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MANUAL OF THE SODALITY
BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
WITH OFFICES, PRAYERS, DEVOTIONS AND
HYMNS FOR THE USE OF SODALITIES
COMPILED FROM AUTHENTIC SOURCES
%
PERMISSU SUPERIORUM
APOSTLESHIP OF PRAYER
801 West 181st St.
NEW YORK
IMPRIMATUR
MICHAEL AUGUSTINE
Archbishop of New York
March 27, 1897
COPYRIGHT, 1897
BY APOSTLESHIP OF PRAYER
PREFACE.
The SODALITY MANUAL is intended to supply
the Directors and members of the Sodality of
the Blessed Virgin with a reliable handbook
and complete book of devotions in one.
The First Part, which treats of the Sodality,
its Statutes and Rules, is taken from authentic
sources. The Rules of the Prima Primaria as
here contained, are framed according to the
Apostolic Constitutions of the Popes, and have
been at various times approved by the Father
General of the Society of Jesus, who is also
Director General of the Sodality.
The Second Part contains the Offices, cus
tomary to be recited by the Sodality — The
Little Office of the Blessed Virgin, The Little
Office of the Immaculate Conception, and The
Office of the Dead. To economize space we
have been obliged to give only one Nocturn at
Matins, and to omit the Proper for Advent in
the Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary.
The Latin text and the English translation of
the Offices will be found on opposite pages.
iii
In the Third Part we have compiled a col
lection of daily and occasional devotions, with
the Ordinary of the Mass, and special devo
tions to the chief Patrons of the Sodality.
This part forms a complete prayer book in
itself. Prayers and devotions that are enriched
with Indulgences have been chosen in prefer
ence.
A small collection of liymns to the Blessed
Virgin for the use of the Sodality completes
the MANUAL. The alphabetical index at the
end of the book will greatly facilitate its use.
May this little offering contribute much to
the glory and honor of the Queen of Heaven,
and to the growth and prosperity of her
Sodalities !
CONTENTS.
PART I.
INTRODUCTION
Origin and History of the Sodality 1
Object of the Sodality 3
Practices of the Sodality 3
Benefits of the Sodality 8
Principal Indulgences 9
Erection and Aggregation 11
Direction of the Sodality 12
Useful Hints 14
CHAPTER I.
COMMON RULES OF THE SODALITIES OF OUR LADY.
Decree of Approbation 17
Art. 1. End and Nature of the Sodality of Our
Lady 18
Art. 2. Exercises in common 19
Art. 3. Sections and Academies 21
Art. 4. Government 22
Art. 5. Admission and Dismissal 24
Act of Consecration of St. John Berchmans 20
Act of Consecration of St. Francis de Sales 26
Formula of Admission 20
v
CONTENTS
Certificate of Membership , 27
Art. 6. Duties common to all the Socialist^ 28
Art. 7. The Officers of the Council 31
Art. 8. Minor Officers 34
Art. 9. Intercommunication of Sodalities 35
Art. 10. Local Rules... , 36
CHAPTER II.
THE SOLEMN RECEPTION OF NEW MEMBERS 36
Synopsis of the Ceremonial of Reception 36
CHAPTER III.
CEREMONY OF SOLEMN RECEPTION 37
Veni Creator 37
The Blessing of Medals 39
The Ceremony of Reception of New Members. ... 40
Act of Consecration 43
Investiture of Members with the Medal 43
CHAPTER IV.
ORDER OF EXERCISES AT REGULAR MEETINGS 44
CHAPTER V.
PRAYERS FOR REGULAR OR OCCASIONAL MEETINGS 45
Invocation of the Holy Ghost 43
The Litany of Loretto 45
Salrc Regina .' 48
CONTENTS vii
Memorare 49
Prayer of St. Aloysius 50
Prayer for the Sodality 50
Prayer for a Sick Member 51
Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament 51
O Salutaris 51
Tantum ergo 52
The Divine Praises 53
PART II.
OFFICES USUALLY RECITED BY THE SODALITY.
Prayer Before the Recitation of the Office 56
Prayer After the Recitation of the Office 56
THE LITTLE OFFICE OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY.
Matins 58
Lauds 82
Vespers Ig4
Complin 120
Antiphons of the Blessed Virgin 128
THE LITTLE OFFICE OF THE IMMACULATE CONCEPTION.
At Matins 138
At Prime 142
At Tierce 144
At Sext 14f,
At None 148
At Vespers 148
At Complin 150
The Commendation . . . 152"
viii CONTENTS
THE OFFICE OF THE DEAD.
Vespers 156
Matins 174
Lauds 192
PART III.
DAILY AND OCCASIONAL PRAYERS AND DEVOTIONS.
Morning Prayer 210
The Morning Offering 210
Memorare 214
Angelus 215
Indulgenced Aspirations 216
Night Prayers 217
The Acts 221
Ordinary of the Mass 223
Visit to the Blessed Sacrament 247
Prayers for Confession 250
Prayers before Confession 250
Prayers after Confession 252
. Devotions for Holy Communion 255
Prayer before Communion 255
Aspirations after Communion 257
Prayer of St. Thomas Aquinas 259
Anima Christi 260
Indulgenced Prayer 261
Litany of the Holy Name of Jesus 262
The Stations of the Cross 265
Devotion of the Holy Rosary 276
The Mysteries of the Rosary 277
DEVOTIONS TO SOME PATRONS OF THE SODALITY.
Devotion to the Holy Angels 278
Litany of the Guardian Angel 278
Devotion to St. Joseph 280
Prayer for a Happy Death 281
CONTENTS ix
Devotion to St. Anne 282
Devotion to St. Ignatius Loyola 283
Devotion to St. Francis Xavier 284
The Novena of Grace 284
Devotion to St. Aloysius 286
The Six Sundays 286
Prayer for the Good Choice of a State of Life 289
Devotion to St. Stanislas Kostka 289
Prayer for Purity 289
Prayer for Charity 290
Prayer for a Happy Death 290
Devotion to St. John Berchmans 291
Devotion to St. Agnes 292
Devotion to St. Agatha 293
Devotion to St. Lucy 294
Devotion to St. Rose of Lima 295
HYMNS.
