshment, rest, and happiness, and the glory of Thy light. Through Christ our Lord. Amen, 238 PRAYERS FOR HOLYDAYS AND FEASTS FOR THOSE WHO REPOSE IN A CEMETERY GOD, in Whose tender mercy the souls of the faithful are at rest, of Thy favor give unto the souls of all Thy servants and hand- maidens, who here and everywhere sleep in Christ, pardon of sin; that they being absolved from all guilt, may evermore rejoice with Thee. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, Thy Son, Who liveth and reigneth with Thee in the unity of the Holy Ghost, forever and ever. Amen. FEAST OF THE IMMACULATE CONCEPTION (December 8) NT. This is the rod in which was neither knot of original sin, nor rind of actual guilt. V. In thy conception, O Virgin, thou wast immaculate. R, Pray for us to the Father, Whose Son thou didst bring forth. Let us Pray GOD, Who by the Immaculate Conception of the Virgin, didst prepare a worthy habi- tation for Thy Son, we beseech Thee, that as by the foreseen death of that same Son Thou didst preserve her from all-stain, so, too, Thou wouldst permit us, purified through her, intercession, to ‘come unto Thee. Through the same Christ our Lord. Amen. -. (Ind. of 106 days. — Prus IX. March 31, 1876.) PRAYERS FOR HOLYDAYS AND FEASTS 239 PRAYER OF PRAISE HOU art all fair, O Mary. Thou art all fair, O Mary. And there is no stain of original sin in thee. And there is no stain of original sin in thee. Thou art the glory of Jerusalem. Thou art the joy of Israel. Thou art the honor of our people. Thou art the advocate of sinners, O Mary, O Mary! Virgin most wise, Mother most kind, pray for us. Intercede for us with Jesus Christ our Lord. In thy conception, O Virgin, thou wast im- maculate. Pray for us to the Father Whose Son thou didst bear. Let us Pray GOD, Who, by the Immaculate Conception of the Virgin, didst prepare a worthy habi- tation for Thy Son; we beseech Thee, that as by the foreseen death of that same Son Thou didst preserve her from all stain, so Thou wouldst per- mit us, purified through her mtercession, to come unto Thee, Through the same Christ our Lord. Amen. (Plenary Ind. on the Feast of the Immaculate Con- ception on condition of confession, communion, visit to a church or public chapel, and prayer for the intention of the Pope. At other times, Ind. of 300 days once a day. — Prus VII. January 11, 1809.) 240 PRAYERS FOR HOLYDAYS AND FEASTS PRAYER OF ST. ALPHONSUS FOR PURITY Hail Mary, etc. thrice, and after each: By the Immaculate Conception, O Mary, make my body pure, and my soul holy. (Ind. of 300 days, twice a day, morning and evening. — Pius X. December 5, 1904.) INDULGENCED EJACULATIONS TO MARY IMMACULATE O thee, O Virgin Mother, who wast never defiled with the slightest stain of original or actual sin, I commend and entrust the purity of my heart. (Ind. of 100 days once a day. — Pius IX. Nov. 26, 1854.) MARY, who didst enter the world free from stain, do thou obtain for me from God that I may pass out of it free from sin. (Ind. of 100 days once a day.— Prius IX. March 27, 1863.) LESSED be the holy and ‘Immaculate Con- ception of the most blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of God. (Ind. of 300 days each time. —Lro XIII. Sept. 10, 1878.) MARY, conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to thee. (Ind. of 100 days once a day. — Leo XIII. March 15, 1884.) FEAST OF CHRISTMAS (December 25) NT. A light shall shine upon us this day: for our Lord is born to us; and He shall be called Wonderful, God, the Prince of peace, the Father of the world to come, of Whose king- dom there shall be no end. V. A child is born to us. R. And to us a Son is given. Let us Pray RANT, we beseech Thee, O Lord our God, that we who rejoice in celebrating the birth- day of our Lord Jesus Christ may deserve by holiness of life to attain unto fellowship with Him. Who liveth and reigneth forever and ever. Amen. PRAYER TO JESUS IN THE MANGER DIVINE Redeemer Jesus Christ, prostrate before Thy crib, I believe Thou art the God of infinite Majesty, even though I do see Thee here as a helpless babe. I humbly adore and 242 PRAYERS FOR HOLYDAYS AND FEASTS thank Thee for having so humbled Thyself for my salvation as to will to be born in a stable. I thank Thee for all Thou didst wish to suffer for me in Bethlehem, for Thy poverty and humility, for Thy nakedness, tears, cold and sufferings. Would that I could show Thee that tenderness which Thy Virgin Mother had toward Thee, and love Thee as she did. Would that I could praise Thee with the joy of the angels, that I could kneel before Thee with the faith of St. Joseph, the simplicity of the shepherds. Uniting myself with these first adorers at the crib I offer Thee the homage of my heart, and I beg that Thou wouldst be born spiritually In my soul. Make me reflect in some degree the virtues of Thy admirable nativity. Fill me with that spirit of renunciation, of poverty, of humility, which prompted Thee to assume the weakness of our nature, and to be born amid destitution and suffering. Grant that from this day forward I may in all things seek Thy greater glory, and may enjoy that peace promised to men of good will, THE LAST DAY OF THE YEAR (December 31) An indulgence of 7 years is granted to all the faithful, who with at least contrite heart, during the last half hour of the year and the first balf bour of the following year, shall pray to the Most Holy Trinity in thanksgiving for benefits recewed; beseeching the same Holy Trinity for peace among Christian nations, for concord among Christian princes, for the con- version of sinners, and for the triumph of holy Mother Church and its visible bead, the Roman Pontiff. PRAYERS FOR HOLYDAYS AND FEASTS’ 243 ACTS OF THANKSGIVING TO THE MOST HOLY TRINITY E offer to the Most Holy Trinity the merits of Jesus Christ in thanksgiving for the Pre- cious Blood which He shed in the Garden for us; and by His merits we beseech the divine majesty to grant us the pardon of all our sins. Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory be to the Father, etc. E offer to the Most Holy Trinity the merits of Jesus Christ, in thanksgiving for His most precious death endured on the cross for us; and by His merits we beseech the divine majesty to free us from the punishment due to our sins. Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory be to the Father, etc. E offer to the Most Holy Trinity the merits of Jesus Christ, in thanksgiving for His unspeakable charity, by which He descended from heaven to earth to take upon Himself our flesh, and to suffer and die for us on the cross; and by His merits we beseech the divine majesty to bring our souls to the glory of heaven after our death. Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory be to the Father, etc. (Ind. of 100 days each time.—Pius IX. June 18, 1876.) OST Holy Trinity, Father, Son, and Holy Ghost, behold us prostrate in Thy divine presence. We humble ourselves profoundly, and beg of Thee pardon for our sins. : ny 244 PRAYERS FOR HOLYDAYS AND FEASTS We adore Thee, omnipotent Father, and with the outpouring of our hearts we thank Thee for having given us Thy divine Son Jesus to be our Redeemer, and for having left Him with us to the consummation of the world in the most august Sacrament of the Holy Eucharist, in which mys- tery of faith and love He reveals to us the wonders of His Sacred Heart. Glory be to the Father, etc. DIVINE Word, most adorable Jesus, we adore Thee in Thy Sacrament, and with the outpouring of our hearts we thank Thee for having taken human flesh and for having made Thyself, for our redemption, priest and victim in the sacrifice of the cross, a sacrifice which, by an excess of the love of Thy adorable Heart, Thou dost renew every moment on our altars through- out the world. O supreme Priest, O divine Victim, grant that we may honor the sacrifice of the Most Holy Eucharist with the united homage of most holy Mary, and of all Thy Church, in triumph, in suffering, and in warfare. We offer ourselves wholly to Thee, and since Thou dost deign to have victims associated with Thee, accept our offering, and, uniting it with Thine, bless us. Glory be to the Father, etc. DIVINE Spirit and Paraclete, we adore Thee, and with the out-pouring of our hearts we thank Thee for having, with so much love for us, wrought the ineffable blessing of the Incarnation of the divine Word, a benefit which is continually being extended and increased in PRAYERS FOR HOLYDAYS AND FEASTS) 245 the Most Holy Eucharist. By this adorable mystery of the love of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, grant to us and to all sinners Thy grace; pour out upon us and upon all redeemed souls Thy holy gifts, but mn a special manner bestow them upon Holy Church, the spouse of Jesus Christ and our mother, upon its visible head, the Su- preme Pontiff, upon all the cardinals, the bishops, and pastors of souls, on all priests, and on all the other ministers of the sanctuary. Glory be to the Father, etc. (Ind. of 300 days once a day. — Prius X. March 22, 1905.) AN ACT OF THANKSGIVING FOR THE BLESSINGS OF THE PAST YEAR GOD, the beginning and the end of all things, Who art always the selfsame, and Whose years fail not, we now, at the close of another year, kneel in adoration before Thee, and offer Thee our deepest gratitude for the fatherly care with which Thou hast watched over us during the past, for the many times Thou hast shielded us from evils of soul and body, and for the num- berless blessings, both temporal and spiritual, which Thou hast showered upon us. May it please Thee to accept the homage of our grateful hearts which we offer Thee in union with the infinite thanksgiving of Thy divine Son, our Lord Jesus Christ, Who with Thee liveth and reigneth forever and ever. Amen. 246 PRAYERS FOR HOLYDAYS AND FEASTS HYMN OF THANKSGIVING (From the Te Deum) WOLY God, we praise Thy name! Lord of all, we bow before Thee! All on earth Thy sceptre claim, All in heav’n above adore Thee: Infinite Thy vast domain, Everlasting is Thy reign. Hark! the loud celestial hymn, Angel choirs above are raising! Cherubim and seraphim, In unceasing chorus praising, Fill the heavens with sweet accord; Holy, holy, holy Lord. Holy Father, holy Son, Holy Spirit, three we name Thee, While in essence only one, Undivided God we claim Thee; And adoring bend the knee, While we own the mystery. V. Let us bless the Father and the Son with the Holy Ghost. R. Let us praise and exalt Him above all for- ever. Let us Pray GOD, Whose mercy is without measure, and the treasure of Whose goodness is in- finite, we give thanks to Thy most comforting PRAYERS FOR HOLYDAYS AND FEASTS 247 Majesty for the gifts conferred upon us, and we beg Thee continually through Thy clemency, that Thou Who grantest the requests of those who ask Thee, mayest not abandon them now but rather dispose them for future rewards. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. SUPPLICATIONS AND RESOLUTIONS FOR THE NEW YEAR ETERNAL Father, after having thanked Thy infinite bounty for Thy exceeding bene- fits in the past, we humbly implore pardon for our manifold sins and negligences, for the time we have consumed and wasted in vanities and in things that profit not unto salvation, and for the woeful want of correspondence with Thy _ graces which we have so habitually manifested. But filled with confidence in Thy mercy, so Javishly displayed in a multitude of ways, we ask Thy blessing upon our good purposes and resolutions. For now we renew the sacred prom- ises we made in Baptism, when we first became Thy children and heirs of the heavenly kingdom, and we renounce Satan with all his works and pomps. Firmly convinced that the salvation of our im- mortal souls is the one great business of life, the purpose for which we have come into the world, we solemnly resolve for the future not only to do all in our power to avoid every grievous sin in thought, word, and deed, but also to shun every unnecessary occasion that might imperil 248 PRAYERS FOR HOLYDAYS AND FEASTS our souls. We further resolve to fulfil with greater exactness and fidelity the duties of our station in life, to give more attention to our progress in things spiritual, to be more devoted to holy Mass, to recetve the Sacraments more frequently, and to pray more often and more fervently. Bless, O my God, these good resolutions which we offer to Thee at this, the threshold of a new year. Give us Thy precious grace and make us truly wise. The days and years of our life are passing so swiftly away. Help us, in Thy mercy, to utilize them, as we ought to do, for Thy greater honor and glory, for the good of our neighbor, and for our sanctification. The night cometh in which no man can work longer; soon, at best, we shall have to appear before Thee to render an account of our stewardship. May we then be found worthy to receive from Thee that divine wel- come: ‘‘Well done, good and faithful servant, enter into the joy of thy Lord.” OLD YEAR AND NEW YEAR (From Lapsus est Annus) YEAR is dead, a year is born; Thus time flies by on silent wing: Thou, Lord, alone canst guide our course And safe to heaven Thy people bring. For all past gifts we render thanks; For graces new we humbly pray. Oh, grant that we and those we love May ne’er from faith and duty stray. PRAYERS FOR HOLYDAYS AND FEASTS 249 O Lord, our daily wants supply; Protect from sickness and disease; And deign to give, O God of love, The blessing of unbroken peace. Oh, blot out all our ancient sins And give us strength to fall no more; When fight is o’er and victory won, Then crown us on the eternal shore. For all the old year’s sins we grieve; Our hearts we consecrate to Thee. Grant us, when all our years are sped, Our heavenly Father’s face to see. PRAYER FOR A BLESSING ON THE NEW YEAR SACRED and adorable Trinity, hear our prayers on behalf of our holy Father the Pope, our Bishops, our clergy, and for all that are in authority over us. Bless, we beseech Thee, during the coming year, the whole Catholic Church; convert heretics and unbelievers; touch the hearts of smners that they may return to Thy friendship; give prosperity to our country and peace among the nations of the world; pour down Thy blessmgs upon our friends, relatives, and acquaintances, and upon our enemies, if we have any; assist the poor and the sick; have pity on the souls of those whom this year has taken from us; and do Thou be merciful to those who during the new vear will be summoned before 250 PRAYERS FOR HOLYDAYS AND FEASTS Thy judgment seat. May all our actions be pre- ceded by Thy inspirations and carried on by Thy assistance, so that all our prayers and works, having been begun in Thee, may likewise be ended through Thee. ON THE SHORTNESS OF LIFE (Psalm LXXXIX) ORD, Thou hast been our refuge from gen- eration to generation. Before the mountains were made, or the earth and the world was formed; from eternity to eter- nity Thou art God. Thou makest man to return to atoms, and sayest, Return, ye children of men. For a thousand years in Thy sight are as yester- day when it is past, And as a watch mm the night. Thou carriest them (men) away as with a flood; they are as a sleep. In the morning they are like grass which groweth up. In the morning it flourisheth and groweth up; in the evening it fadeth, groweth dry, and _ withereth. For in Thine anger we are consumed, and in Thy wrath we are troubled. Thou hast set our iniquities before Thine eyes, our secret sins in the light of Thy countenance. For all our days are passed away in Thy wrath; our years are consumed as a sigh. PRAYERS FOR HOLYDAYS AND FEASTS) 251 The days of our years are threescore and ten; and if in the strong they are fourscore years, yet their pride is but labor and sorrow; for it is soon past, and we fly away. Who knoweth the power of Thine anger, And Thy wrath, according to the fear that is due Thee? So teach us to number our days, that we may have a heart of wisdom. Return, O Lord, how long? and be entreated im favor of Thy servants. O satisfy us in the morning with Thy loving- kindness, that we may rejoice and be glad all our days. Make us glad according to the days in which we have been afflicted, and the years wherein we have seen evil. Look upon Thy servants and upon their works, and direct their children. And let the gracious kindness of the Lord our God be upon us, And direct Thou the works of our hands upon us; Yea, the work of our hands do Thou direct. THE EVENING OF LIFE (From the Rerum Deus) STRENGTH, and stay upholding all creation, Who ever dost Thyself unmoved abide, Yet day by day the light in due gradation From hour to hour through all its changes guide: 252 PRAYERS FOR HOLYDAYS AND FEASTS Grant to life’s day a calm, unclouded ending, An eve, untouched by shadows of decay, The brightness of a holy death-bed blending With dawning glories of th’ eternal day. Hear us, O Father, gracious and forgiving, And Thou, O Christ, the co-eternal Word, Who, with the Holy Ghost, by all things living Now and to endless ages art adored. 23%, “s ot 4 lenis MeN | Serb eGA i DEVOTIONS FOR THE SEASONS OTe crit rt ADVENT The four weeks of Advent are set apart by the Church to commemorate the ages that intervened between the fall of our first parents and the birth of Christ which we celebrate at Christmas. It is a Season of special prayer and penance mingled with joyful expectation, and cal- culated to fit our souls for a worthy keeping of this great solemnity. Advent is also the beginning of the ecclesi- astical year, and as each succeeding year brings us closer to the second coming of Christ as Judge of the world, this holy time is likewise mtended to make us ready to meet our Judge. NT. Be comforted, be comforted, my people: thy salvation cometh quickly: why with grief art thou consumed? for sorrow hath stricken thee: I will save thee, fear not: for I am the Lord thy God, the Holy One of Israel, thy Redeemer. V. Drop dew, ye heavens, from above. R. And let the clouds rain the Just One. 254 DEVOTIONS FOR THE SEASONS Let us Pray GOD, Who dost gladden us by the annual expectation of our Redemption, grant that we, who now receive with joy Thine only-begotten Son as our Redeemer, may behold Him without fear when He comes as our judge, even the same Lord Jesus Christ Thy Son, Who liveth and reigneth forever and ever. Amen. CHRISTMASTIDE This joyful season extends from Christmas eve to Septuagesima; and during it the Church is rejoicing over the happiness of possessing its Saviour. It commemorates the birth of our Lord and the manifestations of His divinity which were exhibited in His infancy, the coming of the Magi, His baptism, teaching and miracles. NT. Behold the Lord the Ruler is come, and a kingdom in His hand, and power and dominion. V. Give to the King Thy judgment, O God. R. And to the King’s son Thy justice. Let us Pray GOD, Whose only-begotten Son hath appeared in the substance of our flesh, grant, we beseech Thee, that by Him in Whom, outwardly, we recognize our likeness, we may deserve to be inwardly created anew. Who liveth and reigneth forever and ever. Amen. DEVOTIONS FOR THE SEASONS 255 SEPTUAGESIMA AND LENT With Septuagesima the joys of Christmastide are brought to a close. The happy celebration wherein the Church has been recalling the birth of the Redeemer now gives way to a more serious season, in which our attention is directed towards the sorrowful events of the Saviour’s passion and death. The three weeks from Septuagesima to Lent constitute a period of transition from a time of joy to one of sadness. With Ash Wednesday the great penitential season of the year begins. This time of Lent is marked by three dis- tinctive features: (1) it is a period for serious reflection on death and its issues, joined, consequently, with prayer and works of mortification in imitation of our Saviour’s fast of forty days in the desert; (2) it is a time especially adapted to repentance and amendment of life, as in ancient days it was the season when the Cathechumens and penitents prepared for Baptism and absolution; (3) it is a prolonged vigil, fitting us to celebrate worthily the great week of the passion and the Feast of feasts of the Resurrection. NT. O Lord, repay us not according to the sins we have committed or according to our iniquities. O Lord, remember not our former transgressions: Jet Thy mercies speedily prevent us, for we are becoming exceedingly poor. V. Help us, O God our Saviour, and for the glory of Thy name, O Lord, deliver us. R. And forgive us our sins for Thy name’s sake. Let us Pray GRANT we beseech Thee, almighty God, that chastened by this holy fast, we may be brought with pure hearts to the holy feast which is to come. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. 256 DEVOTIONS FOR THE SEASONS PASSIONTIDE The last two weeks of Lent, beginning with Passion Sunday and terminating with Easter Saturday, form the season which is known as Passiontide. It is really a continuation and the conclusion of Lent. During this time, and especially throughout Holy Week, the Church is picturing to us the scenes of our Saviour’s Passion and death, and inculcating the lessons which these sorrowful events are intended to teach, while praying that we may have a share in the fruits of the Redemption and the joys of the Resurrection. NT. It behooves us to glory in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, in Whom Is our salva- tion, life, and resurrection, by Whom we are saved and delivered. V. Spare, O Lord, spare Thy people. R. Whom Thou hast redeemed with Thy Precious Blood. Let us Pray GOD, Whom to love above all is righteous- ness, multiply in us the gifts of Thy ineffable grace; and since Thou hast given us, in the death of Thy Son, to hope for those things which we believe, grant us in the Resurrection of the same to attain the end to which we aspire. Who liveth and reigneth forever and ever. Amen. EASTERTIDE After the forty days of Lent comes the Paschal season, extending from Easter to Trinity Sunday. It com- memorates the Resurrection, or Christ’s victory over death, the forty days after the Resurrection, His entrance into glory, and finally, on the fiftieth day, the coming of the Holy Ghost and the birthday of the Church. DEVOTIONS FOR THE SEASONS 2457 NT. If you be risen with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is sitting at the right hand of God. Alleluia. V. This is the day which the Lord hath made. Alleluia. R. Let us be glad and rejoice therein. Alle- luia. Let us Pray GOD, Who dost gladden us with the yearly celebration of our Lord’s Resurrection, grant, in Thy mercy, that through the feast which we solemnize in time, we may be worthy to attain to eternal joys. Through the same Christ our Lord. Amen. DEVOTIONS FOR THE DAYS OR TIOME WEEK SUNDAY The Most Blessed Trinity NT. Blessed be the holy Creator and Ruler of all things, the sacred and undivided Trinity, now and always, through infinite ages of ages. V. Let us bless the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. R. Let us praise and exalt Him forever. Let us Pray LMIGHTY and everlasting God, Who hast given Thy servants, in the confession of the true faith, to acknowledge the glory of the Eternal Trinity, and, in the power of Thy majesty, to adore the Unity. we beseech Thee that, by stead- fastness in the same faith, we may always be defended from all adversities. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. THE DAYS OF THE WEEK 259 Prayer to the Blessed Trinity QC) POWER of the Father, support my weak- ness and deliver me from the abyss of my misery; O wisdom of the Son, do thou direct all my thoughts, words, and works; O love of the Holy Ghost, penetrate all the operations of my soul so that they may be ever in harmony with Thy divine pleasure. (Ind. of 200 days, once a day. — LEo XIII. March 15, 1890.) The Canticle of the Seraphim me: holy, holy, Lord God of hosts! the heavens and the earth are full of Thy glory. Glory be to the Father, glory be to the Son, glory be to the Holy Ghost. (Ind. of 100 days, once a day; three times every Sun- day and during the octave of the festival of the Most Holy Trinity. — CLEMENT XIV. June 26, 1770.) MONDAY The Souls in Purgatory NT. I am the Resurrection and the Life. He that believeth in Me, even though he die, shall live; and every one that liveth and believeth in Me shall not die forever. V. I heard a voice from heaven saying to me. R. Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord. Let us Pray @) GOD, the Creator and Redeemer of all the faithful, give unto the souls of Thy servants and handmaids the remission of all their sins, 260 THE DAYS OF THE WEEK that through pious supplication they may obtain the pardon they have ever wished for. Who liv- est and reignest with God the Father, in the unity of the Holy Ghost, God, forever and ever. Amen. Ejaculation pee give unto them eternal rest, and may perpetual light shine upon them. May they rest in peace. Amen. (Ind. of 300 days, each time, for the souls in Purgatory. — Pius X. Feb. 13, 1908.) TUESDAY The Holy Angels ENT. Angels, Archangels, Thrones and Domi- nations, Principalities and Powers, Virtues of heaven, Cherubim and Seraphim, bless the Lord forever. V. All ye angels of the Lord, bless the Lord. R. Sing a hymn and exalt Him above all for- ever. Let us Pray QC) GOD, Who in a wonderful manner dost dis- tribute the ministries of angels and of men, mercifully grant that as Thy holy angels ever wait upon Thee to do Thee service in heaven, so our lives may be defended by them upon earth. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. THE DAYS OF THE WEEK 261 Invocation of the Nine Choirs of Angels HOLY Angels, watch over us at all times during this perilous life; O holy Archangels, be our guides on the way to heaven; O heavenly choir of the Principalities, govern us in soul and body; O mighty Powers, preserve us against the wiles of the demons; O celestial Virtues, give us strength and courage in the battle of life; O powerful Dominations, obtain for us dominion over the rebellion of our flesh; O sacred Thrones, grant us peace with God and man; O brilliant Cherubim, ilumine our minds with heavenly knowledge; O burning Seraphim, enkindle in our hearts the fire of charity. Amen. WEDNESDAY St. Joseph NT. In whatever tribulation they shall cry to me, I will hear them and be their pro- tector always. V. Obtain for us, O Joseph, to lead an inno- cent life. R. And may it ever be safe through thy patronage. Let us Pray GOD, Who in Thine unspeakable providence didst vouchsafe to choose blessed Joseph to be the husband of Thy most holy Mother, mer- cifully grant that, as we venerate him for our protector on earth, we may deserve to be aided by his mtercession in heaven. Who livest and reignest forever and ever.. Amen. 262 THE DAYS OF THE WEEK The Memorare to St. Joseph EMEMBER most pure spouse of Mary ever Virgin, my loving protector St. Joseph, that never has it been heard that anyone ever invoked thy protection, or besought aid of thee, without being consoled. In this confidence I come before thee, I fervently recommend myself to thee. Despise not my prayer, foster-father of our Redeemer, but do thou in thy pity receive it. Amen. (Ind. of 300 days, once a day.—P ius IX. June 26, 1863.) Prayer to St. Joseph DEN of virgins, and holy father Joseph, to whose faithful custody Christ Jesus, In- nocence itself, and Mary, Virgin of virgins, were committed, I pray and beseech thee, by these dear pledges, Jesus and Mary, that being pre- served from all uncleanness, I may with spotless mind, pure heart and chaste body, ever serve Jesus and Mary most chastely all the days of my life. Amen. (Ind. of 100 days, once a day. — Pius IX. Feb. 4, 1877.) THURSDAY The Most Blessed Sacrament NT. O sacred banquet in which Christ is received, the memory of His Passion is re- called, the soul is filled with grace, and the pledge of future glory is given us. V. Thou hast given them Bread from heaven. R. Containing all manner of sweetness. THE DAYS OF THE WEEK 263 Let us Pray GOD, Who hast left us, m this wonder- ful Sacrament, a perpetual memorial of Thy Passion, grant us, we beseech Thee, so to rever- ence the sacred mysteries of Thy Body and Blood that we may ever find in our souls the fruit of Thy Redemption, Who livest and reignest, for- ever and ever. Amen. Ave Verum Corpus Natum AIL to Thee! true Body, sprung From the Virgin Mary’s womb! The same that on the cross was hung, And bore for man the bitter doom! Thou, Whose side was pierced, and flow’d Both with Water and with Blood; Suffer us to taste of Thee, In our life’s last agony. Son of Mary, Jesu blest! Sweetest, gentlest, holiest! Sing, My Tongue (Pange Lingua) ING, my tongue, the Saviour’s glory, Of His Flesh, the mystery sing; Of His Blood, all price exceeding, Shed by our immortal King, Destin’d for the world’s redemption From a noble womb to spring. 264 THE DAYS OF THE WEEK Of a pure and spotless Virgin Born for us on earth below, He, as man with man conversing, Stay’d the seeds of truth to sow; Then He closed in solemn order Wondrously His life of woe. On the night of that Last Supper, Seated with His chosen band, He the paschal victim eating, First fulfills the Lord’s command; Then as food to all His brethren, Gives Himself with His own hand. Word made Flesh, the bread of nature By His word to Flesh He turns; Wine into His Blood He changes; What though sense no change discerns! Only be the heart in earnest, Faith her lessons quickly learns. Down in adoration falling, Lo! the sacred Host we hail! Lo! o’er ancient forms departing Newer rites of grace prevail; Faith for all defects supplying, Where the feebler senses fail. To the everlasting Father, And the Son Who reigns on high, With the Holy Ghost proceeding Forth from each eternally, Be salvation, honor, blessing, Might and endless majesty.,. Amen. THE DAYS OF THE WEEK 265 FRIDAY The Passion of Christ NT. O all ye who pass by the way, attend and see if there is any sorrow like unto my sorrow. V. We adore Thee, O Christ, and we bless Thee. R. Because by Thy holy cross Thou hast re- deemed the world. Let us Pray LORD Jesus Christ, Son of the living God, Who at the sixth hour didst mount the gib- bet of the cross for the Redemption of the world and didst shed Thy Precious Blood that our sins might be washed away, we humbly beseech Thee that after our death Thou wouldst suffer us to pass with joy through the gates of heaven. Who livest and reignest world without end. Amen. GOD, Who to redeem the world didst vouch- safe to be born amongst men, to be circum- cised, rejected by the Jews, betrayed by the traitor Judas with a kiss, to be bound with cords, and as an innocent lamb to be led to the slaughter; Who didst suffer Thyself to be shamelessly ex- posed to the gaze of Annas, Caiphas, Pilate and Herod; to be accused by false witnesses, tor- mented by scourges and: insults, crowned with thorns, smitten with blows, defiled with spittings, to have Thy divine countenance covered, to be struck with a reed, to be stripped of Thy clothes, nailed to and raised high upon a Cross between 266 THE DAYS OF THE WEEK two thieves, to be given gall and vinegar to drink, and then pierced with a lance; do Thou, O Lorn, by these most sacred sufferings, which I, unworthy as I am, yet dare to contemplate, by Thy holy Cross and by Thy bitter Death, free me from the pains of hell, and vouchsafe to bring me to Para- dise, whither Thou didst lead the thief who was crucified with Thee, my Jesus, who with the Father and the Holy Ghost livest and reignest God forever and ever. Amen. Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory be to the Father, etc., five times. (Ind. of 300 days. — Prus VII. Aug. 25, 1820.) Invocation of St. Thomas Aquinas HE cross is my sure salvation; the cross I ever adore; the cross of my Lord is with me; the cross is my refuge. (Ind. of 300 days,, once a day. — Pius IX. Jan. 21, 1874.) SATURDAY The Blessed Virgin Mary NT. 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 the heavenly kingdom. V. Holy Mary, Mother of Christ. R. Hear thy humble servants who implore thee. THE DAYS OF THE WEEK 267 Let us Pray RANT, 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 hereafter enjoy eternal happiness. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. Inviolata HOU art inviolate, undefiled and chaste, O Mary. Thou hast been made the resplendent gate of heaven, O loving and dearest Mother of Christ, Accept our devout acclamations in praise of thee. That our minds and bodies may be pure, Devoted hearts and lips now implore thee. Through thy sweet sounding prayers, Gain us pardon forever. O kind one, who alone didst remain inviolate. The Memorare EMEMBER, O most gracious Virgin Mary that never was it known that any one who fled to thy protection, implored thy help, and sought thy intercession, was left unaided. In- spired with this confidence, I fly unto thee, O Virgin of virgins, my Mother; to thee I come, be- fore thee I stand, sinful and sorrowful; O Mother of the Word Incarnate, despise not my petitions; but in thy clemency hear and answer me. (Ind. of 300 days, each time. — Pius IX. Dec. 11, 1846.) - 1 MZ rt TU OMInIO m=O MO m=O acTOr 7, RE | caraes |= Cr _ GC (Ga : PU Li {0} [VIDENT ES AVTEMSTELLAM GAVISI SYNT GAVOIO MAGNO VALOL Mana va) WOCFECITINITIVM SIGNORVM JESVS hat 0 DEVOTIONS FOR THE MONTHS OF THE YEAR JANUARY The Holy Name of Jesus NT. Thou shalt call His Name Jesus, for He shall save His people from their sins. V. May the Name of the Lord be blessed. R. Henceforth now and forever. Let us Pray GOD, Who didst make Thy only-begotten Son the Saviour of the human race, and didst command Him to be called Jesus, grant pro- pitiously that Him Whose holy Name we vener- ate on earth, we may behold in the glorious vision of heaven. Who with Thee liveth and reigneth forever and ever. Amen. THE MONTHS OF THE YEAR 269 Prayer. ‘O Good Jesus!” GOOD JESUS! O most tender Jesus! O most sweet Jesus! O Jesus, Son of Mary the Virgin, full of mercy and kindness! O sweet Jesus, according to Thy great mercy, have pity on me! O most merciful Jesus, I entreat Thee by that Precious Blood of Thine, which Thou didst will to pour forth for smners, to wash away all my iniquities, and to look upon me, poor and unworthy as I am, humbly asking pardon of Thee, and invoking this Holy Name of Jesus. O Name of Jesus, sweet Name! Name of Jesus, Name of joy! Name of Jesus, Name of strength! Nay, what meaneth the Name of Jesus but Saviour? Wherefore, O Jesus, by Thine own holy Name, be to me Jesus, and save me. Suffer me not to be lost — me, whom Thou didst create out of nothing. O good Jesus, Jet not my iniquity destroy what Thy almighty goodness made. O sweet Jesus, recognize what is Thine own, and wipe away from me what is not of Thee! O most kind Jesus, have pity on me while it Is the time of pity, and condemn me not when it is the time of judgment. The dead shall not praise Thee, Lord Jesus, nor all those who go down into hell. O most loving Jesus! O Jesus, most Jonged for by Thine own! O most gentle Jesus! Jesus, Jesus, Jesus, let me enter into the number of Thine elect. O Jesus, salvation of those who believe in Thee; Jesus, Son of Mary the Virgin, pour into me grace, wisdom, charity, chastity, and humility that I may be able.per- 270 THE MONTHS OF THE YEAR fectly to Iove Thee, to praise Thee, to enjoy Thee, to serve Thee, and make my boast in Thee, together with all those who invoke Thy Name, which is Jesus. Amen. (Ind. of 100 days, once a day. — Pius IX. Nov. 26, 1876.) Salutation and Response RAISED be Jesus Christ. R. Amen (or) Forever. V. Praised be Jesus and Mary. R. Today and forever. (Ind. of 100 days, each time. — Prus X. June 26, 1913.) See Devotions to the Holy Name. Page 357. FEBRUARY The Holy Family NT. Jesus went down with them, and came to Nazareth, and was subject to them. V. Blessed are they that dwell in Thy house, O Lord. R. They shall praise Thee forever and ever. Let us Pray LORD Jesus Christ, Who, becoming subject to Mary and Joseph, didst hallow the life of the home by singular virtues, grant by the help of both that we may be instructed by the example of Thy Holy Family, and have fellowship with it forever. Who livest and reignest for all ages of ages. Amen. THE MONTHS OF THE YEAR 271 Ejaculations ESUS, Mary, and Joseph, I give you my heart and my soul. Jesus, Mary, and Joseph, assist me in my last agony. Jesus, Mary, and Joseph, may I breathe out my soul in peace with you! (Ind. of 300 days, each time, for all three. — Pius VII, Aug. 26, 1814.) Daily Prayer before a Picture of the Holy Family QC) MOST loving Jesus, Who by Thy surpassing virtues and the example of Thy home life didst hallow the household in which Thou didst choose to live while on earth, mercifully look down upon this family, whose members, humbly prostrate before Thee, implore Thy protection. Remember that we are Thine, bound and con- secrated to Thee by a special devotion. Protect us in ‘Thy mercy, deliver us from danger, help us in our necessities, and impart to us strength to persevere always in the imitation of Thy Holy Family, so that, by serving Thee and loving Thee faithfully during this mortal life, we may at length give Thee eternal praise in heaven. O Mary, dearest Mother, we implore thy assistance, knowing that thy divine Son will hearken to thy petitions. And do thou, most glorious patriarch, St. Joseph, help us with thy powerful patronage, and place our petitions in Mary’s hands, that she may offer them to Jesus Christ. 272 THE MONTHS OF THE YEAR Prayer in Honor of the Holy Family RANT us, O Lord Jesus, faithfully to imitate the examples of Thy Holy Family, so that in the hour of our death, im the company of Thy glorious Virgin Mother and St. Joseph, we may deserve to be recetved by Thee into eternal tabernacles. (Ind. of 200 days, once a day.— Leo XIII. Feb. 6, 1893.) MARCH St. Joseph NT. A faithful man will be much praised and he who is guardian of his Lord will be glorified. V. Pray for us, O Blessed Joseph. R. That we may be made worthy of the prom- ises of Christ. Let us Pray GOD, Who hast predestined St. Joseph from all eternity for the service of Thine eternal Son and His Blessed Mother, and made him worthy to be the spouse of the Blessed Virgin and the foster-father of Thy Son, we beseech Thee, through all the services he has rendered to Jesus and Mary on earth, that Thou wouldst make us worthy of his intercession and grant us to enjoy the happiness of his company in heaven. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. THE MONTHS OF THE YEAR 273 Prayer to St. Joseph JOSEPH, virgin father of Jesus, most pure spouse of the Virgin Mary, pray for us daily to the Son of God, that, armed with the weapons of His grace, we may fight as we ought in life, and be crowned by Him in death. (Ind. of 100 days, twice a day. — Pius X. Nov. 26, 1906.) Prayers for special feasts in March. Page 202. APRIL The Holy Ghost NT. Come, O Holy Ghost, fill the hearts of Thy faithful, and kindle in them the fire of Thy love. V. Send forth Thy spirit, and they shall be created. R. And Thou shalt renew the face of the earth. Let us Pray GOD, Who hast taught the hearts of the faithful by the light of the Holy Spirit, grant that by the gift of the same Spirit we may be always truly wise, and ever rejoice in His consolations, through Christ our Lord. Amen. Act of Consecration to the Holy Spirit HOLY SPIRIT, divine Spirit of light and love, I consecrate to Thee my understand- ing, heart and will, my whole being for time and for eternity. May my understanding be always submissive to Thy heavenly inspirations, and to 274 THE MONTHS OF THE YEAR the teaching of the Catholic Church, of which Thou art the infallible guide; may my heart be ever inflamed with Jove of God and of my neigh- bor; may my will be ever conformed to the divine will, and may my whole life be a faithful imita- tion of the life and virtues of our Lord and Sav- iour Jesus Christ, to Whom with the Father and Thee be honor and glory forever. Amen. (Ind. of 300 days, once a day. — Prus X. June 5, 1908.) Veni, Creator Spiritus OME, Holy Ghost, Creator Blest, And in our hearts take up Thy rest; Come, with Thy grace and heavenly aid, || : To fill the hearts which Thou hast made. O Comforter, to Thee we cry; Thou heavenly Gift of God most high; Thou Fount of life, and Fire of love, || : And sweet Anointing from above. Drive far away our deadly foe, And peace for evermore bestow; If Thou be our preventing Guide, || : No evil can our steps betide. Praise we the Father and the Son, And Holy Spirit, with Them One; And may the Son on us bestow || : The gifts that from the Spirit flow. THE MONTHS OF THE YEAR 275 MAY The Blessed Virgin Mary NT. Who is she that cometh forth as the morning rising, fair as the moon, bright as the sun? VY. As the rainbow giving light in the bright clouds. R. And as the flower of the roses in the days of spring. Let us Pray GOD, Who through the fruitful virginity of Blessed Mary, didst bestow on mankind the rewards of eternal salvation, grant, we beseech Thee, that we may experience her intercession for us through whom we were made worthy to receive the Author of life, Jesus Christ Thy Son our Lord. Who liveth and reigneth forever and ever. Amen. The Crown of Twelve Stars LL praise and thanksgiving be to the ever Blessed Trinity, Who hath shown unto us Mary, ever Virgin, clothed with the sun, with the moon beneath her feet, and on her head a mystic crown of twelve stars. R. Forever and ever. Amen. Let us praise and give thanks to God the Father Who elected her for His daughter. R. Amen. Our Father, etc. Praise be to God the Father, Who predestined her to be the Mother of His Son. 276 THE MONTHS OF THE YEAR R. Amen. Hail Mary, etc. Praise be to God the Father, Who preserved her from all stain in her conception. R. Amen. Hail Mary, ete. Praise be to God the Father, Who on her birthday adorned her with His choicest gifts. R. Amen. Hail Mary, etc. Praise be to God the Father, Who gave her Joseph for her pure spouse and companion. R. Amen. Hail Mary and Glory be to the Father, etc. Let us praise and give thanks to God the Son, Who chose her for His Mother. R. Amen. Our Father, etc. Praise be to God the Son, Who became incar- nate in her womb, and abode there nine months. R. Amen. Hail Mary, etc. Praise be to God the Son, Who was born of her and was nourished at her breast. R. Amen. Hail Mary, etc. Praise be to God the Son, Who in His childhood willed that Mary should teach Him. R. Amen. Hail Mary, etc. Praise be to God the Son, Who revealed to her the mysteries of the Redemption of the world. R. Amen. Hail Mary and Glory be to the Father, etc. Let us praise and give thanks to God the Holy Ghost, who made her His spouse. R. Amen. Our Father, etc. Praise be to God the Holy Ghost, Who revealed to her first His name of Holy Ghost. R. Amen. Hail Mary, etc. THE MONTHS OF THE YEAR 277 Praise be to God the Holy Ghost, through Whose operation she became at once Virgin and Mother. R. Amen. Holy Mary, etc. Praise be to God the Holy Ghost, through Whom she became the living temple of the Most Holy Trinity. R. Amen. Hail Mary, etc. Praise be to God the Holy Ghost, by Whom she was exalted in heaven high above all creatures. R. Amen. Hail Mary, Glory be to the Father, etc. For the Holy Catholic Church, for the propa- gation of the faith, for peace among Christian princes and for the uprooting of heresies, Jet us say: Hail, Holy Queen, etc. (Ind. of 100 days, each time. — Grecory XVI. Jan. 8, 1838.) Act of Consecration to the Blessed Virgin Mary, By St. John Berchmans OLY MARY, Mother of God and virgin, I choose thee this day for my queen, patron, and advocate, and firmly resolve and purpose never to abandon thee, never to say or do any- thing against thee, nor to permit that aught be done by others to dishonor thee. Receive me, then, I conjure thee, as thy perpetual servant; assist me in all my actions, and do not abandon me at the hour of my death. Amen. (Ind. of 300 days, for each~ recitation. — Pius X. Nov. 17, 1906.) 