What Mortal Tongue 297
Daily, Daily Sing to Mary 298
Hail, Bright Star of Ocean 299
.Immaculate ! Immaculate ! 300
Star of Jacob, Ever Beaming 301
O Mary Blest 302
Mother of God, My Life, My Hope 303
Hail, Queen of Heaven, the Ocean's Star 304
O Mother Blest, Whom God Bestows 305
Daughter of God the Father 306
Look Down, O Mother Mary ! 307
Hail, Holy Queen, Enthron'd Above 308
O Mary, My Mother, Most Lovely, Most Mild. . . 310
O Sanctissima 311
Hail ! Virgin, Dearest Mary 312
On This Day 313
Crowning Hymn 314
x CONTENTS
Glorious Mother 315
Adeste Fideles 316
To Jesus' Heart 317
Corpus Christ! 318
Communion Hymns % 319
Holy Communion 320
O Faithful Cross 321
Oh, Come and Mourn 322
Saint Joseph 323
St. Aloysius 324
Holy God, We Praise Thy Name 325
INDEX . 326
MANUAL OF
THE SODALITY OF THE j* ^
^ ^ BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
PART I.
A.— INTRODUCTION.
I.— Origin and History of the Sodality.
The Sodality of the Blessed Virgin, as it is
now organized, was instituted in 1563, in the
Roman College, by a young Belgian scholastic,
John Leon (Leunis), who used to assemble
his most fervent pupils after class hours and
on Sundays and holidays, to practise some
simple devotions in honor of our Lady.
This pious custom already existed in several
other colleges of the Society of Jesus. The
true originator of it was a Sicilian scholastic,
Sebastian Cabarrasi, from whom young Leon
had learned this holy practice, while they were
both teaching in the Jesuit College at Syra
cuse, in Sicily. The devotion was soon taken
up by other classes in the Roman College, un
til it became general ; then other colleges fol
lowed, and in a short time it had spread abroad
so widely that the General of the Society,
(0
2 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
Father Claudius Acquaviva, thought it im
portant enough to call for regular organization
and the sanction of the Church.
To the petition of Father Acquaviva Pope
Gregory XIII., in 1584, acceded in the Bull
Omnipotentis Dei, which placed the seal of the
Church's formal sanction on the undertaking,
by erecting the Roman Sodality as a Primary
Congregation, with the title Prima Primaria.
The Bull proclaimed the Indulgences granted
to the members of the Sodality and gave to the
Father General of the Society of Jesus the
power to erect like Sodalities everywhere and
to aggregate or affiliate them to the Prima
Primaria, by which aggregation they became
sharers in all its privileges and Indulgences.
Many other Popes have confirmed and en
larged these privileges and added new Indul
gences. The most remarkable of these Pon
tifical utterances is the Bull Gloriosce Domince,
known as the Golden Bull (B'ulla Aurea),
issued September 27, 1748, by Pope Benedict
XIV. Within a small compass seldom has a
more glorious panegyric been uttered on the
Blessed Mother of God, or stronger encourage
ment been given to join the Sodality of the
Blessed Virgin, which, in the words of the
great Pontiff, has wrought good untold in all
orders and ranks of men.
In our own days, Popes Gregory XVI., Pius
OBJECT Z
IX., and Leo XIII., have ratified all the privi
leges granted by their predecessors, and en
riched the Sodality with new Indulgences.
Thus approved and encouraged by the Church,
the Sodality is known everywhere in the Cath
olic world and everywhere bears fruit worthy
of its Immaculate Queen and Patroness.
The following Popes were themselves active
members of Our Lady's Sodality: Gregory
XV., Urban VIII., Alexander VII., Clement
IX., Clement X., Innocent XL, Benedict XIV.,
Pius IX., Leo XIII.
II.— Object of the Sodality.
The chief aim of the Sodality is to foster in
the hearts of the members a more than ordinary
devotion to our Blessed Lady, in order that,
helped by her special protection, they may
lead a pure Christian life and prepare them
selves to die a happy death.
Pope Benedict XIV. said of the Sodality:
"Christian youth everywhere, intent on honor
ing and serving the blessed Mother of God,
under her guidance who is the 'Mother of fair
love and of knowledge and holy fear,' is taught
to strive after the height of Christian perfec
tion and to press forward to the goal of eternal
salvation.'
III.— Practices of the Sodality.
On a day and at an hour appointed the mem-
4 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
bers hold their regular meetings. The usual
practice of the Sodality, at its regular meet
ings, is to recite the Office of the Blessed
Virgin, or the Little Office of the Immaculate
Conception, if this is more convenient. In
case of necessity, other prayers, hymns and
devotions may be substituted.
The Director, or some one appointed by
him, should always give an instruction at these
meetings on some topic connected with our
Lady, or, if it be evidently more profitable at
times, on some other kindred topic.
Regularity in the holding of the meetings
has much, if not everything to do with the suc
cess of the good work, and the regular instruc
tion gives the Director an opportunity of doing
much good to the members. A vast amount of
instruction can be conveyed in a year when
the work is not allowed to become desultory.
In the true spirit of the Sodality, the mem
bers should frequently receive Holy Com
munion — if possible, all together — especially on
feasts of the Blessed Virgin : they should prac
tise the devotion of the Six Sundays of St.
Aloysius, and it is advisable that they devote
some days every year to the spiritual exercises
of a Retreat.
The good works recommended are not obli
gatory, but all or any of them may be done
with great profit:
PRACTICES 5
(a) Every day, to begin the day by some
special prayers to their heavenly Patroness. In
the Prima Primaria three Hail Marys are
customary, morning and night.
To be present, if possible, at the holy Sacri
fice of the Mass. To give some time to pious
meditation or to spiritual reading. To recite
at least in part, the Rosary or the Office of tht
Blessed Virgin. To make an examination of
conscience before going to rest.
(£) Once a month, at the very least, to re
ceive the sacraments of Penance and the Holy
Eucharist.
(c} Once or twice a year, to make a general
confession ; that is, a review since the last one
made.
(d} At the death of a member of the
Sodality, to accompany the body to the grave
and fervently commend the soul to God.
(e~) At all times, to be earnest in furthering
the interests of the Church and of religion ; to
strive, by example as well as by words, to lead
back to the way of salvation those Who have
strayed from the faith or from the practice of
virtue; to promote works of mercy, especially
towards members of the Sodality in time of
sickness ; to aim not only at acquiring ordinary
Christian virtue, but at excelling in piety,
purity, humility, modesty, diligence and fidelity
in the duties of one's state of life.
6 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
It is a special privilege of the members that
they can second the efforts of the Church to
counteract the spirit of religious indifference,
so common in our age, by keeping the prac
tices which have distinguished the Sodality
where its purposes have been fully carried out.
In the history of the Sodality we find that
its members have been the apostles of all good
works, especially among men and boys. They
should promote such undertakings, for example,
as the Apostleship of Prayer, the Communion
of Reparation, the Adoration of the Blessed
Sacrament, the recitation of the Rosary, and
the attendance at Retreats and Missions, such
Catholic works as the Propagation of the
Faith, the Holy Childhood, Catholic cir
culating libraries. They should be eager to
encourage and help Catholic schools, to teach
catechism to the poor and to abandoned chil
dren, help in the work of Sunday-schools, pro
mote parochial and diocesan interests by lend
ing their influence and their active co-opera
tion to the ecclesiastical authorities.
The practical charity exercised in visiting
the poor and the sick, both in their homes and
in hospitals, will be a great safeguard for all,
and, in particular, for young men, and even
for men of mature age, against the seductions
of vice and the dangers of idleness.
A true Sodalist will always be an apostle of
PRACTICES 7
charity in aiding the needy to find employ
ment, in helping to form associations that will
save boys and girls, young men and young
women, from being led into error and vice — in
a word, by striving in every way, by word, by
influence, and by example, to check the spread
of religious indifference, to discourage the
reading of dangerous publications, to thwart
the cunning tactics of secret societies, which
are apt to deceive the unwary by their specious
pretexts of mutual help. Wherever its mem
bers have been true to those duties which are
embraced in its general aim and purpose, the
Sodality has been found to be a real power for
the defence of the Church and of Christian
society.
Two things are painfully clear not only to
priests actively engaged in the sacred ministry,
but also to every practical Catholic layman.
Now that the masses are either being estranged
from the Church by indifference or irreligion,
or kept from its services by the endless toil im
posed upon them by unscrupulous masters, the
Church must seek them out and go to minister
to them in their workshops and meeting places.
This can be best done by Sodalities in which
the more favored children of the Church will
unite to act as the agents of her priests, who
cannot possibly reach all. Again, the social
istic tendencies of our age must be conter-
8 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
acted, or at least directed to seek the welfare,
instead of the ruin, of human society. The
Sodality, uniting men as it does, to influence
one another for good, and that under the pat
ronage of our Blessed Mother, is a most effec
tual means of doing this.
IV.— Benefits of the Sodality.
Besides the mutual help of good example, of
counsel and exhortation, and the general in
fluence of the pious practices of the Sodality,
Pope Benedict XIV. points out the great ad
vantage of the particular protection of our
Lady, which is most liberally granted to those
who make special profession of devotion to her.
St. Alphonsus Liguori says that, in the
course of their missions, he and his com
panions had much experience of the benefits
of the Sodality. "Generally speaking," he
says, "we find more sins in one man who
does not belong to the Sodality than in
twenty who are members of it." And again:
"Mary will protect her Sodalists, in life and
in death, as her devoted servants and her
beloved children. . . . The Sodality pro
duces such admirable results and blessed fruit
because its members are provided in it with so
many effective weapons against the assaults of
the enemy."
PRINCIPAL INDULGENCES 9
"\Ye may apply to the Sodality," wrote
Father Stephen Binet, S J., "what St. Bernard
said of the religious life. In it:
1. "Men lead a purer life.
2. "They fall into sin less often.
3. "If they do fall, the fall is less serious.
4. "They rise again more easily.
5. "They walk more cautiously.
6. "They enjoy more tranquil rest.
7. "Their souls are more abundantly wat
ered with the dews of grace and the favors of
heaven.
8. "They make satisfaction to God, and
avoid purgatory more easily.
9 "They die with more confidence and
resignation.
10. "They are more gloriously crowned in
heaven."
"This," he says, "is the decalogue of our
Lady's Sodality; these are the ten great privi
leges she grants to all those who practise faith
fully what they promise when they are enrolled
in the Sodality."
V.— Principal Indulgences.
(For Sodalities affiliated to the Roman Prima
Primaria:)
1. PLENARY. 1. On the day of admission.
2. At the hour of death.
10 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
3. On the feasts of Christmas and the
Ascension; the Immaculate Conception, Nativ
ity, Annunciation, Purification, and Assump
tion of the Blessed Virgin.
4. Once a week on any day they choose for
Communion provided they have attended a So
dality meeting within the week.
5. Once or twice a year, on making a gen
eral confession or review.
6. The Indulgences of the Stations at Rome,
on condition of a visit to the church and
there saying the Our Father and Hail Mary
seven times.
II. PARTIAL. 1. Seven years and seven quar
antines for attendance at Christian burials, and
at public or private devotions for the dead,
provided the latter devotion be approved by the
Director.
2. The same Indulgence for hearing Mass
on week-days and for the evening examination
of conscience; also for visiting the sick and
prisoners and reconciling enemies.
III. A Plenary Indulgence to all, even if not
members of the Sodality, who visit a church
or chapel of the Sodality, on the Feast of the
Annunciation, or of affiliated Sodalities on the
feast of their chief titles; also on the Second
ary Patron's feast or on a day appointed by the
Director, if the Sodality has no secondary
patron.
ERECTION AND AGGREGATION 11
IV. These Indulgences are applicable to the
souls in purgatory, and can be gained by the
members in any church on the usual conditions.
Moreover, the altar of the Sodality is privi
leged.
VI.— Erection and Aggregation.