278 THE MONTHS OF THE YEAR JUNE The Sacred Heart OFFERING TO THE SACRED HEART OF JESUS Y LOVING Jesus! out of the grateful love I bear Thee, and as a reparation for all my unfaithfulness, I [N.] give Thee my heart and I consecrate myself wholly to Thee, and with Thy aid I purpose never to sin again. V. Heart of Jesus, burning with love of us, R. Inflame our hearts with love of Thee. Let us Pray ORD, we beseech Thee, Jet Thy Holy Spirit kindle mn our hearts that fire of charity which our Lord Jesus Christ, Thy Son, sent forth from His inmost Heart upon this earth, and willed that it should burn with vehemence. Who liveth and reigneth with Thee, in the unity of the same Holy Spirit, God, forever and ever. Amen. (Ind. of 300 days, every time. — Pius VII. March 20, 1815.) Memorare to the Sacred Heart EMEMBER, O most sweet Jesus, that no one who has had recourse to Thy Sacred Heart, implored its help, or sought its mercy was ever abandoned. Encouraged with confidence, O tenderest of hearts, we present ourselves before Thee, crushed beneath the weight of our sins. In our misery, O Sacred Heart of Jesus, despise not our simple prayers, but mercifully grant our requests. THE MONTHS OF THE YEAR 279 Prayer of St. Gertrude to the Sacred Heart ANCTITY of the Heart of Jesus, consecrate my heart; providence of the Heart of Jesus, watch over my heart; unchangeableness of the Heart of Jesus, strengthen my heart; purity of the Heart of Jesus, purify my heart; obedience of the Heart of Jesus, subjugate my heart; amia- bility of the Heart of Jesus, make Thyself known to my heart; divine attractions of the Heart of Jesus, captivate my heart; riches of the Heart of Jesus, do ye suffice for my heart; floods of grace and blessing that flow from the Heart of Jesus, inundate my heart. O Heart of Jesus! be Thou my joy, my peace, my repose in this world and in the next. O Heart of Jesus! adored in heaven, invoked on earth, feared in hell, reign over all hearts, reign throughout all ages, reign forever in celestial glory. Amen. Prayer to the Sacred Heart of Jesus MOST Sacred Heart of Jesus, pour down Thy blessings abundantly upon Thy Church, upon the Supreme Pontiff, and upon all the clergy; give perseverance to the just, convert sinners, enlighten unbelievers, bless our parents, friends and benefactors, help the dying, free the souls in Purgatory, and extend over all hearts the sweet empire of Thy love. Amen. (Ind. of 300 days, once a day.—Pius X. June 16, 1906.) 280 THE MONTHS OF THE YEAR JULY The Precious Blood NT. Thou hast redeemed us, O Lord, in Thy Blood, out of every tribe, and tongue, and people, and nation; and hast made us a kingdom to our God. V. God hath graced us in His beloved Son. R. In Whom we have redemption through His Blood. Let us Pray LMIGHTY and eternal God, Who didst appoint Thine only-begotten Son the Re- deemer of the world, and didst will to be appeased by His Blood, grant, we beseech Thee, that we may so honor this, the price of our Redemption, and, by its virtue, be so defended from the evils of our present life on earth, as to enjoy its fruit in heaven forevermore. Through the same Christ our Lord. Amen. Offerings in Reparation for Outrages to the Precious Blood of Jesus 1. Eternal Father! I offer Thee the merits of the most Precious Blood of Jesus, Thy beloved Son and my divine Redeemer, for the propaga- tion and exaltation of my dear Mother the holy Church, for the safety and prosperity of her visible head, the holy Roman Pontiff, for the Cardinals, Bishops, and pastors of souls, and for all the ministers of the sanctuary. Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost. THE MONTHS OF THE YEAR 281 As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen. Blessed and praised for evermore be Jesus, Who hath saved us with His Blood! _ 2, Eternal Father! I offer Thee the merits of the most Precious Blood of Jesus, Thy beloved Son and my divine Redeemer, for the peace and concord of kings and Catholic princes, for the humiliation of the enemies of the holy faith, and for the happiness of all Christian people. Glory be to the Father, etc. Blessed and praised, etc. 3. Eternal Father! I offer Thee the merits of the Precious Blood of Jesus, Thy well-beloved Son, my Saviour and my God, for the repentance of unbelievers, for the uprooting of heresy, and for the conversion of sinners. Glory be to the Father, etc. Blessed and praised, etc. 4. Eternal Father! I offer Thee the merits of the Precious Blood of Jesus, Thy well-beloved Son, my Saviour and my God, for all my kindred, friends, and enemies; for the poor, the sick, and wretched, and for all for whom Thou, my God, knowest that I ought to pray, or wouldst have me pray. Glory be to the Father, etc. Blessed and praised, etc. 5. Eternal Father! I offer Thee the merits of the Precious Blood of Jesus, Thy well-beloved Son, my Saviour and my God, for all who, this day, are passing to the other life; that Thou wouldst save them from the pains of hell, and admit them quickly to the possession of Thy glory. Glory be to the Father, etc. Blessed and praised, etc. 282 THE MONTHS OF THE YEAR 6. Eternal Father! I offer Thee the merits of the Precious Blood of Jesus, Thy well-beloved Son, my Saviour and my God, for all those who love this great treasure, for those who join with me in adoring it and honoring it, and who strive to spread devotion to it. Glory be to the Father, etc. Blessed and praised, etc. 7. Eternal Father! I offer Thee the merits of the Precious Blood of Jesus, Thy well-beloved Son, my Saviour and my God, for all my wants, spiritual and temporal, mn aid of the holy souls in Purgatory, and chiefly for those who most loved this Blood, the price of our Redemption, and who were most devout to the sorrows and pains of most holy Mary, our dear Mother. Glory be to the Father, etc. Blessed and praised, etc. Glory be to the Blood of Jesus, now and forever, and throughout all ages. Amen. (Ind. of 300 days. — Pius VII. Sept. 22, 1817.) Ejaculatory Offering of the Precious Blood TERNAL Father! I offer Thee the Precious Blood of Jesus in satisfaction for my sins, and for the wants of holy Church. (Ind. of 100 days, each time.—Pius VII. Sept. 22, 1817.) THE MONTHS OF THE YEAR 283 AUGUST The Most Pure Heart of Mary Glos My heart hath rejoiced in God my Saviour, because He that is mighty hath done great things for me. V. And His Mother kept all these words. R. In her heart. Let us Pray LMIGHTY and everlasting God, Who in the heart of the Blessed Virgin Mary didst pre- pare a worthy dwelling-place for the Holy Ghost, grant in Thy mercy that we who devoutly vener- ate that most pure heart may be enabled to live according to Thy heart. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. Prayer to the Heart of Mary HEART of Mary, Mother of God, and our Mother, heart most worthy of love, object of the complacency of the most Holy Trinity and deserving of all the veneration and tenderness of angels and of men, thou art most like the Heart of Jesus, of which thou art the most perfect image. O heart full of goodness and compassion for our miseries, vouchsafe to thaw the ice of our hearts, and make them to be entirely turned to the Heart of our divine Saviour. Pour into them the love of thy virtues; inflame them with that blessed fire with which thou continually burnest. Shut up within thyself the holy Church; guard it and be always its sweet asylum and its tower 284 THE MONTHS OF THE YEAR of strength against all the incursions of its ene- mies. Be thou our way to Jesus, and the channel by which we receive all the graces necessary for our salvation. Be thou our succor in our wants, our support in our afflictions, our comfort in temptations, our refuge in persecutions, our aid in all dangers, but specially in the last combat of our life at the hour of death, when all hell will be unchained against us to snatch our souls away in that most dreadful moment on which our eternity depends. Oh, then, most tender Virgin, make us feel the sweetness of thy maternal heart, and the greatness of thy power with the Heart of Jesus, and open to us in that same fountain of mercy a secure refuge, that we may come to bless Him with thee in paradise forever and ever. May the divine Heart of Jesus and the pure heart of Mary be known, praised, blessed, loved, honored and glorified always and everywhere. Amen. (Ind. of 60 days, once a day. — Prus VII. Feb. 1, 1816.) Ejaculation Sweet heart of Mary be my salvation. (Ind. of 300 days, each time.—Ptus IX. Sept. 30, 1852.) SEPTEMBER Our Lady of Sorrows NT. There stood by the cross of Jesus His Mother and His Mother’s sister, Mary of Cleophas, and Salome and Mary Magdalen. V. Woman, behold thy son. R. Son, behold thy mother. THE MONTHS OF THE YEAR 285 Let us Pray GOD, at Whose Passion, according to the prophecy of holy Simeon, a sword of grief pierced the most sweet soul of glorious Mary, virgin and mother, grant in Thy mercy that we who honor the memory of her sorrows may obtain the happy fruit of Thy sufferings. Who livest and reignest, world without end. Amen. Prayers in Honor of the Seven Sorrows of Mary V. Incline unto my aid, O God. R. O Lord, make haste to help me. Glory be to the Father, etc. 1. O most sorrowful Mary, I compassionate thee, in the grief thy tender heart underwent when the holy old man Simeon prophesied to ‘thee. Dear Mother, through that afflicted heart obtain for me the virtue of humility and the gift of the holy fear of God. Hail Mary, etc. 2. O most sorrowful Mary, I compassionate those afflictions which thy most sensitive heart endured during the flight mto Egypt and the dwelling there. O beloved Mother, by that afflicted heart obtain for me the virtue of liber- ality, specially toward the poor, and the gift of piety. Hail Mary, etc. 3. O most sorrowful Mary, I compassionate that intense distress which thine anxious heart experienced in the loss of thy dearest Jesus. O beloved Mother, by that deeply troubled heart obtain for me the virtue of chastity and the gift of knowledge. Hail Mary, etc. 286 THE MONTHS OF THE YEAR 4. O most sorrowful Mary, I compassionate the consternation which thy maternal heart experienced when thou didst meet Jesus bearing His cross. O beloved Mother, by that deep distress of thy tender heart, obtain for me the virtue of patience and the gift of fortitude. Hail Mary, etc. 5. O most sorrowful Mary, I compassionate that martyrdom which thy generous heart en- dured in witnessing the last agony of Jesus. O beloved Mother, by that martyred heart obtain for me the virtue of temperance and the gift of counsel. Hail Mary, etc. 6. O most sorrowful Mary, I compassionate that wound which thy mournful heart endured from the Jance which tore the side of Jesus and wounded His most lovely Heart. O beloved Mother, by thy heart then pierced through, obtain for me the virtue of fraternal charity and the gift of understanding. Hail Mary, etc. 7. O most sorrowful Mary, I compassionate thee, for the anguish felt by thy loving heart when Jesus’ body was laid in the sepulchre. Dear Mother, by all the bitterness of desolation thou didst then know, obtain for me the virtue of dili- gence and the gift of wisdom. Hail Mary, etc. V. Pray for us, most sorrowful Mother. R. That we may be made worthy of the prom. ises of Christ. THE MONTHS OF THE YEAR 287 Let us Pray RANT, we beseech Thee, O Lord Jesus Christ, that the most Blessed Virgin Mary, Thy Mother, may intercede for us before the throne of Thy mercy, now, and at the hour of our death; through whose most holy soul in the hour of Thine own Passion the sword of sorrow passed. Through Thee, Jesus Christ, Saviour of the world, Who livest and reignest with the Father and the Holy Ghost forever and ever. Amen. (Ind. of 300 days. — Pius VII. Jan. 14, 1815.) Short Prayer to the Blessed Virgin Mary in Her Desolation IL, Mary, full of sorrows, the Crucified is with thee; tearful art thou amongst women, and tearful is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of the Crucified, give tears to us, erucifiers of thy Son, now and at the hour of our death. Amen. OCTOBER The Queen of the Holy Rosary Gi: The holy Mother of God is become beautiful and amiable in the delights of her virginity: whom, on seeing her flourishing among the roses and the lilies of the valley, the daughters of Sion declared most blessed, and queens praised. V. Thou art become beautiful and amiable. R. In thy delights, O holy Mother of God. 288 THE MONTHS OF THE YEAR Let us Pray GOD, Whose only-begotten Son by His life, death and Resurrection hast purchased for us the rewards of eternal life, grant, we beseech Thee, that meditating on the mysteries in the most holy Rosary of the Blessed Virgin Mary, we may Imitate what they contain, and obtain what they promise. Through the same Christ our Lord. Amen. Prayer to Our Lady of the Rosary VIRGIN Mary, grant that the recitation of thy Rosary may be for me each day, in the midst of my manifold duties, a bond of unity in my actions, a tribute of filial piety, a sweet re- | freshment, an encouragement to walk joyfully along the path of duty. Grant, above all, O Virgin Mary, that the study of thy fifteen mys- teries may form in my soul, little by little, a Juminous atmosphere, pure, strengthening, and fragrant, which may penetrate my understanding, my will, my heart, my memory, my imagination, my whole being. So shall I acquire the habit of praying while I work, without the aid of formal prayers, by interior acts of admiration and of supplication, or by aspirations of love. I ask this of thee, O Queen of the Holy Rosary, through St. Dominic, thy son of predilection, the renowned preacher of thy mysteries, and the faithful mm1- tator of thy virtues. Amen. (Ind. of 300 days. — Prus X. March 15, 1907.) THE MONTHS OF THE YEAR 289 NOVEMBER The Souls in Purgatory NT. My soul is athirst for the living God: when shall I come and appear before the face of the Lord? V. May light eternal shine upon them, O Lord. R. With Thy saints forever, because Thou art merciful, Let us Pray GOD, to Whom it belongs always to have mercy and to spare, be gracious to the souls of the faithful departed, and grant them the remission of all their sins, that, being freed from the bonds of death, they may enter into life eternal. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. De Profundis for the Faithful Departed (Psalm CX XIX) UT of the depths I have cried to Thee, O Lord! Lord, hear my voice. Let Thine ears be attentive to the voice of my supplications. If Thou, O Lord, shalt mark iniquities, Lord, who shall stand? For with Thee there is merciful forgiveness; and by reason of Thy law I have waited for Thee, O Lord. My soul hath relied on His word; my soul hath hoped in the Lord. From the morning watch even unto night, let Israel hope in the Lord. 290 THE MONTHS OF THE YEAR Because with the Lord there is mercy; and with Him plentiful redemption. And He shall redeem Israel from all his Iniquities. (Ind. of 100 days. — Prus VI. March 18, 1781.) V. Eternal rest give unto them, O Lord. R. And let perpetual light shine upon them. V. May they rest in peace. R. Amen. (Ind. of 300 days, each time, applicable only to the dead.— Pius X. Feb. 13, 1908.) DECEMBER The Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary Anthem, Versicle, and Prayer in Honor of the Immaculate Conception NT. This is the rod in which was neither knot of original sin, nor rind of actual guilt. V. In thy conception, O Virgin! thou wast immaculate. R. Pray for us to the Father, Whose Son thou didst bring forth. Let us Pray GOD, Who, by the Immaculate Conception of the Virgin, didst prepare a worthy habita- tion for Thy Son, we beseech Thee, that as by the foreseen death of that same Son, Thou didst pre- serve her from all stain, so too thou wouldst permit us, purified through her mtercession, to come unto Thee. Through the same Christ our Lord. Amen. (Ind. of 100 days, every time.—Pius IX. March 31, 1876.) THE MONTHS OF THE YEAR 291 Prayer to Our Lady Immaculate OST holy Virgin, who wast pleasing to the Lord and became His Mother, immaculate in. body and spirit, in faith and in love, look kindly on the wretched who implore thy powerful patronage. The wicked serpent, against whom was hurled the first curse, continues fiercely to attack and ensnare the unhappy children of Eve. Do thou, then, O Blessed Mother, our queen and advocate, who from the first mstant of thy conception didst crush the head of the enemy, receive the prayers which, united with thee in our single heart, we implore thee to present at the throne of God, that we may never fall into the snares which are laid out for us, and may all arrive at the port of salvation; and, In so many dangers, may the Church and Christian society sing once again the hymn of deliverance and of victory and of peace. Amen. (Ind. of 300 days, once a day. — Pius X. Jan. 11, 1905.) Ejaculations N Thy conception, O Virgin Mary, thou wast immaculate; pray for us to the Father, Whose Son, Jesus Christ concerved of the Holy Ghost, thou didst bring forth, (Ind. of 100 days, every time. — Pius VI. Nov. 21, 1793-) “TRunL VOTE ETRE SN TPE wT nity at Aebetge lsh ol a En . 1 i? (SS H CLAN Ae SS 2 $e PAL BY: YY an *) 4 VENS BLY, Dy! 5 6 3 A Sais 2a Ae VAL OE\ aa Zoli \ 4 a lat i & Qe F "t: ie pair peas oy ee i NBS i ‘= fi f ae AY ‘ie ANS Wit RY J ; } iS ‘ 2, D NOVENAS NOVENA FOR CHRISTMAS A novena is a nine days’ prayer said as a preparation for some particular feast, or in order to obtain some special favor. The model and the first of all novenas was that made in the Cenacle, after the Ascension of our Lord, Ly the Apostles and Blessed Virgin in preparation for the coming of the Holy Ghost. The earliest eccle- siastical novena of which we have record is the Christmas novena, which commemorates the nine months during which the Christ-child was carried in the womb of His Mother. December 16 SHEPHERD that rulest Israel, Thou that leadest Joseph like a sheep, come to guide and comfort us. Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory be to the Father, etc. December 17 WISDOM that comest out of the mouth of the Most High, that reachest from one end to another, and orderest all things mightily and sweetly, come to teach us the way of prudence! Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory be to the Father, etc. NOVENAS 293 December 18 ADONAI, and Ruler of the house of Israel, Who didst appear unto Moses in the burning bush, and gavest him the Jaw in Sinai, come to redeem us with an outstretched arm! Our Fatber, | Hail Mary, Glory be to the Father, etc. December 19 ROOT of Jesse, which standest for an ensign of the people, at Whom the kings shall shut their mouths, Whom the Gentiles shall seek, come to deliver us, do not tarry. Our Father, _ Hail Mary, Glory be to the Father, etc. December 20 KEY of David, and Sceptre of the house of Israel, that openeth and no man shutteth, and shutteth and no man openeth, come to liber- ate the prisoner from the prison, and them that sit in darkness, and in the shadow of death. Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory be to the Father, etc. December 21 DAYSPRING, Brightness of the everlasting light, Son of justice, come to give light to them that sit in darkness and in the shadow of death! Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory be to the Father, etc. 204 NOVENAS December 22 KING of the Gentiles, yea, and desire there- of! O Corner-stone, that makest of two one, come to save man, whom Thou hast made out of the dust of the earth! Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory be to the Father, etc. December 23 EMMANUEL, our King and our Law-giver, Longing of the Gentiles, yea, and salvation thereof, come to save us, O Lord our God! Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory be to the Father, etc. December 24 THOU that sittest upon the cherubim, God of hosts, come, show Thy face, and we shall be saved. Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory be to the Father, etc. Ind. of 300 days, each day.—Pius VIII. July 9, 1830.) NOVENA IN HONOR OF THE HOLY NAME OF JESUS MERCIFUL Jesus, Who didst in Thy early infancy commence Thy office of Saviour by shedding Thy precious blood and assuming for us that name which ts above all names; we thank Thee for such early proofs of Thy infinite love. We venerate Thy sacred name in union with the profound respect of the angel who first announced it to the earth and unite our affections to the NOVENAS 295 sentiments of tender devotion which the adorable name of Jesus has in all ages enkindled in the hearts of Thy saints. Animated with a firm faith in Thy unerring word, and penetrated with confidence in Thy mercy, we now humbly remind Thee of the prom- ise Thou hast made, that where two or three should assemble in Thy name, Thou Thyself wouldst be in the midst of them: _ Come, then, into the midst of us, most amiable Jesus, for it is in Thy sacred name we are here assembled; come into our hearts, that we may be governed by Thy holy spirit; mercifully grant us, through that adorable name, which is the joy of heaven, the terror of hell, the consolation of the afflicted and the solid ground of our unlimited confidence, all the petitions we make in this novena. O blessed Mother of our Redeemer, who didst participate so sensibly in the sufferings of thy dear Son when He shed His sacred blood and assumed for us the name of Jesus, obtain for us, through that adorable name, the favors we petition in this novena. Beg also, that the most ardent love may imprint on our hearts that sacred name, that it may be always in our minds and frequently on our lips; that it may be our defense and our refuge in the temptations and trials of life, and our consolation and support in the hour of death.. Amen, 296 NOVENAS NOVENA FOR PENTECOST First Day OME, O Holy Ghost, the Lord and Life- giver; take up Thy dwelling within my soul, and make of it Thy sacred temple. Make me live by grace as an adopted son of God. Pervade all the energies of my soul, and create in me a fountain of living water springing up into life everlasting. Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory be to the Father, etc. Second Day OME, O Spirit of Wisdom, and reveal to my soul the mysteries of heavenly things, their exceeding greatness, and power, and beauty. Teach me to love them above and beyond all the passing joys and satisfactions of earth. Show me the way by which I may be able to attain to them, and possess them, and hold them hereafter, my own forever. Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory be to the Father, etc. Third Day OME, O Spirit of Understanding, and en- lighten our minds, that we may know and believe all the mysteries of salvation, and may merit at last to see the eternal light in Thy light; and in the light of glory to have the clear vision of Thee and the Father and the Son. Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory be to the Father, etc. NOVENAS 297 Fourth Day OME, O Spirit of Counsel, help and guide me in all my ways, that I may always do Thy holy will. Incline my heart to that which is good, turn it away from all that is evil, and direct me by the path of Thy Commandments to the goal of eternal life for which I Jong. Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory be to the Father, etc. Fifth Day OME, O Spirit of Fortitude, and give forti- tude to our souls, Make our hearts strong in all trials and in all distress, pouring forth abundantly into them the gifts of strength, that we may be able to resist the attacks of the devil. Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory be to the Father, etc. Sixth Day OME, O Spirit of Knowledge and make us understand and despise the emptiness and nothingness of the world. Give us grace to use the world only for Thy glory and the salvation of Thy creatures. May we always be very faith- ful in putting Thy rewards before every earthly gift. Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory be to the Father, ELCs Seventh Day OME, O Spirit of Piety, possess my heart; incline it to a true faith in Thee, to a holy love of Thee, my God, that with my whole soul I may seek Thee, and find Thee my best, my truest joy. Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory be to the Father, etc. 298 NOVENAS Eighth Day OME, O Spirit of holy Fear, penetrate my inmost heart, that I may set Thee, my Lord and God, before my face forever; and shun all things that can offend Thee, so that I may be made worthy to appear before the pure eyes of Thy divine Majesty in the heaven of heavens, where Thou livest and reignest in the unity of the Ever-blessed Trinity, God, world without end. Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory be to the Father, etc. Ninth Day OME, O Holy Comforter, and grant us a relish for heavenly things. Produce in our souls the flowers and fruits of virtue, so that, being filled with all sweetness and joy in the pursuit of good, ‘we may attain unto eternal blessedness. Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory be to the Father, etc. (For making the novena to the Holy Ghost at Pente- cost there is an indulgence of 7 years and 7 quarantines each day; at other times, of 300 days each day. — Pius IX. Nov. 26, 1876.) NOVENA TO THE BLESSED VIRGIN RY, Virgin ever blessed! who can worthily praise thee or give thee thanks, who, by that wondrous assent of thy will, didst rescue a fallen world? What honors can the weakness of NOVENAS 299 our human nature pay to thee, which by thy intervention alone has found the way to restora- tion? Accept, then, such poor thanks as we have here to offer, though they are unequal to thy merits; and, receiving our vows obtain by thy prayers the remission of our offenses. Carry thou our prayers within the sanctuary of the heavenly audience, and bring forth from it the medicine of our reconciliation. Through thee may those sins become pardonable the release from which through thee we ask of God, and that be granted which we demand with confidence. Accept what we offer, grant us what we seek, spare us what we fear, for thou art the sole hope of sinners. “Through thee we hope for the forgive- ness of our faults, and in thee, most blessed Virgin, is the hope of our reward. Holy Mary, succor the wretched, help the faint-hearted, comfort the sorrowful, pray for the people, shield the clergy, intercede for all women consecrated to God, let all feel thy aid who keep thy holy commemora- tion. Be thou at hand, ready to aid our prayers, when we pray, and bring back to us the answer we desire. Make it thy care to intercede ever for the people of God — thou who, blessed of God, didst merit to bear the Redeemer of the world Who liveth and reigneth forever and ever. Amen. (Ind. of 50 days, each time. — Prus IX. May 10, 1884.) 300 NOVENAS These Miraculous Medal Perpetual Novena Prayers Are Printed with the Permission of THE CENTRAL ASSOCIATION OF THE MIRACULOUS MEDAL Rev. Joseph A. Skelly, C.M., Director. GERMANTOWN, PHILA., PA. THE MIRACULOUS MEDAL The Medal of the Immaculate Conception, commonly called the Miraculous Medal, was revealed to a humble daughter of St. Vincent de Paul, Blessed Catherine Labouré, by Our Lady herself, in 1830. During her seminary days, Blessed Catherine received extraordinary favors, such as visions of the heart of St. Vincent de Paul and daily mani- festations of Our Lord in the Sacrament of His Love, but it was toward the close of that memo- rable year, 1830, that she was blessed with the three apparitions of Mary Immaculate, to which we owe the Miraculous Medal. The apparitions concerning the Medal were all very much alike; their nature, therefore, may be learned from a summary of Blessed Catherine’s account of the heavenly visitation which she received on November 27th: “The Blessed Virgin was standing on a globe, and her face was beautiful beyond words. Her fingers were covered with precious jewels whose light dazzled me. And I heard: ‘Behold the symbol of the graces I shed upon those who ask for them!’ Then an oval frame formed round the Blessed Virgin and I read in letters of gold: O Mary, conceived without sin, pray for us who bave recourse to thee. The vision reversed, and I beheld the letter ‘M’ surmounted by a cross, at the foot of the cross a NOVENAS 301 bar, and below all the Heart of Jesus crowned with thorns, and the Heart of Mary pierced with a sword. A voice said to me: ‘Have a medal struck after this model. Per- sons who wear it indulgenced will receive great graces especially if they wear it around the neck.’”’ The front of the Medal represents Mary stand- ing on the earth, her foot crushing the head of a serpent, and her hands outstretched to all who ask her assistance. The prayer encircling her contains one of her most precious titles: “O Mary, conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to thee.” The rays of light from her hands symbolize the graces which she is only too anxious to bestow upon those who confide in her. When Blessed Catherine related the vision to her confessor, he asked her whether she had seen any writing on the back of the Medal. She answered that she had seen none at all. ‘Ah!’ said the good priest, “ask the Blessed Virgin what to put there.” The Sister obeyed, and having prayed a long time, one day during meditation, she seemed to hear a voice saying: “The M and the two hearts express enough.” The Medal was made according to Our Lady’s design. It became freely circulated and in a short time was worn by millions. In its wake followed wonders innumerable. Health was re- stored, sickness banished; bad habits broken, special graces given; dangers averted, blessings bestowed — until the little Medal of the Immacu- late Conception became known by the name it bears today, The Miraculous Medal. 302 NOVENAS The Association of the Miraculous Medal Mary’s wish, expressed in the vision, is that all her children wear her Medal. To fulfill this wish Pope Pius X established The Association of the Miraculous Medal. Its purpose is ‘“‘to render due honor to Mary Immaculate, first by sanctifying ourselves, and second by contributing to the sanctification of our neighbor by means of the Miraculous Medal.” To promote this Association and to encourage all to become members Pius X (by brief of June 3, 1905) extended to it all the following Indul- gences: Those invested in the Medal may gain a Plenary Indul- gence (under the usual conditions of Confession, Com- munion and prayer for the intentions of the Pope) on the following days: The day of investiture; at the hour of death; during the exercises of retreat, once a year; on the first Sunday of every month; all the Saturdays of Lent; on Passion Sunday and the following Friday; on Wednesday, Thurs- day and Friday of Holy Week: Feasts of Christmas, Epiphany, Easter, Ascension, Pentecost, Holy Trinity; Immaculate Conception, Na- tivity of the B.V.M., Purification, Annunciation, Assump- tion; St. Joseph, March 19; Blessed Joseph Mary Thomas, March 24; Canonization of St. Cajetan Apr. 12; Finding of the Holy Cross, May 3; Blessed Paul Buralis, June 17; Nativity of St. John the Baptist, June 24; SS. Peter and Paul, June 29; Last Sunday of July; Our Lady of the Angels (of Portiuncula), Aug. 2; St. Cajetan, Aug. 7; St. Augustine, Aug. 28; Exaltation of the Holy Cross, Sept. 14; St. Michael, Archangel, Sept. 29; Guardian Angels, Oct. 2; St. Teresa, Oct. 15; AII Saints, Nov. 1; St. Andrew of Avellino, Nov. 10; Blessed John Marinonius, Dec. 13; first and last days of the Novena in preparation NOVENAS 303 for Christmas; once during the exposition of the Most Blessed Sacrament at the Forty Hours’ Devotion. If the one invested should become a priest he can gain a Plenary Indulgence on the day he celebrates his First Mass. By virtue of a decree of the Sacred Penitentiary, April 22, 1933, a partial Indulgence of ten years may be gamed each time that a member with a contrite heart devoutly recites six Our Fathers, Hail Marys and Glorys for the intentions of the Holy Father, that is, for peace in the souls of men, for the due liberty of the Church throughout the world, and for concord and true prosperity among all peoples. By repeating these prayers at least once each day for a month, a Plenary Indulgence may be gained under the usual conditions of Confession and Communion. Those invested in the Medal can gain 300 days’ Indul- gence each time that they say the ejaculation, “O Mary, conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to thee.” (Jan. 30, 1930.) All the Indulgences mentioned above are applicable to the suffering souls in Purgatory. To share in this rich treasury of Indulgences two very important conditions that must be fulfilled are that a person be invested in the Medal by a priest having the faculties to do so and wear the Medal on the breast suspended from the neck. The members of the Associa- tion incur no obligations. It is recommended, however, that they repeat from time to time the ejaculation found on the obverse of the Medal: “Q Mary, conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to thee.” Any priest may obtain the faculties for invest- ing in the Miraculous Medal by applying to Rev. Josepu A. Sketty, C.M., Director of The Central Association of the Miraculous Medal, 100 East Price Street, Germantown, Philadelphia, Pa. 304 NOVENAS Origin of the Perpetual Novena Four Novenas of nine consecutive days were held in preparation for the four principal feasts of Our Lady at Mary’s Central Shrine, Germantown, Phila., Pa., which was built in honor of Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal in 1927. These Novenas proved so popular and Mary bestowed her favors so generously that the suggestion was adopted of conducting the Novena every Monday at Mary’s Central Shrine. This was done December 8, 1930, one hundred years after Our Lady revealed the devotion to Blessed Catherine Labouré. Today 12 services are held every Monday at Mary’s Central Shrine and between 15,000 and 20,000 people attend. In November, 1932, a priest requested permission to start the Novena in his Parish Church. This permission was gladly given. Today 1459 Churches in 40 States in our country and Churches in England, Ireland, Scotland, India, Canada, China and the Canal Zone conduct the Miraculous Medal Perpetual Novena. NOVENA DEVOTIONS Hymn (All stand) MOTHER DEAREST, MOTHER FAIREST Mother dearest, Mother fairest, Help of all who call on thee, Virgin purest, brightest, rarest, Help us, help, we cry to thee. Chorus Mary, help us, help we pray, Mary, help us, help we pray, Help us im all care and sorrow; Mary, help us, help we pray. NOVENAS 305 Reading of Announcements and Favors Opening Prayer - Priest: In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Ghost. People: Amen. Priest: Come, O Holy Ghost, fill the hearts of Thy faithful, and kindle in them the fire of Thy love. Send forth Thy Spirit, and they shall be created. People: And Thou shalt renew the face of the earth. Priest: Let us pray. O God, Who didst instruct the hearts of the faithful by the light of the Holy Spirit, grant us in the same Spirit to be truly wise and ever to rejoice in His consolation, through Jesus Christ our Lord. People: Amen, Priest: O Mary, conceived without sin. People: Pray for us who have recourse to thee. (3 times.) Priest and People: O Lord Jesus Christ, | Who hast vouchsafed to glorify by numberless miracles | the Blessed Virgm Mary, | Im- maculate from the first moment of her Con- ception, | grant that all who devoutly implore her protection on earth, | may eternally enjoy Thy presence in heaven. | Who, with the Father and Holy Ghost, | livest and reignest, God, for ever and ever. Amen. 306 NOVENAS O Lord Jesus Christ, | Who for the accom- plishment of Thy greatest works, | hast chosen the weak things of the world, | that no flesh may glory in Thy sight; | and Who for a better and more widely diffused belief | in the Immaculate Conception of Thy Mother, | hast wished that the Miraculous Medal | be manifested to Saint Catherine Labouré, | grant, we beseech Thee, | that filled with like humility, | we may glorify this mystery by word and work. Amen. Memorare Priest and People: Remember, O most com- passionate Virgin Mary, | that never was it known | that any one who fled to thy pro- tection, | implored thy assistance | or sought thy intercession, | was left unaided. | In- spired with this confidence, | we fly unto thee, | O Virgin of virgins, our Mother; | to thee we come; | before thee we kneel | sinful and sorrowful. | O Mother of the Word In- carnate, | despise not our petitions, | but in thy clemency hear and answer them. Amen. Novena Prayer Priest and People: O Immaculate Virgin Mary, | Mother of Our Lord Jesus and our Mother, | penetrated with the most lively confidence | in thy all powerful and never failing mter- cession, | manifested so often through the Miraculous Medal, | we thy loving and trustful children | implore thee to obtain NOVENAS 307 for us | the graces and favors we ask during this Novena, | if they be beneficial to our im- mortal souls, | and the souls for whom we pray. Here privately mention your Petitions. Thou knowest, O Mary, | how often our souls have been the sanctuaries of thy Son | Who hates iniquity. | Obtain for us then | a deep hatred of sin | and that purity of heart | which will attach us to God alone | so that our every thought, word and deed | may tend to His greater glory. | Obtain for us also | a spirit of prayer and self-denial | that we may recover by penance | what we have lost by sin | and at length attain to that blessed abode | where thou art the Queen of angels and of men. Amen. An Act of Consecration to Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal Priest and People: O Virgin Mother of God, | Mary Immaculate, | we dedicate and con- secrate ourselves to thee | under the title of Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal. | May this Medal be for each one of us | a sure sign of thy affection for us | and a constant re- minder of our duties towards thee. | Ever while wearing it, | may we be blessed by thy loving protection | and preserved in the grace of thy Son. | O Most powerful Virgin, | Mother of our Savior, | keep us close to thee | every moment of our lives. | Obtain for us, thy children, | the grace of a happy death; | so 308 NOVENAS that, in union with thee, | we may enjoy the bliss of heaven forever. Amen. Priest: O Mary, conceived without sin, People: Pray for us who have recourse to thee. (3 times.) SHORT SERMON HYMN—MOTHER DEAR, O PRAY FOR ME (All seated) Mother dear, O pray for me Whilst far from heav’n and thee I wander in a fragile bark O’er life’s tempestuous sea. O Virgin Mother, from thy throne, So bright in bliss above, Protect thy child, and cheer my path With thy sweet smile of love. Chorus Mother dear, remember me, And never cease thy care, Till in heaven eternally Thy love and bliss I share. Mother dear, O pray for me! Should pleasure’s siren lay E’er tempt thy child to wander far From virtue’s path away; When thorns beset life’s devious way, And darkling waters flow, NOVENAS 309 Then, Mary, aid thy weeping child, Thyself a mother show. — Chorus. : Benediction of the Most Blessed Sacrament People: Tantum ergo Sacramentum Veneremur cernul, Et antiquum documentum Novo cedat ritul; Praestet fides supplementum Sensuum defectui. People: Genitori, Genitoque Laus et jubilatio, Salus, honor, virtus quoque Sit et benedictio: Procedenti ab utroque Compar sit laudatio. Amen. Priest: Panem de coelo praestitisti eis. People: Omne delectamentum in se habentum. OREMUS Priest: Deus, qui nobis sub Sacramento mir- abili, passionis tuae memoriam reliquisti: tribue, quaesumus, Ita nos corporis et san- guinis tui sacra mysteria venerari, ut re- demptionis tuae fructum in nobis jugiter sentiamus. Qui vivis et regnas in saecula saeculorum. People: Amen. For the Divine Praises which close the exer- cises see page 194. 310 NOVENAS NOVENA TO ST. JOSEPH @) GLORIOUS St. Joseph, faithful follower of Jesus Christ, to thee do we raise our hearts and hands to implore thy powerful mtercession in obtaining from the benign Heart of Jesus all the heips and graces necessary for our spiritual and temporal welfare, particularly the grace of a happy death, and the special favor we now implore. O guardian of the Word Incarnate, we feel animated with confidence that thy prayers in our behalf will be graciously heard before the throne of God. Then the following V. and R. are to be said seven times, in honor of the seven joys or sorrows of St. Joseph. V. O glorious St. Joseph, through the love thou dost bear to Jesus Christ, and for the glory of His name, R. Hear our prayers and obtain our petitions. Prayer @) GLORIOUS St. Joseph, spouse of the im- maculate Virgin, obtain for me a pure, humble, and charitable mind, and perfect resig- nation to the divine will. Be my guide, father, and model through life, that I may merit to die| as thou didst in the arms of Jesus and Mary. St. Joseph, friend of the Sacred Heart, pray for us. (Ind. of 300 days, each day. — Prus IX. Nov. 26, 1876. NOVENAS 311 NOVENA OF GRACE In honor of St. Francis Xavier N the name of the Father, 4K and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost. Amen. V. Thou, O Lord, wilt 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, etc. R. As it was in the beginning, etc. Prayer GOD! who wast pleased to restore to the bosom of Thy Church, the nations of the Indies, through the preaching and miracles of St. Francis Xavier, mercifully grant us, that we may imitate his virtues, whose glorious merits we hold in veneration. Through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. Hymn Father St. Francis, we kneel at thy feet While blessings and favors we beg and entreat, That thou from thy bright throne in heaven above Wouldst look on thy clients with pity and love. St. Francis Xavier, O pray for us! || O, Father St. Francis, thy words were once strong Against Satan’s wiles and an infidel throng, Not less is thy might where in heaven thou art; Oh, come to our aid, in our battle take part. St. Francis Xavier, O pray for us! || 312 NOVENAS Prayer of Novena MOST lovable and Joving St. Francis Xavier, in union with thee I adore the Divine Majesty, whilst joyfully giving thanks to God for the wonderful graces which He conferred upon thee in life, and for the great glory with which He has gifted thee In heaven. I come to thee, with heartfelt love, begging thee to secure for me, by thy powerful intercession, the inestimable blessing of living and dying in the state of grace. I also beseech thee to obtain the favor I ask in this novena. Here state your intention. But if what I ask is not for the glory of God, or for the good of my soul, do thou obtain for me what is most conductive for both. Amen. V. Pray for us, St. Francis Xavier. R. That we may be made worthy of the promises of Christ. Following the discourse is sung: Hymn of St. Francis Xavier O God, Thou art the object of my love, Not for the hope of endless joys above, Nor for the fear of endless pains below Which those who Jove Thee not must undergo. For me, and such as me, Thou once didst bear The tgnominious cross, the nails, the spear; A thorny crown transpierced Thy sacred brow; What bloody sweats from every member flow! Such as then was and is Thy love for me, Such ts and shall be still my love for Thee; Thy love O Jesus, will I ever sing — ‘O God of love, sweet Saviour, dearest King! NOVENAS 313 NOVENA TO ST. ANNE ITH deep and heartfelt veneration I pros- trate myself before thee, O glorious St. Anne. Thou art that creation of privilege and predilec- tion, who through thy extraordinary virtues and sanctity wast worthy to receive from God the supreme grace of giving life to the treasure-house of all graces, blessed among women, Mother of the Word Incarnate, the most holy Virgin Mary, | Deign, therefore, O most compassionate saint, for the sake of this lofty privilege, to receive me Into the number of thy true followers, for such I protest I am and desire to remain so long as I may live. Surround me with thy powerful patronage, and obtain for me from God the grace to imitate those virtues with which thou wast so abundantly adorned. Grant that I may know and bitterly Iament my sins. Obtain for me a most lively affection for Jesus and Mary, and fidelity and constancy in the practice of the duties of my state. Preserve me from every danger in life, and assist me in the moment of my death, so that, safe in Paradise, I may unite with thee, most blessed Mother, in praising the Word of God made man in the bosom of thy most pure child, the Virgin Mary. Amen. Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory be to the Father, etc., three times. (Ind. of 300 days, once a day. — Leo XIII. Maar. 20, 1886. Ind. of 7 years, and 7 quarantines for novena said before feast of St. Anne, July 26.) 314 NOVENAS NOVENA TO SAINT TERESA OF THE INFANT JESUS The Little Flower of Jesus Prayer for Each Day GLORIOUS TERESA of the Infant Jesus, through whose unshaken confidence God was so glorified, obtain for me the same filial trust and love which animated thy innocent heart and soul. Grant that I may practice self-abnegation, pa- tience and confidence, and that my confidence may be a fountain of blessings which God pours out upon me. As confidence was for thee the key to the greatest treasures of God, so it may induce me to throw myself into my Saviour’s arms and say with David: “In Thee, O my God, I put my trust, let me not be confounded.” Amen. First Day PRAYER ALMIGHTY God and Creator of all things, Who to banish from human hearts l[uke- warmness in Thy service and inflame souls in divine love, hast enriched the soul of Thy Little Flower with such unshaken faith that she desired most ardently to give her life for Thee: I beseech Thee, by the merits of the lively faith of Saint Teresa of the Infant Jesus, to infuse into my soul such an ardent faith that I may firmly believe all the truths taught by the Holy Catholic Church, and practice all the virtues until death. Our Father, Hail Mary, and Gloria. NOVENAS 315 Act of Oblation of Saint Teresa of the Infant Jesus Y LORD and my God! O Most Blessed Trinity! I desire to love Thee and to make Thee loved by mankind. Since Thou hast loved ‘me so much as to give me the only begotten Son for my Saviour and my Spouse, the infinite treasures of His merits are mine. These merits I offer to Thee with joy, beseeching Thee to behold me only as in the Face of Jesus, and in His Sacred Heart burning with love. Moreover, I offer Thee all the merits of the saints — in heaven and on earth — together with their acts of love, and those of the holy Angels. Lastly, I offer Thee, O Blessed Trinity, the love and merits of the Blessed Virgin, my dearest Mother. To her I entrust this oblation, begging her to present it to Thee. Amen. Holy Child Jesus, have mercy on us. Our Lady of Victories, pray for us. Saint Teresa of the Infant Jesus, pray for us. Little Flower of Jesus, pray for us. Amen. Second Day PRAYER ALMIGHTY God, Who art admirable in Thy Saints, grant me the gift of hope with which Saint Teresa of the Infant Jesus was endowed, that I may believe firmly Thy words, “Whatsoever you shall ask in My Name, it shall be given to you,” and as Saint Teresa aban- 316 NOVENAS doned all the vanities of the world and conse- crated herself to Thee with unshaken faith and confidence, may I also despise all that the world appreciates, and seek Thee alone Who art my love and my all. Amen. Our Father, etc., and the Act of Oblation. Third Day PRAYER MY Jesus, grant that I may love Thee, as much as Saint Teresa, Thy Little Flower, loved Thee, and that I may say with her: “O my Jesus, I beg Thee only for Thy love without © limits and without bounds. Grant, O my Jesus, that for love of Thee I may be a martyr. I wish | to love Thee as Thou hast never been loved.” And thou, O little Saint, succor and assist me that I may never show myself ungrateful to Him Who loved me so much. Amen. Our Fatber, etc., and the Act of Oblation. Fourth Day PRAYER MY God and my Lord, Thou givest me what is best for me, and as Thy Little Flower consecrated herself to Thee as a sacrificial victim to endure for love of Thee all sufferings and pains, so also may I accept whatever hard- ships and contradictions Thou hast destined for my sanctification with perfect submission and NOVENAS 317 even with cheerful mind, that I may be able to say as Thy cherished spouse, “O Jesus, I am a victim of Thy love.” Amen. Our Father, etc., and the Act of Oblation. Fifth Day PRAYER MY Lord, Innocence itself, Thou hast endured all manner of opprobrious treat- ment for love of me. Give me the grace of humility, self-abnegation, and patience that I may imitate Thy spouse, Saint Teresa of the Infant Jesus, and say with all my heart, O my despised Jesus, grant me the merits of Thy humility and patience to bear in tranquil spirit all the sufferings of this life, and then to enjoy Thy company with Thy spouse, the Little Flower. Amen. Our Father, etc., and the Act of Oblation. Sixth Day PRAYER MY sweet Jesus, give me the charity and simplicity of Saint Teresa of the Infant Jesus, whose mission in heaven is to make others love the good God as she loved Him, to teach souls her little way. Give me such longings that I may not rest until my heart loves God with all my strength, until I arrive at the spiritual childhood of the Little Flower of Jesus. Amen. Our Father, etc., and the Act of Oblation. 318 NOVENAS Seventh Day PRAYER MY dear Jesus, give me grace to practise little virtues. It is sometimes difficult, but I trust in Thy goodness and love for little souls. I am too little and weak to climb the steep ladder of perfection, but I know that as much as I hope I shall obtain from Thee. I jom then Thy Little Flower and implore Thee with her to make me one of the many little, humble victims, worthy of Thy love. Amen. Our Father, etc., and the Act of Oblation. Eighth Day PRAYER MY God and my love, give me on this earth the same mission Thou gavest to Thy Little Flower in heaven, of passing life in doing good to my neighbor. O Jesus, help me to console little souls and encourage them to love Thee; let them love Thee as much as Thy Immaculate Mother, Thy foster-father St. Joseph, Thy holy angels and Thy cherished Little Teresa loved Thee. Allow me to pray with her: “Let Thy divine glance rest upon a vast number of little souls, worthy victims of Thy love.” Amen. Our Father, etc., and the Act of Oblation. NOVENAS 319 Ninth Day PRAYER MY dear Lord, grant me as much filial veneration and love for Thy faithful foster- father and Thy most holy and immaculate Mother, as Saint Teresa of the Infant Jesus cherished in her simple and child-like heart. And thou, O my little Saint, address thyself to my great protector and father St. Joseph, and my most holy Mother Mary, and entreat them to obtain for me the grace of dying in the arms of Jesus and uttering thy own words: 50,2 219 loveutHimery My @e God ®-r1"... love Thee.”” Amen. Our Father, etc., and the Act of Oblation. Devotions to the Blessed Trinity THE SIGN OF THE CROSS N the name of the Father, 44 and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost. Amen. (Ind. of 50 days, each time. — Pius IX. Dec. 5, 1876.) PRAYER TO THE HOLY TRINITY ADORE Thee, O my God, one God in three Persons; I humble myself before Thy Maj- esty. Thou alone art being, life, truth, beauty, and goodness. I glorify Thee, I praise Thee, I thank Thee, and I love Thee, all incapable and unworthy as I am, in union with the dear Son, Jesus Christ, our Saviour and our Father, in the mercifulness of His Heart and through His infi- nite merits. I wish to serve Thee, to please Thee, to obey Thee, and to love Thee always, in union with Mary immaculate, Mother of God and our Mother, loving also and serving my neighbor for Thy sake. Therefore, give me the Holy Spirit to enlighten, correct, and guide me in the way of Thy commandments, and in all perfection, until I come to the happiness of heaven, where I shall glorify Thee forever. Amen. (Ind. of 300 days, each time. — Prus X. Apr. 18, 1906.) A VISIT TO THE BLESSED SACRAMENT 32I Devotions to the Blessed Sacrament ACT OF SPIRITUAL COMMUNION By St. Alphonsus Liguori Y Jesus, I believe that Thou art truly pres- ent in the Most Blessed Sacrament. I love Thee above all things and I desire to possess Thee within my soul. Since I am unable now to receive Thee sacramentally, come at least spirit- ually into my heart. I embrace Thee as being already there, and unite myself wholly to Thee; never, never permit me to be separated from Thee. Jesus, my sweet love, wound, inflame this heart of mine, so that it may be always and all on fire for Thee. (Ind. of 60 days, once a day. — Leo XIII. June 30, 1893.) VISITS TO THE BLESSED SACRAMENT When entering the church genuflect before the tabernacle, and say: OWN in adoration falling, Lo! the sacred Host we hail! (Ind. of 100 days, each time. — BENEDIcT XV. Mar. 22, 1917.) PRAYER TO JESUS IN THE TABERNACLE EAR Jesus, present in the Sacrament of the altar, be forever thanked and praised. Love, worthy of all celestial and terrestrial love, Who, out of infinite love for me, ungrateful sinner, didst assume our human nature, didst shed Thy most precious blood in the cruel scourging, and didst 322 A VISIT TO THE BLESSED SACRAMENT expire on a shameful cross for our eternal welfare! Now, iUlumined with lively faith, with the out- pouring of my whole soul and the fervor of my heart, I humbly beseech Thee, through the mnfi- nite merits of Thy painful sufferings, give me strength and courage to destroy every evil pas- sion which sways my heart, to bless Thee in my greatest afflictions, to glorify Thee by the exact fulfilment of all my duties, supremely to hate all sin, and thus to become a saint. (Ind. of 100 days, once a day. — Prius IX. Jan. 1, 1866.) HYMN OF ST. THOMAS AQUINAS Our Lord in the Tabernacle ADORE Thee humbly, O Thou hidden God, Who beneath these figures truly dost abide. All my light 1s darkness contemplating Thee. Lo! my heart lies prostrate to Love’s mystery. Seeing, touching, tasting, fail in proving Thee; But Thy word suffices given sacredly. Know we nothing truer ever can be heard, Than the words of Jesus Who is Truth’s own Word. On the cross was hidden Thy divinity, But these veils hide likewise Thy humanity; I, in both believing, offer my belief, Praying for Thy pardon with the dying thief. A VISIT TO THE BLESSED SACRAMENT 323 Thy open wounds transfigured I may not behold, But confess with Thomas: Thou art Lord and God! Grant my soul a burning faith; light it from above. Be Thou all my treasure! Be Thou all my love! O remembrance lasting of the Crucified! Living Bread sustaining those for whom He died! Make me a consuming fire drawing life from Thee, Yield my soul Thy sweetness; let it taste and see! Like a Ioving pelican, feed me, Jesus, Lord; I am all unholy; wash me in Thy Blood, In that life-blood flowing o’er the world in pain, Though a drop had cleansed it of its mighty stain. Jesus, Love, here present on the altar veiled, O fulfil my longing when Thou art revealed — To behold the vision of Thy holy face And be rapt forever in Its perfect peace. Amen. PRAYER OF SHUR THERESE EILED in the white Host, O my Well- beloved, how meek and humble of heart dost Thou show Thyself to me! Thou couldst not stoop lower to teach me humility, and I, to respond to Thy love, desire to put myself in the lowest place and share Thy humiliations, that I may have part with Thee in the kingdom of Heaven. I beseech Thee, my Jesus, to send me some humiliations each time that I shall attempt to put myself above others. 324 A VISIT TO THE BLESSED SACRAMENT PRAYER OF ST. ALPHONSUS LIGUORI BEFORE THE BLESSED SACRAMENT LORD Jesus Christ, Who, through the Jove which Thou bearest to men, dost remain with them day and night in this Sacrament, full of mercy and of love, expecting, inviting, and receiving all who come to visit Thee; I believe that Thou art present in the Sacrament of the altar. From the abyss of my nothingness I adore Thee; and I thank Thee for all the favors which Thou hast bestowed upon me, particularly for having given me Thyself in this Sacrament, for having given me for my advocate Thy most holy Mother Mary, and for having called me to visit Thee m this church. I, this day, salute Thy most loving Heart, and { wish to salute it for three ends: first, in thanks- giving for this great gift; secondly, in reparation for all the injuries Thou hast received from Thine enemies in this Sacrament; thirdly, I wish, by this visit, to adore Thee in all places in which Thou art least honored and most abandoned in the Holy Sacrament. My Jesus, I love Thee with my whole heart. J am sorry for having hitherto offended Thy infinite goodness. I pur- pose, with the assistance of Thy grace, nevermore to offend Thee; and, at this moment, miserable as I am, I consecrate my whole being to Thee. I give Thee my entire will, all my affections and desires, and all I have. From this day forward do what Thou wilt with me, and with whatever belongs to me. I ask and desire only Thy holy A VISIT TO THE BLESSED SACRAMENT 325 love, the gift of final perseverance, and the per- fect accomplishment of Thy will. I recommend to Thee the souls in Purgatory, particularly those who were most devoted to the Blessed Sacra- ment and to most Holy Mary; and I also recom- mend to Thee all poor smners. Finally, my dear - Saviour, I unite all my affections with the affec- tions of Thy most loving Heart; and, thus united, I offer them to Thy Eternal Father; and I entreat Him, in Thy Name, and for Thy sake, to accept them. Amen. (Ind. of 300 days, each time. — Prius IX. Sept. 7, 1857.) EJACULATIONS (Ind. of 100 Days, before the tabernacle or 300 Days, at exposition. “In future any form of words expressive of adoration will suffice for the Indulgences of 100 days and 300 days respectively.” —BrNnepicr XV. March 22, 1917.) ESUS, my God, here present in the Sacra- ment of Thy love, I adore Thee. (T9® adore Thee, Thou true Bread of angels. RAISED and adored forever be the most holy Sacrament. JESUS, in the most holy Sacrament, have mercy on us. Gorey art Christ, the Son of the living God. When genuflecting on leaving the church, say: (PD adore and praise Thee, most holy Lord Jesus Christ, because by Thy holy cross Thou hast redeemed the world. LL OSLKO IKE O CEO LO LKE The Holy Hour before the Blessed Sacrament FIRST QUARTER OF AN HOUR: ADORATION OST Holy Trinity, Father, Son, and Holy Ghost, behold us prostrate in Thy divine presence. We humble ourselves profoundly, and beg of Thee pardon for our sins. We adore Thee, omnipotent Father, and with the outpouring of our hearts, we thank Thee for having given us Thy divine Son Jesus to be our Redeemer, and for having left Him with us to the consummation of the world in the most august Sacrament of the Holy Eucharist, in which mys- tery of faith and love, He reveals to us the wonders of His Sacred Heart. Glory be to the Father, etc. O divine Word, most adorable Jesus, we adore Thee in Thy Sacrament, and with the outpouring of our hearts we thank Thee for having taken human flesh and for having made Thyself, for our redemption, Priest and Victim in the sacrifice of the Cross, a sacrifice which, by an excess of the love of Thy adorable Heart, Thou dost renew AN HOUR BEFORE THE BLESSED SACRAMENT 327 every moment on our altars throughout the world. O supreme Priest, O divine Victim, grant that we may honor the sacrifice of the most holy Eucharist with the united homage of most holy Mary and of all Thy Church, in triumph, in suffering, and in warfare. We offer ourselves wholly to Thee, and since Thou dost deign to have victims associated with Thee, accept our offering, and uniting it with Thine, bless us. Glory be to the Father, etc. O divine Spirit and Paraclete, we adore Thee, and with the outpouring of our hearts, we thank Thee for having, with so much love for us, wrought the ineffable blessing of the Incarnation of the divine Word, a benefit which is being con- tinually extended and increased in the most holy Eucharist. By this adorable mystery of the love of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, grant to us and to all sinners Thy grace; pour out upon us and upon all redeemed souls Thy holy gifts, but in a special manner bestow them upon Thy holy Church, the Spouse of Jesus Christ, and our Mother, upon its visible head, the Supreme Pontiff, upon all the Cardinals, the Bishops and pastors of souls, on all priests and on all the other ministers of the sanctuary. Amen. Glory be to the Father, etc. (Ind. of 300 days, once a day. — Prus X. Mar. 22, 1905.) A PRAYER OF ADORATION OME, Iet us sing to the Lord; let us rejoice in God, our Saviour.. Let us enter His presence with thanksgiving, and with psalms proclaim our joy. 328 AN HOUR BEFORE THE BLESSED SACRAMENT For the Lord is a great God: and a great King above all gods. For in His hand are all parts of the earth however remote, and He looks down upon the highest mountains. For His is the sea, since He created it, and He fashioned the earth with His hands. Come, let us prostrate ourselves before God, and adore Him. Let us implore the Lord Who created us, for He is the Lord our God, and we are His people and the flock of His pasture. O, that you would listen to His voice today! Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory be to the Father, etc., five times and repeated once extra for the Pope. (Ind. of 300 days. — Pius IX. Nov. 26, 1876.) SECOND QUARTER OF AN HOUR: THANKSGIVING E adore Thee, O Christ, and we bless Thee. Because by Thy holy cross Thou hast redeemed the world. ADORE Thee, eternal Father, and I give Thee thanks for the infinite love with which Thou didst deign to send Thy only-begotten Son to redeem me, and to become the food of my soul. I offer Thee all the acts of adoration and thanksgiving that are offered to Thee by the angels and saints in heaven, and by the just on earth. I praise, love, and thank Thee with all the praise, love, and thanksgiving that are offered to Thee by Thine own Son in the Blessed Sacra- ment; and I beg Thee to grant that He may be known, loved, honored, praised, and worthily received by all, in this most divine Sacrament. Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory be to the Father, etc. AN HOUR BEFORE THE BLESSED SACRAMENT 329 ADORE Thee, eternal Son, and I thank Thee for the infinite love which caused Thee to become man for me, to be born im a stable, to live in poverty, to suffer hunger, thirst, heat, cold, fatigue, hardships, contempt, persecutions, the scourging, the crowning with thorns, and a cruel death upon the hard wood of the cross. I thank Thee, with the Church militant and tri- umphant, for the infinite love with which Thou didst institute the most blessed Sacrament to be the food of my soul. ADORE Thee in all the consecrated Hosts throughout the whole world, and I return thanks for those who know Thee not, and who do not thank Thee. Would that I were able to give my life to make Thee known, loved, and honored by all, in this Sacrament of Iove, and to prevent the Irreverences and sacrileges that are committed against Thee! I love Thee, divine Jesus, and I desire to receive Thee with all the purity, love, and affection of Thy blessed Mother, and with the love and affection of Thy own most pure Heart. Grant, O most amiable Spouse of my soul, in coming to me in this most holy Sacra- ment, that I may receive all the graces and bless- ings which Thou dost come to bestow on us, and Jet me rather die than receive Thee unworthily. Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory be to the Father, etc. ADORE Thee, eternal Holy Ghost, and I give Thee thanks for the infinite love with which Thou didst work the ineffable mystery of the Incarnation, and for the infinite love with 330 AN HOUR BEFORE THE BLESSED SACRAMENT which Thou didst form the sacred Body of Our Lord Jesus Christ out of the most pure blood of the Blessed Virgin Mary, become in this Sacra- ment the food of my soul. I beg Thee to enlighten my mind, and to purify my heart and the hearts of all men, that all may know the benefit of Thy Jove, and recetve worthily this most Blessed Sacrament. Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory, etc. (Ind. of 7 years and 7 quarantines, if recited before the Blessed Sacrament on any Thursday; 100 days on any other day; plenary, after Communion on the first Thursday. — Pius VI. Oct. 17, 1796.) A PSALM OF PRAISE (Psalm CXLIV) WILL extol Thee, O God my king: and I will bless Thy name forever; yea, forever and ever. Every day will I bless Thee, and I will praise Thy name forever; yea, forever and ever. Great is the Lord, and greatly to be praised: and of His greatness there is no end. Generation and generation shall praise Thy works, and they shall declare Thy power. They shall speak of the magnificence of the glory of Thy holiness, and shall tell Thy wondrous works. And they shall speak of the might of Thy terrible acts, and shall declare Thy greatness. They shall publish the memory of the abun- dance of Thy sweetness: and shall rejoice in Thy righteousness. The Lord is gracious and merciful: patient and plenteous in mercy. AN HOUR BEFORE THE BLESSED SACRAMENT 33I The Lord is sweet to all; and His tender mercies are over all His works. Let all Thy works, O Lord, praise Thee: and Tet Thy saints bless Thee. They shall speak of the glory of Thy kingdom: and shall tell of Thy power: To make Thy might known to the sons of men: and the glory of the magnificence of Thy kingdom. Thy kingdom is a kingdom of all ages: and Thy dominion endureth throughout all generations. The Lord is faithful in all His words: and holy in all His works. The Lord lifteth up all that fall: and setteth up all that are cast down. The eyes of all hope in Thee, O Lord: and Thou -givest them meat in due season. Thou openest Thy hand, and fillest with bless- ing every living creature. The Lord is just in all His ways, and holy in all His works. The Lord is nigh unto all them that call upon Him, to all that call upon Him in truth. He will do the will of them that fear Him, and He will hear their prayer, and save them. The Lord keepeth all them that love Him; but all the wicked He will destroy. My mouth shall speak the praise of the Lord: and let all flesh bless His holy name forever; yea, forever and ever. Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory be to the Father, etc., frve times and repeated once extra for the Pope. (Ind. of 300 days. — Pius IX. JVov. 26, 1876.) 332 AN HOUR BEFORE THE BLESSED SACRAMENT THIRD QUARTER OF AN HOUR: REPARATION ADORE Thee, my Jesus, hid beneath the mystic emblems; I acknowledge Thee true God and true man. By this, my act of adoration, I intend to make Thee reparation for the cold hearts of so many of Thy people, who pass before Thy holy churches, nay, before Thy very taber- nacle, where, hour after hour, Thou dost deign to dwell with loving impatience to give Thyself to be Thy people’s food, who yet do not even bend the knee before Thee, their God; but, Itke the Israelites In the wilderness, seem, by their very indifference, to loathe this heavenly manna. I offer Thee Thine own most Precious Blood, which Thou didst shed from the wound in Thy Ieft foot in reparation for this hateful coldness, and entering therein in spirit, I cry — O Sacrament most holy! O Sacrament divine! All praise and all thanksgiving be every moment Thine! Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory be to the Father, etc. ROFOUNDLY I adore Thee, my Jesus; I acknowledge Thy presence in this most holy Sacrament. By this act of adoration, fain would I make amends for the forgetfulness of Thy people, so many of whom seem as though they knew Thee not; but, while they see Thee go to the poor sick, to be their strength in their great journey to eternity, leave Thee unescorted, and hardly give Thee even one outward sign of hom- age. I offer Thee in reparation for this coldness AN HOUR BEFORE THE BLESSED SACRAMENT 333 Thine own most Precious Blood, which Thou didst shed from the wound in Thy right foot, and entering therein in spirit, again I cry ten thousand times: O Sacrament most holy! O Sacrament divine! All praise and all thanksgiving be every moment Thine! Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory be to the Father, etc. ROFOUNDLY I adore Thee, my Jesus, true Bread of life eternal; and by this act of adoration I fain would make Thee compensation for all the wounds with which Thy Sacred Heart doth daily bleed to see the profanation of the churches wherein Thou dost vouchsafe to abide, beneath the sacramental species, to receive the love and adoration of Thy people. I offer Thee, in reparation for such great irreverence, Thine own most Precious Blood, which Thou didst shed from the wound in thy left hand, and, entering therein, in spirit, I say at every moment: O Sacrament most holy! O Sacrament divine! All praise and all thanksgiving be every moment Thine! Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory be to the Father, etc. ROFOUNDLY I adore Thee, my Jesus, living Bread come down from heaven: and by this act of adoration I fain would make amends for all the acts of irreverence which Thy people, day by day, commit in assisting at holy Mass, wherein Thou dost renew, though blocdlessly, 334 AN HOUR BEFORE THE BLESSED SACRAMENT that selfsame Sacrifice which once Thou didst consummate on Calvary for our salvation. I offer Thee, mn reparation for all this ingratitude, Thine own most Precious Blood which Thou didst shed from the wound in Thy right hand; and, entering thereim, in spirit, I uplift my voice, and together with Thy holy angels, who stand around Thy throne, I say: O Sacrament most boly! O Sacrament divine! All praise and all thanksgiving be every moment Thine! Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory be to the Father. etc.) ROFOUNDLY I adore Thee, my Jesus, true Victim of atonement for our sins; and I offer this act of adoration in compensation for the sacrilegious outrages which Thou dost receive from so many of Thy ungrateful people, who dare to draw nigh to Thee and to receive Thee in Communion with mortal sin upon their souls. In reparation for these hateful sacrileges, I offer Thee these Iast drops of Thy most Precious Blood which Thou didst shed from the wound in Thy most sacred side; and, entering therein, in spirit, I adore Thee, I bless Thee, I love Thee, and, with all the holy souls who love Thee in the most holy Sacrament, I exclaim: O Sacrament most boly! O Sacrament divine! All praise and all thanksgiving be every moment Thine! Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory be to the Father, etc. AN HOUR BEFORE THE BLESSED SACRAMENT 335 ASPIRATIONS (From Psalms CV, LVI, CII, LXXVIII) EMEMBER us, O Lord, in the favor of Thy people: Visit us with Thy salvation. That we may see the good of Thy chosen, that we may rejoice in the joy of Thy nation: That Thou mayst be praised with Thy m- heritance. We have sinned with our fathers: We have acted unjustly, we have wrought iniquity. Have mercy on us, O God, have mercy on us: For our soul trusteth in Thee. O Lord, repay us not according to the sins we have committed, Nor according to our iniquities. O Lord, remember not our former iniquities: Let Thy mercies speedily prevent us, for we are become exceeding poor. Help us, O God our Saviour; And for the glory of Thy Name, O Lord, deliver us: And forgive us our sins for Thy Name’s sake. Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory be to the Father, etc., five times and repeated once extra for the Pope. FOURTH QUARTER OF AN HOUR: PETITION SWEET Saviour and Redeemer of mankind, Who in the impenetrable designs of Thine infinite wisdom, bearest with the audacity of the 336 AN HOUR BEFORE THE BLESSED SACRAMENT impious and sufferest the violence of the wicked, reserving to Thyself the sovereign right of judging the impious man and his perverse works, turn Thy merciful regard upon Thy children, who in the blindness of their hearts have turned from Thee in rebellion. With the eyes of a father, and with the power of the sovereign King of the uni- verse, stretch forth Thy hand to bless and regen- erate modern society, which is rebelliously turning its back on Thee, the King of kings and Lord of lords. Be moved to compassion for Thy people, whom Thou hast purchased with Thy Blood, regenerated with Thy grace, and exalted with Thy love. Thou hast given them true liberty, Thou hast called them to the inheritance of Thy Father, Thou hast numbered them among Thy brethren; but in the delirtum of their rebellion, they have preferred the slavery of Satan, and live m abject misery, without joy, and without hope. MY Lord Jesus Christ, King of eternal glory, restorer of all things in heaven and on earth, supreme and omnipotent, Who with infinite wis- dom reunitest at Thy feet things scattered and dispersed; enlighten the kings of the earth, the rulers of nations; instil Thy spirit into all civil institutions, into every form of government, into Jaws and armies; grant that all the powers of the earth may recognize in Thee the majesty of the eternal God, the source from which all authority is derived; illuminate the nations that they may AN HOUR BEFORE THE BLESSED SACRAMENT 337 understand that Thou art the origin of rights and duties, that it is through Thee that the rulers of the earth rule, and that it is to Thee that rulers and people alike owe obedience. MOST sweet Jesus, Who has deigned to descend into this valley of tears, and to dwell with us, suffering and dying for the salva- tion of us sinners, and Who in an excess of charity hast set up Thy abode in the midst of men, hidden under the sacramental species, and Who in the fulness of the Godhead, corporally present in our tabernacles, makest Thyself the food and life of our souls; oh, recetve the humble but sincere and profound homage of our hearts, offered in repara- tion for the falling away of the rebellious. We firmly believe m Thee and all that the faith infused into our hearts by the Holy Spirit has revealed to us about Thee. We see in Thee the beginning and end of all existing things, we adore Thee as the one true God, we wish to live only for Thee and in Thy service. Do Thou, O Lord, save our brethren, reunite the scattered members of modern society gone astray, that we as brethren may together be one with Thee, as Thou art one with Thy Father in heaven. May Thy will be done by all and in everythmg. May Thy maj- esty shine forth on the throne of Thy earthly dominion, and the world confess Thee to be the true Son of God, through Whom all things were created. 338 AN HOUR BEFORE THE BLESSED SACRAMENT JESUS, God of love, set free from his chams Thy Vicar, the successor of Peter; re- establish him in the exercise of that liberty which Thou Thyself didst give him, together with the supreme keys, that he might effectually carry on Thy work of regenerating mankind; and so hasten on that longed-for day, in which Thou wilt be glorifted by the return of society to its paternal home. Gather together, O King of the nations, the sheep and the lambs under the care of the one shepherd. O Lord, do not abandon us; we are Thy children, we love Thee; recognize us still as Thy children, unworthy, yet ever Thine; save us, and together with us, save kings, rulers: and nations. Amen. (Plenary indulgence on Corpus Christi, one day in the Octave, once during the Forty Hours and on any two Thursdays in the year, fixed by the bishop. 7 years and 7 quarantines, on all other Thursdays; 300 days, once daily, privately before the Blessed Sacrament; 100 days for private recitation. — Leo XIII. Feb. 15, 1895.) A PRAYER FOR PERSEVERANCE (Psalm LXX) N Thee, O Lord, I have hoped, Jet me never be put to confusion. Deliver me in Thy Justice, and rescue me. Incline Thine ear unto me, and save me. Be Thou unto me a rock of protection, and a place of strength: whereunto | may always resort. For Thou art my firmament and my refuge. Deliver me, O my God, out of the hand of the AN HOUR BEFORE THE BLESSED SACRAMENT 339 sinner, and out of the hand of the transgressor of the aw and of the unjust. For Thou art my patience, O Lord God: my hope, from my youth. By Thee have I been confirmed from the womb, from my mother’s womb Thou art my protector. Of Thee shall I continually smg. I am become unto many as a wonder, but Thou art a strong helper. Let my mouth be filled with Thy praise, and with Thy honor all the day. Cast me not off in the time of old age; when my strength shall fail, do not Thou forsake me. For my enemies have spoken against me; and they that watched for my soul have consulted together, Saying: God hath forsaken him: pursue and take him, for there is none to deliver him. O God, be not Thou far from me: O my God, make haste to my help. Let them be confounded and come to nothing that detract my soul; let them be covered with confusion and shame that seek my hurt. But I will always hope; and will praise Thee ever more and more. My mouth shall show forth Thy justice; Thy salvation all the day long; For I know not how to tell it all. I will enter into the powers of the Lord: O Lord, I will be mindful of Thy justice alone. . Thou hast taught me, O God, trom my youth: and till now I have been declaring Thy wonder- ful works. 340 AN HOUR BEFORE THE BLESSED SACRAMENT And even unto old age and gray hairs, O God, forsake me not, Until I shew forth Thy strength unto the gen- eration that is to come: Thy power, and Thy justice, O God, are also very high: Thou hast done great things. O God, who is like to Thee? How great troubles hast Thou shown me, many and grievous: and turning Thou hast brought me to life, and hast brought me back again from the depths of the earth. O mayest Thou increase my greatness, and turn again and comfort me. For I will also confess to Thee thy truth with the instruments of psaltery: O God, I will sing to Thee with the harp, Thou holy one of Israel. My lips shall greatly rejoice, when I shall sing to Thee; and my soul which Thou hast redeemed. Yea, and my tongue shall speak of Thy justice all the day; when they shall be confounded and put to shame that seek to hurt me. Our Father, Flail Mary, Glory be to the Father, etc. The Forty Hours’ Adoration This devotion dates back to about the year 1534. It ‘consists in solemn exposition of the Blessed Sacrament on the altar for forty hours, in memory of the forty hours during which the body of our Lord remained in the sepulchre. In 1592 Pope Clement VIII, moved by the troubles of the time, ordered that the devotion should be continuous throughout the year, from one church to another, in order that, by the prayers offered to the Blessed Sacrament, the mercy and blessing of God might come down upon the whole Church. The devotion opens with a solemn votive Mass of exposition, followed by a procession of the Blessed Sacra- ment, the Tantum Ergo and the Litany of the Saints. On the second day another solemn Mass is said for peace, except when certain feasts occur, in which case the Mass of the feast is celebrated. On the third day the solemn votive Mass of the Blessed Sacrament is again said. The devotion is then concluded with the Litany of the Saints, procession, prayers, and Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament. In order to make the Forty Hours and gain the plenary indulgence attached, it is necessary to make at least one visit during the three days, and to go to confession and Holy Communion in any church on one of the three days, or on the day before. 