I. Sodalities may be erected in any church,
chapel, college, school, seminary, or other in
stitution. Even in the same place several
Sodalities may be erected for different classes
of persons.
II. When a Sodality is to be canonically
erected and aggregated to the Roman Prima
Primaria, the canonical erection may be ob
tained from the Ordinary and then application
for the aggregation is made to the Father Gen
eral of the Society of Jesus. Or, with the con
sent of the Ordinary, both canonical erection
and aggregation may be obtained from the
Father General, and they are effected by one
and the same diploma. In either case, the con
sent of the Ordinary must be had, and, if pos
sible, should be in writing.
III. The consent of the Ordinary being ob
tained, application is to be made to a Provincial
of the Society of Jesus. Those who make ap
plication should specify the following items :
1. Class of persons: for example, students,
men, women, young men, young women.
12 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
2. Chief title of Sodality, which must be
some feast or mystery of the Blessed Virgin:
as the Immaculate Conception, Annunciation.
3. Secondary Patron: as St. Aloysius, St.
Agnes.
4. Name of church or chapel.
5. Name of city or town, and state.
6. Name of diocese.
7. Name of Director appointed by the Ordi
nary.
8. Whether the Sodality has any special
statutes; and if so, whether they have been
approved by the Ordinary, and what they are.
9. The date of the approbation, or of the
erection and approbation, by the Ordinary.
There will always be some unavoidable delay
before the diploma can be forwarded to the ap
plicant, as in each case, the aggregation must
be obtained from the Father General of the So
ciety of Jesus before a diploma can be issued.
Instructions for erection and aggregation of
Sodalities will be sent to applicants on request
made to the nearest Provincial of the Society
of Jesus.
VII.— Direction of the Sodality.
1. (a) The Director of the Sodality must
be a priest appointed by the Ordinary. Should
the office and powers of director be entrusted
to the parish-priest, chaplain, or other official,
DIRECTION 13
according to a decree of the Congregation of
Indulgences, they devolve on his successor un
less the Ordinary makes a new appointment.
For Sodalities under priests of the Society of
Jesus the Father Provincial appoints Directors.
(&) Concerning the other officers of the
Sodality, the manner of their election, their
duties, and other particulars, full information
will be found in the Statutes and Rules.
2. Some time of probation should, generally
speaking, precede reception into the Sodality;
those who are on probation may, however, be
allowed to attend the common exercise, and
thus gain a share in the Indulgences.
3. The reception of new members should
take place, if convenient, on some feast of the
Blessed Virgin, and according to the cere
monial printed in the following pages. It
is to be noted that the formula by which the
new members are actually admitted is to be
pronounced not by the Prefect, but by the
Director who may, for a good reason, e. g., for
greater solemnity, delegate any priest in his
stead.
4. The names of the members should always
be registered, and only in very exceptional
cases can one who is absent be received.
5. It is earnestly recommended to Directors
of Sodalities: first, to procure printed diplo
mas of membership, as also to distribute a
14 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
leaflet or card containing a summary of the
Indulgences and the order of exercises at the
weekly meetings; secondly, to have a Sodality
register, to contain (a) the written approbation
of the Ordinary; (6) the act of erection, if the
Sodality is erected by the Ordinary, or a
record of the erection and aggregation; (c) the
Statutes of the Sodality; (d) the name, and
date of admission, of each member; (e) the
more important decisions of the officers and
the noteworthy events in the history of the
Sodality.
VI!!.— Useful Hints.
1. THE STARTING OF THE SODALITY. — The
first thing to be done is to apply to the Ordi
nary of the Diocese for his approval. This
approval gives the right to form a Sodality
under the patronage of the Blessed Virgin
Mary and to claim the recognition and protec
tion of the Church. If the Ordinary wishes to
erect the Sodality himself, his approval is asked
to aggregate it to the Roman Prima Primaria.
If he merely approves the project, both canoni
cal erection and aggregation may be obtained
from the Father General of the Society of
Jesus, by applying to one of the Provincials of
the Society.
2. ITS ERECTION. — The erection is nothing
more than the act of the Ordinary, or of the
USEFUL HINTS 15
Father General of the Society of Jesus with
the Ordinary's consent, giving legal existence
to the Sodality.
3. ITS AGGREGATION. — Aggregation com
municates to the Sodality the privileges and
Indulgences of the Prima Primaria, head and
mother of all the Sodalities.
4. ITS TREASURY. — Only after the aggrega
tion has been obtained can the Sodality draw
on the treasury of Indulgences granted to it by
the Holy See.
5. ITS ORGANIZATION. — As soon as possible
after its erection the Sodality should be organ
ized by the election of officers.
6. POSTULANTS. — It would be well to have
a regular reception of postulants, at the begin
ning of their probation, which should last two
or three months, at least, though this may be
left to the discretion of the Director.
7. RECEPTION OF MEMBERS. — The lawfully
appointed Director only, or a priest deputed
by him, is to receive the members, and it be
longs to him, not to the Prefect, to pronounce
the formula by which the members are actually
admitted.
8. ESSENTIALS OF RECEPTION. — (a) Except
in extraordinary cases, the person to be re
ceived must be present, (fe) He must be will
ing to enter the Sodality, (c) The Director
must be willing to receive him.
16 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
9. MEMBERSHIP. — Each member's name must
be entered on the Sodality register. It is also
customary, though not necessary, to invest the
new member with the medal of the Sodality.
10. TRANSFER CERTIFICATES. — Each Sodal
ity should keep a supply of Transfer Certifi
cates which should be given to those who leave
the Sodality on account of change of residence
or for any other good reason. This certificate
will obtain for him entrance into any other
Sodality without new probation, provided the
Sodality is composed of the same or a similar
class of persons, and has been aggregated to
the Roman Prima Primaria.
11. SUCCESS OF THE SODALITY. — The suc
cess of the Sodality will depend upon the
fidelity of the members in the observance of
its rules, upon their regularity in receiving the
Sacraments, upon the proper probation and re
ception of members, and upon the regular
holding and attendance of the meetings.