2 FORTY HOURS’ DEVOTION 4 LAUDA SION By St. Thomas Aquinas (Translation by Monsignor Benson) AUD, O Sion, thy Salvation, Laud in songs of exultation This thy Shepherd and thy King: All thy might in triumph raising Praise Him Who surpasses praising, Far beyond thine honouring. Be our theme of high thanksgiving Living Bread and source of living Set to-day before us here: — Broken at that Supper blesséd, As by every mouth confesséd, For the brethren gathered there. Laud be lifted, sweet and sounding, Ringing from an heart abounding, Rising into jubilee! Laud in duteous celebration Of this Table’s consecration For such high solemnity. Lo, the King His Law revises; Newer truth from elder rises, Newer Law and Paschal rite. Ancient truths, their room surrender, Glows the twilight into splendour, Darkness vanishes in light. FORTY HOURS’ DEVOTION That He wrought at supper lying In remembrance of His dying Christ hath bid His Church renew; We the ordinance obeying, Earthly bread and wine displaying, Consecrate the Victim due. Now the sacred truth receiving We, — the Bread His Flesh believing And the Wine His Blood to be, What tho’ eye and mind be failing, Nature’s order countervailing — Grasp by faith the mystery. Under diverse kinds concealéd While to sense yet unrevealéd Lies a wonder all-divine. Flesh and Blood hath each its token Yet abides there Christ unbroken Hidden under either sign. Perfect to the priest who breaks it, Perfect in the hand that takes it, Christ is undivided there. One or thousands may receive Him Yet true hearts in truth believe Him Unconsuméd everywhere. Good and bad alike partaking Each, by diverse lot, is making One to woe and one to weal, Each from each is set asunder: Mark the word of grace and wonder — One to hurt and one to heal. 343 344 FORTY HOURS’ DEVOTION Thus the Lord His Presence hiding Dwells m many parts abiding, — Every soul in Him confiding Doubts not that the Whole is there. He the One remaineth ever Under every part: for never Aught can Christ from Christ dissever, Still abiding everywhere. The Bread of angels, Io! is sent For weary pilgrims’ nourishment; The children’s Bread, not to be spent On worthless dogs profane; In types significant portrayed, Young Isaac on the altar laid, And paschal offermgs duly made, And manna’s fruitful rain. O Thou good Shepherd, Very Bread, Jesu, on us Thy mercy shed; Sweetly feed us, Gently lead us, Till of Thy Fulness us Thou give Safe in the land of those that live. Thou who can’st all, and all dost know, Thou who dost feed us here below, Grant us to share Thy banquet there, Co-heirs and partners of Thy love With the blest citizens above. Amen. FORTY HOURS’ DEVOTION 345 PRAYERS DURING A PROCESSION OF THE BLESSED SACRAMENT UR Father, Hail Mary, Glory be to the Father, etc. Then say ten times: V. Let us every moment praise the most Holy Sacrament. R. May our God, present in this Sacrament, be now and ever praised. Our Father, Hail Mary, etc., ginde the proces- sion is In progress. (Ind. of 300 days. — Pius X. Aug. 11, 1906.) THE CROWN OR CHAPLET OF THE BLESSED SACRAMENT NCLINE unto my aid, O God. R. O Lord, make haste to help me. THE FIRST DECADE Acts of Faith, Hope, and Charity ACTS OF FAITH BELIEVE, O my Jesus, Thy divine word, that under this appearance of bread Thou Thyself art here present as Thou art in heaven. Our Father, etc. | believe that Thou art the divine Son, eternally equal to the Father; that by the operation of the Holy Ghost Thou didst take human flesh of the Blessed Virgin. Our Father, etc. I believe that Thou art the same Jesus Who wast born of Mary, ever virgin, adored as an in- fant by Thy angels, by the shepherds, and the Magi. Our Fatber, ete. 346 FORTY HOURS’ DEVOTION I believe, O my Redeemer, here present in the Sacrament, that Thou art the same Jesus of Nazareth Who didst heal the sick, and didst raise the dead, Who for us didst suffer and die upon the cross. Our Father, etc. I believe, finally, that Thou Thyself, now sit- ting glorious at the right hand of Thy Father in heaven, and there interceding for me, yet art verily present in this Sacrament, my nourish- ment on earth. Our Father, etc. ACTS OF HOPE MOST loving Jesus, Who in this Sacrament hast left me a pledge of future glory, I hope through the merits of Thy death and Passion to behold Thee face to face in heaven. Our Father, etc. O Jesus, cause, of our glorious resurrection, I hope, through the virtue of this divine food, wherewith Thou nourishest me, to rise glorious into life eternal. Our Father, etc. ACTS OF LOVE LOVE Thee, O Jesus, Who art perfect charity; Who, mn Thy essence, art true God | and true man: in Whom are contained the treas- ures of the divinity, and all the fulness of grace, which descends to us upon this earth. Our Father, etc. I love Thee, dear Jesus, Who, for love of me, hast made Thyself like unto me; kindle within me the flame of sacred love which Thou didst bring from heaven, that, loving Thee, I may grow into Thy likeness. Our Father, etc. FORTY HOURS’ DEVOTION 347 I love Thee, O divine Jesus, my Lord and Master, because Thou hast redeemed and freed me, poor slave of sin, with Thy all Prectous Blood. O, of Thy sweet mercy, grant that I may enjoy the full fruit of Thy redemption. Glory be to the Father, etc. THE SECOND DECADE Acts of Adoration ADORE Thee, O living Bread, descended from heaven, for my spiritual food; give me grace worthily to receive Thee in life and m death. Our Father, etc. I adore Thee, divine food of the strong; strengthen my weakness, that I may ever be con- stant and faithful to Thy love. Our Father, etc. I adore Thee, O my Jesus, hidden beneath the sacramental veil; let my life be hidden, through Thee, in God. Our Father, etc. I adore Thee, great God, Who art the only way: make me ever to walk in the path of Thy precepts, and after Thy shining example, that so I may arrive at eternal salvation. Our Father, etc. I adore Thee, O Jesus, true and spiritual life of all who love Thee, give me grace to die to myself, and to live to Thee alone, Who didst die for the love of me. Our Father, etc. I adore Thee, my dear Redeemer, truth in- effable; enliven, I beseech Thee, and increase my faith, that it may be fruitful m good works. Our Father, etc. 348 FORTY HOURS’ DEVOTION I adore Thee, O Jesus, divine light of the world; illuminate my mind, that, knowing, I may love Thee, and may come to enjoy Thee eternally in heaven. Our Father, etc. I adore Thee, O loving Shepherd; draw to Thyself this wounded sheep, that it may never more leave Thy fold, to fall mto the hands of the infernal wolf. Our Father, etc. I adore Thee, divine Lamb, Who, for the sins of the world, didst give Thyself to be slain; grant that I may bear all my sufferings patiently for Thy sake, in satisfaction for my sins. Our Father, etc. I adore Thee, O Jesus, King of glory, Judge of the living and the dead: make me on earth so to fear Thy justice, that in heaven I may eternally sing Thy mercy. + Glory be to the Father, etc. THE THIRD DECADE Acts of Thanksgiving THANK Thee, O divine Redeemer, that, not content with having for our sakes come upon the earth, Thou hast instituted this adorable Sacrament, that therein Thou mightest remain with us unto the consummation of the world. Our Father, etc. I thank Thee, O glorious Jesus, that Thou dost veil, beneath the eucharistic species, Thy infinite majesty and beauty, which Thy angels delight to behold, that so I might have courage to ap- proach the throne of Thy mercy. Our Father, ete. FORTY HOURS’ DEVOTION 349 I thank Thee, O Jesus most loving, that, having made Thyself my food, Thou descendest upon this tongue, which so often has offended Thee, and dost enter within this body, which alas! has too often deserved to be visited with Thy anger. Our Father, etc. I thank Thee, my dear Saviour, that in this ineffable Sacrament Thou unitest me to Thee with so much Iove, that I therein live in Thee, and Thou in me. Our Fatber, etc. I thank Thee, O my Jesus, that, giving Thy- self to me mm this blessed Sacrament, Thou hast so enriched it with the treasures of Thy love, that Thou has not a greater ast to give me. Our Father, etc. I thank Thee, O my good eee that not only Thou art become my food, but also in this blessed Sacrament offerest Thyself a continual sacrifice for my salvation to Thy eternal Father. Our _ Father, etc. I thank Thee, divine Priest, for this great boon that Thou dost sacrifice Thyself daily upon our altars, in adoration and homage to the most Blessed Trinity, and dost supply for our poor and miserable adorations. Our Father, etc. [thank Thee, O my Saviour, because, renew- ing in this daily sacrifice the very sacrifice of the cross offered on Calvary, Thou dost satisfy divine justice for us miserable sinners. Our _ Father, etc. I thank Thee, dear Jesus, that Thou hast be- come the priceless Victim, to merit for me the fulness of celestial favors. Awaken in me such 340 FORTY HOURS’ DEVOTION trust that their abundance may ever more and more descend upon my soul. Our Father, etc. I thank Thee, my loving Saviour, that Thou art immolated in thanksgiving to God for all His benefits, spiritual and temporal, which He has bestowed upon me, and which I yet hope to receive. Glory be to the Father, etc. Three Final Aspirations ESUS, invisible and divine Head of Thy spouse the Church, Who, with Thy blood, has purified her from all stain, have mercy upon her visible head, N., upon all Bishops and pastors, (especially N. our own Bishop) and shed upon them Thy Holy Spirit, wherewith Thy Apostles and disciples were filled, that they may maintain Thy holy faith pure and untouched, and may spread over the whole world the light of Thy Gospel, and of Thy Catholic truth. Our Father, etc. O Jesus, King of kings, Lord of governors, by Whom monarchs do reign, and from Whom all earthly power comes, mercifully behold our princes, and those in authority: infuse nto them the spirit of Thy divine wisdom, clemency, and justice, so that they may be great with Thee rather than on earth, and may enter with Thee into Thy heavenly kingdom. Our Father, etc. O Jesus, all merciful, Who didst not will the death of a sinner, but that he should be con- verted, and rise to a spiritual life; triumph, I beseech Thee, over all those who obstinately offend Thee, so that, acquiring Thy grace in this world, they may become worthy of the glory FORTY HOURS’ DEVOTION 351 of Thy heavenly paradise for all eternity. Our Father, etc. PRAYER FOR PEACE NT. Peace I leave to you: My peace I give unto you, saith the Lord. V. Give peace, O Lord. R. To them that patiently wait for Thee. Let us Pray GOD, from Whom are holy desires, right counsels, and just works, give unto Thy servants that peace which the world cannot give; that our hearts being given to the keeping of Thy commandments, and the fear of enemies being removed, our days, by Thy protection, may be peaceful, Through Christ our Lord. Amen. PRAYER FOR OUR CITY OOK down, holy Father and Lord, from Thy sanctuary, and from heaven, Thy dwelling- place on high, and behold this sacred Victim which our great high-priest, Thy holy Child, our Lord Jesus, offers up to Thee for the sins of His breth- ren; and be appeased for the multitude of our transgressions. Behold, the voice of the Blood of Jesus, our Brother, cries to Thee from the cross. Give ear,O Lord! Be appeased, O Lord! Hearken, and do not tarry, for Thine own sake, O my God, for Thy Name is invoked upon this city and upon Thy people; and deal with us according to Thy mercy. Amen. 352 FORTY HOURS’ DEVOTION Y. That Thou vouchsafe to defend, pacify, keep, preserve, and bless this city. R. We beseech Thee to hear us. (Ind. of 100 days, once a day. — Prus IX. Feb. 4, 1877.) PRAYER OF INTERCESSION mest Sacred Heart of Jesus, shower copiously Thy blessings on Thy holy Church, on the Supreme Pontiff, and on all the clergy; grant per- severance to the just, convert sinners, enlighten infidels, bless our parents, friends, and benefactors; assist the dying, liberate the souls in purgatory, and extend over all hearts the sweet empire of Thy love. | (Ind. of 300 days. — Prus X. June 16, 1906.) PRAYER FOR ONE’S SELF EAR Jesus, present in the Sacrament of the - altar, be forever thanked and praised. Love, worthy of all celestial and terrestrial love! Who, out of infinite love for me, ungrateful sinner, didst assume our human nature, didst shed Thy most Precious Blood in the cruel scourging, and didst expire on a shameful cross for our eternal welfare! Now, illumined with lively faith, with the outpouring of my whole soul and the fervor of my heart, I humbly beseech Thee, through the infinite merits of Thy painful sufferings, give me strength and courage to destroy every evil pas- sion which sways my heart, to bless Thee in my greatest afflictions, to. glorify Thee by the exact fulfilment of all my duties, supremely to hate all sin, and thus to become a saint. (Ind. of 100 days, once a day. — Pius IX. Jan. 1, 1866.) DEVOTIONS TO THE SACRED INFANCY 353 Devotions to the Mysteries of the Sacred Infancy NCLINE unto our aid, O God. R. O Lord, make haste to help us. 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, one God, world without end. Amen. Our Father, etc. - 1. Jesus, sweetest Child, Who coming down from the bosom of the Father for our salvation, didst not disdain the womb of the Virgin, where, conceived by the Holy Ghost, Thou, the Word Incarnate, didst take upon Thee the form of a servant, have mercy on us. Have mercy on us, Child Jesus, have mercy on us. Hail Mary, etc. 2. Jesus, sweetest Child, Who in Thy Virgin Mother’s womb didst visit St. Elizabeth and fill Thy precursor, John the Baptist, with the Holy Ghost, sanctifying him from his mother’s womb, have mercy on us. Have mercy on us, Child Jesus, have mercy on us. Hail Mary, etc. 3. Jesus, sweetest Child, Who, for nine months hidden in Thy Mother’s womb, and awaited with eager expectation by the Virgin Mary and by St. Joseph, wast by them offered to God the Father for the salvation of the world, have mercy on us. Have mercy on us, Child Jesus, have mercy on us. Hail Mary, etc. 354 DEVOTIONS TO THE SACRED INFANCY 4. Jesus, sweetest Child, born in Bethlehem of the Virgin Mary, wrapped in swaddling-clothes, Jaid in the manger, heralded by angels, visited by shepherds, have mercy on us. Have mercy on us, Child Jesus, have mercy on us. Hail Mary, etc. O Jesus, born of Virgin bright! Immortal glory be to Thee, Praise to the Father infinite, And Holy Ghost, eternally. V. Christ is at hand. R. Come, let us adore Him. Our Father, etc. 5. Jesus, sweetest Child, wounded in the cir- cumcision on the eighth day, called by the glorious Name of Jesus, and by Thy Name and by Thy Blood, to be the Saviour of the world, have mercy on us. Have mercy on us, Child Jesus, have mercy on us. Hail Mary etc. 6. Jesus, sweetest Child, Who wast mani- fested to the three kings, who worshipped Thee as Thou didst lie on Mary’s breast, and offered to Thee the mysterious presents of gold, frank- incense and myrrh, have mercy on us. Have mercy on us, Child Jesus, have mercy on us. Hail Mary, etc. 7. Jesus, sweetest Child, presented in the Temple by the Virgin Mary, embraced by the holy old man Simeon, and revealed to the Jews by Anna the prophetess, have mercy on us. DEVOTIONS TO THE SACRED INFANCY 355 Have mercy on us, Child Jesus, have mercy on us. Hail Mary, etc. 8. Jesus, sweetest Child, Whom Herod sought to slay, carried by St. Joseph with Thy Mother into Egypt, saved from death by flight, and glorified by the blood of the holy mnocents, have mercy on us. Have mercy on us, Child Jesus, have mercy on us. Hail Mary, etc. O Jesus, born of Virgin bright! Immortal glory be to Thee; Praise to the Father infinite, And Holy Ghost, eternally. V. Christ ts at hand. R. Come, let us adore Him. Our Father, etc. 9. Jesus, sweetest Child Who, with Mary most holy and the patriarch St. Joseph, didst dwell in Egypt until the death of Herod, have mercy on us. Have mercy on us, Child Jesus, have mercy on us. Hail Mary, etc. 10. Jesus, sweetest Child, Who didst return with Thy parents from Egypt into the land of Israel, Who didst suffer many toils by the way, and enter the city of Nazareth, have mercy on us. Have mercy on us, Child Jesus, have mercy on us. Hail Mary, etc. 11. Jesus, sweetest Child, Who didst live most holily in the blessed house of Nazareth, subject to Thy parents, spending Thy life in poverty and 356 DEVOTIONS TO THE SACRED INFANCY toil, and growing in wisdom, in age, and im grace, have mercy on us. Have mercy on us, Child Jesus, have mercy on us. Hail Mary, etc. 12. Jesus, sweetest Child, brought to Jerusalem when twelve years old, sought by Thy parents with much sorrow, and after three days found, to | their great joy, among the doctors, have mercy | on us. | Have mercy on us, Child Jesus, have mercy on us. Hail Mary, etc. O Jesus, born of Virgin bright! Immortal glory be to Thee; Praise to the Father infinite, And Holy Ghost, eternally. P. The Word was made flesh. Alleluia. S. And dwelt among us. Alleluia. Let us Pray LMIGHTY and everlasting God, Lord of heaven and earth, Who didst reveal Thy- self to little ones, grant us, we beseech Thee, reverently to honor the holy mysteries of Thy Son, the Child Jesus, and to follow Him humbly in our lives, so that we may come to the eternal kingdom promised by Thee to little ones. Through the same Christ our Lord. Amen. (Ind. of 300 days. — Pius VII. Nov. 23, 1819.) DEVOTIONS TO THE HOLY NAME 357 Devotions to the Holy Mame Devotion to the Holy Name is based on the command. ment of Christ, that we should pray in His Name, and also on the second precept of the Decalogue which obliges us to honor the Name of God. The purposes, therefore, of this devotion are to beget honor and respect for God’s Name, and to prevent and make reparation for improper language. LITANY OF THE HOLY NAME OF JESUS RD, have mercy on us. Christ, have mercy on us. Lord, have mercy on us. Jesus, hear us. Jesus, graciously hear us. God, the Father of heaven, God, the Son, Redeemer of the world, God, the Holy Ghost, Holy Trinity, one God, Jesus, Son of the living God, Jesus, splendor of the Father, Jesus, brightness of eternal Light, Jesus, king of glory, Jesus, sun of justice, Jesus, Son of the Virgin Mary, Jesus, most amiable, Jesus, most admirable, Jesus, the mighty God, Jesus, father of the world to come, Jesus, angel of the great council, Jesus, most powerful, Jesus, most patient, Jesus, most obedient, “sn uo AdLaviL aan 358 DEVOTIONS TO THE HOLY NAME Jesus, meek and humble of heart, Jesus, lover of chastity, Jesus, lover of us, Jesus, God of peace, Jesus, author of life, Jesus, example of virtues, Jesus, zealous lover of souls, Jesus, our God, Jesus, our refuge, Jesus, father of the poor, Jesus, treasure of the faithful, Jesus, good shepherd, Jesus, true light, Jesus, eternal wisdom, Jesus, infinite goodness, Jesus, our way and our life, Jesus, joy of angels, Jesus, king of the Patriarchs, Jesus, master of Apostles, Jesus, teacher of Evangelists, Jesus, strength of Martyrs, Jesus, light of Confessors, Jesus, purity of Virgins, Jesus, crown of all Saints, Be merciful, spare us, O Jesus. Be merciful, hear us, O Jesus. From all evil, From all sin, From Thy wrath, From the snares of the devil, From the spirit of fornication, From everlasting death, From the neglect of Thine inspirations, ‘sn uo AdLaUL aaw bon daayap ‘snsar DEVOTIONS TO THE HOLY NAME 3459 Through the mystery of Thy holy Incarna- tion, Through ‘hy nativity, Through Thine infancy, Through Thy most divine life, Through Thy labors, Through Thine agony and passion, Through Thy cross and dereliction, Through Thy sufferings, Through Thy death and burial, Through Thy resurrection, Through Thy ascension, Through the institution of Thy most holy Eucharist, Through Thy joys, Through Thy glory, *sn daayap ‘snsar Lamb of God, Who takest away the sins of the world, Jesus, spare us. Lamb of God, Who takest away the sins of the world, Jesus, graciously hear us. Lamb of God, Who takest away the sins of the world, Jesus, have mercy on us. Jesus, hear us. Jesus, graciously hear us. Let us Pray LORD Jesus Christ, Who hast said: ‘‘Ask, and ye shall receive; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you”; grant, we beseech Thee, unto us who ask the gift of Thy most divine love, that we may ever love Thee with our whole hearts, words and works, and never cease from Thy praise. 360 DEVOTIONS TO THE HOLY NAME Make us, O Lord, to have a perpetual fear as well as love of Thy holy Name, for Thou never ceasest to govern those whom Thou foundest upon the solidity of Thy love. Who livest and reignest forever and ever. Amen. (Ind. of 300 days, once a day.—LeEo XIII. Jan. 16, 1886.) AN ACT OF REPARATION FOR BLASPHEMIES UTTERED AGAINST THE HOLY NAME JESUS, Son of the living God, our Saviour and Redeemer, behold us prostrate at Thy feet. We beg pardon, and make this act of repa- ration for all the blasphemies uttered against Thy holy Name, for all the outrages committed against Thee in the most holy Sacrament of the altar, for all irreverence:shown to Thy most blessed and immaculate Mother, and for all the calumnies spoken against Thy Spouse, our holy mother, the | Catholic Church. O Jesus, who didst say: “Whatever you shall ask the Father in My | Name, that He will do,” we pray and beseech Thee for our brethren who are living in danger of sin, that Thou wouldst preserve them from the se-_ ductions of apostasy. Save them who stand over the abyss; give them light and knowledge of the © truth, power and strength in the conflict agamst — evil, and perseverance in faith and active charity. And therefore, most merciful Jesus, do we pray to the Father in Thy Name, with Whom Thou livest and reignest in the unity of the Holy Spirit forever and ever. Amen. (Ind. of 300 days, once a day.—Lxo XIII. May 13, 1903.) DEVOTIONS TO THE HOLY NAME 361 INVOCATIONS Jesus and Mary. (Ind. of 300 days, each time. — Pius X. Oct. 10, 1904.) Saviour of the world, have mercy on us. (Ind. of 50 days, once a day. —Lro XIII. Feb. 21, 1891.) , DOXOLOGY LORY be to the Father, and to the Son, and | to the Holy Ghost. As it was in the be- ginning, is now and ever shall be, world without end. Amen. May the holy Name of Jesus be infinitely blessed (five times). Rainn edad Gaal: SRE , : = SQN HAR Pa MANION Z She Z Grow SO; = iE VNAE DEVOTIONS TO THE SACRED HEART OF JESUS The honor and worship now given to the Sacred Heart of Jesus had its origin through the revelations made to St. Margaret Mary in the seventeenth century. The immediate object of the devotion is the Heart of Jesus, the Son of God, and the burning Jove of Christ manifested toward mankind. Its aim is to make our Lord king over our hearts by exciting in them a return of love, by form- ing them to imitate His meekness, and by offering Him reparation for the ingratitude of man. LITANY OF THE SACRED HEART ORD, have mercy on us. Christ, have mercy on us. Lord, have mercy on us. Christ, hear us. Christ, graciously hear us. God, the Father of Heaven, God, the Son, Redeemer of the world, God, the Holy Ghost, Holy Trinity, one God, Heart of Jesus, Son of the Eternal Father, Heart of Jesus, formed by the Holy Ghost in the womb of the Virgin Mother. "sn uo AdsaUL aan FT 364 DEVOTIONS TO THE SACRED HEART Heart of Jesus, substantially united to the Word of God, Heart of Jesus, of infinite majesty, Heart of Jesus, sacred temple of God, Heart of Jesus, tabernacle of the Most High, Heart of Jesus, ease of God and gate of heaven, Heart of Jesus, Hepnd furnace of charity, Heart of Jesus, abode of justice and love, Heart of Jesus, full of goodness and love, Heart of Jesus, abyss of all virtues, Heart of Jesus, most worthy of all praise, Heart of Jesus, king and centre of all hearts, Heart of Jesus, in Whom are all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge, Heart of Jesus, in Whom dwells the fullness of divinity, Heart of Jesus, in Whom the Father was well pleased, Heart of Jesus, of Whose fullness we have all received, Heart of Jesus, desire of the everlasting hills, Heart of Jesus, patient and most merciful, Heart of Jesus, enriching all who invoke Thee, Heart of Jesus, fountain of life and holiness, Heart of Jesus, propitiation for our sins, Heart of Jesus, loaded down with oppro- brium, Heart of Jesus, bruised for our offenses, Heart of Jesus, obedient unto death, Heart of Jesus, pierced with a lance, Heart of Jesus, source of all consolation, “sn UO AdLOUL aan ET DEVOTIONS TO THE SACRED HEART 365 Heart of Jesus, our life and resurrection, Heart of Jesus, our peace and reconciliation, Heart of Jesus, victim for sin, wee! Heart of Jesus, salvation of those who trust in Thee, Heart of Jesus, hope of those who die in Thee, Heart of Jesus, delight of all the saints, "sn Uo Ad1aIU aa yy Lamb of God, Who takest away the sins of the world, spare us, O Lord. Lamb of God, Who takest away the sins of the world, graciously hear us, O Lord. Lamb of God, Who takest away the sins of the world, have mercy on us. V. Jesus, meek and humble of Heart. R. Make our hearts like unto Thine. Let us Pray ALMIGHTY and eternal God, look upon | the Heart of Thy dearly beloved Son, and ‘upon the praise and satisfaction He offers Thee in the name of sinners and for those who seek ‘Thy mercy; be Thou appeased, and grant us pardon in the name of the same Jesus Christ, Thy Son, Who liveth and reigneth with Thee, in the unity of the Holy Ghost forever and ever. Amen. (Ind. of 300 days, once a day.—LeEo XIII. April 2, 1899.) 366 DEVOTIONS TO THE SACRED HEART ACT OF CONSECRATION OST sweet Jesus, Redeemer of the human race, look down upon us humbly prostrate before Thy altar. We are Thine, and Thme we wish to be; but to be more surely united with Thee, behold, each one of us freely consecrates himself today to Thy most Sacred Heart. Many indeed have never known Thee; many too, despising Thy precepts, have rejected Thee. Have mercy on them all, most merciful Jesus, and draw them to Thy Sacred Heart. Be Thou King, O Lord, not only of the faithful who have never forsaken Thee, but also of the prodigal children who have abandoned Thee. Grant that they may quickly return to their Father’s house, lest they die of wretchedness and hunger. Be Thou King of those who are deceived by erron- eous opinions or whom discord keeps aloof, and call them back to the harbor of truth and unity of faith, so that soon there may be but one flock and one Shepherd. Be Thou King of all those who are still involved in the darkness of idolatry or of Islamism, and refuse not to draw them all into the light and Kingdom of God. Turn Thine eyes of mercy toward the children of that race, once Thy chosen people. Of old they called down upon themselves the Blood of the Saviour; may It now descend upon them a Javer of redemption and of life. Grant, O Lord, to Thy Church as- surance of freedom and immunity from harm; give peace and order to all nations, and make the earth resound from pole to pole with one cry: DEVOTIONS TO THE SACRED HEART 367 raise to the Divine Heart that wrought our sal- ‘ation; to It be glory and honor forever. Amen. CONSECRATION OF THE FAMILY ACRED Heart of Jesus, Who didst manifest to St. Margaret Mary the desire of reigning n Christian families, we today wish to proclarm hy most complete regal dominion over our own. e would live in future with Thy life, we would tause to flourish in our midst those virtues to vhich Thou hast promised peace here below, we vould banish far from us the spirit of the world hich Thou hast cursed; and Thou shalt reign yver our hearts by the whole-hearted love which we shall keep alive for Thee by the frequent -eception of Thy divine Eucharist. O divine Heart, deign to preside over our as- semblings, to bless our enterprises, both spiritual and temporal, to dispel our cares, to sanctify our joys, and to alleviate our sufferings. If ever one or the other of us should have the misfortune to afflict Thee, remind him, O Heart of Jesus, that Thou art good and merciful to the penitent sinner. And when the hour of separation strikes, when death shall come to cast mourning into our midst, we will all, both those who go and those who stay, be submissive to Thy eternal decrees. We will console ourselves with the thought that a day will come when the entire family, reunited in heaven, can sing forever Thy glories and Thy mercies. May the immaculate heart of Mary and the 368 DEVOTIONS TO THE SACRED HEART glorious Patriarch St. Joseph, present this con- secration to Thee, and keep it in our minds all the days of our life. All glory to the Heart of Jesus, our King and our Father. (Plenary indulgence on the day of the consecration and every year on the day of renewal. Conditions: Confession; Communion, etc. — Pius X. June 15, 1908.) INDULGENCED EJACULATIONS May the Heart of Jesus be loved everywhere. (Ind. of 100 days, once a day.—Leo XIII. Sept. 7, 1897.) Jesus, meek and humble of Heart, make my heart like unto Thine. (Ind. of 300 days, each time.—Pius X. Sept. 15, 1905.) May the Heart of Jesus in the most Blessed Sacrament be praised, adored, and loved with grateful affection, at every moment, in all the tabernacles of the world, even to the end of time. Amen. (Ind. of 100 days, once a day.—Pius IX. Feb. 29, 1868.) Sweet Heart of my Jesus, make me love Thee ever more and more! (Ind. of 300 days, each time.—Pius IX. Nov, 26, 1876.) Sweet Heart of Jesus be my love. (Ind.of 300 days, once a day.—Leo XIII. May 21, 1892.) Heart of Jesus, burning with love of us, inflame our heart with love of Thee. (Ind.of 100 days, once a day.—Leo XIII. July 16, 1893.) DEVOTIONS TO THE SACRED HEART 369 _ All praise, honor and glory to the Divine Heart of Jesus. (Ind. of 50 days, once a day.—Lro XIII. June 14, 1901.) Sacred Heart of Jesus, I trust in Thee. (Ind. of 300 days, each time.—Pius X. June 27, 1906.) Eucharistic Heart of Jesus, have mercy on us. (Ind. of 300 days, each time. — Prus X. Dec. 26, 1907.) Eucharistic Heart of Jesus, model of the priestly eart, have mercy on us. (Ind. of 300 days, each time. — Pius X. heen. II, 1907.) Sacred Heart of Jesus, Thy kmgdom come! (Ind. of 300 days, each time. — Prus X. May 4, 1906.) Divine Heart of Jesus, convert sinners, save he dying, free the holy souls in Purgatory. (Ind. of 300 days, each time. — Pius X. Nov. 6, 1906.) Heart of Love, I place all my trust in Thee: for though I fear all things from my weakness, I hope all things from Thy mercies. (Ind. of 300 days, each time. — Prus X. June 3, 1908.) AIl for Thee, most Sacred Heart of Jesus. (Ind. of 300 days, each time. — Prus X. Nov. 26, 1908.) Praised be the most Sacred Heart of Jesus in the most holy Sacrament. (Ind. of 100 days, each time. — Prus X. July 11, 1914.) Eucharistic Heart of Jesus, increase in us our faith, hope and charity. (Ind. of 300 days, each time. — BENEDICT XV. April 5, 1917.) pedesmeog. WZ 2-= 7 ~ we =e 3 “ . aa8 LAA ilk iy WF i “/~ 4 ZA} GAN i . eas = > — aN ‘Fodcrunt-manusmeaset +4 yA qt KE Wad Ie j N THE STATIONS OF THE CROSS This holy devotion commemorates the various incidents that occurred during our Lord’s painful journey with His cross from the tribunal of Pilate to the hill of Calvary. It is tradition that the Blessed Virgin daily made a visit to the scenes of Christ’s Passion, and from the earliest times Christians flocked to Jerusalem to visit those holy places. For those who were unable to make such a pilgrimage, but who wished in spirit to accompany it, the custom arose throughout Europe of setting up representa- tions of the different incidents of the Passion, which, since 1731, have been definitely restricted to our present four- teen stations. _ Those who perform devoutly the Stations of the Cross may gain all the Indulgences which have ever been granted by Popes to the faithful who visit in person the sacred places in Jerusalem. All that is required is to meditate, however briefly and according to one’s ability, on the Passion of our Lord, and to go from one station to another. No vocal prayers are necessary, but the following formula of prayers is generally recommended: 372 THE STATIONS OF THE CROSS THE WAY OF THE CROSS Adapted from St. Alphonsus Liguort Before visiting the Stations, let each one kneel before the bigh altar and make an act of contrition and form tbe intention of gaining the indulgences, whether for himself or for the souls in purgatory. ACT OF CONTRITION Y Lord Jesus Christ, Thou hast made this journey to die for me with love unutterable, and I have so many times unworthily abandoned Thee; but now I Jove Thee with my whole heart, and because I Jove Thee I repent sincerely for ever having offended Thee. Pardon me, my God, and permit me to accompany Thee on this jour- ney. ‘Thou dost go to die for love of me; I wish also, my beloved Redeemer, to die for love of Thee. My Jesus, I will live and die always united to Thee. ABAT Mater do- T the cross her sta- Jorosa tion keeping, Juxta crucem lacry- | Stood the mournful mosa, Mother weeping, Dum pendebat Filius | Close to Jesus to the last. THE STATIONS OF THE CROSS 373 FIRST STATION Jesus 1s Condemned to Death V. We adore Thee, O Christ, and we bless Thee. R. Because by Thy holy cross Thou hast re- deemed the world. ONSIDER, my soul, how Jesus, after having been scourged and crowned with thorns, was unjustly condemned by Pilate to die on the cross. My adorable Jesus, It was not Pilate, no, it was my sins that condemned Thee to die. I beseech Thee, by the merits of this sorrowful journey, to assist my soul in its journey toward eternity. I love Thee, my beloved Jesus; I love Thee more than myself; I repent with my whole heart of having offended Thee. Never permit me to separate myself from Thee again. Grant that I may love Thee always; and then do with me what Thou wilt. Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory be to the Father, etc. Cujus animam gemen- | Through her heart, His tem, sorrow sharing, Contristatam, et do-| All His bitter anguish Jentem, bearing, Pertransivit gladius. | Now at length © the sword had passed. 374 THE STATIONS OF THE CROSS: SECOND STATION Jesus is Made to Bear His Cross V. We adore Thee, O Christ, and we bless) Thee. R. Because by Thy holy cross Thou hast re- deemed the world. ONSIDER how Jesus, in making this journey with the cross on His shoulders, thought of us, and offered for us, to His Father, the death that He was about to undergo. My most beloved Jesus, I embrace all the trib- ulations that Thou hast destined for me until death. I beseech Thee, by the merits of the pain Thou didst suffer in carrying Thy cross, to give me the necessary help to carry mine with perfect patience and resignation. I love Thee, Jesus, my love, I repent of having offended Thee. Never permit me to separate myself from Thee again. Grant that I may love Thee always, and then do with me what Thou wilt. Our Father, etc. O quam tristis et afflicta | Oh, how sad and sore distressed, Fuit illa benedicta Was that Mother highly blessed Mater Unigeniti. Of the sole-begotten One! THE STATIONS OF THE CROSS 375 THIRD STATION Jesus Falls the First Time under His Cross V. We adore Thee, O Christ, and we bless Thee. _ R. Because by Thy holy cross Thou hast re- deemed the world. ONSIDER, my soul, this first fall of Jesus | under His cross. His flesh was torn by the scourges, His head crowned with thorns, and He had lost a great quantity of blood. He was so weakened that He could scarcely walk, and yet He had to carry this great load upon His shoul- ders. The soldiers struck Him rudely, and thus He fell several times in His journey. : My beloved Jesus, it is not the weight of the cross, but of my sins, which has made Thee suffer somuch pain. Ah, by the merits of this first fall, deliver me from the misfortune of falling into mortal sin. I love Thee, O my Jesus, with my whole heart; I repent of having offended Thee. Never permit me to offend Thee again. Grant that I may love Thee always; and then do with ‘me what Thou wilt. Our Father, etc. Que meerebat, et dole- | Christ above in torment bat, hangs, Pia Mater, dum vide- | She beneath beholds | bat the pangs Nati poenas inclyti. Of her dying, glorious Son. 376 THE STATIONS OF THE CROSS FOURTH STATION Jesus Meets His Afflicted Mother V. We adore Thee, O Christ, and we bless Thee. R. Because by Thy holy cross Thou hast re- deemed the world. ONSIDER the meeting of the Son and the Mother, which took place on this journey. Jesus and Mary looked at each other, and their looks became as so many arrows to wound those hearts which loved each other so tenderly. My most loving Jesus, by the sorrow Thou didst experience in this meeting, grant me the grace of a truly devoted love for Thy most holy Mother. And thou, my Queen, who wast over- whelmed with sorrow, obtain for me by thy Intercession a continual and tender remembrance of the Passion of thy Son. I love Thee, Jesus, my love; I repent of ever having offended Thee. Never permit me to offend Thee again. Grant that I may love Thee always, and then do with me what Thou wilt. Our Father, etc. Is there one who would Quis est homo qui non fleret, not weep Matrem Christi st vi- | Whelmed in miseries so deret deep Christ’s dear Mother to behold? In tanto supplicio? THE STATIONS OF THE CROSS 377 FIFTH STATION The Cyrenian Helps Jesus to Carry His Cross V. We adore Thee, O Christ, and we bless Thee. R. Because by Thy holy cross Thou hast: re- deemed the world. ONSIDER that the Jews seeing that at each step Jesus, from weakness, was on the point of expiring, and fearing that He would die on the way when they wished Him to die the igno- ‘minious death of the cross, constrained Simon the Cyrenian to carry the cross behind Our Lord. My most sweet Jesus, I will not refuse the cross as the Cyrenian did; I accept it, I embrace it. I accept in particular the death that Thou hast destined for me with all the pains which may ac- company it; I unite it to Thy death, I offer it to Thee. Thou hast died for Jove of me, I will die for Jove of Thee, and to please Thee. Help me by Thy grace. I love Thee, Jesus, my love; I repent of having offended Thee. Never per- mit me to offend Thee again. Grant that I may love Thee always, and then do with me what Thou wilt. Our Father, etc. Quis non posset con- | Can the human heart tristari, refrain Christi Matrem con- | From partaking in her templari pain, Dolentem cum Filio? | In that Mother’s pain untold? 378 THE STATIONS OF THE CROSS SIXTH STATION Veronica Wipes the Face of Jesus V. We adore Thee, O Christ, and we bless Thee. R. Because by Thy holy cross Thou hast re- deemed the world. ONSIDER that the holy woman named Veronica, seeing Jesus so afflicted, and His face bathed in sweat and blood, presented Him with a towel with which He wiped His adorable face, leaving on it the impression of His holy countenance. My most beloved Jesus, Thy face was beautiful before, but in this journey it has lost all its beauty, and wounds and blood have disfigured it. Alas! my soul also was once beautiful, when it received Thy grace in baptism; but I have disfigured it since by my sins. Thou alone, my Redeemer, canst restore it to its former beauty. Do this by Thy Passion, and then do with me what Thou wilt. Our Father, etc. Pro peccatis sue gentis | Bruised, derided, cursed, defiled, Vidit Jesum in tormen- | She beheld her tender tis, Child, Et flagellis subditum. | AII with bloody scourges | TEN: THE STATIONS OF THE CROSS 379 SEVENTH STATION Jesus Falls the Second Time | V. We adore Thee, O Christ, and we bless Thee. _ R. Because by Thy holy cross Thou hast re- deemed the world. ONSIDER the second fall of Jesus under the cross — a fall which renews the pain of all the wounds of the head and members of our afflicted Lord. My most gentle Jesus, how many times Thou hast pardoned me and how many times have I fallen again, and begun again to offend Thee! Oh, by the merits of this new fall, give me the necessary helps to persevere in Thy grace until ‘death. Grant that im all temptations which assail me I may always commend myself to Thee. I love Thee, Jesus, my love, with my whole heart; I repent of having offended Thee. Never permit me to offend Thee again. Grant that I may love Thee always; and then do with me what Thou wilt. Our Father, etc. ‘Vidit suum dulcem | For the sins of His own Natum nation Moriendo desolatum Saw Him hang in deso- lation Dum emisit spiritum. | Till His spirit forth He sent. 380 THE STATIONS OF THE CROSS EIGHTH STATION Jesus Speaks to the Daughters of Jerusalem V. We adore Thee, O Christ, and we bless Thee. R. Because by Thy holy cross Thou hast re- deemed the world. ONSIDER that those women wept with compassion at seeing Jesus in so pitiable a state, streaming with blood, as He walked along. But Jesus said to them, ‘Weep not for Me but for your children.” My Jesus, laden with sorrows, I weep for the offenses that I have committed against Thee, because of the pains which they have deserved, and still more because of the displeasure which they have caused Thee, Who hast loved me so much. It is Thy love, more than the fear of hell, which causes me to weep for my sins. My Jesus, I love Thee more than myself; I repent of having offended Thee. Never permit me to offend Thee again. Grant that I may love Thee always; and then do with me what Thou wilt. Our Father, etc. Eia Mater, fons amoris, | O Thou Mother! fount of love, Me sentire vim doloris | Touch my spirit from above. Fac, ut tecum lu- | Make my heart with geam. thine accord. THE STATIONS OF THE CROSS 381 NINTH STATION Jesus Falls the Third Time V. We adore Thee, O Christ, and we bless Thee. R. Because by Thy holy cross Thou hast re- deemed the world. ONSIDER the third fall of Jesus Christ. His weakness was extreme, and the cruelty of His executioners excessive, who tried to hasten His steps when He had scarcely strength to move. Ah, my outraged Jesus, by the merits of the weakness Thou didst suffer in going to Calvary, give me strength sufficient to conquer ali human respect and all my wicked passions, which have Ied me to despise Thy friendship. I love Thee, Jesus, my love, with my whole heart; I repent of having offended Thee. Never permit me to offend Thee again. Grant that I may love Thee always; and then do with me what Thou wilt. Our Father, etc. Fac ut ardeat cormeum | Make me feel as thou hast felt: In amando Christum | Make my soul to glow Deum, and melt Ut sibi complaceam. | With the love of Christ, my Lord. 382 THE STATIONS OF THE CROSS TENTH STATION Jesus is Stripped of His Garments V. We adore Thee, O Christ, and we bless Thee. R. Because by Thy holy cross Thou has re- deemed the world. ONSIDER the violence with which the execu- tioners stripped Jesus. His inner garments adhered to His torn flesh and they dragged them off so roughly that the skin came with them. Compassionate your Saviour thus cruelly treated, and say to Him: My innocent Jesus, by the merits of the torment that Thou hast felt, help me to strip myself of all affection to things of earth, in order that I may place all my Jove in Thee, Who art so worthy of my love. I love Thee, O Jesus, with my whole heart; I repent of having offended Thee. Never permit me to offend Thee again. Grant that I may love Thee always; and then do with me what Thou wilt. Our Fatber, etc. Sancta Mater, istud | Holy Mother! pierce agas, me through. Crucifixi fige plagas In my heart each wound renew Cordi meo valide. Of my Saviour crucified. THE STATIONS OF THE CROSS 383 ELEVENTH STATION Jesus is Nailed to the Cross | V. We adore Thee, O Christ, and we bless Thee. R. Because by Thy holy cross Thou hast re- deemed the world. ) ONSIDER that Jesus, after being thrown on the cross, extended His hands, and offered to His eternal Father the sacrifice of His life for our salvation. ‘These barbarians fasten Him with nails; and then, raising the cross, leave Him to die with anguish on this infamous gibbet. My Jesus, loaded with contempt, nail my heart to Thy feet, that it may ever remain there to love Thee, and never quit Thee again. I Jove Thee more than myself; I repent of having offended Thee. Never permit me to offend Thee again. Grant that I may love Thee always; and then do with me what Thou wilt. Our Father, etc. Tui Nati vulnerati, Let me share with thee His pain, Tam dignati pro me| Who for all our sins was pati, slain, Poenas mecum divide. | Who for me in torments died H ‘ 384 THE STATIONS OF THE CROSS TWELFTH STATION Jesus Dies on the Cross V. We adore Thee, O Christ, and we bless Thee. R. Because by Thy holy cross Thou hast re- deemed the world. ONSIDER that thy Jesus, after three hours’ agony on the cross, consumed at length with anguish, abandons Himself to the weight of His body, bows His head, and dies. O my dying Jesus, I kiss devoutly the cross on which Thou didst die for love of me. I have merited by my sims to die a miserable death; but Thy death is my hope. Ah, by the merits of Thy death, give me grace to die, embracing Thy feet and burning with love of Thee. I commit my soul into Thy hands. I love Thee with my whole heart; I repent of ever having offended Thee. Permit not that I ever offend Thee again. Grant that I may love Thee always; and then do with me what Thou wilt. Our Father, etc. Fac me tecum pie flere, | Let me mingle tears with thee, Crucifixo condolere, Mourning Him Who mourned for me, Donec ego vixero. All the days that I may live. THE STATIONS OF THE CROSS 385 THIRTEENTH STATION Jesus is Taken Down from the Cross V. We adore Thee, O Christ, and we bless Thee. R. Because by Thy holy cross Thou hast re- deemed the world. ONSIDER that, our Lord having expired, two of His disciples, Joseph and Nicodemus, took Him down from the cross, and placed Him in the arms of His afflicted Mother, who received Him with unutterable tenderness, and pressed Him to her bosom. O Mother of Sorrow, for the love of this Son, accept me for thy servant and pray to Him for me. And Thou, my Redeemer, since Thou hast died for me, permit me to love Thee; for I wish but Thee, and nothing more. I love Thee, my Jesus, and I repent of ever having offended Thee. Never permit me to offend Thee again. Grant that I may love Thee always; and then do_with me what Thou wilt. Our Father, etc. Juxta Crucem tecum | By the cross with thee stare, to stay, Et me tibi sociare There with thee to weep and pray, In planctu desidero. | Is all I ask of thee to give. 386 THE STATIONS OF THE CROSS FOURTEENTH STATION Jesus 1s Placed in the Sepulchre V. We adore Thee, O Christ, and we bless Thee. R. Because by Thy holy cross Thou hast re- deemed the world. ONSIDER that the disciples carried the body of Jesus to bury it, accompanied by His holy Mother, who arranged it in the sepulchre with her own hands. They then closed the tomb and all withdrew. Ah, my buried Jesus, I kiss the stone that en- closes Thee. But Thou didst rise again the third day. I beseech Thee, by Thy resurrection, make me rise glorious with Thee at the last day, to be always united with Thee in heaven, to praise Thee and love Thee forever. I love Thee, and I repent of ever having offended Thee. Permit not that I ever offend Thee again. Grant that I may love Thee; and then do with me what Thou wilt. Our Father, etc. Virgo virginum pre-| Virgin of all virgins clara, best! Mihi jam _ non_ sis | Listen to my fond re- amara; quest: Fac me tecum plan- | Let me share thy grief gere. divine. After this, return to the bigh altar, and say, Our Fatber, Hail Mary, and Glory be to the Father, etc., five times in bonor of the Passion of Jesus Christ, to gain tbe otber indulgences granted to those who recite them. DEVOTIONS TO THE HOLY FACE 387 THE HOLY FACE The purpose of this devotion is (1) to show homage to the adorable face of Jesus, disfigured in His Passion; (2) to make reparation for the disrespect shown Him through the desecration of Sunday; (3) to obtain the conversion of those who profane the Lord’s day. Devotion to the Holy Face originated through our Lord Himself, Who, on the way to Calvary, imprinted the outline of His blood-stained countenance on Veronica’s veil. ACT OF REPARATION TO THE HOLY FACE ADORE and praise Thee, O my divine Jesus, Son of the living God, and I desire to make satisfaction for all the outrages which I, the most miserable of Thy creatures, have offered Thee in all the members of Thy blessed body, and par- ticularly in Thy adorable face. Hail, worship- ful face, disfigured by spittle, and hardly to be recognized through the cruel treatment which Thou didst receive from the impious Jews. I salute Thee, O blessed eyes, all bathed in tears, which Thou didst shed for our salvation. I salute Thee, O blessed ears, assailed by blasphemies, insults, and cruel mockeries. I salute Thee, O blessed mouth, filled with graces and tenderness for poor sinners, but embittered with vinegar and gall by the monstrous ingratitude of that people whom Thou didst choose from among all others. In reparation for all these ignominies | offer Thee all the homage which is given Thee in that holy place where Thou art pleased to be honored with a special worship, uniting myself therewith. 