12. DIRECTION OF SODALITY. — The . Direc
tors of Sodalities will find abundant matter for
instructions and reading suitable to the Sodal
ity in the Bulls of the Popes concerning the
Sodalitv, in the lives of Saints and distin
guished Catholics who have been Sodalists, and
in the devout Catholic literature and theology
on the Blessed Virgin Man*.
FRANCIS XAVIER WERNZ
GENERAL OF THE SOCIETY OF JESUS
In virtue of authority conferred on Us by the Sover
eign Pontiff Gregory XIII in the Constitution Omnipo-
tentis Dei, dated the 5th day of December in the year
1584, and enlarged and confirmed by Sixtus V, Clement
VIII, Gregory XV, Benedict XIV, Clement XIII, Leo
XII and Leo XIII, whereby We are empowered to make
Rules for Sodalities of Our Lady and, as circumstances
and times demand, to change, correct and reform the
same, We approve anew and sanction the following Rules,
which, gathered from the Common Rules drawn up by
Our Predecessors Father Acquaviva in the year 1587
and Father Beckx in the year 1855, were laid down by
Our Predecessor Father Martin in the year 1905; and
now brought into accurate harmony with the new De
crees of the Holy See and present conditions, have been
revised by Us: and, leaving intact the approbation
granted or to be granted by the Father General to Rules
for a certain class of persons or a particular country,
We declare and decree these to be the Common Rules
for the use of all Sodalities of Our Lady erected in
Houses or Churches of the Society of Jesus.
In testimony whereof We have ordered these letters,
signed by Our hand, to be sealed with the seal of Our
Society.
Done at Rome, on the Feast of Our Lady Immaculate,
the 8th day of December of the year 1910.
FRANCIS XAVIER WERNZ,
General of the Society of Jesus.
(17)
COMMON RULES
OF THE
SODALITIES OF OUR LADY
ERECTED IN HOUSES AND CHURCHES
OF THE
SOCIETY OF JESUS1
ARTICLE 1
End and Nature of the Sodality of Our Lady
1. The Sodality of Our Lady, an association founded
by the Society of Jesus and approved by the Holy See,
is a religious body which aims at fostering in its mem
bers an ardent devotion, reverence and filial love towards
the Blessed Virgin Mary. Through this devotion and
with the protection of so good a Mother, it seeks to
make the faithful gathered together under her name good
Catholics, sincerely bent on sanctifying themselves each
in his state of life and zealous, as far as their condition
in life permits, to save and sanctify their neighbor and
to defend the Church of Jesus Christ against the attacks
of the wicked.
2. According to Apostolic Constitutions, the power to
erect Sodalities of Our Lady in Jesuit Houses and
Churches, to aggregate them to the Roman Prima-Pri-
1 The following Common Rules bind, of themselves,
onlv the Sodalities which exist in Jesuit Houses or
Churches. However, the nature and aim, the manner
of proceeding and the practices of the Sodalitv are ex
cellently shown in them, so that they may well serve as
a mirror for all Sodalities, even outside of Jesuit Houses
and Churches. Besides, with a few changes in Rules 2,
15, 16, 17 and 69 — as will be seen in the foot-notes — they
can be proposed to the Ordinary for his approval.
(18)
COMMON RULES 19
maria and to communicate to them the Indulgences and
Privileges granted it by the Sovereign Pontiffs, belongs
exclusively to the General or Vicar General of the So
ciety of Jesus.1
3. The Blessed Virgin Mary is the principal Patroness
of these Sodalities, as their common name indicates.
Hence she must be acknowledged by them all as Primary
Patroness, each one taking for title one of her mysteries
or appellations. They may, however, if they wish, add
to this Primary Title that of some Secondary Patron.
4. The Sodality of Our Lady has been established for
all the faithful. But its form of organization is best
kept and its ends are most efficaciously reached if sep
arate Sodalities are established for separate classes of
people differing in age, state or condition of life, so as
to form Sodalities of boys, young men, mature men,
students, working men, etc.
ARTICLE 2
Exercises in common
5. The Sodality of Our Lady should meet at least
once a week on a day and at an hour determined by its
Rules or particular customs. Unless some special reason
to the contrary exists, the regular meeting of the So
dality should take place on Sunday, and it is even better
that it take place on every Holy Day of obligation with
out exception. The meeting should not be omitted on
9»
1 The power to erect Sodalities of Our Lady outside
the Houses and Churches of the Society of Jesus belongs,
by the common law of the Church, to the Ordinary of the
place (S. C. Rites, 7 Oct., 1617). But the same power
has been conferred on the Father General of the Society
of Jesus, to be exercised, however, with the consent of
the Ordinary (S. C. Indulg., 23 June, 1885). The power
to aggregate even these Sodalities to the Roman Prima-
Primaria has been conceded by the Roman Pontiffs ex
clusively to the Very Rev. Father General or Vicar
General of the Society of Jesus.
20 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
the days set without very exceptional reasons and should
not be discontinued in the summer months unless the
absence of the Members or some other cause makes it
at that time impossible.
6. The regular exercises of these meetings are usually
as follows :
Invocation of the Holy Ghost by the Hymn Veni Cre
ator;
Reading of some pious book for 10 or 15 minutes,
while the Sodalists are assembling;
Announcement, where customary, of the Saints and
the Church events for the week. These notices are
taken from a Calendar approved for common use or for
the special use of the Sodality;
Singing of Matins or Vespers of the Little Office of
Our Lady, according as the meeting occurs in the morn
ing or the evening. The recitation or singing of some
other Office of Our Lady may be substituted;
A short conference by the Father Director on subjects
touching the spiritual progress of the Sodality.
The meeting shall close with the recitation of the
Litany of LoretK), or with prayers to the Secondary
Patron, or with others determined by custom.
7. Besides these ordinary meetings, the Sodality of
Our Lady should have other religious exercises in com
mon, such as General Communions, the Spiritual Exer
cises of St. Ignatius, and the solemn celebration of the
Patronal Feasts.
8. The General Communion of the Sodality shall take
place once a month on a set day or on some solemn
feast of Our Lord or His Blessed Mother, unless there
are special reasons for some other day.
This exercise can be confined to Holy Mass with
preparation before Communion and thanksgiving after
it, the reading of the weekly notices, if customary, and
the singing of the Salve Regina or the recitation of other
short prayers in praise of Our Lady.
COMMON RULES 21
9. There shall be a Retreat every year for some days,
closing with a General Communion. The Director of
each Sodality shall, with due regard to circumstances of
importance, assign the time for the Retreat, its length
and^the order of time. It should, however, be borne in
mind that the best time is usually during Lent. Cer
tainly the most fruitful Retreat is the kind called closed,
made away from the world and one's friends. If this
can not be done, and if not even the entire day can be
given to the exercises, it is well to have the Retreat last
six days with at least two periods daily, morning and
evening or night, with Spiritual Reading, Meditation,
Conference, Holy Mass and Beads as the principal ex
ercises.
10. The Sodality every year should celebrate its titular
Feasts with some religious solemnity. To the greater
praise and glory of the Blessed Virgin, the principal Pa
troness, it would be well to have a Novena or a devout
triduum before her titular Feast. In Sodalities that
have St. Aloysius for secondary Patron, and even in
others, the Angelic Youth is usually honored by the
pious devotion of the Six Sundays.
11. Let these Feasts be made solemn and in general
let all public exercises be conducted with a display easily
within the Sodality's means and suitable to the position
in life of its Members, always avoiding empty show, as
this, instead of furthering the proper end of the So
dality, rather weakens greatly its spirit.
ARTICLE 3
Sections and Academies
12. Our Lady's Sodality aims at procuring the greatest
possible holiness for its Members and at extending to
many others their salutary influence for the good of
souls. It must, therefore, labor by various means to
foster piety in the Sodalists and lead them to practise
22 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
works of charity toward their neighbor. The chief of
these works are the teaching of Catechism, visiting the
sick in hospitals and those confined in prison — works to
which the early Sodalists devoted themselves with great
zeal — or others like these, as the circumstances of our
times may in different places require.
13. To do these works successfully, it will be well, if
the number and character of the Sodalists permit, to
form particular Sections, each with an organization and
life of its own, though always subject to the governing
authority of the Sodality.
14. It is quite in accordance with the original plan of
Sodalities of Our Lady to have in them, especially if they
are Sodalities of students, one or more Academies, for
the young to practise themselves in scientific, literary,
artistic or economic exercises, to help them on in their
studies or profession and to secure for them, under the
direction of competent persons, correct views on ques
tions connected with Catholic faith and morals.
ARTICLE 4
Government
15. Sodalities of Our Lady erected in Jesuit Houses or
Churches have the Reverend Father General or Vicar
General of the Society of Jesus as their head Superior,
according to the Constitution Ontnipotentis Dei of Gregory
XIII, confirmed and extended by other Apostolic Con
stitutions. In virtue of this authority, the Father General
has power to make and publish rules, constitutions and*
decrees for the Sodality's direction, to examine and ap
prove those made under his order by others, and to
modify, correct or recast them, whenever he thinks good.1
1 In other Houses and Churches, the Sodalities of Our
Lady depend on the Ordinary of the place as to the
approval of their rules, as to their spiritual and temporal
administration, and as to their canonical visitation.
COMMON RULES 23
16. According to the Constitution Laudabile Roman-
orum Pontificum of Benedict XIV, the particular Di
rectors appointed in Jesuit Houses or Churches by the
Father General, enjoy full power in whatever concerns
the guidance, government and administration, spiritual
and temporal, of their Sodalities. Hence, providing they
do not alter the present Common Rules, they can make
any particular rules, statutes and decrees which they
think seasonable and prudent. They can also modify and
entirely change what they have decreed, without being
obliged, in any case, to get or even to ask the opinion
or consent of the Sodalists.1
17. By express arrangement of the Very Reverend
Father General, the power to appoint Directors for So
dalities of Our Lady has been conferred on the Fathers
Provincials and Superiors of Missions. But Local Su
periors of the Society, with regard to Sodalities erected
in their Houses or Churches, have the same powers as
the Directors, and can besides, if there is good reason,
subdelegate others to take their place for a time.2
18. To assist the Father Director in the government
and conduct of the Sodality, there exists a body of So
dalists, ordinarily composed of a Prefect, two Assistants,
a Secretary, six or more Consultors, an Instructor of
Candidates and a Treasurer. These are called the Major
Officers and alone constitute the Council. When circum
stances render it advisable, the Director will appoint
Vice-Officers, a Vice-Secretary, a Vice-Instructor, a Vice-
Treasurer, or others entirely new, and can give to the
Sodalists who hold these offices the character of Major
Officers.
1 The Directors of Sodalities of Our Lady existing out
side of the Houses and Churches of the Society of Jesus
are appointed by the Ordinary of the place, and are
subject to the approved Rules in governing and adminis
tering their Sodalities.
2 The right of naming the Directors of Sodalities of
Our Lady that depend on the Ordinary of the place
belongs to the Ordinary.
24 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
19. The Minor Officers, such as Sacristans, Recorders,
Librarians and Readers, have duties that are purely ex
ecutive, though some of these are of great practical
importance. More or fewer of these offices are created
according to the Sodality's need.
20. The Director appoints the Lesser Officers. As to
members of the Council or Major Officers, in Sodalities
in which it is not customary that they too be appointed
by the Director, and in which for grave reasons it does
not seem good to introduce the practice, they are elected
by a majority vote from three proposed for each office
separately by the Director. In new Sodalities, the one
or the other practice will be adopted as prudence shall
suggest, according to circumstances, for the greater good
of the Sodality. It is, however, left free to follow some
other method of choosing the Officers, Major and Minor,
if ever another seems preferable, considering the cir
cumstances and the end of the Sodality.
21. The Officers are changed usually once a year, at a
time determined by rule or custom. Vacancies occurring
are filled in the same way as above.
22". The Officers of the Council, like the Minor Officers,
hold their powers to the extent and under the conditions
determined by the Director granting these powers, and
they remain subject to his authority, individually and
collectively, in the discharge of their duties.