388 DEVOTIONS TO THE HOLY FACE FROM THE PRAYER COMPOSED BY SGUR THERESE JESUS, Who in Thy cruel Passion didst become the “Reproach of men and the Man of Sorrows,” I worship Thy Divine Face. Once It shone with the beauty and sweetness of the Divinity: now for my sake It is become as the face of a “leper.” Yet in that disfigured Coun- tenance I recognize Thy Infinite Love, and J am | consumed with the desire of loving Thee and of making Thee loved by all mankmd. ‘The Tears that streamed in such abundance from Thy Eyes are to me as precious pearls which I delight to gather, that with, their infinite worth I may ran- som the souls of poor sinners. O Jesus, Whose Face is the sole beauty that ravishes my heart, I may not behold here upon earth the sweetness of Thy Glance, nor feel the - ineffable tenderness of Thy Kiss. Thereto I consent, but I pray Thee to imprint in me Thy Divine Likeness, and I implore Thee to so mflame — me with Thy Love, that it may quickly consume me, and that I may soon reach the Vision of — Thy glorious Face in Heaven! Amen. | DEVOTIONS TO THE FIVE WOUNDS 389 The Five Wounds ST. GERTRUDE’S SALUTATION OF THE FIVE WOUNDS OF OUR SAVIOUR AIL, most precious wounds of Jesus, in the omnipotence of the Father, Who decreed you; hail, m the wisdom of the Son, Who en- dured you; hail, im the goodness of the Holy Ghost Who through you accomplished the work of human redemption. To you I commend my- self, into you I plunge myself, that in your shelter I may be secure from the destroyer. Amen. PRAYERS OF ST. CLARE OF ASSISI TO THE FIVE WOUNDS OF OUR SAVIOUR 1. To the Wound in the Right Hand RAISE be to Thee, O Jesus Christ, for the most sacred wound in Thy right hand. By this adorable wound, and by Thy most sacred Passion, pardon me all the sins I have committed against Thee in thought, word, and deed, and all negligence in Thy service, and all sensuality for which I have been to blame whether asleep or awake. Grant that I may be able to recall with devotion Thy most pitiful death and sacred wounds; grant me the grace to mortify my body, and so to offer a pledge of my gratitude to Thee. Who livest and reignest forever and ever. Amen. Our Father, Hail Mary, etc. 390 DEVOTIONS TO THE FIVE WOUNDS 2. To the Wound in the Left Hand RAISE and glory be to Thee, O amiable Jesus Christ, for the most sacred wound in Thy left hand. By this adorable wound, have mercy on me, and deign to root out of my heart everything displeasing to Thee. Give me victory over Thy perverse enemies, so that with Thy grace I may be able to overcome them; and by the merits of Thy most pitiful death save me from all the dangers of my present and future life. And then grant that I may share Thy glory in heaven. Who livest and reignest forever and ever. Amen. Our Father, Hail Mary, etc. 3. To the Wound in the Right Foot RAISE and glory be to Thee, O patient Jesus Christ, for the most sacred wound in Thy right foot; and by that adorable wound grant me grace to do penance for my sins. By Thy most pitiful death I devoutly beg of Thee to keep me, Thy poor servant, united night and day to Thy holy will, and to remove afar off every mis- fortune of body and soul. And when the day of wrath shall come, receive me into Thy mercy, and lead me to eternal happiness. Who livest and reignest forever and ever. Amen. Our Father, Hail Mary, etc. DEVOTIONS TO THE FIVE WOUNDS 391 4. To the Wound in the Left Foot RAISE and glory be to Thee, O adorable Jesus Christ, for the most sacred wound m Thy left foot; and by this adorable wound grant me the grace of a full pardon, that with Thine aid I may deserve to escape the sentence of eternal reprobation. I pray Thee, moreover, by | Thy most holy death, O my loving Redeemer, that I may be able before my death to receive the Sacrament of Thy Body and Blood, after con- fession of my sins, and with perfect repentance and purity of body and mind. Grant that I may merit also to receive the holy anointing for my eternal salvation, O Lord, Who livest and reignest forever and ever. Amen. Our Father, Hail Mary, etc. 5. To the Wound in the Sacred Side RAISE and glory be to Thee, O loving Jesus Christ, for the most sacred wound in Thy side, and by that adorable wound, and by Thy infinite mercy, which Thou didst make known in the opening of Thy breast to the soldier Longi- nus, and so to us all, I pray Thee, O most gentle Jesus, that having redeemed me by baptism from original sin, so now by Thy Precious Blood, which is offered and received throughout: the world, deliver me from all evils, past, present, and to come. And by Thy most bitter death give me a lively faith, a firm hope, and a perfect charity, so that I may love Thee with all my heart, and 392 DEVOTIONS TO THE FIVE WOUNDS all my soul, and all my strength; make me firm and steadfast in good works, and grant me per- severance in Thy service, so that I may be able to please Thee always. Amen. Our Father, Hail Mary, etc. V. We adore Thee, O Christ, and we bless Thee. R. Because by Thy death and Blood Thou hast redeemed the world. Let us Pray LMIGHTY and everlasting God, Who by the five wounds of Thy Son, our Lord Jesus Christ, hast redeemed the human race, grant to Thy suppliants that we who daily venerate those wounds, may, by the shedding of His Precious Blood, be freed from sudden and everlasting death. Through the same Christ our Lord. Amen. (Ind. of 300 days, once a day.—L£o XIII. Nov. 21, 1885.) DEVOTIONS TO THE PRECIOUS BLOOD The Blood of Jesus, like His wounds, is deserving of special honor because of its close relation to the sacred Passion. This devotion may be said to have begun with the Apostles, who speak of the Precious Blood, the price of our Redemption, as synonymous with the Passion and death of the Saviour. In exercising this devout practice, it is most appropriate to offer the Blood of Jesus in expiation for sin, for the conversion of sinners, for the wants of the Church, and for the souls in purgatory. NCLINE unto my aid, O God. R. O Lord, make haste to help me V. Glory be to the Father, etc. R. As it was in the beginning, etc First Mystery HE first time our loving Saviour shed His Precious Blood for us was on the eighth day after His birth, when He was circumcised in order to fulfil the law of Moses. While, then, we reflect that Jesus did this to satisfy the justice of God for our lax ways, let us rouse ourselves to sorrow for them, and promise, with the help of His all- powerful grace, to be henceforth truly chaste in body and in soul. Our Father (five times), and Glory be to the Father, etc. (once). V. We beseech Thee therefore, help Thy servants, whom Thou hast redeemed with Thy Precious Blood. 3904 DEVOTIONS TO THE PRECIOUS BLOOD Second Mystery EXT, m the Garden of Olives, Jesus shed His Blood for us in such quantity that it bathed the earth around. He did this at the sight of the gratitude with which men would meet His Jove. Let us, then, repent sincerely that we have hitherto corresponded so ill with the countless blessings of God, and resolve to make good use of His graces and inspirations. Our Father (five times), and Glory be to the Father, etc. (once). V. We beseech Thee therefore, help Thy servants, whom Thou hast redeemed with Thy Precious Blood. Third Mystery EXT, in His cruel scourging, Jesus shed His Blood when His flesh was so torn that streams of blood flowed from every part of His body, all of which He offered all the time to His eternal Father in payment of our impatience and our softness. How comes it, then, that we do not curb our anger and love of self? Henceforth we will try our best to bear our troubles well, and, despising self, take peacefully the injuries which men may do us. Our Father (five times), and Glory be to the Father, etc. (once). V. We beseech Thee therefore, help Thy servants, whom Thou hast redeemed with Thy Precious Blood. DEVOTIONS TO THE PRECIOUS BLOOD 395 Fourth Mystery GAIN, from the sacred head of Jesus, blood poured down when it was crowned with thorns, in punishment of our pride and evil thoughts. Shall we, then, continue to nourish haughtiness, foster foul imaginations, and feed the wayward will withm us? Henceforth Iet there be ever before our eyes our utter nothing- ness, our misery, and our weakness; and with generous hearts let us resist all the temptations of the devil. Our Father (five times), and Glory be to the Father, etc. (once). V. We beseech Thee therefore, help Thy servants, whom Thou hast redeemed with Thy Precious Blood. Fifth Mystery HAT streams of Precious Blood did not our loving Lord pour forth from His veins when Jaden with the heavy cross on that most grievous journey to Calvary! The very streets and ways of Jerusalem through which He passed were watered with it. This He did in satisfaction for the scandals and bad example by which His own creatures had led others astray. Who can tell how many of us are of this unhappy number? Who knows how many each one, by his own bad example, has brought down to hell? And what have we done to repair this evil? Henceforth Jet us, at least by word and example, do all we can to save souls, making ourselves a pattern 396 DEVOTIONS TO THE PRECIOUS BLOOD of goodness and of a holy life to all. Our Father (five times), and Glory be to the Father, etc. (once). V. We beseech Thee therefore, help Thy servants, whom Thou hast redeemed with Thy Precious Blood. Sixth Mystery ILL more Precious Blood did the Redeemer of mankind shed in His barbarous cruci- fixion, when, His veins and arteries being torn asunder, there rushed forth in a torrent from His hands and feet that saving balm of eternal life, to pay for all the crimes and sins of a lost world. Who, after this, would continue in sin and thus renew the cruel crucifixion of the Son of God? Let us weep bitterly for our bad deeds done, and detest them before the feet of the sacred minister of God; [et us amend our evil ways, and henceforth begin a truly Christian life, with the remembrance ever in our hearts of all the Blood which our salvation cost the Saviour of men. Our Father (five times), and Glory be to the Father, etc. (once). V. We beseech Thee therefore, help Thy servants, whom Thou hast redeemed with Thy Precious Blood. Seventh Mystery AST of all, after His death, when His sacred side was opened by the lance, and His lov- ing Heart was wounded, Jesus shed blood, and with it there came forth water, to show us how DEVOTIONS TO THE PRECIOUS BLOOD 397 His blood was poured out to the last drop for our salvation. Oh, the great goodness of our redeeming Lord! Who will not love Thee, Saviour of my soul? What heart will not con- sume itself away for love of Thee, Who hast done all this for our Redemption? The tongue wants words to praise Thee; so let us invite all creatures upon earth, all angels and all saints in paradise, and most of all our dear mother Mary, to bless, praise, and celebrate Thy most Precious Blood. Glory to the Blood of Jesus! Now and ever throughout all ages. Amen. Our Father (five times), and Glory be to the Father, etc. (once). V. We beseech Thee therefore, help Thy ser- vants, whom Thou hast redeemed with Thy Precious Blood. Prayer OST Precious Blood of life eternal! price and ransom of the world! drink and bath of the soul! ever pleading the cause of men before the throne of mercy; I adore Thee most profoundly; I would, if I were able, make Thee some compen- sation for the outrages and wrongs Thou dost ever suffer from men, and especially from those who dare in their rashness to blaspheme Thee. Who will not bless this Blood of value infinite? Who does not feel himself on fire with the love of Jesus, Who shed it all for us? What should I be but for this Blood which hath redeemed me? 398 DEVOTIONS TO THE PRECIOUS BLOOD And what drew Thee, Precious Blood, from the veins of mv Lord, even to the last drop? It was Iove. O boundless Iove, which gave to us this saving balsam! O balsam beyond all price, streaming forth from the fount of immeasurable love! Give to all hearts, all tongues, power to praise, celebrate, and thank Thee, now and ever, and throughout all eternity. Amen. V. Thou hast redeemed us, O Lord, with Thy Blood. R. And hast made us a kingdom to our God. Let us Pray LMIGHTY and everlasting God, Who hast appointed Thine only-begotten Son the Saviour of the world, and hast willed to be ap- peased by His Blood; grant us, we beseech Thee, so to venerate this Blood, the price of our salva- tion, and so to be defended on earth by its power from the evils of this present life, that in heaven we may be made glad by its everlasting fruit. Who liveth and reigneth forever and ever. Amen. (Ind. of 7 years and 7 quarantines, once a day. — Pius VII. Oct. 18, 1815.) The Holp Hour ‘COULD YOU NOT WATCH ONE HOUR WITH ME?” (MATT. XXVI, 40) The Holy Hour is a pious exercise of mental or vocal prayer in union with the prayer of our Lord in the Garden ‘of Olives on Maundy Thursday night. It was taught to St. Margaret Mary by our Lord Himself, and its purpose is to sweeten in some way our Lord’s abandonment in Gethsemane and to implore God’s mercy for sinners. No special form of prayer is prescribed for the Holy Hour; but if it is performed in private, the time Is re- stricted to an hour between 2 P.M. of every Thursday and about 6 A.M. on Friday. FIRST TWENTY MINUTES Reflection ) Ay SANG left the supper room where He had just instituted the Blessed Eucharist, Jesus went out with the disciples, crossed the brook Cedron and, as was His wont, ascended the Mount of Olives. They entered a garden called Geth- semane. Jesus said to the disciples: ‘Sit you here while I go yonder and pray.” And taking with Him Peter, James, and John, He began to 400 THE HOLY HOUR be fearful and sad. Then He said to the three apostles: ‘‘My soul is sorrowful even unto death. Stay you here and watch with Me.” He then went on a little further, and, falling flat on the ground, prayed: “My Father, if it be possible, let this chalice pass from Me. Nevertheless not as I will, but as Thou wilt.’”’ Then He returned to His disciples and, finding them asleep from sorrow, said to Peter: ‘‘Simon, sleepest thou? Couldst thou not watch one hour with Me? Watch ye and pray that ye enter not into temp- tation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.” A PRAYER FOR HELP (Psalm LIV) This Psalm typifies our Lord in His persecution by the Jews and in His betrayal by Judas. EAR, O God, my prayer, and despise not my supplication. Be attentive to me and hear me. I am grieved in my exercise; and am troubled, because of the voice of the enemy, and the oppression of the sinner. For they have cast iniquities upon me: and in wrath they were hostile unto me. My heart is troubled within me: and the fear of death is fallen upon me. Fear and trembling are come upon me: and darkness hath covered me. And I said: Who will give me wings like a dove, and I will fly and be at rest? THE HOLY HOUR 401 Lo, then would I go far off flying away; and remain in the wilderness. I would hasten my escape to a shelter from the stormy wind and tempest. Cast down, O Lord, and divide their tongues; for I have seen iniquity and violence in the city. Day and night shall iniquity surround it upon its walls: and in the midst thereof are wicked- ness and mischief. Oppression and deceit have not departed from its streets. For if mine enemy had reviled me, I could verily have born with it. And if he that hated me had spoken great things against me, I would perhaps have hidden myself from him. But it is thou, a man of one mind with me, my associate, and my familiar friend, Who didst take sweetmeats together with me: in the house of God we walked in company. Application ESUS in Gethsemane teaches us how to pray. He goes to a secluded spot to pour out His soul to the Father, thus admonishing us that to pray well we must banish from our minds the distractions and vanities of this world. He asks the disciples to watch with Him, from which we Iearn how acceptable it is to God to ask others to join their ntercessions with ours, and to pray for our intentions. He falls flat upon His face, teaching us by His example the humility of spirit 402 THE HOLY HOUR and reverential demeanor of body that should accompany prayer. He prays with earnestness and fervor; His request is made with entire sub- mission to the divine will; He prays not once only, but renews His petition with perseverance. Hymn AN of sorrows, wrapt im grief, Bow Thime ear to our relief. Thou for us the path hast trod Of the dreadful wrath of God; Thou the cup of fire hast drained Till its light alone remained. By the Garden, fraught with woe, Whither Thou full oft wouldst go; By Thine agony of prayer In the desolation there; By the dire and deep distress Of that mystery fathomless: By the chalice brimming o’er With disgrace and torment sore; By those lips which fain would pray That it might but pass away; By the heart which drank it dry Lest a rebel race should die: Man of sorrows! Jet Thy grief Purchase for us our relief; Lord of mercy, bow Thine ear, Slow to anger, swift to hear; By the cross’ royal road Lead us to the throne of God. THE HOLY HOUR 403 Let us Pray DIVINE Master, Who in the Garden didst vouchsafe to instruct us how to pray, grant that we may ever pray in Thy Name and follow- ing Thy instruction and example, may deserve to be heard by the Father. We unite our prayer with that which Thou didst offer when entering upon Thy sacred Passion. We ask that Thou pardon the sorrow we have caused Thee by defects and negligences in prayer, that Thou bless our good resolutions for the future. We commend to Thee also, O Lord, all those who have asked us to pray for them, those whose special intentions we have at heart and all for ‘whom we are accustomed or bound to pray. Supply all their necessities. Comfort and support them im all their trials and afflictions. Deliver them from all temptations. Make them in this world truly to know, love, and serve Thee and to enjov Thee hereafter in Heaven. By Thy holy prayer we implore mercy for all those who through ignorance, frailty or malice outrage Thee. Do Thou, our Mediator with the Father, mtercede for all who do not acknowledge Thee. May the world be delivered from the power of Satan and all nations believe in Thee and adore Thee and be united to Thy holy Church. Amen. 404 THE HOLY HOUR SECOND TWENTY MINUTES Reflection OING a second time apart from the three apostles, Jesus prayed in the same words as before: “My Father, if it be possible, let this | chalice pass from Me. Nevertheless not as I will, but as Thou wilt.” Returning He found the disciples heavy-eyed with sleep, and knowing not how to answer Him. A PRAYER IN TRIBULATION (Psalm XII) The present Psalm prefigures Christ in His agony, | apparently forsaken and forgotten by the eternal Father. — OW lIong, O Lord, wilt Thou forget me for-— ever? how long wilt Thou turn away Thy > face from me? | How long shall I take counsels in my soul, having sorrow in my heart all the day? How long shall mime enemy be exalted over me? Consider, and hear me, O Lord my God. Enlighten my eyes that I never sleep in death: lest at any time mine enemy say: I have prevailed against him. They that trouble me will rejoice when I am moved: But, as for me, I have trusted in Thy loving- kindness. My heart shall rejoice n Thy salvation: I will sing to the Lord, Who giveth me good things: vea, I will sing to the Name of the Lord the most high. THE HOLY HOUR 405 Application ESUS in Gethsemane teaches us how to live. Before entering upon His great conflict with the powers of wickedness, He gives Himself over to long and fervent preparation. We, too, are subject to the assaults of evil; mdeed, we are constantly exposed to the danger of temptation and defeat, for though the spirit be willing, the flesh is weak. See how confidently the apostles protested their loyalty on the road to Gethsemane, declaring their readiness even to die for Christ. A few hours later, however, they abandoned and denied Him. They had not heeded the warning of their Master, nor sought in prayer the light and strength they needed; hence, when their trial came, they were not prepared to meet It. Not more than they, can we trust to our good resolutions, or permit ourselves to slumber in false security. “Watch and pray lest you enter into temptation”’ was addressed to us as well as to the apostles. If we hearken to those words, we must shun the dangerous occasions of sin; we must prepare ourselves against the hour of temptation; we must keep guard over our senses and mortify our passions. It is by thus keeping ourselves on the alert that we shall, with God’s assistance, repel the attacks of the enemy. Hymn ROM high heaven the Mediator, Whom the Prophets sang of yore, Comes to heal our fallen nature. Sion’s daughters! weep no more. 406 THE HOLY HOUR For the ill which Eden wrought us, When our parents went astray, Olivet to life hath brought us Where our Lord doth watch and pray. The Redeemer of His nation, Such the love which filled His breast, Hastens to make expiation For the world by sin oppressed. Now the Father’s anger ceases And the hand up-raised to smite, All those threatening shafts releases, Destined on our souls to light. Thus the snares of hell are broken; Heaven’s gates are open wide, Where eternal joys unspoken Welcome those for whom He died. To the Father praise be given! Praise the Son, Whose Name is greater Than all names beneath the heaven, Praise the Spirit, every creature. Amen. Let us Pray ORD Jesus Christ, Who, upon the eve of Thy Passion didst keep vigil, help us by Thy grace ever to look forward to Thy coming, that we may be found ready when Thou dost call, and, having watched with Thee until death, may, after this life, enter into Thy rest. THE HOLY HOUR 407 We commend to Thee also our parents, rulers, superiors, and all who are placed to watch over us, and who must give an account for our souls. May they so lead and direct us that they may help both themselves and those entrusted to them and may be praised when Thou dost come, Who art the Lord of lords and King of kings. By Thy holy watching we implore mercy for sinners, who watch only to betray their own souls and who give themselves no repose in seeking after the vain pleasures of sense. Do Thou Who slumberest not, help us. Strengthen us against the rebellion of our lower nature, that we may keep the body in subjection to the spirit and make our own wills obey not the will of the flesh but the will of our Father Who is in heaven. Amen. THIRD TWENTY MINUTES Reflection EAVING the disciples, Jesus went a third | time and prayed, saying the self-same words: “My Father, if it be possible, let this chalice pass from Me. Nevertheless not as I will, but as Thou wilt.” And there appeared to Him an angel from heaven strengthening Him. And being in an agony He prayed the longer. And His sweat became as drops of blood trickling down upon the ground. And when He arose up from prayer and was come to His disciples, He said to them: ‘Sleep ye now, and take your rest. It is enough. The hour is come; behold 408 THE HOLY HOUR the Son of man shall be betrayed into the hands of sinners. Behold he that will betray Me is at hand.” A PRAYER IN EXTREME SUFFERING (Psalm LXVIT1) It is Christ Himself, says St. Augustine, Who speaks in this Psalm, which is a portrayal of the utter abandon- ment of our Lord, and of His final rejection by so many sinners. But the conclusion is a song of trrumph over the fruits of the Redemption. AVE me, O God: for the waters are come in even unto my soul. I stick fast in the mire of the deep: and there is no sure standing. I am come into the depth of the sea: and a tempest hath overwhelmed me. I am weary with crying; my jaws are become hoarse: mine eyes have failed, whilst I hope in my God. They are multiplied above the hairs of my head, who hate me without cause. Mine enemies are grown strong who have wrongfully persecuted me: then did I pay that which I took not away. But as for me, my prayer is to Thee, O Lord; for the time of Thy good pleasure, O God. In the multitude of Thy mercy hear me, in the truth of Thy salvation. Draw me out of the mire, that I may not stick fast: deliver me from them that hate me, and out of the deep waters. THE HOLY HOUR 409 Let not the tempest of water drown me, nor the deep swallow me up: and let not the pit shut her mouth upon me. Hear me, O Lord, for Thy mercy is kind; look upon me according to the multitude of Thy tender mercies. And turn not away Thy face from Thy servant: for J am in trouble, hear me speedily. Attend to my soul, and deliver it: save me because of mine enemies. Thou knowest my reproach, and my confusion, and my shame. In Thy sight are all they that afflict me; my heart is broken with reproach and misery. And I looked for one that would grieve to- gether with me, but there was none: and for one that would comfort me, and I found none. Let the poor see and rejoice: seek ye God, and your soul shall live. For the Lord hath heard the poor: and hath not despised His prisoners. Let the heavens and the earth praise Him; the sea, and everything that creepeth therein. For God will save Sion, and the cities of Juda shall be built up. And they shall dwell there, and acquire it by inheritance. And the seed of His servants shall possess it; and they that love His name shall dwell therein. Application oy pba ae and tears enter into the life of all upon earth. Sickness, misfortune, estrange- 410 THE HOLY HOUR ments, bereavements, are the common lot of men. Many there are whose days are consumed with grief. These trials come from a Father Who chastises the children of His love. He wishes to afford them the opportunity of atoning for their misdeeds, to give them occasion of merit, to turn their affections from perishable to lasting goods. But often those who suffer fail to profit by their afflictions. Some, to console themselves, turn to vain consolations or pleasures; others becom- ing disheartened, lose confidence in God or even rebel against His will. How differently acted our 3aviour! His wearmess, desolation, fear and sadness were incomparably greater than any pain of ours. Even the apostles could not drink of His chalice. The sorrows of mankind were upon Him and under the burden He fell in anguish upon the ground, bathed in a sweat of blood. Yet in this supreme agony He turns to heaven for consolation and strength. His sorrow grows, but He prays the longer, asking with a strong cry through His tears. He salutes God by the sweet name ‘“‘My Father,” and three times accepts the bitter chalice pressed to His lips. And in the end, strengthened by an angel, He announces reso- lutely that the hour of man’s Redemption is at hand, and not awaiting the approach of the enemy, goes forth to meet him. From the Man of sorrows the sorrowful can learn that their surest refuge is in prayer; that, though God seems to hold Himself aloof, He is ever our Father and will not deny comfort and assistance to all who invoke Him with confidence and submission. THE HOLY HOUR Hymn EE the Eternal Word descending From the throne of bliss supreme, Love-constrained, His way now wending Adam’s children to redeem. Pitying the world’s disaster, Yearning to repair its fall, Prone upon the earth, our Master Prays for pardon for us all. O what anguish, what affliction Hemmed Him round on every side, Who shall tell His dereliction! While His suppliant accents cried — “O My Father! O My Father! Let this chalice pass away — Yet not My will, Thy will rather Be accomplishéd this day —” ’Neath that load of anguish sinking, Drops of blood stood on His brow — Wondering earth in silence drmking One by one the drops that flow. But an angel swiftly gliding Comes from heaven to His aid; And that form the Godhead hiding Comfort seeks from those He made. 41l 412 THE HOLY HOUR To the Father praise be given — Praise the Son, Whose Name is greater Than all names beneath the heaven, — Praise the Spirit, every creature. Amen. Let us Pray BLESSED Redeemer, Who for our sakes didst endure the agony in Gethsemane, we compassionate Thy grief. Permit us to offer Thee also our Jove in reparation for the sorrow caused Thee by our coldness and ingratitude, and to unite to Thy sorrow in the Garden of Olives our sorrow for having offended Thee. Help us to satisfy for our sins that, sharing in Thy Passion, we may be made partakers also of Thy glory. We commend to Thy pity all who are in trouble and distress, the aged, the sick, the poor and especially those who are in the agony of death. Come to their assistance and send them comfort from on high. May Thy blood, which speaketh better than that of Abel, call down pardon for the many wrongs, injustices and sufferings which Thy children inflict one upon the other. Thou Who didst greet with friendly salutation the traitor Judas and spare the soldiers sent to apprehend Thee, grant that the spirit of the world, the spirit of greed, self-seeking and revenge, may give way in the hearts of all to Thy spirit: the spirit of charity, self-sacrifice, and forgiveness. Amen. [OSa0Sa0500F0 aOe) ‘oF (DES OLS OTS AES GS ODEO FaOaSOLSORSOVSO [et ety eo, oll g 7... or > =yie 2 s y 3 Se —s<— ay ESS oO aie LY a GO} AA 2 a6 Cl. Pig ie Sy oO CUTE MESURE See. ae os TS ad GHORSAOHOHORSSN\ 2S PF Oe atin co hee Ol T-PRO-NOBIS. } Devotions to The Blessed Wirgin THE MOST HOLY ROSARY The Rosary is a form of prayer, at once mental and vocal, in which the fifteen chief mysteries of our faith are contemplated. To recite properly the Rosary the Our Father is said on every large bead and the Hail Mary on every small bead, each decade being terminated with “Glory be to the Father,” ete. Each decade is said in honor of some mystery which is set apart for contem- plation during the recitation of the prayers. MANNER OF SAYING THE ROSARY 1. Hold the cross of the Rosary in the right hand and bless yourself with the cross, saying, “In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Ghost. Amen.” 2. Still holding the cross, say “The Apostles’ Creed.” 3. On the first large bead after the cross, say the Our Father; on the next three small beads, say the Hail Mary; after the third Hail Mary, say “Glory be to the Father,” etc. 4. Then say: “The first part of the Holy Rosary, the five Joyful Mysteries: The first Joyful Mystery; The Annunciation.” 5. While meditating on this mystery say the Our Father on the large bead just before the medal and the Hail Mary on the next ten small beads after the medal; adding after the tenth Hail Mary, “Glory be to the Father,” etc. AI4 THE MOST HOLY ROSARY THE MYSTERIES OF THE ROSARY Week-day Mysteries: The Joyful Mysteries are said on Mondays and Thursdays; the Sorrowful on Tuesdays and Fridays; the Glorious on Wednesdays and Saturdays. This distribution holds in all seasons of the year. Sunday Mysteries: The Joyful Mysteries aie said on all Sundays from the first Sunday in Advent until Lent; the Sorrowful, on the Sundays in Lent; the Glorious, on the Sundays from Easter until Advent. THE FIRST PART OF THE MOST HOLY ROSARY The Five Joyful Mysteries 1. The Annunciation EDITATION: Let us contemplate in this mystery how the angel Gabriel saluted our Blessed Lady with the title “full of grace,” and declared unto her the Incarnation of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. Beg of her to obtain for us the virtue of humility in Imitation of our Lord, who lowered Himself in taking the form of a servant. Our Father (once), Hail Mary (ten times), Glory be to the Father, etc. (once). 2. The Visitation EDITATION: Let us contemplate in this mystery how the Blessed Virgin Mary, understanding from the angel that her cousin St. Elizabeth had concertved, went with haste into the mountains of Judea to visit her, and remained with her three months. Ask through the inter- cession of our Lady the Grace of perfect charity toward our neighbor. Our Father, etc. THE MOST. HOLY ROSARY 415 3. The Nativity EDITATION: Let us contemplate in this mystery how the Blessed Virgin Mary, when the time of her delivery was come, brought forth our Redeemer, Christ Jesus, at midnight, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for Him in the inns at Bethlehem. Ask that we may be detached from all the things of earth in imitation of Him Who was born in a stable for our sakes. Our Father, etc. 4. Tbe Presentation EDITATION: Let us contemplate in this mystery how the most Blessed Virgin Mary, on the day of her purification, presented the Child Jesus in the Temple, where holy Simeon, giving thanks to God with great devotion, recerved Him into his arms. Like Mary, who was submissive to the Jewish law, we should cultivate the virtue of obedience. Our Father, etc. 5. The Finding in the Temple EDITATION: Let us contemplate in this mystery how the Blessed Virgin Mary, hav- ing lost her beloved Son in Jerusalem, sought Him for the space of three days, and at length found Him in the Temple in the midst of the doctors, disputing with them, being then but twelve years old. Ask that we may ever seek Jesus with our whole heart, and that sin may never separate us from Him. Our Father, etc. 416 THE MOST HOLY ROSARY SALVE REGINA AIL, holy Queen, Mother of mercy, 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 valley of tears. Turn, then, most gracious advocate, thine eyes of mercy toward us, and after this our exile, show unto us the blessed fruit of thy womb, Jesus. O clement, O loving, O sweet Virgin Mary. V. Pray for us, O Queen of the most holy Rosary. R. That we may be made worthy of the prom- ises of Christ. Let us Pray GOD, Whose only-begotten Son, by His life, death and Resurrection, has purchased for us the rewards of eternal life, grant, we be- seech Thee, that, meditating on these mysteries in the most holy rosary of the Blessed Virgin Mary, we may imitate what they contain, and obtain what they promise, through the same Christ our Lord. Amen. THE MOST HOLY ROSARY 417 THE SECOND PART OF THE MOST HOLY ROSARY The Five Sorrowful Mysteries 1. The Prayer and Bloody Sweat of our Blessed Saviour in the Garden EDITATION: Let us contemplate in this mystery how our Lord Jesus was so afflicted for us in the Garden of Gethsemane, that His s0dy was bathed in a bloody sweat, which ran tricklmg down in great drops upon the ground. Ask that we may sincerely Iament our sins which caused this great agony. Our Father, etc. 2. The Scourging of Jesus at the Pillar EDITATION: Let us contemplate in this mystery how our Lord Jesus Christ was most cruelly scourged in Pilate’s house for our sins, and let us beg the grace to do penance and mortify our senses and unruly passions. Our Father, etc. 3. The Crowning of Jesus with Thorns EDITATION: Let us contemplate in this mystery how those cruel ministers of Satan crowned our Lord with sharp thorns, and saluted Him in derision as King of the Jews. Let us fly the flatteries and vanities of this world and seek only the approval of God. Our Father, etc. 418 THE MOST HOLY ROSARY 4. Jesus Carries His Cross EDITATION: Let us contemplate in this mystery how our Lord, bemg sentenced to die, bore with great patience the cross which was laid upon Him for His greater torment and| ignominy. In bearing the crosses and trials of life we should remember this mystery, and try; to imitate the wonderful patience which Christ: displayed. Our Father, etc. | } 5. The Crucifixion EDITATION: Let us contemplate im this mystery how our Saviour, being come to) Mount Calvary, was stripped of His clothes, and His hands and feet most cruelly nailed to the cross in the presence of His most afflicted Mother. As He prayed for His executioners, so let us forgive those who mjure and persecute us. Our Father, etc.; Hail, boly Queen, etc. as above. THE MOST HOLY ROSARY 419 ‘HE THIRD PART OF THE MOST HOLY ROSARY The Five Glorious Mysteries 1. The Resurrection EDITATION: Let us contemplate in this mystery how our Lord Jesus Christ, tri- imphing gloriously over death, rose again the hird day, immortal and impassible. May we be ‘ver steadfast in the profession and practice of yur faith, of which this mystery is the foundation. Jur Father, etc. 2. The Ascension EDITATION: Let us contemplate in this mystery how our Lord, forty days after His Resurrection, ascended into heaven, attended by ungels in the sight of His most holy Mother, and His apostles and disciples, to the great admiration of them all. Let us ask an increase of the virtue of hope and an ardent longing for heaven, our true home. Our Father, etc. 3. The Descent of the Holy Ghost EDITATION: Let us contemplate in this mystery how our Lord, being seated on the right hand of God, sent, as He had promised, the Holy Ghost upon His apostles, who, after He ascended, returning to Jerusalem, continued in prayer and supplication with the blessed Virgin Mary, expecting the fulfillment of His promise. May the Holy Ghost enkindle in our souls the fire of divine charity. Our Father, etc. 420 THE MOST HOLY ROSARY 4. The Assumption | EDITATION: Let us contemplate in this mystery how the glorious Virgin, some years after the Resurrection of her Son, passed out ol this world unto Him, and was by Him assumec into heaven, accompanied by the holy angels, Let us every day beg our blessed Lady to obtain for us the grace of a happy death. Our Father, etc, 5. The Crowning of the Blessed Virgin EDITATION: Let us contemplate in this mystery how the glorious Virgin Mary, with great jubilee and exultation of the whole court of heaven, was crowned by her Son witk the brightest diadem of glory. May we be always found faithful in our devotedness to the Queen o} the most holy Rosary. Our Father, etc.: Hail boly Queen, etc. | Among the many indulgences attached to this devotior is that of 5 years and 5 quarantines each time five decade: are said. For this the use of a blessed rosary is not required. Neither is it necessary that the five decade: be said at one time; it is sufficient that they be finishec within the same day. Numerous other indulgences may be gained by those who use blessed rosaries, or who belong to the Rosary Confraternity. The meditation on the different mysteries may precede accompany or follow the vocal prayers; but it should be closely connected with them, THE LITANY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN 421 The Litany of the Blessed Virgin ORD, have mercy on us. Christ, have mercy on us. Lord, have mercy on us. Christ, hear us. Christ, graciously hear us. God, the Father of heaven, have mercy on us. God, the Son, Redeemer of the world, have mercy on us. God, the Holy Ghost, have mercy on us. Holy Trinity, one God, have mercy on us. Holy Mary, Holy Mother of God, Holy Virgin of virgins, Mother of Christ, Mother of divine grace, -Mother most pure, Mother most chaste, Mother inviolate, Mother undefiled, Mother most amiable, Mother most admirable, Mother of good counsel, Mother of our Creator, Mother of our Saviour, Virgin most prudent, Virgin most venerable, "sn sof Avoid 422 THE LITANY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN Virgin most renowned, Virgin most powerful, Virgin most merciful, Virgin most faithful, Mrror of justice, Seat of wisdom, Cause of our joy, Spiritual vessel, Vessel of honor, Vessel of singular devotion, Mystical rose, Tower of David, Tower of ivory, House of gold, Ark of the covenant, Gate of heaven, Morning star, Health of the weak, Refuge of sinners, Comforter of the afflicted, Help of Christians, Queen of angels, Queen of patriarchs, Queen of prophets, Queen of apostles, Queen of martyrs, Queen of confessors, Queen of virgins, Queen of all saints, Queen conceived without original sin, Queen assumed into heaven, Queen of the most holy Rosary, Queen of peace, “sn 4of Apig THE LITANY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN 423 Lamb of God, Who takest away the sins of the world, spare us, O Lord. Lamb of God, Who takest away the sins of the world, graciously hear us, O Lord. Lamb of God, Who takest away the sins of the world, have mercy on us. V. Pray for us, O holy Mother of God. R. That we may be made worthy of the prom- ises of Christ. Let us Pray OUR 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 His resurrec- tion. Through the same Christ our Lord. Amen. (Ind. of 300 days, each time.—Prus VII. Sept. 30, 1817.) 424 PRAYERS TO THE BLESSED VIRGIN Liturgical Prayers to the Blessed Wirgin ALMA REDEMPTORIS OTHER of Christ! hear thou thy people’s cry, Star of the deep, and Portal of the sky! Mother of Him who thee from nothing made, Sinking we strive, and call to thee for aid: Oh, by that joy which Gabriel brought to thee, Thou Virgin first and last, let us thy mercy see. AVE, REGINA AIL! O Queen of heav’n enthron’d! Hail! by angels mistress own’d! Root of Jesse, Gate of morn, Whence the world’s true Light was born. Glorious Virgin! joy to thee, Loveliest whom in heaven they see. Fairest thou where all are fair! Plead with Christ our sins to spare. AVE, MARIS STELLA TNAIL, thou star of ocean Portal of the sky! Ever Virgin Mother Of the Lord most high! Oh! by Gabriel’s Ave, Uttered long ago, Eva’s name reversing, Establish peace below. PRAYERS TO THE BLESSED VIRGIN 425 Break the captives’ fetters, Light on blindness pour; All our ills expelling, Every bliss implore. Show thyself a Mother; Offer Him our sighs, Who for us incarnate Did not thee despise. Virgin of all virgins! To thy shelter take us; Gentlest of the gentle! Chaste and gentle make us. Still, as on we journey, Help our weak endeavor, Till with thee and Jesus We rejoice forever. Through the highest heaven, To the almighty Three, Father, Son, and Spirit, One same glory be. Amen. (Ind. of 300 days, once a day.—Leo XIII. Nov. 27, 1887.) ANTIPHONS 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. 426 PRAYERS TO THE BLESSED VIRGIN 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, retgneth above the skies; that so, of His loving kindness, our sins may be cleansed away. 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. 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. OLY Mary, be thou a help to the helpless, a strength to the fearful, a comfort to the sorrowful; pray for the people, plead for the clergy, make intercession for all women vowed to God; may all feel thine assistance who keep thy holy remembrance. DAILY PRAYERS TO THE BLESSED VIRGIN 427 Daily Prayers to the Blessed Virgin PRAYER OF ST. ALPHONSUS TO BE SAID BEFORE A PICTURE OR STATUE OF OUR BLESSED LADY mest holy and immaculate Virgin! O my | Mother! thou who art the Mother of my Lord, the Queen of the world, the advocate, hope, _and refuge of sinners! I, the most wretched among them, now come to thee. I honor thee, great Queen, and give thee thanks for the many favors thou hast bestowed on me in the past; most of all do I thank thee for having saved me by thy help from hell, which I had so often deserved. I love thee, Lady most worthy of all love, and, by the love which I bear thee, I promise ever in the future to honor thee, and to do what in me lies to win others to thy love. In thy inter- cession I put all my trust, all my hope of salva- tion. Receive me as thy servant, and cover me with the mantle of thy protection, thou who art the Mother of mercy! And since thou hast so much power with God, implore Him to deliver me from all temptations, and obtain for me the grace ever to overcome them. From thee I ask a true love of Jesus Christ, and the grace of a happy death. O my Mother! by thy love for God I beseech thee to be at all times my helper, but above all at the last moment of my life. Cease not thy supplications until thou seest me safe in heaven, there for endless ages to bless thee and sing thy praises. This is my hope. Amen. (Ind. of 300 days, each time. — Pius IX. Sept.7, 1854.) 428 DAILY PRAYERS TO THE BLESSED VIRGIN PRAYER OF ST. ALOYSIUS GONZAGA OST holy Mary, my Lady, to thy faithful care and special keeping and to the bosom of thy mercy, today and every day, and particularly at the hour of my death, I commend my soul and my body; all my hope and consolation, all my trials and miseries, my life and the end of my life I commit to thee, that through thy most holy intercession and by thy merits all my actions may be directed and ordered according to thy will and that of thy divine Son. Amen. (Ind. of 200 days, once a day.—LeEo XIII. Mar. 15, 1890.) SALVE REGINA In the Morning AIL, holy Queen, Mother of mercy, 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 valley of tears. Turn, then, most gracious advo- cate, thine eyes of mercy toward us, and after this our exile, show 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. R. Give me strength against thine enemies. V. Blessed be God in His saints. R. Amen. DAILY PRAYERS TO THE BLESSED VIRGIN 429 SUB TUUM PRAESIDIUM In the Evening E fly to thy patronage, O holy Mother of God! despise not our petitions in our necessities, but deliver us from all dangers, O ever glorious and blessed Virgin. V. Make me worthy to praise thee, holy Virgin. | R. Give me strength against thine enemies. V. Blessed be God in His saints. _ R. Amen. (Ind. of 100 days, once a day. — Pius VI. April 5, 1786.) THREE OFFERINGS IN HONOR OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN Vf OLIEST VIRGIN, with all my heart I honor thee above all the angels and saints in Paradise as the daughter of the eternal Father, and to thee I consecrate my soul and all its powers. Hail Mary, etc. 2 OLIEST VIRGIN, with all my heart I honor thee above all the angels and saints in Para- dise as the Mother of the only-begotten Son, and to thee I consecrate my body with all its powers. Hail Mary, etc. 430 DAILY PRAYERS TO THE BLESSED VIRGIN ZF OLIEST VIRGIN, with all my heart I honor thee above all the angels and saints in Para- dise as the spouse of the Holy Ghost, and to thee I consecrate my heart and all its affections, pray- ing thee to obtain for me from the ever Blessed Trinity, all the graces which I need for my salva- tion. Hail Mary, etc. (Ind. of 300 days, each time. — Prus IX. June 18, 1876.) ACTS OF CONSECRATION TO THE BLESSED VIRGIN For Members of the Sodality of the Blessed Virgin Mary By St. Jobn Berchmans OLY Mary, Mother of God and Virgin, I choose thee this day for my queen, patron, and advocate, and firmly resolve and purpose never to abandon thee, never to say or do any- thing against thee, nor to permit that aught be done by others to dishonor thee. Recetve me, then, I conjure thee, as thy perpetual servant; assist me in all my actions, and do not abandon me at the hour of my death. Amen. (Ind. of 300 days, for each recitation. — Pius X. Nov. 17, 1906.) DAILY PRAYERS TO THE BLESSED VIRGIN 431 By St. Francis de Sales OST Holy Mary, virgin Mother of God, I (full name), most unworthy though I am to be thy servant, yet encouraged by thy motherly care for me and longing to serve thee, do, in the presence of my guardian angel and all the court of heaven, choose thee this day to be my queen, my advocate, and my mother, and I firmly pur- pose to serve thee evermore myself and to do what I can that all may render faithful service to thee. Therefore, most devoted Mother, through the Precious Blood thy Son poured out for me, I beg thee and beseech thee, deign to take me among thy clients and receive me as thy servant forever. Aid me in my every action, and beg for me the grace never, by word or deed or thought, to be displeasing in thy sight and that of thy most holy Son. Think of me, my dearest Mother, and desert me not at the hour of death. Amen. (Ind. of 300 days, for each recitation. — Pius X. Nov. 17, 1906.) Particular Devotions to the Blessed Virgin EXERCISES IN HONOR OF THE SEVEN DOLORS ID me bear, O Mother blesséd! On my heart the wounds impresséd, Suffered by the Crucified. (Ind. of 300 days, once a day, to those who, with con- trite heart, shall say the Hail Mary seven times, and, after each Hail Mary, the stanza, as above. —- Pius VII. Dec. 1, 1815.) EJACULATIONS MARY, sorrowful Virgin and Mother of all Christians, pray for us. (Ind. of 300 days. — Pius X. June 27, 1906.) Mother of Jove, Mother of sorrows and of mercy pray for us. (Ind. of 300 days, each time. — Pius X. May 30, 1908.) DEVOTIONS TO THE BLESSED VIRGIN 433 _ PRAYER TO OUR LADY OF MT. CARMEL, OR OF THE SCAPULAR ALL-BLESSED, immaculate Virgin, orna- ment and glory of Mount Carmel, thou ‘ho dost look with most gracious countenance on yose who have been clothed with thy venerable very, look kindly also on me and take me under 4e mantle of thy maternal protection. Strengthen ry weakness with thy might; enlighten the dark- ess of my heart with thy wisdom; increase in me 1ith, hope, and charity. So adorn my soul with races and virtues that it may be always dear to y divine Son and thee. Assist me during life, omfort me in death with thy most sweet presence, md present me as thy child and faithful servant o the most Holy Trinity, that I may be enabled o praise and extol thee in heaven forever. Amen. Jail Mary (three times), Glory be to the Father, etc. once). (Ind. of 200 days, once a day.—Leo XIII. Jan. 16, 1886.) PRAYER TO OUR LADY, HELP OF CHRISTIANS ine holy and immaculate Virgin Mary, our most tender Mother and powerful help of Christians, we dedicate ourselves entirely to thy nost sweet Jove and holy service. We consecrate © thee our minds with all their thoughts, our iearts with all their affections, our bodies with 434 DEVOTIONS TO THE BLESSED VIRGIN all their senses and powers, and we promise to desire always to work for the greater glory of God and for the salvation of souls. Meanwhile do thou, O incomparable Virgin, who hast always been the help of the Christian people, continue to show thyself such, especially in these days. Humble the enemies of our holy religion, and frustrate their evil purposes. Enlighten and strengthen bishops and priests, and keep them ever united in obedience to the Pope, their in- fallible master. Preserve incautious youth from irreligion and vice. Promote holy vocations and increase the number of God’s ministers, that by | means of them the kingdom of Jesus Christ may be preserved among us, and extended to the farthest boundaries of the earth. We pray thee also, most sweet Mother, to look at all times with compassion upon the young and thoughtless, exposed to so many dangers, and upon poor sinners and the dying; be for all a sweet hope, O Mary, Mother of mercy and gate of heaven. Also we pray thee for ourselves, O great Mother of God. Teach us to copy thy virtues and es- pecially angelic modesty, profound humility, and ardent charity; so that by word and example we may, as far as is possible in our state of life, present in the midst of the world a living image of blessed Jesus thy Son, and may cause thee to be known and Joved, and so may succeed in sav- ing many souls. Obtain for us, O Mary our helper, that we may be all gathered under thy maternal mantle, that DEVOTIONS TO THE BLESSED VIRGIN 435 in temptation we may invoke thee promptly and confidently; in short, that the thought of thee, so good, so loving, and so dear, and the remem- brance of the love which thou bearest to thy clients, may be such a support to us, as to render us victorious over the enemies of our souls in life and in death, so that we may become thy crown in beautiful paradise. Amen. (Ind. of 300 days, each time.—Leo XIII. Marcb 10, 1900.) EJACULATION TO OUR LADY OF PERPETUAL HELP Mother of perpetual help, pray for us. (Ind. of 100 days, each time. — Pius X. Jan. 29, 1914.) PRAYER TO OUR LADY OF GOOD COUNSEL OST glorious Virgin, selected by the eternal councils as Mother of the eternal Word made man, treasury of divine grace and advocate of sinners, I, the most unworthy of thy servants, have recourse to thee, that thou mayest be my guide and counsellor in this valley of tears; obtain for me, by the mast Precious Blood of thy divine Son, the pardon of my sins, the salva- tion of my soul, and the means necessary to secure it. Obtain the triumph of the holy Church over her enemies, and the propagation of the reign of Jesus Christ all over the world. Amen. (Ind. of 100 days, once a day.—LEo XIII. Nov. 23, 1880.) 436 DEVOTIONS TO THE BLESSED VIRGIN PRAYER TO OUR LADY OF VICTORY VICTORIOUS Lady! thou who hast evel such powerful influence with thy divine Sor in conquering the hardest of hearts, intercede for those for whom we pray, that their hearts being softened by the rays of divine grace,:they may return to the unity of the true faith, through Christ, our Lord. Amen. Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory be to the Father, etc. INDULGENCED EJACULATIONS TO THE | BLESSED VIRGIN 1. Mary. (Ind. of 25 days, vach time. — CLEMENT XIII. Sept. 5, 1759.) 2. Mary, Virgin Mother of God, pray to Jesus for me. | (Ind. of 50 days, once a day.—Leo XIII. March29, 1894.) 3. Mary our hope, have pity on us. (Ind. of 300 days, each time. — Pius X. Jan. 8, 1906.) 4. Holy Mary, deliver us from the pains of hell. (Ind. of 100 days, each time. — Prus X. Jan. 22, 1914.) 5. My Mother, my trust. (Ind. of 300 days, each time. — BENEpict XV. Sept. 6, 1915.) 6. Our Lady of the most Holy Sacrament, pray for us. (Ind. of 300 days, each time, before the Blessed Sacra- ment exposed. — Pius X. Jan. 10, 1906.) Devotions ta St. Foseph LITANY OF ST. JOSEPH ORD, have mercy on us. Christ, have mercy on us. Lord, have mercy on us. Christ, hear us. Christ, graciously hear us. God, the Father of heaven, have mercy on us. God, the Son, Redeemer of the world, have mercy on us. God, the Holy Ghost, have mercy on us. Holy Trinity, one God, have mercy on us. Holy Mary, Holy Joseph, Noble scion of David, Light of the patriarchs, Spouse of the Mother of God, Chaste guardian of the Virgin, Foster-father of the Son of God, Sedulous defender of Christ, Head of the Holy Family, Joseph most just, Joseph most chaste, Joseph most prudent, ‘sn s0f Avid — 438 DEVOTIONS IN HONOR OF ST. JOSEPH Joseph most valiant, Joseph most obedient, Joseph most faithful, Miurror of patience, Lover of poverty, Model of workers, Ornament of domestic life, Protector of virgins, Pillar of families, Consolation of the afflicted, Hope of the sick, Patron of the dying, Terror of the demons, Protector of holy Church, Lamb of God, Who takest away the sins world, spare us, O Lord! Lamb of God, Who takest away the sins of the | world, graciously hear us, O Lord! ‘sn 10f Adig of the Lamb of God, Who takest away the sins of the world, have mercy on us. V. He made him master of his house. R. And ruler of all his possessions. Let us Pray ee ee ee GOD, Who in Thy ineffable providence didst _ vouchsafe to choose blessed Joseph to be the — spouse of Thy most holy Mother; grant, we beseech Thee, that we may have him whom we venerate as our protector on earth, as our inter- cessor in heaven. Who livest and reignest for- ever and ever. Amen. (Ind. of 300 days, applicable to the souls in Purgatory. — Prius X. March 18, 1909.) DEVOTIONS IN HONOR OF ST. JOSEPH 439 EVOUT EXERCISE IN HONOR OF THE SEVEN SORROWS AND SEVEN JOYS OF ST. JOSEPH I URE Spouse of most holy Mary, glorious “St. Joseph, the trouble and anguish of thy eart were great when, being in sore perplexity, hou wast minded to put away thy stainless pouse; yet was thy joy inexpressible when the rchangel revealed to thee the sublime mystery f the Incarnation. By this thy sorrow and thy joy, we pray thee omfort our souls now and in their Jast pains vith the consolation of a well spent life, and a ioly death, like unto thine own, with Jesus and Mary at our side. Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory ie to the Fatber, etc. 2 OST blessed Patriarch, glorious St. Joseph, chosen to the office of father of the Word nade man, the pain was keen that thou didst feel when thou didst see the infant Jesus born in abject poverty; but thy pain was changed into heavenly joy when thou didst hear the harmony of angel choirs, and behold the glory of that night. By this thy sorrow and thy joy, we pray thee, obtain for us that, when the journey of our life is ended, we too may pass to that blessed land where we shall hear the angel-chants, and rejoice in the bright light of heavenly glory. Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory be to the Father, etc. 440 DEVOTIONS IN HONOR OF ST. JOSEPH a. THOU who wast ever most obedient 1 executing the law of God, glorious St. Joseph thy heart was pierced with pain when the Preciou Blood of the infant Saviour was shed at His cir cumcision; but with the Name of Jesus new lif and heavenly joy returned to thee. By this thy sorrow and thy joy, obtain for us that, being freed, while we still live, from every vice, we too may cheerfully die with the sweet Name of Jesus in our hearts and on our lips. Ow Father, Hail Mary, Glory be to the Father, etc. 4. (pest faithful Saint, glorious St. Joseph, whi wast admitted to take part in the redemp tion of man; the prophecy of Simeon foretellin; the sufferings of Jesus and Mary caused thee . pang like that of death but, at the same time, b this prediction of the salvation and gloriou resurrection of innumerable souls, filled thee wit great joy. By this thy sorrow and thy joy, help us wit thy prayers to be of the number of those wh« by the merits of Jesus and the intercession « His Virgin Mother, shall be partakers of tk resurrection to glory. Our Father, Hail Mar Glory be to the Father, etc. DEVOTIONS IN HONOR OF ST. JOSEPH 44I 5. OST watchful Guardian, glorious St. Joseph, who wast so intimately familiar with the mearnate Son of God, greatly thou didst toil to urture and to serve the Son of the Most High, specially in the flight thou madest with Him mto Egypt; greatly also didst thou rejoice to ave God Himself always with thee, and to see the overthrow of the idols of Egypt. By this thy sorrow and thy joy, obtam for us grace to keep far out of the reach of the enemy of our souls, by quitting all dangerous occasions, that so no idol of earthly affection may any longer occupy a place in our hearts, but that, being entirely devoted to the service of Jesus and Mary, we may live and die for them alone. Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory be to the Father, etc. 6 NGEL on earth, glorious St. Joseph, who | didst so wonder to see the King of heaven obedient to thy bidding, the consolation thou hadst at His return from Egypt was disturbed by the fear of Archelaus, but nevertheless, being reassured by the angel, thou didst go back and dwell happily at Nazareth, in the company of Jesus and Mary. By this thy sorrow and thy joy, obtain for us that, having our heart freed from idle fears, we may enjoy the peace of a tranquil conscience, dwelling safely with Jesus and Mary and dying at last in their arms. Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory be to the Father, etc. 442 DEVOTIONS IN HONOR OF ST. JOSEPH 7: XAMPLE of holy living, glorious St. Joseph, when through no fault of thine, thou didst lose Jesus, the holy Child, thou didst search for Him with great sorrow for three days, until with joy unspeakable thou didst find Him, who was thy life, amidst the doctors in the Temple. By this thy sorrow and thy joy, we pray thee with our whole hearts so to interpose always in our behalf, that we may never lose Jesus by mortal sin, and if we are at any time so wretched as to lose Him, lead us back with unwearied sorrow until we find Him, particularly in the hour of our death, that we may pass from this life to enjoy Him forever in heaven, there to sing with thee His divine mercies forever and ever. Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory be to the Father, etc. Ant. Jesus Himself was about thirty years old, being, as was supposed, the son of Joseph. V. Pray for us, holy Joseph. R. That we may be made worthy of the prom- ises of Christ. Let us Pray GOD, Who in Thy ineffable providence didst vouchsafe to choose blessed Joseph to be the spouse of Thy most holy Mother; grant, we beseech Thee, that we may have him whom we venerate as our protector on earth, as our inter- cessor in heaven. Who livest and reignest for- ever and ever. Amen. (Ind. of 100 days, once a day; 300 days on every Wednesday. — Prus IX. March 22, 1847.) DEVOTIONS IN HONOR OF ST. JOSEPH 443 PRAYER TO ST. JOSEPH, PATRON OF THE UNIVERSAL CHURCH QO GLORIOUS St. Joseph, selected by God to be the foster-father of Jesus, the most pure spouse of Mary, ever Virgin, and head of the Holy Family; therefore chosen by Christ’s vicar as the heavenly patron and protector of the Church founded by Christ; with the greatest confidence I now implore thy powerful assistance for the whole Church militant. Protect in an especial manner, with thy truly fatherly love, the Sover- eign Pontiff and all bishops and priests united with the See of Peter. Be the protector of those who labor for souls amid the trials and tribula- tions of this life, and grant that all the people of the earth may submit with docility to that Church which is the necessary means of salvation for all. Deign also, dear St. Joseph, to accept the con- secration which I make of myself to thee. I dedicate myself to thy service, that thou mayest be ever my father, my protector and my guide in the way of salvation. Obtain for me great purity of heart and a fervent love for the interior life. Grant that, after thy example, all my actions may be directed to the greater glory of God in union with the divine Heart of Jesus, the im- maculate heart of Mary, and thy own. Finally, pray for me, that I may participate in the peace and joy which thou didst enjoy in thy holy death. Amen. (Ind. of 300 days, once a day.—Leo XIII. July 18, 1886.) 444 DEVOTIONS IN HONOR OF ST. JOSEPH INDULGENCED EJACULATIONS IN HONOR OF ST. JOSEPH RANT, O holy Joseph, that, ever secure under thy protection, we may pass our lives with- out sin. (Ind. of 300 days, once a day.-~- Leo XIII. March 18, 1882.) St. Joseph, foster-father of our Lord Jesus Christ, and true spouse of Mary ever Virgin, pray for us. (Ind. of 300 days, onceaday,—Leo XIII. May 15, 1891.) St. Joseph, model and patron of those who love the Sacred Heart of Jesus, pray for us, (Ind. of 100 days, once a day.—Leo XIII. Dec. 19, 1891.) oe), LAMEN jae gg EAMEN- STS pp Lor OAR ego: CS ZZ ao ars ) {BGS Gy: fi \: 7 y A216 pet UE ARs cly 3-5 Carib NA ROSA SSTEIHANVS-o1 Devotions in Honor of the Saints THE LITANY OF THE SAINTS ORD, have mercy on us. Christ, have mercy on us. Lord, have mercy on us. Christ, hear us. Christ, graciously hear us. God, the Father of heaven, God, the Son, Redeemer of the world, God, the Holy Ghost, Holy Trinity, one God, "sn uo ADLOU avy Holy Mary, Holy Mother of God, Holy Virgin of virgins, St. Michael, St. Gabriel, St. Raphael, All ye holy Angels and Archangels, ‘sn tof vig — 440 DEVOTIONS IN HONOR OF THE SAINTS All ye holy orders of blessed Spirits St. John the Baptist, St. Joseph, All ye holy Patriarchs and Prophets, St. Peter, St. Paul, St. Andrew, St. James, St. John, St. Thomas, St. James, St. Philip, St. Bartholomew, St. Matthew, St. Simon, St. Thaddeus, St. Matthias, St. Barnabas, St. Luke, St. Mark, All ye holy Apostles and Evangelists, All ye holy Disciples of the Lord, All ye holy Innocents, St. Stephen, St. Lawrence, St. Vincent, SS. Fabian and Sebastian, SS. John and Paul, “sn 4of Avid DEVOTIONS IN HONOR OF THE SAINTS S. Cosmas and Damian, SS. Gervase and Protase, All ye holy Martyrs, St. Sylvester, St. Gregory, St. Ambrose, St. Augustine, St. Jerome, St. Martin, St. Nicholas, All ye holy Bishops and Confessors, All ye holy Doctors, | St. Anthony, St. Benedict, St. Bernard, St. Dominic, St. Francis, All ye holy Priests and Levites, All ye holy Monks and Hermits, St. Mary Magdalen, St. Agatha, St. Lucy, St. Agnes, St. Cecilia, St. Catherine, St. Anastasia, All ye holy Virgins and Widows, 447 ‘sn sof Avig 448 DEVOTIONS IN HONOR OF THE SAINTS All ye holy men and women, Saints of God, Make intercession for us. Be merciful, Spare us, O Lord. Be merciful, Graciously hear us, O Lord. From all evil, From all sin, From Thy wrath, From sudden and unprovided death, From the snares of the devil, From anger, and hatred, and all iI-will, From the spirit of fornication, From the scourge of earthquake, From plague, famine and war, From lightning and tempest, From everlasting death, Through the mystery of Thy holy Incarna- tion, Through Thy coming, Through Thy birth, Through Thy baptism and holy fasting, Through the institution of the most Blessed Sacrament, Through Thy cross and passion, Through Thy death and burial, Through Thy holy resurrection, Through Thine admirable ascension, Through the coming of the Holy Ghost the Paraclete, In the day of judgment, “sn 4aa1jap “‘pLoT_ O DEVOTIONS IN HONOR OF THE SAINTS 449 We sinners That Thou wouldst spare us, That Thou wouldst pardon us, “hat Thou wouldst bring us to true penance, That Thou wouldst vouchsafe to govern and preserve Thy holy Church, That Thou wouldst vouchsafe to preserve our Apostolic Prelate and all orders of the Church in holy religion, That Thou wouldst vouchsafe to humble the enemies of holy Church, That Thou wouldst vouchsafe to give peace and true concord to Christian kings and princes, That Thou wouldst vouchsafe to grant peace and unity to the whole Christian world, That Thou wouldst vouchsafe to bring back to the unity of the Church all those who have strayed away, and lead to the light of the Gospel all unbelievers, That Thou wouldst vouchsafe to confirm and preserve us in Thy holy service, That Thou wouldst lift up our minds to heavenly desires, That Thou wouldst render eternal blessings to all our benefactors, That Thou wouldst deliver our souls, and the souls of our brethren, relatives, and benefactors from eternal damnation, That Thou wouldst vouchsafe to give and preserve the fruits of the earth, That Thou wouldst vouchsafe to grant eternal rest to all the faithful departed, ‘sn Ipaq “aaq q92aSaq aM 450 DEVOTIONS IN HONOR OF THE SAINTS That Thou wouldst vouchsafe graciously to hear us, We beseech Thee, bear us. Son of God, We beseech Thee, hear us. | Lamb of God, Who takest away the sins of the world, spare us, O Lord. Lamb of God, Who takest away the sins of the world, graciously hear us, O Lord. Lamb of God, Who takest away the sins of the world, have mercy on us. Christ, hear us. Christ, graciously hear us. Lord, have mercy on us. ' Christ, have mercy on us. Lord, have mercy on us. Our Father (inaudibly). V. And lead us not into temptation. R. But deliver us from evil. (Psalm LXIX) OME unto my help, O God: O Lord, make haste to help me. Let them be ashamed and put to confusion that seek after my soul: Let them be turned backward and blush for shame that wish me evil. Let them be presently turned away blushing for shame that say to me: ’Tis well, ’tis well. Let all those that seek Thee rejoice, and be glad in Thee: and let such as love Thy salvation say always, The Lord be magnified. But I am poor and needy: help me, O God. Thou art my helper and my deliverer: O Lord, make no delay. DEVOTIONS IN HONOR OF THE SAINTS 451 Glory be to the Father, etc. | V. Save Thy servants. | R. O my God, who put their trust in Thee. V. Be unto us, O Lord, a tower of strength. R. From the face of the enemy. V. Let not the enemy prevail against us. R. Nor the son of iniquity draw nigh to hurt V. R . O Lord, deal not with us after our sins. . Neither reward us according to our niquities. V. Let us pray for our Sovereign Pontiff, N. R. The Lord preserve him and give him life, and make him blessed upon the earth; and deliver him not up to the will of his enemies. V. Let us pray for our benefactors. R. Vouchsafe, O Lord, to reward with eternal life all those who do us good, for Thy Name’s sake. Amen. V. Let us pray for the faithful departed. R. Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord; and let perpetual light shine upon them. V. May they rest in peace. R. Amen. V. For our absent brethren. R. Save Thy servants, O my God, who put their trust in Thee. V. Send them help, O Lord, from Thy holy place. R. And defend them out of Sion. V. O Lord, hear my prayer. R. And Jet my cry come unto Thee. 452 DEVOTIONS IN HONOR OF THE SAINTS Let us Pray GOD, Whose property is always to have mercy and to spare: graciously receive our supplication; that we, and all Thy servants whom the chain of sin doth bind, may, by the compas- sion of Thy loving kindness, be mercifully ab- solved. Graciously hear; we beseech Thee, O Lord, the prayers of Thy humble servants, and forgive the sins of those who confess to Thee; that, in Thy bounty, Thou mayest grant us both pardon and peace. Show forth upon us, O Lord, in Thy mercy, Thine unspeakable pity; that Thou mayest both loose us from all our sins, and deliver us from the punishments which we deserve for the same. O God, Who by sin art offended, and by pen- ance appeased: look graciously down upon the prayers of Thy people making supplication tc Thee, and turn away the scourges of Thy wrath which for our sins we deserve. Almighty, everlasting God, have mercy upor Thy servant N., our Sovereign Pontiff, and direct him, according to Thy mercy, in the way of ever- Jasting salvation; that by Thy gift he may desir such things as please Thee, and may fulfil then with all his strength. O God, from Whom are holy desires, righ counsels, and just works: give unto Thy servant that peace which the world cannot give; tha our hearts being given to the keeping of Th commandments, and the fear of enemies bein; DEVOTIONS IN HONOR OF THE SAINTS 453 removed, our days, by Thy protection, may be peaceful. Inflame, O Lord, our reins and our hearts with 'the fire of the Holy Ghost; that we may serve Thee with a chaste body, and please Thee with a pure mind. O God, the Creator and Redeemer of all the faithful, grant unto the souls of Thy servants and handmaids remission of all their sins; that through our pious supplications they may obtain the pardon which they have always desired. Direct, we beseech Thee, O Lord, our actions by Thy inspiration, and further them with Thy continual help; that every prayer and work of ours may always begin from Thee, and through Thee be brought to an end. Almighty, everlasting God, Who hast dominion over the living and the dead, and showest mercy unto all whom Thou foreknowest will be Thine by faith and works: we humbly beseech Thee that they for whom we have resolved to pour forth our prayers, whether this present world still detain them in the flesh, or the world to come hath already received them stripped of their bodies, may, by the grace of Thy fatherly love, and through the intercession of all the saints, obtain the remission of all their sins. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, etc. R. Amen. V. O Lord, hear my prayer. R. And let my cry come unto Thee. 454 DEVOTIONS IN HONOR OF THE SAINTS V. May the almighty and merciful Lord graciously hear us. R. Amen. V. And may the souls of the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. R. Amen. PRAYER TO ST. MICHAEL, ARCHANGEL OLY archangel Michael, defend us in battle, that we may not perish in the tremendous day of judgment. 4 (Ind. of 100 days, once a day.—Leo XIII. Aug. 19, 1893.) PRAYER TO ST. RAPHAEL, ARCHANGEL LORIOUS Archangel, St. Raphael, great prince of the heavenly court, illustrious by thy gifts of wisdom and grace, guide of travelers by land and sea, consoler of the unfortunate and refuge of sinners, I entreat thee to help me in all my needs and in all the trials of this life, as thou didst once assist the young Tobias in his journey- ing. And since thou art the “‘physician of God,” I humbly pray thee to heal my soul of its many infirmities and my body of the ills that afflict rt, if this favor is for my greater good. I ask, especially, for angelic purity, that I may be made fit to be the living temple of the Holy Ghost. Amen. (Ind. of 100 days. — Leo XIII. June 21, 1890.) DEVOTIONS IN HONOR OF THE SAINTS 455 PRAYER TO ST. ANNE ITH a heart full of sincere filial veneration, I prostrate myself before thee, O blessed t. Anne. Thou art that beloved and privileged reature who, because of thy extraordinary virtue d sanctity, didst deserve of God that chief of races of giving life to the treasury of grace, the essed among women, the Mother of the incar- te Lord, the Blessed Virgin Mary. Ah! in consideration of such exalted favors ign, O most tender saint, to recerve me among ne number of thy truly devoted servants, for ich I protest myself to be and wish to remain yr the rest of my life. Surround me with thy ficacious patronage, and obtain for me from God je imitation of those virtues with which thou vert so profusely adorned. Obtain for me a nowledge of my sins and sorrow for them; an rdent love for Jesus and Mary; a faithful and onstant observance of the duties of my state of fe. Save me from all dangers in life and assist ye at the hour of my death, that I may safely each paradise, there to praise with thee, most iappy mother, the Word of God, made man in he womb of thy most pure daughter, the Blessed Virgin Mary. Amen. Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory be to the Father, tc. (three times). (Ind. of 300 days, once a day. — Leo XIII. March 20, 886.) 456 DEVOTIONS IN HONOR OF THE SAINTS PRAYER IN HONOR OF ONE’S PATRON SAINT | HEAVENLY one, whose name I am priv- ileged to bear, ever intercede for me before the throne of God that He fortify me in faith, strengthen me in virtue, and protect me in con- flict, so that, victorious over the wicked enemy, [ may attaim to everlasting glory. Amen. PRAYER ON A SAINT’S DAY RANT, we beseech Thee, almighty God, tha: the examples of Saint may effectually move us to reform our lives; that while we cele brate his festival, we may also imitate his actions Through our Lord Jesus Christ. Amen. OOK upon our weakness, almighty Goc and since the burden of our own deed weighs heavily upon us, may the glorious inte! cession of Saint protect us. Through Chris our Lord. Amen. PRAYERS TO ST. DOMINIC I Y Lord Jesus Christ, Who didst found tl} Church with Thy Precious Blood, and I} the preaching of the Apostles didst establis propagate and extend it throughout the whc? world, and thereafter didst commission the hey patriarch Dominic to adorn, illustrate, and defe: DEVOTIONS IN HONOR OF THE SAINTS 457 t with the splendour of his merits and doctrine; xraciously hear the prayers which this apostolic nan incessantly offers to Thee for the increase f her treasures, both spiritual and temporal. Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory be to the Father, etc. II OST merciful Redeemer, Who didst choose as Thy fellow labourer for the salvation of souls St. Dominic, who by his zeal, aided by Thy grace, gained over to the Church so many heretics who had been Jost to her, and so many inners who had grieved her by their obstinacy; lsend, O my God, ever fresh labourers into Thy ineyard to work for Thy glory, and gather in the fruits of eternal life. Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory be to the Father, etc. | {II GOOD Jesus, Who didst delight to see | St. Dominic prostrate every night before Thy altar, adoring Thee hidden m the most holy Sacrament with most lively faith, and offering up, now groans, now prayers, now penances on behalf of the Church, at that time persecuted by her enemies and profaned by her servants; defend this Thy Spouse through the imtercession of St. Dominic from the outrages and plots of the linfernal enemy of mankind. Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory be to the Father, etc. V. Pray for us, St. Dominic. R. That we may be made worthy of the prom- ises of Christ. 458 DEVOTIONS IN HONOR OF THE SAINTS Let us Pray RANT, we beseech Thee, Almighty God, that we who are weighed down by the burden of our sins may be raised up by the patronage of Thy blessed confessor Dominic. ‘Through Christ our Lord. Amen. (Ind. of 100 days, once a day. Plenary once a month. — Leo XIII. July 21, 1883.) PRAYER TO ST. THOMAS AQUINAS Patron of Schools ANGELIC Doctor St. Thomas, prince of theologians and model of philosophers, bright ornament of the Christian world and light of the Church; O heavenly patron of all Catholic schools, who didst Jearn wisdom without guile and dost communicate it without envy, intercede for us with the Son of God, Wisdom itself, that the spirit of wisdom may descend upon us, and enable us to understand clearly that which thou hast taught, and fulfil it by imitating thy deeds; to become partakers of that doctrine and virtue which caused thee to shine like the sun on earth; and at Iast to rejoice with thee forever in their most sweet fruits i heaven, together praising the Divine Wisdom for all eternity. Amen. (Ind. of 200 days, once a day.— Leo XIII. July 3, 1885.) DEVOTIONS IN HONOR OF THE SAINTS 459 DEVOUT EXERCISE OF THE SIX SUNDAYS IN HONOR OF ST. ALOYSIUS GONZAGA (A plenary indulgence on each of the six Sundays which are wont to be kept in honor of this saint, either immedi- ately before his feast, on June 21, or at any other time of the year. In order to gain this plenary indulgence it is requisite to keep the six Sundays consecutively; and on zach of them, after confession and communion, to employ one’s self in pious meditations or vocal prayers, or other works of Christian piety, in honor of the saint. — CLEMENT XII. Dec. 11, 1739; Jan. 7, 1740.) PRAYER TO ST. ALOYSIUS BLESSED Aloysius, adorned with angelic graces, I, thy most unworthy suppliant, rec- ommend specially to thee the chastity of my soul and body, praying thee by thy angelic purity te plead for me with Jesus Christ, the immaculate Lamb, and His most holy Mother, Virgin of virgins, that they would vouchsafe to keep me from all grievous sim. O never let me be defiled lwith any stain of impurity; but when thou dost lsee me in temptation, or in danger of falling, then remove far from my heart all bad thoughts and unclean desires, and awaken in me the memory of eternity to come and of Jesus crucified; im- |press deeply in my heart a sense of the holy fear lof God; and thus, kindling m me the fire of divine love, enable me so to follow thy footsteps here on earth that, in heaven with thee, I may be made worthy to enjoy the vision of our God forever. Amen. Our Father, Hail Mary, etc. (Ind. of 100 days, once a day.—Prus VII. March 6, 1802.) 460 DEVOTIONS IN HONOR OF THE SAINTS THE THIRTEEN TUESDAYS, OR THIRTEEN SUNDAYS, IN HONOR OF ST. ANTHONY (His Holiness, Leo XIII, by a brief of March 1, 1898, granted to the faithful, who, on thirteen successive Tues- days or as many successive Sundays, once only, at any time during the year, shall spend some time in pious meditation, or vocal prayers, or any other works of piety, to the glory of God and in honor of St. Anthony of Padua, on the usual conditions of confession and communion, a plenary indulgence on each of the said Tuesdays or Sundays.) REQUEST TO ST. ANTHONY WONDERFUL St. Anthony, glorious on account of the fame of thy miracles, and through the condescension of Jesus in coming in the form of a little child to repose in thy arms; obtain for me of His bounty the grace which I ardently desire from the depths of my heart. Thou who wast so compassionate toward miser- able sinners, regard not the unworthiness of those who pray to thee, but the glory of God, that it may be once again magnified by thee, to the salvation of my soul, in connection with the particular request which I now ask for with per- severing earnestness. May this small offering of pence, which I make to thee in aid of the poor, be a pledge of my gratitude, and with them may it one day be granted to me, through the grace of Jesus Christ and thy intercession, to possess the kingdom of heaven. Amen. (Ind. of 300 days, once a day. — Leo XIII. May 6, 1899.) DEVOTIONS IN HONOR OF THE SAINTS 461 DEVOTIONS TO ST. RITA OF CASCIA NT. Come, O spouse of Christ, recetve the crown which the Lord hath prepared for thee forever. Thou hast loved justice and hated iniquity; therefore God, thy God, hath anointed thee with the oil of gladness above thy companions. V. Pray for us, blessed Rita. R. That we may be made worthy of the prom- _ises of Christ. Let us Pray GOD, Who didst vouchsafe to confer on holy Rita so great a grace that she was able to Jove her enemies and to bear, both in her heart and on her brow, the signs of Thy love and of Thy sufferings, grant, we beseech Thee, that by her merits and prayers we may so forgive our enemies and contemplate Thy sorrowful Passion, as to obtain the rewards promised to the meek and to them that mourn. Who livest and reignest forever and ever. Amen. INDULGENCED PRAYER TO ST. RITA GLORIOUS St. Rita! Thou who didst so wonderfully participate in the Passion of our Lord Jesus Christ, obtain for me the grace to suffer with patience the pains of this life, and protect me in all my needs, (Ind. of 300 days, once a day. — Pius X. July 30, 1906.) 