ARTICLE 5
Admission and Dismissal
23. Those who wish to enter a Sodality of Our Lady,
will address their application to its Director, who alone
has authority to admit. To apply for admission, Candi
dates shall, if possible, get some Sodalist to propose them.
Candidates should especially be persons of irreproachable
conduct and have the age, condition of life, profession,
COMMON RULES 25
etc., which are requisite in the Sodality which they seek
to enter, and they must be resolved upon being faithful
in the observance of the Rules.
24. Before the final reception, there shall be a proba
tion of not less than two months. During this time, the
Candidate is obliged to fulfil without exception all the
duties which the Sodality imposes on its Members. Those
who come from another Sodality can be admitted imme
diately, if they present a document signed by the Director
of the Sodality from which they come, bearing testimony
to their good character and ordinary attendance at the
exercises of that Sodality. Those who, though Sodalists
before, do not come directly from another Sodality, will
undergo a probation longer or shorter as the Director
thinks best.
25. The solemn reception of new Sodalists will take
place twice or oftener in the year, on the titular Feasts
of the Sodality, or on some other principal Feasts of
Our Lady.
26. When the time for the solemn reception of Can
didates is approaching, the Director will lay before the
Council the names of such of them as in his judgment
are fit to be received, and will bid the Officers in the
Council to express their opinion candidly and to make
any objection there may be to the proposed admission.
Having regard to the observations of the Council, the
Father Director will decide as he thinks best as to each
Candidate, whether to receive him among the Sodalists,
to require a longer probation or to exclude him entirely
from the Sodality.
27. The solemn reception of Sodalists will take place
in full meeting, the Prefect, the Secretary and the In
structor of Candidates assisting in the ceremony the
Father Director, who receives.
The new Sodalists will go to the altar when called by
the Secretary, and on their knees will recite one of the
following acts of Consecration:
26 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
ACT OF CONSECRATION OF ST. JOHN BERCHMANS
Holy Mary, Virgin Mother of God, I choose
thee this day to be my Queen, my Patroness and my
Advocate, and I firmly purpose never to desert thee
and never to say or do anything against thee and never
to permit others to do anything against thy honor.
Receive me, then, I pray thee, for thy servant forever;
aid me in my every action and desert me not at the hour
of my death. Amen.
ACT OF CONSECRATION OF ST. FRANCIS DE SALES
Most Holy Mary, Virgin Mother of God, I
most unworthy though I am to be thy servant, yet
touched 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
purpose to serve thee evermore myself and to do what
I can that all may render faithful service to thee. There
fore, 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.
Then the Father Director, or another Priest delegated
by him, shall invest them with the medal, using the
ordinary formula, and shall declare their admission, say
ing:
FORMULA OF ADMISSION
In virtue of powers duly vested in me, I receive you
into the Sodality of Our Lady (Primary Title) and
(Secondary Title), and render you participants of all the
Indulgences granted to the Roman Prrma-Primaria and
COMMON RtiLES 27
to our Sodality. Your names shall now be entered on
the roll of the Sodality: may they be written eternally
in Heaven.
The certificate of membership is as follows:
CERTIFICATE OF MEMBERSHIP
We bear witness by these presents that our beloved in
Christ was on received as a member
of the Sodality of (Class of persons'), under the title
of (Primary Title) and of (Secondary Title), and is
therefore entitled to all the Indulgences, favors, graces
and privileges which other Sodalists enjoy, and when
he departs this life should receive from our Sodality all
the suffrages which are of custom offered for Sodalists
departed.
Done in the same Sodality of Our Lady on the day
and in the year aforesaid.
Director.
Prefect. Secretary.
The enrolment of the new Sodalists in the Sodality
Book is never to be omitted.
28. The Director of the Sodality can, in particular
cases, dispense with the formalities prescribed for recep
tion. It is, in fact, absolutely speaking, sufficient for the
validity of this act that one who has power to receive
and he who is to be received should manifest their formal
will in the matter by some outward sign.
29. Into a Sodality of one class or state of life no one
of another class or state of life can be admitted, unless
the Director for good reason judges otherwise.
30. Sodalists once duly received into a Sodality remain
members of it always, unless they give it up of their
own accord or are dismissed as unworthy.
31. Any Sodalist or Candidate shall be dismissed from
the Sodality who seriously fails in the general duties of
28 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
a good Catholic or in the particular duties imposed in the
Rules. Dismission is decreed always by the Director,
but he shall consult the Council beforehand in cases of
special difficulty.
ARTICLE 6
Duties common to all the Sodalists
32. Though the Rules of the Sodality do not of them
selves bind under pain of either mortal or venial sin.
but leave in each matter that degree of obligation which
exists by Divine or Ecclesiastical Law, still the Sodalists
should have great respect for the Rules and endeavor to
fulfil them faithfully and exactly, as they voluntarily
accepted them on the day of their reception and as they
will find in them the necessary arid efficacious means
to attain the end of the Sodality.
33. Good Sodalists ought to be, first and foremost,
exemplary Catholics, conforming their faith and life en
tirely to the faith and morals which the Holy Catholic
Church teaches, praising what she praises, disapproving
of what she disapproves of, having the same sentiments
in everything with her and never being ashamed to act,
in private and public life, as faithful and obedient chil
dren of their holy Mother.
34. Sodalists must be very careful to practise those
exercises of piety which are most necessary for fervor
of life. Every morning on rising, let them make the
acts of faith, hope and charity, thank God our Lord for
His benefits, offer Him their labors, with the intention of
gaining all the Indulgences they can throughout that day.
and invoke the Blessed Virgin by reciting the Hail Mary
three times. Let them devote at least a quarter of an
hour to mental prayer; be present, if they can, at the
adorable Sacrifice of the Mass and recite the most Holy
Rosary, or some Office of Our Lady. In the evening,
before retiring, let them carefully examine their con-
COMMON RULES 29
science and make a fervent act of contrition for the
sins of their whole life and especially for those committed
on that day.
35. They should carefully avoid all friendship and all
unnecessary intercourse with evil or suspected persons.
They must keep from bad reading and immoral plays.
And, in general, let them fly all occasions that are dan
gerous to their souls or could give scandal or disedifica-
tion to their neighbor.