462 DEVOTIONS IN HONOR OF THE SAINTS ASPIRATIONS TO ST. RITA LORIOUS St. Rita, please obtain for me the grace faithfully to fulfil the duties of my state in life. Glorious St. Rita, please obtain for me the grace to be satisfied with the Jot in life to which God has called me. Glorious St. Rita, please obtain for me thy spirit of patience and strength in adversity. Glorious St. Rita, obtain for me entire detach- ment from the things of this world and fix all my affections and desires on heavenly treasures. Glorious St. Rita, please obtain for me health of soul and body. Glorious St. Rita, advocate of the impossible and patroness of desperate cases, please obtain | the favors I ask through thee. PRAYER TO SHUR THERESE The Little Flower of Jesus HOU servant of God, Saint Thérése of the Child Jesus, who in thy dying moments didst say: “I will spend my heaven in doing good upon earth,’’ hasten to let fall upon me a Shower of Roses that I too may be inflamed with that fire of love which burned so brilliantly in thy breast and which brought thee so gloriously to the arms of Jesus, my Lord and my God. Amen. DEVOTIONS IN HONOR OF THE SAINTS 463 PRAYER TO ST. VINCENT FERRER GLORIOUS Apostle and worker of miracles, St. Vincent Ferrer, a new angel of the Apoca- lypse and our kind protector, receive our humble prayers and obtain for us a copious shower of divine favours. By that love with which thy heart was inflamed, obtain for us from the Father of mercies the pardon of all our sins, confirma- tion in the faith, and perseverance in good works; so that living as good and fervent Christians we may become worthy of thy powerful patronage. Extend thy patronage also to our bodies, and free us from our infirmities. Protect our lands from the violence of tempest and hail, and keep misfortune far from us. Thus, blessed by thee in the goods of soul and body, we shall be ever devout to thee, and one day see thee in heaven, there with thee to praise God forever and ever. Amen. (Ind. of 200 days, once aday.—Leo XIII. Sept. 17, 1887.) 464 PRAYERS FOR THE LIVING Prapers for the Living PRAYER TO THE HOLY SPIRIT FOR THE CHURCH HOLY Spirit, Creator, propitiously help the | Catholic Church, and by Thy heavenly power strengthen and confirm it against the assaults of the enemy; by Thy charity and grace renew the spirit of Thy servants whom Thou hast anointed, that in Thee they may glorify the Father and His only-begotten Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen, (Ind. of 300 days, once a day.—LeEo XIII. Aug. 26, 1889.) PRAYER TO ST. JOSEPH FOR THE CHURCH O thee, O blessed Joseph, we have recourse in our affliction, and, having implored the help of thy thrice-holy spouse, we now with hearts filled with confidence earnestly beg thee also to take us under thy protection. By that charity wherewith thou wert united to the immaculate Virgin Mother of God, and by that fatherly love with which thou didst cherish the Child Jesus, we beseech thee and we humbly pray that thou wilt look down with gracious eye upon that in- heritance which Jesus Christ purchased by His Blood, and wilt succor us in our need by thy power and strength. Defend, O most watchful guardian of the Holy Family, the chosen offspring of Jesus Christ. PRAYERS FOR THE LIVING 465 Keep from us, O most loving father, all blight of error and corruption. Aid us from on high, ost valiant defender, in this conflict with the powers of darkness; and as thou didst once rescue the Child Jesus from great peril to His life, so now defend God’s holy Church from the snares of the enemy and all adversity. Finally, shield every one of us with thy patronage, that, imitating thy example and strengthened by thy help, we may live a holy life, die a happy death, and attain to everlasting happiness in heaven. Amen. (Ind. of 300 days. — Leo XIII. Sept. 21, 1887.) PRAYER FOR THE POPE i Wee us pray for our Pontiff, Pope, N. R. The Lord preserve him and give him life, and make him blessed upon earth, and deliver him not up to the will of his enemies. Our Father, Hail Mary, etc. (Ind. of 300 days. — Pius 1X. Nov. 26, 1876.) PRAYER FOR ALL DEGREES OF MEN IN THE CHURCH LMIGHTY and everlasting God, by Whose Spirit the whole body of the Church is sanctified and governed; mercifully hear our humble supplications for all degrees and orders therein; that, by the gift of Thy grace, all in their several stations may faithfully serve Thee. Through Christ our Lord, Amen. 466 PRAYERS FOR THE LIVING PRAYER FOR THE CHURCH, THE CIVIL AUTHORITIES, ETC. Composed by Archbishop Carroll, A.D. 1800 E pray Thee, O almighty and eternal God, Who through Jesus Christ hast revealed Thy | glory to all nations, to preserve the works of Thy mercy; that Thy Church, being spread through the whole world, may continue, with unchanging faith, in the confession of Thy name. We pray Thee, Who alone art good and holy, to endow with heavenly knowledge, sincere zeal, and sanctity of life our Holy Father, Pope, N., the Vicar of our Lord Jesus Christ in the govern- ment of His Church; our own Bishop, (or Arch- bishop,) N. (if be is not consecrated, our Bishop-. elect); all other Bishops, prelates, and pastors of the Church; and especially those who are appointed to exercise among us the functions of the holy ministry, and conduct Thy people into the ways of salvation. We pray Thee, O God of might, wisdom, and Justice, through Whom authority is rightly ad- ministered, laws are enacted, and judgment decreed, assist, with Thy Holy Spirit of counsel and fortitude, the President of these United States, that his administration may be conducted in righteousness, and be eminently useful to Thy people, over whom he presides, by encouraging due respect for virtue and religion; by a faithful execution of the laws in justice and mercy; and by restraining vice and immorality. Let the light of Thy divine wisdom direct the delibera- PRAYERS FOR THE LIVING 407 tions of Congress, and shine forth in all the proceedings and laws framed for our rule and government; so that they may tend to the pres- ervation of peace, the promotion of national |happiness, the increase of industry, sobriety, and juseful knowledge, and may perpetuate to us the blessings of equal liberty. We pray for his Excellency the Governor of this State, for the members of the Assembly, for all Judges, Magistrates, and other officers who are appointed to guard our political welfare; that they may be enabled, by Thy powerful protec- tion, to discharge the duties of their respective stations with honesty and ability. We recommend likewise to Thy unbounded mercy all our brethren and fellow-citizens, throughout the United States, that they may be blessed in the knowledge, and sanctified in the observance of Thy most holy law; that they may be preserved in union, and in that peace which the world cannot give; and, after enjoying the blessings of this life, be admitted to those which are eternal. Finally, we pray Thee, O Lord of mercy, to remember the souls of Thy servants departed who are gone before us with the sign of faith, and repose in the sleep of peace: the souls of our parents, relatives, and friends; of those who, when living, were members of this congregation; and particularly of such as are lately deceased; of all benefactors who, by their donations or legacies to this Church, witnessed their zeal for the decency of divine worship, and proved their 468 PRAYERS FOR THE LIVING claim to our grateful and charitable remembrance, To these, O Lord, and to all that rest in Christ, grant, we beseech Thee, a place of refreshment, light, and everlasting peace, through the same Jesus Christ, our Lord and Saviour. Amen. PRAYER FOR RELATIVES EFEND, we beseech Thee, O Lord, by the intercession of the blessed Mary ever Virgin, this Thy family from all adversity; and merci- fully protect us, now prostrate before Thee with our whole hearts, from all the snares of our enemies. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. PRAYER FOR BENEFACTORS ONDESCEND, O Lord, to reward with a Jong life all those who help us for the glory of Thy name. Amen. (Ind. of 50 days, twice a day.— Leo XIII. Dec. 17, 1892.) PRAYER FOR OUR FRIENDS GOD, Who by the grace of the Holy Spirit, hast poured into the hearts of Thy faithful the gifts of charity; grant to Thy servants, for whom we implore Thy mercy, health both of body and soul; that they may love Thee with all their strength, and cheerfully perform those things which are pleasing unto Thee. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. PRAYERS FOR THE LIVING 409 PRAYER FOR OUR ENEMIES QC) GOD, the lover and preserver of peace and charity: grant unto all our enemies peace and true charity; give them remission of all their sins, and by Thy power deliver us from their snares. Amen. PRAYER FOR THE TEMPTED AND AFFLICTED GOD, Who justifiest the ungodly, and willest : not the death of a sinner: we humbly en- | treat Thy majesty to protect Thy servants, who trust in Thy mercy, with Thy heavenly assistance, and preserve them by Thy continual protection; that they may constantly serve Thee, and by no temptation be separated from Thee. Amen. : PRAYER FOR THOSE IN ANY DANGER ) GOD, the singular protector of human weak- : ness, hear, we beseech Thee, the prayers we humbly offer for those who are in peril, that Thou mayest save them from sin, and bring them into safety. Through Christ our Lord. - Amen. PRAYER FOR HERETICS AND UNBELIEVERS ORD Jesus, most merciful Saviour of the world, we humbly beseech Thee, by Thy most Sacred Heart, that all the sheep who stray out of Thy fold, as well as those who are held by the darkness of error, may be converted to Thee, the Shepherd and Bishop of their souls Who livest and reignest with God the Father in the unity of the Holy Ghost, forever and ever. Amen. 470 PRAYERS FOR THE LIVING PRAYER FOR THE CONVERSION OF UNBELIEVERS HOLY Spirit of truth, we beseech Thee to enlighten the minds of unbelievers in the midst of us; to incline their hearts to love Thy word, and to believe the teachings of Thy Church; give them courage to accept the faith and openly profess it; that they may come into union with Thee and the Father, through Christ our Lord, Who liveth and reigneth forever and ever. Amen. Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory be to the Father, etc. (Ind. of 40 days. — Pius IX. Nov. 14, 1847.) PRAYER FOR SINNERS LMIGHTY and eternal God, Who seekest not the death but the life of sinners, Who wouldst save all and have none to perish, merci- fully hear our prayers on behalf of those who are dead in sin and grant that they may repent and live again in Thy grace. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. PRAYERS FOR THE SICK AND DYING 471 Prapers for the Sick and Dying PRAYER FOR THE SICK eee and eternal God, the everlasting Salvation of them that believe, hear us on behalf of Thy sick servant, N., for whom we implore the aid of Thy pitying mercy, that, with his bodily health restored, he may give thanks to Thee in Thy church. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. PRAYER FOR A SICK PERSON NEAR DEATH Gr] MIGHTY and everlasting God, preserver of souls, Who dost correct those whom Thou dost love, and for their amendment dost tenderly chastise those Whom Thou dost receive, we call upon Thee, O Lord, to bestow Thy healing, that the soul of Thy servant, at the hour of its depart- ure from the body, may by the hands of Thy holy angels be presented without spot unto Thee. Amen. PRAYERS FOR THE DYING ‘@) MY God, I offer Thee all the holy Masses which will be said this day throughout the whole world for poor sinners who are now in their death agony and who will die this day. May the Precious Blood of our Saviour Jesus Christ obtain for them mercy. Amen. (Ind. of 300 days. — Prus X. Dec. 18, 1907.) 472 PRAYERS FOR THE SICK AND DYING MOST merciful Jesus, lover of souls, I pray Thee by the agony of Thy most Sacred Heart, and by the sorrows of Thy immaculate Mother, wash in Thy Blood the sinners of the whole world who are now in their agony, and are to die this day. Amen. Heart of Jesus, once in agony, have mercy on the dying. (Ind. of 300 days, each time. — Prus IX. Feb. 2, 1850.) PRAYER TO ST. JOSEPH FOR THE DYING VERLASTING Father, for the sake of the love which Thou didst bear to St. Joseph, whom Thou didst choose above all to occupy Thy place on earth, have mercy on us and on those who are dying. Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory be to the Father, etc. Everlasting Son of God, for the sake of Thy love toward St. Joseph, who didst protect Thee so faithfully on earth, have mercy on us and on those who are dymg. Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory be to the Father, etc. Everlasting Divine Spirit, for the sake of Thy love toward St. Joseph, who so carefully pro- tected Mary, Thy most holy and beloved spouse, have mercy on us and on those who are dying. Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory be to the Father, etc. (Ind. of 300 days, once a day.— Leo XIII. May 17, 1884.) PRAYERS FOR THE SICK AND DYING 473 THE LITANY FOR THE DYING ORD, have mercy. Christ, have mercy. Lord, have mercy. Holy Mary, pray for him. All ye holy Angels and Archangels, Holy Abel, All ye Choirs of the Just, Holy Abraham, St. John the Baptist, St. Joseph, All ye holy Patriarchs and Prophets, St. Peter, St. Paul, St. Andrew, St. John, All ye holy Apostles and Evangelists, All ye holy Disciples of the Lord, All ye holy Innocents, St. Stephen, St. Lawrence, All ye holy Martyrs, St. Sylvester, St. Gregory, St. Augustin, AIl ye holy Bishops and Confessors, St. Benedict, St. Francis, St. Camillus, St. John of God, AIl ye holy Monks and Hermits, St. Mary Magdalen, St. Lucy, "ULLg 4of Apig ) 474 PRAYERS FOR THE SICK AND DYING All ye holy Virgins and Widows, pray, etc. All ye holy Saints of God, Make intercession for him. Be merciful, Spare him, O Lord. Be merciful, O Lord, deliver him. Be merciful, O Lord, deliver him. From Thy wrath, From the peril of death, From an evil death, From the pains of hell, From all evil, From the power of the devil, Through Thy birth, Through Thy cross and passion, Through Thy death and burial, Through Thy glorious resurrection, Through Thme admirable ascension, Through the grace of the Holy Ghost the Comforter, In the day of judgment, We sinners, Beseech Thee, hear us. That Thou spare him, We beseech Thee, hear us. Lord, have mercy. Christ, have mercy. Lord, have mercy. , wing 19axap “P.0T C PRAYERS FOR THE SICK AND DYING 474 A PRAYER TO OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST To Be Said by the Dying Person, or by Another for Him. E adore Thee, O Christ, and we bless Thee. R. Because by Thy holy cross Thou hast redeemed the world. GOD, Who for the redemption of the world didst vouchsafe to be born, to be circum- cised, to be rejected by the Jews, to be betrayed with a kiss by the traitor Judas, to be bound with cords, to be led as an innocent Jamb to the slaughter, and in the sight of Annas, Caiphas, Pilate, and Herod, to be treated with mdignity, to be accused by false witnesses, to be afflicted with scourges and reproaches, to be spit upon, to be crowned with thorns, to be beaten with blows, to be struck with a reed, to have Thy face veiled, to be stripped of Thy garments, to be nailed to the cross and raised high thereon, to be ranked among thieves, to be offered gall and vinegar to drink, and to be pierced with a Iance: Do Thou, O Lord, by these Thy most holy pains, which I, though unworthy, now call to mind, and by Thy holy cross and death, deliver me (or this Thy servant, N.) from the pains of hell, and vouchsafe to lead me (or him) whither Thou didst lead the good thief who was crucified with Thee. Who, with the Father and the Holy Ghost, livest and reignest forever and ever. Amen. 476 PRAYERS FOR THE SICK AND DYING THREE DEVOUT PRAYERS USEFUL FOR THE DYING To be recited with three Our Fathers, and tbree Hail Marys in the agony of death. F irst is said: Lord, have mercy. Christ, have mercy. Lord, have mercy. Our Father, Hail Mary. Let us Pray QO LORD Jesus Christ, by Thy most sacred | agony and by the prayer which Thou didst pour forth for us on the Mount of Olives, where Thy sweat became as drops of blood running down upon the earth, I beseech Thee to offer up the many drops of Thy bloody sweat, which in Thy fearful anguish Thou didst most abundantly shed for us, and graciously to present them to Thy almighty Father, to be set against the many sins of this Thy servant, N., and mercifully deliver him in this hour of his death from all the pains | and sufferings which he fears he may justly have > deserved for his sins. Who, with the Father and the Holy Ghost, livest and reignest, God, forever and ever. Amen. A second time is said: Lord, have mercy. Christ, have mercy. Lord, have mercy. Our Father, Hail Mary. LORD Jesus Christ, Who didst vouchsafe to die upon the cross for us, I beseech Thee | to offer up to Thy almighty Father all the bitter | pains and sufferings which Thou didst endure for us upon the cross, especially in that hour when PRAYERS FOR THE SICK AND DYING 477 Thy most holy soul quitted Thy most sacred body; and present them in behalf of this Thy servant, N., and deliver him in this hour of death from all the pains and sufferings which he fears he may justly have deserved for his sins. Who with the Father and the Holy Ghost, livest and reignest God, forever and ever. Amen. A third time is said: Lord, have mercy. Christ, have mercy. Lord, have mercy. Our Father, Hail Mary. LORD Jesus Christ, Who by the mouth of Thy prophet hast said: “With everlasting love, I have loved thee: therefore have I drawn thee graciously’: I beseech Thee to offer up this same love which drew Thee down from heaven to earth, there to endure all the bitterness of Thy passion, and present it to Thy almighty Father for the soul of this Thy servant, N., and deliver him from all the pains and sufferings which he fears he has deserved for his sins. And save his soul in this hour of his departure. Open unto him the gates of life, and make him to rejoice with Thy saints in glory everlasting. And do Thou, O most merciful Lord Jesus Christ, Who hast redeemed us by Thy most Precious Blood, have mercy on the soul of this Thy servant, and vouchsafe to introduce him into the ever green and pleasant places of paradise, that he may live unto Thee in undivided Jove, and never be separated from Thee and Thine elect. Who with the Father and the Holy Ghost livest and reignest God, forever and ever. Amen. 478 PRAYERS FOR THE DEAD Wravers for the Mead By indulgences, prayers, good works, and especially ' by Masses heard or offered, we can help the souls in purgatory. Let us not deny this office of charity even to those who lived most holily. Nor should the passing years make us forget those we are bound to pray for. NINE DAYS’ PRAYER FOR ONE RECENTLY DECEASED (Ind. of 300 days, each day. — Pius IX. Jan. 5, 1849.) For the First Day GOD, to Whom it belongs always to have mercy and to spare, we humbly beseech Thee for the soul of Thy servant, N., which Thou hast commanded to depart out of this world: that Thou deliver it not into the hands of the enemy, nor forget it unto the end; but command it to be recetved by Thy holy angels, and con- ducted into paradise, its true country; that, as in Thee it hath hoped and believed, it may not suffer the pains of hell, but may take possession of eternal joys. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. For the Second Day O Thee, O Lord, do we command the soul of Thy servant, N., that being dead to the world he may live unto Thee; and whatsoever sins he has committed through the frailty of his mortal nature, do Thou, by the pardon of Thy most merciful love, wash away. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. PRAYERS FOR THE DEAD 479 For the Third Day E beseech Thee, O Lord, that Thou wouldst vouchsafe to grant fellowship with Thy saints and elect to the soul of Thy servant, N., whose departure we commemorate, and mayest ‘Thou pour upon it the everlasting dew of Thy Grae Through Christ our Lord. Amen. , For the Fourth Day 1 CLINE Thine ear, O Lord, unto the prayers in which we suppliantly entreat Thy mercy; and do Thou establish, in a place of peace and rest, the soul of Thy servant, N., whom Thou hast bidden to pass out of this world, and unite him to the fellowship of Thy saints. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. For the Fifth Day BSOLVE, we beseech Thee,’O Lord, the soul of Thy servant, N., from every bond of sin, that, being raised in the glory of the Resur- rection, he may be refreshed among Thy saints and elect. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. For the Sixth Day E beseech Thee, O Lord, by Thy loving kindness, to have mercy on the soul of Thy servant, N., and now, that he is released from the contagion of this mortal flesh, to give him part in Thine eternal salvation. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. 480 PRAYERS FOR THE DEAD For the Seventh Day E implore Thee, O Lord, mercifully to grant companionship with the blessed in heaven to the soul of Thy servant, N., whose death we commemorate. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. For the Eighth Day | O Lord, our prayers on behalf of the soul of Thy servant, N., that, if it is still soiled by any earthly stains, it may be purified by Thy merciful forgiveness. ‘Through Christ our Lord. Amen. For the Ninth Day Qe O Lord, we beseech Thee, this mercy unto Thy servant deceased, that, having in desire kept Thy will, he may not suffer in requital of his deeds: and as a true faith joined him unto the company of Thy faithful here below, so may) Thy tender mercy give him place above, among the angel choirs. Through Christ our Lord. | Amen. | Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him. May he rest in peace. Amen. (Ind. of 300 days, each day of a novena for the souls in| purgatory. — Prius IX. Nov. 26, 1876.) | | PRAYERS FOR THE SOULS IN PURGATORY 481 INDULGENCED PRAYERS FOR EVERY DAY IN THE WEEK FOR THE SOULS IN PURGATORY For Sunday LORD God almighty, I pray Thee by the Precious Blood which Thy divine Son Jesus shed in the garden, deliver the souls in purgatory, and especially that soul among them all which is most destitute of spiritual aid; and vouchsafe to bring it to Thy glory, there to praise and bless Thee forever. Amen. Our Father, Hail Mary, De Profundis, etc. See page 289. For Monday LORD God almighty, I pray Thee by the Precious Blood which Thy divine Son Jesus shed in His cruel scourging, deliver the souls in purgatory, and that soul especially among them all which is nearest to its entrance into Thy glory: that so it may forthwith begin to praise and bless Thee forever. Amen. Our Father, Hail Mary, De Profundis, etc. For Tuesday LORD God almighty, I pray Thee by the Precious Blood which Thy divine Son Jesus shed in His bitter crowning with thorns, deliver the souls in purgatory, and in particular that one 482 PRAYERS FOR THE SOULS IN PURGATORY among them all which would be the Iast to depart out of those pains, that It may not tarry so long — a time before it comes to praise Thee in Thy — glory and bless Thee forever. Amen. Our Father, Hail Mary, De Profundis, etc. For Wednesday LORD God almighty, I pray Thee by the _ Precious Blood which Thy divine Son Jesus shed in the streets of Jerusalem, when He carried the cross upon His sacred shoulders, deliver the souls in purgatory, and especially that soul which is richest In merit before Thee: that so in that | throne of glory which awaits it, it may magnify Thee and bless Thee forever. Amen. Our Father, | Hail Mary, De Profundis, etc. For Thursday LORD God, almighty, I pray Thee by the Precious Body and Blood of Thy divine | Son Jesus, which He gave with His own hands upon the eve of His passion to His beloved apostles to be their meat.and drink, and which He Jeft to His whole Church to be a perpetual sacri- fice and the life giving food of His own faithful people, deliver the souls nm purgatory, and es- pecially that one which was most devoted to this mystery of infinite love, that it may with PRAYERS FOR THE SOULS IN PURGATORY 483 Thy divine Son, and with Thy Holy Spirit, ever praise Thee for Thy love therein in eternal glory. Amen. Our Father, Hail Mary, De Profundis, etc. For Friday LORD God almighty, I pray Thee by the Precious Blood which Thy divine Son shed on this day upon the wood of the cross, especially ‘from His most sacred hands and feet, deliver the souls in purgatory, and in particular that soul for which I am most bound to pray: that no neglect of mine may hinder it from praising Thee in Thy glory and blessing Thee forever. Amen. Our Father, Hail Mary, De Profundis, etc. For Saturday LORD God almighty, I beseech Thee by the Precious Blood which gushed forth from the side of Thy divine Son Jesus in the sight of, and to the extreme pain of His most holy Mother, deliver the souls in purgatory, and especially that one among them all which was the most devout to her: that it may soon attain unto Thy glory, there to praise Thee in her and her in Thee, world withoutend. Amen. Our Father, Hail Mary, De Profundis, etc. (Ind. of 100 days, once a day.— Leo XII. Nov. 18, 1826.) (For a seven days exercise of prayer for the souls in Purgatory an indulgence of 300 days each day has been granted. — Pius IX. Nov. 26, 1876.) 484 PRAYERS FOR VARIOUS DECEASED PERSONS Wrapers for Warious Deceased Persons PRAYER FOR A DECEASED POPE GOD, Who by Thine unspeakable providence was pleased to number Thy servant, Pope N., among the Sovereign Pontiffs, grant, we beseech Thee, that he who reigned as the vicar of Thy Son on earth, may be joined in fellowship with Thy holy Pontiffs forevermore. Through the same Christ our Lord. Amen. PRAYER FOR A DECEASED BISHOP RANT, we beseech Thee, O Lord, that the soul of Thy servant Bishop N., which Thou hast taken from the toilsome conflict of this world, may have fellowship among Thy saints. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. PRAYER FOR A DECEASED PRIEST LORD, we pray Thee that the soul of Thy priest, Thy.servant N., which, while he abode in this world, Thou didst adorn with sacred gifts, may ever rejoice in a glorious place in heaven. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. PRAYER FOR DECEASED PARENTS GOD, Who hast commanded us to honor our father and mother, Iook in the tender- ness of Thy mercy upon the souls of my father PRAYERS FOR VARIOUS DECEASED PERSONS 485 and mother and forgive them their sins, and grant unto me the joy of seeing them again in the glo- rious light of everlasting life. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. PRAYER FOR DECEASED BRETHREN, RELATIVES AND BENEFACTORS GOD, the bestower of forgiveness and the lover of human salvation, we beseech Thee, of Thy tender love, to grant that the brethren of our congregation, with their relatives and benefactors, who have passed out of this life, may, by the mtercession of Blessed Mary, ever Virgin, and all Thy saints, come to the fellowship of eternal bliss. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. PRAYER FOR THOSE FOR WHOM WE ARE BOUND TO PRAY RANT, we beseech Thee, O Lord our God, | that the souls of Thy servants and hand- maidens, the memory of whom we keep with special reverence, and for whom we are bidden and are bound to pray, and the souls of all our benefactors, relatives and connections, and all the faithful, may rest in the bosom of Thy saints; and hereafter, in the resurrection from the dead, may please Thee in the land of the living. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. Prayers for Warious Crccastons PRAYERS FOR CHURCH UNITY The following prayers have been approved for the Church Unity Octave, Jan. 18 to 25. NT. That they all may be one, as Thou, Father, in Me and I in Thee; that they also may be one in Us; that the world may believe that Thou hast sent Me. (Jobn xvii: 21.) V. I say unto thee, that thou art Peter; R. And upon this Rock I will build My Church. Prayer LORD Jesus Christ, Who saidst unto Thine | apostles; Peace I leave with you, My peace I give unto you; regard not our sins, but the faith of Thy Church, and grant unto her that peace and unity which are agreeable to Thy will. Who livest and reignest God forever and ever. Amen. PRAYERS FOR VARIOUS OCCASIONS 487 | PRAYER IN ANY TRIBULATION ALMIGHTY God, despise not Thy people who cry unto Thee in their affliction; but for the glory of Thy Name, turn away Thine anger, and help us in our tribulations. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. PRAYER IN TIME OF CALAMITY LORD Jesus Christ, holy, immortal God! have mercy upon us and upon all men; purify us by Thy holy Blood, forgive us by Thy holy Blood, save us by Thy holy Blood, now and forever. Amen. PRAYER IN TIME OF FAMINE OR PESTILENCE RANT, we beseech Thee, O Lord, an answer to our hearty supplications; and, Thy wrath being appeased, turn away from us this famine (or pestilence), that the hearts of men may know that these scourges proceed from Thine anger, and cease by Thy mercy. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. PRAYER IN TIME OF GREAT MORTALITY GOD, Who desirest not the death but the penance of sinners, mercifully look upon Thy people returning to Thee; and grant that they, being devoted unto Thee, may, by Thy clemency, be delivered from the scourges of Thine anger. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. 488 | PRAYERS FOR VARIOUS OCCASIONS PRAYER IN TIME OF WAR GOD, Who bringest wars to naught and shieldest by Thy power all who hope in Thee, overthrowing those that assail them, help Thy servants who implore Thy mercy, so that the fierce might of their enemies may be brought Iow and we may never cease to praise and thank Thee. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. PRAYER FOR RAIN GOD, in Whom we live, move, and have our being, bestow upon us seasonable rain, that receiving at Thy hands a sufficiency of temporal goods, we may, with the greater trustfulness, look to Thee for those blessings which are eternal. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. PRAYER FOR FAIR WEATHER RACIOUSLY hear us, O Lord, we beseech Thee, and grant fair weather unto us Thy supplicants, that we who are justly afflicted for our sins may experience Thy mercy and clemency. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. PRAYER FOR ANY NECESSITY GOD, our refuge and our strength, hearken to the pious prayers of Thy Church, Thou Who art Thyself the author of piety, and grant that what we faithfully ask for we may effica- ciously obtain. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. PRAYERS FOR PRIVATE NECESSITIES 489 Prapers for Private Mecessities PRAYER FOR LIGHT Y the Comforter Who proceedeth from Thee, O Lord, enlighten our minds, and even as Thy Son hath promised, may He lead s into all truth. Who liveth and reigneth with Thee in the unity of the same Holy Ghost for- ver and ever. Amen. EAD, kindly Light, amid the encircling gloom Lead Thou me on! he night is dark, and I am far from home. Lead Thou me on! Keep Thou my feet; I do not ask to see The distant scene, — one step enough for me. I was not ever thus, nor pray’d that Thou Shouldst lead me on. I loved to choose and see my path, but now Lead Thou me on! I loved the garish day, and, spite of fears, Pride ruled my will: remember not past years. So long Thy power hath blest me,-sure it still Will lead me on. O’er moor and fen, o’er crag and torrent, till The night is gone; nd with the morn those angel faces smile hich I have loved long since, and Jost awhile. — CarpiInaL NEWMAN 490 PRAYERS FOR PRIVATE NECESSITIES PRAYER FOR CHARITY MY Jesus, Thou knowest well that I love Thee; but I do not love Thee enough; O grant that I may love Thee more. O love that burnest ever and never failest, my God, Thou Who art charity itself, enkindle in my heart that divine fire which consumes the saints and trans- forms them unto Thee. Amen. PRAYER FOR CHASTITY Y Queen! my Mother! I give myself entirely to thee; and to show my devotion to thee, I consecrate to thee this day my eyes, my ears, my mouth, my heart, my whole being, without reserve. Wherefore, good Mother, as I am thine own, keep me, guard me, as thy property and possession. Amen. PRAYER FOR HUMILITY GOD, Who withstandest the proud and giveth Thy grace to the humble, clothe us with that true virtue of humility, the pattern of which Thine only-begotten Son did show in Him- self to the faithful, so that we may never by our pride provoke Thee to anger, but rather in our Iowliness accept from Thy hands the gifts of Thy grace. Through the same Christ our Lord. Amen. PRAYER FOR PATIENCE GOD, Who by the patience of Thine only- begotten Son hast crushed the pride of the old enemy, give unto us, we beseech Thee, ever devoutly to have in mind what He with love PRAYERS FOR PRIVATE NECESSITIES 491 ndured for us, and thus, after His example, to ear with long suffermg the troubles which come pon us. Through the same Christ our Lord. Amen. PRAYER OF ST. THOMAS AQUINAS FOR VIRTUE RANT me, O merciful God, that what is pleasing to Thee I may ardently desire, srudently acquire, truthfully acknowledge, and yerfectly accomplish for the praise and glory of hy Name. Ordain, O my God, my whole life; nd what Thou requirest that I should do, grant ne to know and to fulfil as meet and profitable omy soul. Give me Thy grace, O Lord my God, ‘hat I may not fail in prosperity or in adversity, woiding pride in the former, and discourage- nent in the latter. May I rejoice in nothing but what leads to Thee, grieve for nothing but what turns away from Thee. May I wish to please, and fear to displease, no one but Thee. May I despise, O Lord, all transitory things, and prize only that which is eternal. May I shun any joy that is without Thee, nor wish for anything except Thee. May I delight in any work taken up for Thee, and tire of any rest that is without Thee. Give me, O my God, to direct my heart toward Thee, and in my failings con- stantly grieve, with a purpose of amendment. Make me, O Lord my God, obedient without contradiction, poor without depression, chaste without corruption, patient without murmuring, humble without pretence, cheerful without dis- sipation, mature without dullness, prompt with- 492 PRAYERS FOR PRIVATE NECESSITIES | . : out levity, fearing Thee without despair, truthful without duplicity, doing good without presump- tion, correcting my neighbor without haughtiness, and edifying him by word and example without hypocrisy. Give me, O Lord God, a watchful heart, which no curious thought will turn away from Thee; a noble heart, which no unworthy affection can draw downwards; a righteous heart, which no~ regular intention will twist aside; a firm heart, which no tribulation will break; a free heart, which no violent affection will claim for itself. — Grant me finally, O Lord my God, science in — knowing Thee, diligence in seeking Thee, wisdom in finding Thee, a conduct pleasing to Thee, a perseverance trustfully awaiting Thee, and a con- fidence finally embracing Thee. May I endure Thy punishments by penitence; profit by Thy benefits by grace in this world, and enjoy Thy blessedness by glory in the next. Who livest and reignest, true God, forever and ever. Amen. PRAYERS FOR HEALTH OF BODY AND SOUL OST holy Virgin, Mother of the Incarnate Word, treasure-house of grace, and refuge of us wretched sinners, with lively faith we have recourse to thy motherly love, and ask of thee the grace of ever doing God’s will and thine. In thy most holy hands we place our hearts, and of thee we ask health of body and soul, and as we have the same hope that thou, our most Joving Mother, wilt hear us, we say to thee with lively faith: Hail Mary, etc., three times. PRAYERS FOR PRIVATE NECESSITIES 493 Let us Pray fe)EFEND, We beseech Thee, O Lord! through the intercession of the blessed Mary ever Virgin, Thy servants from all infirmity, and mer- cifully deign to guard them, prostrate in the sin- cerity of their hearts before Thee, against the ‘snares of the enemy. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. PRAYERS FOR A HAPPY DEATH GOD, Who, while condemning all men once to die, hast yet concealed from them the moment and the hour of their death, grant that, _ spending all the days of my life in justice and in holiness, I may be made worthy to depart out of this world in Thy holy love. Through the merits of our Lord Jesus Christ, Who liveth and reigneth with Thee in the unity of the Holy Ghost. (Ind. of 100 days, once a day. A plenary indulgence once a month. — Leo XII. Aug. 11, 1824.) 1b ees Jesus, incarnate Son of God, Who for our salvation didst vouchsafe to be born *n a stable, to pass Thy life im poverty, trials, and misery, and to die amid the sufferings of the cross, I entreat Thee, say to Thy divine Father at the hour of my death, “Father, forgive him’; say to Thy beloved Mother, “Behold thy Son”; say to my soul, “This day thou shalt 494 PRAYERS FOR PRIVATE NECESSITIES be with Me in paradise.” My God, my God, forsake me not in that hour. “I thirst’’; yes, my God, my soul thirsts after Thee, Who art the fountain of living waters. My life passes like a shadow; yet a little while, and all will be consummated. Wherefore, O my adorable Sa-_ viour, from this moment, for all eternity, “into Thy hands I commend my spirit.”” Lord Jesus, recerve my soul. Amen. | (Ind. of 300 days, each time. — Prus IX. June 10, 1856.) LORD, support us all the day long of this troublous life, until the shadows lengthen and evening comes and the busy world is hushed and the fever of life is over and our work is done. Then of Thy great mercy grant us a safe lodging and a holy rest and peace at the last, through Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen. — CarDINAL NEWMAN MY Lord and Saviour, support me in my last hour by the strong arms of Thy Sacra- ments, and the fragrance of Thy consolations. Let Thy absolving words be said over me, and the holy oil sign and seal me; and let Thine own Body be my food, and Thy Blood my sprinkling; and let Thy Mother Mary come to me, and my angel whisper peace to me, and Thy glorious saints and my own dear patrons smile on me, that in and through them all I may die as I desire to live, in Thy Church, in Thy faith, and in Thy love. Amen. —.CarDINAL NEwMAN PRAYERS FOR PRIVATE NECESSITIES 49045 MARY, conceived without stain, pray for us who fly to thee. Refuge of sinners, other of those who are in their agony, leave us t in the hour of our death, but obtain for us per- ct sorrow, sincere contrition, remission of our sins, worthy reception of the most holy Viaticum, re strengthening of the Sacrament of Extreme nection, so that we may be able to stand with fety before the throne of the just but merciful udge, our God and our Redeemer. Amen. (Ind. of 200 days, onceaday.—Prus IX. March 11, 1856.) ESUS, Mary, and good Joseph, bless us, now and in the agony of death. | (Und. of 0 days. — Prus X. June 9, 1906.) PRAYERS FOR A JOURNEY N the way of peace and prosperity may the Lord, the almighty and merciful, direct our teps. And may the archangel Raphael accom- yany us on the way, that we may return to our 1ome in peace, safety, and joy. O God, Who madest the sons of Israel to walk vith dry feet through the midst of the sea, and Who didst open to the three Magi, by the guiding »f a star, the way that led to Thee; grant to us, we beseech Thee, a prosperous journey, and a ‘ime of tranquillity, that, attended by Thy holy angel, we may happily arrive at that place whither we are journeying, and finally at the haven of eternal salvation. Give ear, O Lord, we beseech Thee, to our supplications, and dispose the way of Thy ser- 496 PRAYERS FOR PRIVATE NECESSITIES vants in the blessedness of Thy salvation, that amidst all the various changes of this our life and pilgrimage we may ever be protected by Thy help. Vouchsafe to Thy people, we beseech Thee, almighty God, that they may walk onward in the way of salvation, and, by following the ex- hortations of the blessed forerunner John, may come safe to the presence of Him Whom he preached, Jesus Christ Thy Son our Lord, Who liveth and reigneth with Thee, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God forever and ever. Amen. PRAYERS FOR SUCCESS IN WORK LORIOUS St. Joseph, model of all those who are devoted to labor, obtain for me the grace to work conscientiously, putting the call of duty above my many sins; to work with gratitude and joy, considering it an honor to employ and de- velop, by means of labor, the gifts received from God; to work with order, peace, moderation and patience, never recoiling before weariness or diffi- culties; to work, above all, with purity of inten- tion, and with detachment from self, having always death before my eyes and the account which I must render of time lost, of talents wasted, of good omitted, of vain complacency in success so fatal to the work of God. AIl for Jesus, all for Mary, all after thy example, O Patriarch Joseph. Such shall be my watchword in life and death. Amen. (Ind. of 300 days, once a day.—Prus X. March 15, 1907.) THE UNIVERSAL PRAYER 497 A UNIVERSAL PRAYER, FOR ALL THINGS NECESSARY TO SALVATION Composed by Pope Clement XI MY God, I believe in Thee; do Thou strengthen my faith. All my hopes are in (hee; do Thou secure them. I love Thee with ny whole heart; teach me to love Thee daily nore and more. I am sorry that I have offended hee; do Thou increase my sorrow. I adore Thee as my first beginning; I aspire fter Thee as my last end. I give Thee thanks as ny constant benefactor; I call upon Thee as my sovereign protector. Vouchsafe, O my God, to conduct me by Thy wisdom, to restrain me by Thy justice, to comfort me by Thy mercy, to defend me by Thy power. To Thee I desire to consecrate all my thoughts, words, actions, and sufferings; that hencefor- ward I may think of Thee, speak of Thee, con- stantly refer all my actions to Thy greater glory, and suffer willingly whatever Thou shalt appoint. Lord, I desire that in all things Thy will may be done, because it is Thy will, in the manner Thou willest, and as long as Thou willest. I beg of Thee to enlighten my understanding, to inflame my will, to purify my body, and to sanctify my soul. Grant that I be not puffed up with pride, moved by flattery, deceived by the world, or duped by the devil. 4098 THE UNIVERSAL PRAYER Give me grace to purify my memory, to bridle my tongue, to restrain my eyes, and to mortify my senses, Give me strength, O my God, to expiate my offences, to overcome my temptations, to subdue my passions, and to acquire the virtues proper for my state. Fill my heart with a tender affection for Thy goodness, a hatred for my faults, a love for my neighbor, and a contempt of the world. | Let me always remember to be submissive to. my superiors, condescending to my inferiors, faith- ful to my friends, and charitable to my enemies. Grant, O Jesus, that I may remember Thy precept and example, by Ioving my enemies, bear- ing with injuries, doing good to them that perse- cute me, and praying for them that slander me. Assist me to overcome sensuality by mortifica- tion, avarice by alms-deeds, anger by meekness, and tepidity by devotion. O my God, make me prudent in my under- takings, courageous in dangers, patient in afflic- tions, and humble in prosperity. Grant that I may be ever attentive at my prayers, temperate at my meals, diligent in my em- ployments, and constant in my good resolutions. Let my conscience be ever upright and pure, my exterior modest, my conversation edifying, and my life according to rule. Assist me, that I may continually labor to overcome nature, to correspond with Thy grace, to keep Thy commandments, and to work out my salvation. THE UNIVERSAL PRAYER 499 Help me to obtain holiness of life by a sincere nfession of my sins, by a devout reception of ne Body of Christ, by a continual recollection f mind, and by a pure intention of heart. Discover to me, O my God, the nothingness of 1is world, the greatness of heaven, the shortness f time, and the lenzth of eternity. Grant that I may prepare for death, that I may ar Thy judgments, that I may escape hell, and n the end obtain heaven, through the merits f our Lord Jesus Christ. Amen. 500 PRAYERS OF THANKSGIVING Prapers of Thanksgiving THE TE DEUM E praise Thee, O God: we acknowledge Thee to be the Lord. Thee, the Father everlasting, all the earth doth worship. To Thee all angels; to Thee the heavens and all the powers: To Thee the cherubim and seraphim continually cry: Holy, holy, holy, Lord God of Sabaoth. Heaven and earth are full of the majesty of Thy glory. Thee, the glorious choir of the apostles, Thee, the admirable company of prophets, Thee, the white-robed army of martyrs, praise. Thee, the holy Church throughout the world doth acknowledge: The Father of infinite majesty; Thy adorable, true, and only Son; Also, the Holy Ghost, the Comforter. Thou, O Christ, art the King of glory, Thou art the everlasting Son of the Father. When Thou didst take upon Thee to deliver man, Thou didst not disdain the Virgin’s womb. Having overcome the sting 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. PRAYERS OF THANKSGIVING 501 We believe that Thou shalt come to be our dge. We therefore pray Thee to help Thy servants, om Thou hast redeemed with Thy Precious ood. Make them to be numbered with Thy saints glory everlasting. Save Thy people, O Lord, and bless Thy heritance. Govern them, and raise them up forever. Every day we bless Thee. And we praise Thy name forever; yea, for- yer and ever. Vouchsafe, O Lord, this day, to keep us from n. Have mercy on us, O Lord, have mercy on us. V. Blessed art Thou, O Lord, the God of our thers. R. And worthy to be praised, and glorious for- ver, V. Let us bless the Father and the Son, with 1e Holy Ghost. R. Let us praise and magnify Him forever. V. Blessed art Thou, O Lord, in the firmament f heaven. R. And worthy to be praised, glorified and xalted forever. V. Bless the Lord, O my soul. R. And forget not all His benefits. V. O Lord, hear my prayer. R. And let my cry come unto Thee. V. The Lord be with you. R. And with thy spirit. 502 PRAYERS OF THANKSGIVING Let us Pray GOD, Whose mercies are without number, and the treasure of Whose goodness is infinite; we render thanks to Thy most gracious Majesty for the gifts Thou hast bestowed upon us, evermore beseeching Thy clemency; that as Thou grantest the petitions of those who ask Thee, Thou wilt never forsake them, but wilt prepare them for the rewards to come. GOD, Who hast taught the hearts of the faithful by the light of the Holy Spirit: grant us, by the same spirit, to relish what is right, and evermore to rejoice in His consolation. GOD, Who sufferest none that hope in Thee to be afflicted overmuch, but dost listen graciously to their prayers; we render Thee thanks because Thou hast received our supplica- tions and wishes, and we most humbly beseech Thee that we may evermore be protected from all adversities. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. PRAYERS OF THANKSGIVING 503 THE BENEDICTUS LESSED be the Lord God of Israel: for He hath visited and wrought redemption for | His people. And hath raised up a horn of salvation for us: Jin the house of His servant David. As He spake by the mouth of His holy pro- iphets; who have been from the beginning. That He would save us from our enemies: and from the hand of all that hate us. | To perform mercy to our fathers: and to }remember His holy covenant. The oath which He swore to Abraham our father: that He would grant to us: | That being delivered out of the hands of our enemies: we might serve Him without fear, | In holiness and justice before Him, all the days | of our life. | 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. To give knowledge of salvation to His people: for the remission of their sins. Through the tender mercy of God: in which the dayspring from on high hath visited us. To enlighten them that sit in darkness, and in the shadow of death: to direct our feet into the way of peace. 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. 504 PRAYERS OF THANKSGIVING PRAYERS OF THANKSGIVING FOR EVERY DAY OF THE WEEK For Sunday OST Holy Trinity, Father, Son, and Holy Ghost, in deepest reverence we adore Thee and thank. Thee for Thy mfinite majesty and love. From our whole hearts we thank Thee for all the proofs of love Thou hast shown us from the beginning to this very hour, especially for the grace that we are privileged to love Thee. To-day we thank Thee for all the mysteries of our faith, especially for the mystery of the Resurrection of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, Who is the seal of our faith and the most sure anchor of our hope. Praise and thanksgiving be to Thee forever! (Ind. of 300 days, once aday. — Pius X. May 6, 1909.) For Monday HOLY Ghost, personal Love and Goodness in the Godhead, Thou breathest upon us in streams the divine goodness through Thy graces and gifts. Eternal thanks be to Thee for the spiritual life Thou givest to us and preservest through the holy Sacraments. Although we do not deserve Thy love nor correspond with it, Thou ceasest not to bless and sanctify us. There- fore we thank Thee with the Father and the Son, and to-day especially for Thy unfathomable mercy, which is above all Thy works. Praise and thanksgiving be to Thee forever! (Ind. of 300 days, once a day. — Pus X. May 6, 1909.) PRAYERS OF THANKSGIVING 505 For Tuesday RoyEDYENLY Father, Thou hast in kindness taken us for Thy children. Thou wouldst draw us to Thyself and Thy Heart forever, and make us eternally happy with Thy divine love. May the angels and saints, who already enjoy the unending bliss of possessing Thee, love Thee for us, thank Thee for us evermore. Out of noth- ingness Thou didst raise the world of angels to Thy throne into eternal happiness. We children of men thank Thee for this, their everlasting blessedness; we thank Thee that Thou hast appointed the heavenly spirits to be our guardians, so that one day we, too, being joined to their com- pany, might love Thee eternally and enjoy Thee without end. For these and all Thy numberless benefits we thank Thee with the choirs of angels, with the hosts of the blessed forever and ever! (Ind. of 300 days, once a day. — Prus X. May 6, 1909.) For Wednesday ESUS Christ, Son of the living God, give thanks to the eternal Father in heaven in the name of all the children of God. Redeemed by Thy Precious Blood, we have grown up and been reared in the true faith. As favorite chil- dren of God we have been loaded down with the gifts of nature and grace of the Holy Ghost. | And like so many others we have been ungrateful children of God. ‘Therefore we beseech Thee, | only-begotten of the Father, do Thou deign on 506 PRAYERS OF THANKSGIVING this day to unite Thy divine thanksgiving with ours, that we may render a worthy return to God our Lord, and a worthy reparation for our own ingratitude and that of all mankind. Praise and thanksgiving be to the Father, through the Son in the Holy Ghost from everlasting to ever- lasting! (Ind. of 300 days, once a day. — Prus X. May 6, 1909.) For Thursday “(HE Word was made flesh and dwelt among us.” Thanks to Thee, divine Redeemer, Who in Thy love wishest to be all like to us. Still further hast Thou loved us — for having loved, Thou didst love us unto the end. Day by day Thou presentest Thyself on our altars before the Father a victim for us. Nay Thou givest Thy- self to us continually as the food of our souls. It is Thy desire to be and remain with us forever. Eternal thanks be to Thee, Son of God made man, hidden under the appearances of bread, for this Thy love enduring even to the end. Without end do we praise and thank Thee! (Ind. of 300 days, once a day. — Pius X. May 6, 1909.) For Friday ACRED Heart of Jesus, we thank Thee that Thou didst Iove us even unto death. It was for us, divine Redeemer, that Thou didst suffer death; for us Thou didst shed the Blood of Thy Heart and with it Thou dost save us through all the Sacraments, particularly in the PRAYERS OF THANKSGIVING 507 Sacrament of Penance. Thanks to Thee, O esus, for every drop of Thy Blood, for all Thy tve death wounds. Thanks to Thee to-day articularly, that in Thy divine love Thou hast written us not only in Thy hands and feet but hast Iso inscribed us deeply on Thy Heart. Permit ot that we be ever separated from Thy Heart; zrant that we may live and die in Thy love! (Ind. of 300 days, once aday. — Prus X. May 6, 1909.) For Saturday MARY, with thee we magnify the Lord to-day and without ceasing, Who has done zreat things for thee, Who is mighty and holy in His Name. With the angel and with all genera- tions we call thee blessed, we salute thee full of zrace and conceived without sin whom the Triune God raised above all the angels and saints and chose for His own true Mother. With thee, O Mary, we offer thanks for thy privileges to the Father, to the Son, to the Holy Ghost. O Mary, true Mother of God, at the foot of the cross thou gavest thy first-born Son unto death ‘or us, and so in thy sorrow became our Mother. Help us, Mary, with thy continual love that we, the children of thy sorrow, may with thee, the noly martyrs, and all the saints of God, follow thy crucified Son even unto death. Prove thyself a Mother, and after the crosses and sorrows of this life show unto us in heaven, Jesus, the dlessed fruit of thy womb. Amen. (Ind. of 300 days, once aday. — Prus X. Mary 6, 1909.) 508 PRAYERS OF THANKSGIVING THE GREATER DOXOLOGY LORY be to God on high, and on earth peace to men of good will. We praise Thee, we bless Thee, we adore Thee, we glorify Thee. We give Thee thanks for Thy great glory. O Lord God, King of heaven, God the Father almighty. O Lord Jesus Christ, the only-begotten Son. O Lord God, Lamb of God, Son of the Father. Thou Who takest away the sins of the world, have mercy on us. Thou Who takest away the sins of the world, receive our prayer. Thou Who sittest at the right hand of the Father, have mercy on us. For Thou only art holy, Thou only art Lord, Thou only art most high, O Jesus Christ, with the Holy Ghost, in the glory of God the Father. Amen. THE LESSER DOXOLOGY LORY 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. DEVOUT REFLECTIONS ON THE CHRISTIAN VIRTUES AND ON THE FOUR LAST THINGS DRAWN FROM HOLY SCRIPTURE IMPORTANCE OF PRAYERFUL REFLECTION hiya desolation is all the land made desolate; because there is none that considereth in the heart. (Jer. xii. 11.) Let not the book of this law depart from thy mouth: but thou shalt meditate on it day and night, that thou mayest observe and do all things that are written in it: then shalt thou direct thy way, and understand it. (Josue i, 8.) Blessed is the man that shall continue in wisdom, and that shall meditate in his justice, and in his mind shall think of the all-seeing eye of God. (Ecclus. xiv. 22.) Blessed is the man who hath not walked in the counsel of the ungodly, nor stood in the way of sinners, nor sat in the chair of pestilence. But his will is in the law of the Lord, and on His Jaw he shall meditate day and night. And he shall be like a tree which is planted near the run- ning waters, which shall bring forth its fruit, in due season. And his leaf shall not fall off: and all whatsoever he shall do shall prosper. (Ps. i. 1-4.) In all thy works remember thy fast end, and thou shalt never sin. (Ecclus. vii. 40.) 510 MEDITATIONS AND REFLECTIONS THE NECESSITY AND USEFULNESS OF VIRTUE Colne is the will of God, your sanctification. (1 Thess. Iv. 3.) Shall not my soul be subject to God? for from Him is my salvation. For He is my God and my Saviour: He is my protector, I shall be moved no more. (Ps. Ixi. 2, 3.) Let us novy praise men of renown, and our fathers in their generation. .. . Men rich in virtue, studying beauty: living at peace in their houses. All these have gained glory in their generations, and were praised in their days. (Ecclus. xliv. 6, 7.) The law of the Lord is unspotted, converting souls: the testimony of the Lord is faithful, giving wisdom to little ones. The justices of the Lord are right, rejoicing hearts: the commandment of the Lord is lightsome, enlightening the eyes. The fear of the Lord is holy, enduring forever and ever: the judgments of the Lord are true, justified in themselves. More to be desired than gold and many pre- cious stones: and sweeter than honey and the honeycomb. For thy servant keepeth them, and in keeping them there is a great reward. (Ps. xviii. 8-12.) Much peace have they that love Thy Jaw, and to them there is no stumbling-block. (Ps. cxviii. 165.) For My yoke is sweet and My burden light. (Matt. XI. 30.) Bodily exercise is profitable to little: but godliness is profitable to all things, having promise of the life that now is, and of that which is to come. A faithful saying and worthy of all acceptation. (1 Tim. iv. 8.) Blessed are they that hunger and thirst after justice: for they shall have their fill. (Matt. v. 6.) If thou wilt enter into life, keep the commandments. (Matt. xix. 17.) And now there remain faith, hope, charity, these three; but the greatest of these is charity. (1 Cor. xiii. 13.) Ye that fear the Lord, believe Him: and your reward shall not be made void. Ye that fear the Lord, hope in Him: and mercy shall come to you for your delight. Ye MEDITATIONS AND REFLECTIONS SII that fear the Lord, love Him, and your hearts shall be enlightened. (Ecclus. ii. 8-10.) If a man love justice: her labors have great virtues; for she teacheth temperance, and prudence, and justice, and fortitude, which are such things as men can have othing more profitable in life. (Wis. viii. 7.) Put on the new man, who according to God Is created in justice and holiness of truth. (Ecclus. iv. 24.) Not as though I had already attained, or were al- ready perfect; but I foilow after, if I may by any means apprehend, wherein I am also apprehended by Christ Jesus. Brethren, I do not count myself to have appre- hended. But one thing I do: forgetting the things that are behind, and stretching forth myself to those that are before. I press toward the mark, to the prize of the supernal vocation of God in Christ Jesus. (Philipp. ii. 12-14.) The path of the just, as a shining light, goeth forward and increaseth even to perfect day. (Prov. iv. 18.) He that is just, let him be justified still: and he that is holy, Iet him be sanctified still. Behold, I come quickly; and My reward is with Me, to render to every man ac- cording to his works. (Apoc. xxii. 11, 12.) Let nothing hinder thee from praying always, and be not afraid to be justified even to death: for the reward of God continueth forever. (Ecclus. xviii. 22.) FAITH The Authority of Faith Ue GIVE you to understand that the Gospel which was preached by me is not according to man; for neither did I receive it of man, nor did I learn it but by the revelation of Jesus Christ. (Gal. i. 11, 12.) We give thanks to God without ceasing because that when you had received of us the word of the hearing of God, you received it not as the word of men, but, as it is indeed, the word of God. (1 Titus ii. 13.) S12 MEDITATIONS AND REFLECTIONS If we receive the testimony of men, the testimony of Gop is greater, because He hath testified of His Son. (1 Jobn v. 9, 10.) To whom shall we go? Thou hast the words of eternal life. (Jobn vi. 69.) Faith is Certain l Givens and earth shall pass away, but My words shall not pass away. (Matt. xxiv. 35.) This voice we heard brought from heaven, when we were with Him in the holy mount. We have the more firm prophetical word, whereunto you do well to attend, as to a light that shineth in a dark place until the day dawn and the day star arise in your hearts. (2 Peter 1. 18, 19.) Though we, or an angel from heaven, preach a gospel to you besides that which we have preached to you, let him be anathema. As we said before, so now I say again: If any one preach to you a gospel besides that which you have received, Iet him be anathema. (Gal. i. 8, 9.) Faith is Obscure fers is the substance of things to be hoped for, the evidence of things that appear not. (Hebr. xi. 1.) We see now through a glass in a dark manner, but then face to face. (1 Cor. xiii. 12.) Blessed are they that have not seen and have believed. (Jobn xx. 29.) Faith is Reasonable ©o HIM [Christ] all the prophets give testimony, that through His name all receive remission of sins who believe in Him. (Acts x. 43.) If I do not the works of My Father, believe Me not. But if I do, though you will not believe Me, believe the works, that you may know and believe that the Father is in Me, and I im the Father. (Jobn x. 38.) MEDITATIONS AND REFLECTIONS 513 We have seen and do testify that the Father hath sent His Son to be the Saviour of the world. (1 Jobn iv. 14.) How shall we escape if we neglect so great a salvation? which having begun to be declared by the Lord, was con- firmed unto us by them that heard Him, God also bearing them witness by signs, and wonders and divers miracles, and distributions of the Holy Ghost according to His own will. (Hebr. ii. 3, 4.) Faith is Necessary (Dtuiotes faith it is impossible to please God. (Hebr. xi. 6.) This (Jesus) 1s the stone which was rejected by you the builders, which is become the head, of the corner. Neither is there salvation in any other. For there is no other name under heaven given to men whereby we must be saved. (Acts Iv. 11, 12.) He that believeth not shall be condemned. (Mark Xvi. 16.) He that despiseth Me and receiveth not My words hath one that judgeth him. The word that I have spoken the same shall judge him in the last day. — (Jobn xii. 48.) The Individual Not the Judge in Matters of Faith ie ALL his [St. Paul’s] epistles are certain things hard to be understood, which the unlearned and unstable wrest, as they do also the other Scriptures to their destruction. (2 Peter iit. 16.) No prophecy of Scripture is made by private inter- pretation. (2 Peter i. 20.) | Go ye into the whole world and preach the Gospel to |every creature. He that believeth and is baptized shall | be saved, but he that believeth not shall be condemned. | (Mark xvi. 15, 16.) 514 MEDITATIONS AND REFLECTIONS The Catholic Church, the Only Teacher of Faith Ake WILL not leave you orphans, I will come to you. (Jobn xiv. 18.) I am with you all days even to the consummation of the world. (Matt. xxviii. 20.) The spirit of truth will teach you all truth. (Jobn Xvi. 13.) The Church of the living God [is] the pillar, and ground of the truth. (Tim. iil. 15.) The gates of hell shall not prevail against it [the Church]. (Matt. xvi. 18.) Thou art Peter and upon this rock I will build My Church. (Matt. xvi. 18.) Feed My lambs, feed My sheep. (Jobn xxi. 15-17.) There shall be one fold and one shepherd. (Jobn x. 16.) One Lord, one faith, one baptism. (Epb. iv. 5, 6.) What Faith Requires of Us Banv fast in the faith. (1 Cor. xvi. 13.) Beware of false prophets, who come to you in the clothing of sheep, but inwardly they are ravening wolves. (Matt. vil. 15.) Because of unbelief they were broken off. But thou standest by faith. Be not high-minded but fear. (Rom. XI. 20.) Every best gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights. (James I. 17.) Every one that shall confess Me before men, I will confess him before My Father Who is in heaven. But he that shall deny Me before men, I will also deny him before My Father Who is in heaven. (Matt. x. 32, 33-) He that believeth God taketh heed to the command- ments. (Ecclus. xxxii. 28.) Faith if it have not works, is dead. (James ii. 17.) Lord, increase our faith. (Luke xvii. 5.) HOPE MEDITATIONS AND REFLECTIONS 515 : : Hope Not to be Placed in Creatures | 1G the rich of this world not to be high-minded, ior to trust in the uncertainty of riches, but in the living God, (Who giveth us abundantly all things to enjoy.) (1 Tim. vi. 17.) Put not your trust in princes: in the children of men, in whom there is no salvation. His spirit shall go forth, and he shall return into his earth: in that day all their thoughts shall perish. Blessed is he who hath the God of Jacob for his helper, whose hope is in the Lord his God: who made heaven and earth, the sea, and all things that areinthem. Who keepeth truth forever: who executeth judgment for them that suffer wrong; who giveth food to the hungry. The Lord looseth them that are fettered: the Lord enlighteneth the blind. The Lord lifteth up them that are cast down: the Lord loveth the just. The Lord keepeth the strangers, He will support the | fatherless and the widow: and the ways of sinners He will destroy. The Lord shall reign forever: thy God, O Sion, ‘unto generation and generation. (Ps. cxlv. 3-10.) All these things have I considered in my heart, that I might carefully understand them: there are just men and wise men, and their works are in the hand of God: -and yet man knoweth not whether he be worthy of love, or hatred. (Eccles. tx. 1.) Hope Relies on God Alone (D, children, behold the generations of men: and know ye that no one hath hoped in the Lord, and hath been confounded. (Ecclus. tv. 11.) J have lifted up my eyes to the mountains, from whence help shall come to me. My help is from the Lord, Who made heaven and earth. (Ps. cxx. 1, 2.) It is good for me to adhere to my God, to put my hope in the Lord God. (Ps. Ixxii. 28.) 516 MEDITATIONS AND REFLECTIONS Trust in the Lord, and do good, and dwell in the Iand and thou shalt be fed with its riches. (Ps. XXXVI. 3.) With that all the assembly cried out with a Joud voice, and they blessed God, Who saveth them that trust in Him. (Dan. xiii. 60.) Wherein God, meaning more abundantly to shew to the heirs of the promise the immutability of His counsel, in- terposed an oath: That by two immutable things, in which it is impossible for God to lie, we may have the strongest comfort, who have fled for refuge to hold fast the hope set before us. Which we have as an anchor of the soul, sure and firm, and which entereth in even within the veil; Where the forerunner Jesus is entered for us, made a high priest forever according to the order of Mel- chisedech. (Heb. vi. 17-20.) Rejoicing in hope. - Patient in tribulation. Instant in prayer. (Rom. xi. 12.) For the grace of God our Saviour hath appeared to all men; Instructing us, that, denymg ungodliness and world- ly desires, we should live soberly, and justly, and godly m this world, Looking for the blessed hope and coming of the glory of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ. Who gave himself for us, that He might redeem us from all iniquity, and might cleanse to Himself a people accepta- ble, a pursuer of good works. (Titus il. TI--14.) Advantages of Hope (D: are saved by hope. But hope that is seen, is not hope. For what a man seeth, why doth he hope for? But if we hope for that which we see not, we wait for it with patience. (Rom. vill. 24, 25.) Why art thou cast down, O my soul? and why dost thou disquiet me? Hope thou in God, for I will still give praise to Him: the salvation of my countenance, and my God: 2(Psvali12) Or doth he say this indeed for our sakes? For thes« things are written for our sakes: that he that plougheth should plough in hope; and he that thrasheth, in hops to receive fruit. (1 Cor. ix. 1¢.) MEDITATIONS AND REFLECTIONS 517 For though I should walk in the midst of the shadow of eath, I will fear no evils, for Thou art with me. (Ps. ii. 4.) The Lord taketh pleasure in them that fear Him: and in them that hope in His mercy. (Ps. cxlvi. 11.) The Lord is good to them that hope in Him, to the soul that seeketh Him. It is good to wait with silence for the salvation of God. (Lam. iii. 25, 26.) Necessity of Hope B: YOU humbled, therefore, under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in the time of visitation: Cast- ing all your care upon Him, for He hath care of you. (1 Peter v. 6, 7.) Expect the Lord, do manfully, and let thy heart take courage, and wait thou for the Lord. (Ps. XXVI. 14.) CHARITY The Greatness of Charity ome Pharisees hearing that He had silenced the Sadducees, came together: And one of them, a doctor of the law, asked him, tempting Him: Master, which is the great commandment in the law? Jesus said to him: Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with thy whole heart, and with thy whole soul, and with thy whole mind. This is the great- est and the first commandment. And the second is like to this: Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself. On these two | commandments dependeth the whole law and the prophets. | (Matt. xxii. 34-40.) | Put me as a seal upon thy heart, as a seal upon thy arm, for love is strong as death, jealousy as hard as hell, | the lamps thereof are fire and flames. Many waters can- | not quench charity, neither can the floods drown it: If a man should give all the substance of his house for love, he shall despise it as nothing. (Cant. viit. 6, 7.) 518 MEDITATIONS AND REFLECTIONS Hatred stirreth up strifes: and charity covereth all sins. (Prov. x. 12.) If I speak with the tongues of men, and of angels, and have not charity, I am become as sounding brass, or a iinkling cymbal. And if I should have prophecy and should know all mysteries, and all knowledge, and if I should have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, and have not charity, I am nothing. And if I should dis- tribute all my goods to feed the poor, and if I should deliver my body to be burned, and have not charity, it profiteth me nothing. Charity is patient, is kind: charity envieth not, dealeth not perversely; is not puffed up; Is not am- bitious, seeketh not her own, is not provoked to anger, thinketh no evil; Rejoiceth not in iniquity, but rejoiceth © with the truth; Beareth all things, believeth all things, | hopeth all things, endureth all things. Charity never falleth away: whether prophecies shall be made void, or tongues shall cease, or knowledge shall be destroyed. For we know in part, and we prophesy in part. But when that which is perfect is come, that which Is in part shall be done > away. When I was a child, I spoke as a child, I under- stood as a child, I thought asa child. But, when I became a man, I put away’ the things of a child. We see now through a glass in a dark manner; but then face to face. Now I know in part; but then I shall know even as I am known. And now there remain faith, hope, and charity, these three: but the greatest of these is charity. (1 Cor. xili. 1-13.) : And this I pray, that your charity may more and more abound in knowledge, and in all understanding. (Philipp. i. 9.) The Love of God ND: THAT loveth father or mother more than Me, is not worthy of Me; and he that loveth son or daughter more than Me, is not worthy of Me. (Matt. x. 37-) He that hath My commandments, and keepeth them; he it is that loveth Me. And he that Ioveth Me, shall be loved of My Father: and I will love him, and will manifest MEDITATIONS AND REFLECTIONS 519 Myself to him. Judas saith to him, not the Iscariot: Lord, how is it, that Thou wilt manifest Thyself to us, and not to the world? Jesus answered, and said to him: If any one love Me, he will keep My word, and My Father will love him, and We will come to him and will make Our abode with him. He that loveth Me not, keepeth not My words. And the word which you have heard, is not mine; but the Father’s who sent Me. (Jobn xiv. 21-24.) This is now the third time that Jesus was manifested to His disciples, after He was risen from the dead. When therefore they had dined, Jesus saith to Simon Peter: Simon, son of John, Iovest thou Me more than these? He saith to him: Yea, Lord, Thou knowest that I love Thee. He saith to him: Feed My Iambs. He saith to him again: Simon, son of John, lovest Thou Me? He saith to Him: Yea, Lord, Thou knowest that I love Thee. He saith to ‘him: Feed My lambs. He said to him the third time: ‘Simon, son of John, lovest thou Me? Peter was grieved, because He had said to him the third time: Lovest thou Me? And he said to Him: Lord, Thou knowest all things: ‘Thou knowest that I love Thee. He said to him: Feed My sheep. (Jobn xxi. 14-17.) And as we tarried there for some days, there came from Judea a certain prophet, named Agabus. Who, when he was come to us, took Paul’s girdle: and binding his own feet and hands, he said: Thus saith the Holy Ghost: The man whose girdle this is, the Jews shall bind in this manner lin Jerusalem, and shall deliver him into the hands of the Gentiles. Which when we had heard, both we and they that were of that place, desired him that he would not go up to Jerusalem. Then Paul answered, and said: What do you mean weeping and afflicting my heart? For I am ready not only to be bound, but to die also in Jerusalem, for the name of the Lord Jesus. (Acts xxi. 10-13.) Who then shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation? or distress? or famine? or nakedness? or danger? or persecution? or the sword? As it Is written: For Thy sake we are put to death allthe day long. Weare accounted as sheep for the slaughter. But in all these things we overcome, because of Him that hath loved us. For I 520 MEDITATIONS AND REFLECTIONS am sure that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor prin- cipalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor thmgs to come, nor might, nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shali be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord. (Rom. viti. 35- 39.) If any man love not our Lord Jesus Christ, let him be anathema. (1 Cor. xvi. 22.) Zeal L KNOW thy works, that thou art neither cold, nor hot. I would thou wert cold, or hot. But because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold, nor hot, I will begin to vomit thee out of My mouth. Because thou sayest: I am rich, and made wealthy, and have need of nothing: and knowest not, that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked. I counsel thee to buy of Me gold fire-tried, that thou mayest be made rich; and mayest be clothed in white garments, and that the shame of thy nakedness may not appear; and anoint thy eyes with eye-salve, that thou mayest see. Such as I love, I rebuke and chastise. Be zealous therefore, and do penance. (Apoc. tli. 15-19.) Even as a man going into a far country, called his servants, and delivered to them his goods. And to one he gave five talents, and to another two, and to another: one, to every one according to his proper ability: and im-. mediately he took his journey. And he that had received the five talents, went his way, and traded with the same, and gained other five. And in like manner he that had received the two, gained other two. But he that had re- ceived the one, going his way digged mto the earth, and’ hid his lord’s money. But after a Jong time the lord of those servants came, and reckoned with them. And he that had received the five talents coming, brought other five talents, saying: Lord, thou didst deliver to me five talents, behold I have gained other five over and above. His lord said to him: Well done, good and faithful servant, because thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will MEDITATIONS AND REFLECTIONS 521i place thee over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy Iord. And he also that had received the two talents came and said: Lord, thou deliveredst two talents to me: behold I have gained other two, His lord said to him: Well done, good and faithful servant: because thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will place thee over many {things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord. (Matt. xxv. 14-23.) And we desire that every one of you show forth the same carefulness to the accomplishing of hope unto the end: That you become not slothful, but followers of them, who through faith and patience shall inherit the promises. (Heb. vi. 11, 12.) I remembered, O Lord, Thy judgments of old: and I wascomforted. A fainting hath taken hold of me, because of the wicked that forsake Thy law. Thy justifications were the subject of my song, in the place of my pilgrimage. In the night I have remembered Thy name, O Lord: and |have kept Thy law. This happened to me: because I sought after Thy justifications. (Ps, exviil. 52-56.) | And the pasch of the Jews was at hand, and Jesus went jup to Jerusalem. And He found in the temple them that |sold oxen and sheep and doves, and the changers of money sitting. And when He had made, as it were, a scourge jof little cords, He drove them all out of the temple, the |sheep also and the oxen, and the money of the changers He |poured out, and the tables He overthrew. And to them |that sold doves He said: Take these things hence, and |make not the house of My Father a house of traffic. And His disciples remembered, that it was written: The zeal of Thy house hath eaten Me up. (Jobn ii. 13-17.) | And when Elias heard it, he covered his face with his man~ | tle, and coming forth stood in the entering-in of the cave, and behold a voice unto him, saying: What dost thou here, Elias? And he answered: With zeal have I been zealous for the Lord God of hosts: because the children of Israel have forsaken Thy covenant: they have destroyed Thy | altars, they have slain Thy prophets with the sword, and I alone am left, and they seek my life to take it away. (3 Kings xix. 13, 14.) 4 f C 522 MEDITATIONS AND REFLECTIONS They are zealous in your regard not well: but they would exclude you, that you might be zealous for them. But be zealous for that which is good in a good thing always: and not only when I am present with you. (Gal. iv. 17, 18.) And who is he that can hurt you, if you be zealous of good? (1 Peter iii. 13.) Brotherly Love AL; the Father hath loved Me, I also have loved you. Abide in My Jove. If you keep My commandments, you shall abide in My love; as I also have kept My Father’s commandments, and do abide in His Jove. These things I have spoken to you, that My joy may be in you, and your joy may be filled. This is My commandment, that you love one another, as I have loved you. Greater love than this no man hath, that a man lay down his life for his friends. You are My friends, if you do the things that I command you. (Jobn xv. 9-14.) Little children, yet a little while I am with you. You shall seek Me; and as I said to the Jews: Whither I go you cannot come; so I say to you now. A new command- ment I give unto you: That you love one another, as I have loved you, that you also love one another. By this shall all men know that you are My disciples, if you have love one for another. (Jobn xiii. 33-35.) Dearly beloved, Iet us love one another, for charity is of God. And every one that Ioveth, is born of God, and’ knoweth God. He that Joveth not, knoweth not God: for God is charity. By this hath the charity of God appeared toward us, because God hath sent His only- begotten Son into the world, that we may live by Him. In this is charity: not as though we had loved God, but because He hath first loved us, and sent His Son to be a propitiation for our sins. My dearest, if God hath sc foved us; we also ought to love one another. No man hath seen God at any time. If we love one another, God abidett in us, and His charity is perfected in us. In this we know that we abide in Him. and He in us: because He hath MEDITATIONS AND REFLECTIONS 523 given us of His spirit. And we have seen, and do testify, that the Father hath sent His Son to be the Saviour of the world. Whosoever shall confess that Jesus is the Son of God, God abideth in Him, and he in God. And we have known, and have believed the charity, which God hath to us. God is charity: and he that abideth in charity, abideth in God, and God in him. (1 Jobn iv. 7-16.) In this is the charity of God perfected with us, that we may have confidence in the Day of Judgment: because as He is, we also are in this world. Fear is not in charity: but perfect charity casteth out fear, because fear hath pain. And he that feareth, is not perfected in charity. Let us therefore love God, because God first hath loved us. If any man say, I love God, and hateth his brother; he is a liar. For he that loveth not his brother, whom he seeth, how can he love God, Whom he seeth not? And this com- mandment we have from God, that he, who Ioveth God. love also his brother. (1 Jobn iv. 17-21.) For you, brethren, have been called unto liberty: only make not liberty an occasion to the flesh, but by charity of the spirit serve one another. For all the Jaw is fulfilled in one word: Thou shalt Jove thy neighbor as thyself. But if you bite and devour one another; take heed you be not consumed one of another. (Gal. v. 13-15.) Owe no man anything, but to love one another. For he that Ioveth his neighbor, hath fulfilled the Jaw. For thou shalt not commit adultery, thou shalt not kill, thou shalt not steal, thou shalt not bear false witness, thou shalt not covet: and if there be any other com- ‘mandment, it is comprised in this word, thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself. The love of our neighbor worketh no evil. Love, therefore, is the fulfilling of the Jaw. (Rom. xiii. 8-10.) We know that we have passed from death to life, because we love the brethren. He that loveth not, abideth in death. Whosoever hateth his. brother is a murderer. And you know that no murderer hath eternal life abiding in himself. In this we have known the charity of God, because He hath laid down His life for us: and we ought to lay down our lives for the brethren. (1 Jobn iii. 14-16.) 524 MEDITATIONS AND REFLECTIONS Be ye therefore followers of God, as most dear children; And walk in love, as Christ also hath loved us, and hath delivered Himself for us, an oblation and a sacrifice to God for an odor of sweetness. (Epb. v. 1, 2.) Peace Bor I say to you that hear: Love your enemies, do | good to them that hate you. Bless them that curse you, — and pray for them that calumniate you. And to him that striketh thee on the one cheek, offer also the other. And him that taketh away from thee thy cloak, forbid not to take thy coat also. Give to every one that asketh thee, and of him that taketh away thy goods, ask them not again. And as you would that men should do to you, do you also to them in like manner. And if you love them that love you, what thanks are to you? for sinners also love those that love them. And if you do good to them who do good to you, what thanks are to you? for sinners also do this. And if you lend to them of whom you hope to receive, what thanks are to you? for sinners also Iend to sinners, for to receive as much. But love ye your enemies: do good and lend, hoping for nothing thereby: and your reward shall be great, and you shall be the sons of the Highest; for He is kind to the unthankful, and to the evil. Be ye there- fore merciful, as your Father also is merciful. Judge not, and you shall not be judged. Condemn not, and you shall | not be condemned. Forgive, and you shall be forgiven. Give, and it shall be given to you: good measure and pressed down and shaken together and running over shall they give into your bosom. For with the same measure that you shall mete withal, it shall be measured to you again. And he spoke also to them a similitude: Can the blind Iead the blind? do they not both fall into the ditch? The disciple is not above his master: but every one shall be perfect, if he be as his master. And why seest thou the mote in thy brother’s eye: but the beam that is in thy own eye thou considerest not? Or how canst thou say to thy brother: Brother, Iet me pull the mote out of thy eye, when thou thyself seest not the beam in thy own eye? MEDITATIONS AND REFLECTIONS 525 ypocrite, cast first the beam out of thy own eye; and hen shalt thou see clearly to take out the mote from thy prother’s eye. (Luke vi. 27-42.) And not for them [the disciples] only do I pray, but or them also who through their word shall believe in Me; Chat they all may be one, as Thou, Father, in Me, and I n Thee; that they also may be one in Us; that the world ay believe that Thou hast sent Me. And the glory hich Thou hast given Me, I have given to them; that hey may be one, as We also are one: J in them, and Thou n Me; that they may be made perfect in one: and the vorld may know that Thou hast sent Me, and hast loved them, as Thou hast also loved Me. (Jobn xvii. 20-23.) _ For I tell you, that unless your justice abound more than hat of the Scribes and Pharisees, you shall not enter into she kingdom of heaven. You have heard that it was said -o them of old: thou shalt not kill, and whosoever shall