36. As far as possible, Sodalists should have a fixed
Confessor, a pious, learned and prudent Priest, lay bare
to him the state of their conscience with all sincerity
and allow themselves to be formed and directed by him
in all that pertains to the spiritual life.
37. Before receiving their medal, let the Candidates
make a General Confession of their sins, unless the
Confessor judges otherwise. After that they should not
be satisfied with the General Communions of rule, but
approach the Sacraments as frequently as the Confessor
advises.
38. The Sovereign Pontiff Benedict XIV gives all So
dalists the excellent advice to make a General Confession
once or twice a year, beginning from the last. This will
be easiest at the time of the Retreat or on the Monthly
Recollection Day or at the end of the year. ,
39. They should consider as addressed in a special
manner to them the invitation to frequent and daily
Communion which the Holy See has made to all the
faithful, and therefore each and every Sodalist is
earnestly recommended to strengthen himself with the
Bread of Angels not only on the days when he can gain
a Plenary Indulgence as a Sodalist, but also to strive to
follow the pious and salutary custom, most eagerly de
sired by Christ our Lord and the Catholic Church, of
approaching the Holy Table often and even daily.
40. The Blessed Virgin Mary is the principal Patroness
of the Sodality of Our Lady. Hence the Sodalists should
30 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
make profession of a particular devotion to her and strive
to imitate her splendid virtues, place all confidence in
her and urge one another on to love and serve her with
filial devotedness.
41. All should be extremely careful to attend at the
appointed time the general meetings of the Sodality,
ordinary and extraordinary. Attendance is indicated in
various ways, according to the custom of the Sodality.
Among the customs most recommended is the employ
ment of an attendance card delivered by the Sodalist
with his name to the Officer designated. Sodalists who
can not be present at a meeting, should report person
ally or by letter, as soon as possible, the cause of their
absence to the Father Director, to whom it will belong
to judge whether the reason alleged is proper.
42. It being in keeping with the spirit of the Sodality,
as was said in Article 3, to establish particular Sections
to foster piety in the Sodalists themselves and to give
exercise to Catholic zeal and charity, it is very desirable
that all the Sodalists should take an active part in some
one of the Sections, and, where circumstances permit,
it will be good to make this of obligation. The obligation
on each one, according to his studies or profession, to
be present at the Academies, if any exist in the Sodality,
shall depend on the particular Rules of each Sodality.
43. Let all be careful, as far as they can, to exercise
their zeal even in private in spiritual and corporal works
of mercy, and especially by drawing to the Sodality
those whom they deem fit. In this way, each Sodalist
will be a true apostle of the Divine Glory and of His
Blessed Mother.
44. In all that pertains to the life of the Sodality they
should obey promptly and with submission of will the
orders and counsels of the Father Director. In the same
way, let them give due honor and obedience to the Pre
fect and the other Officers of the Council and also to
the Minor Officers in what belongs to each one's charge.
COMMON RULES 31
45. They should deal with one another with brotherly
love and Christian charity and often pray to God our Lord
for the needs of the Sodality, and of the Sodalists, and
especially of the sick. When a Sodalist passes to a better
life, let those who can, attend his funeral and let all in
private offer prayers for his eternal rest. Besides this,
they shall recite in common for him the Office of the
Dead or other prayers, and have Holy Mass said, thus
securing for him the Indulgence of a Privileged Altar.
46. Let each one contribute for the expenses of the
Sodality either a voluntary alms, such as his means per
mit, or a small fixed sum determined by custom.
47. If a Sodalist is to be away temporarily or for
good from the place of the Sodality, let him notify the
Father Director, who will, if necessary, send him an
official letter signed by himself and the Prefect, testifying
that he is a Sodalist and is worthy of admission as such
into other Sodalities. He must, however, know that all
Sodalists away for a year or more from the place of their
Sodality and settling in a place from which they can not
attend its meetings, are obliged — in order to gain the
Indulgences — to enter, in their new home, a Sodality
corresponding to their state of life, unless the Director
of such Sodality refuses them admission, or there hap
pens some other hindrance, of whose sufficiency the
Director of their former Sodality shall be judge.
Those who are away should write occasionally to their
Director or their Prefect and should be careful, as far
as circumstances permit, to carry out the pious practices
of the Sodality: wherever they are, they should, with
exact fidelity, lead that fervent Catholic life which is
becoming in good Sodalists of Our Lady.
ARTICLE 7
The Officers of the Council
48. As the Major Officers or members of the Council
enioy a dignity above the rest of the Sodalists, they
32 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
should the more surpass them in the practice of virtue
and in the exact observance of the Rules, as the office
they are charged with is higher.
49. They should be very diligent in executing the
duties of their office and should, when necessary, have
recourse to the Father Director, to report to him on
their administration, to consult him on doubts and diffi
culties arising, to receive new instructions from him,
and so to make themselves, as they should, the faithful
coadjutors of his authority in governing the Sodality.
50. They should assist with voice and vote at the
meetings called by the Father Director, or under his
order by the Prefect. Those resolutions shall be con
sidered decisions of the Council and shall be promul
gated as such, which have received a majority vote of
the Council and are approved by the Director and duly
announced. But without his consent, no resolution, not
even if unanimous, should be held as valid.
51. They should clearly and candidly state their
opinions on the matters treated of in Council. Let them
never presume to impose their own ideas, nor act through
motives of self-love or personal advantage, but have
regard solely to the greater glory of God and the spiritual
good of the Sodality.
52?. When it occurs to one of them to propose in Coun
cil something that might bring serious difficulty, let him
beforehand explain it in private to the Father Director.
He will decide in his prudence whether it is well to
propose and discuss the matter.
53. Among the Officers, the Prefect, is the first in
authority and is, so to speak, the right hand of the
Father Director. Along with him he presides at meet
ings and, with due subordination to him, takes part in
everything regarding the government of the Sodality,
and especially in the question of the admission and dis
missal of Sodalists.
COMMON RULES 33
54. The First and Second Assistant shall help the Pre
fect in his office with their advice and direct cooperation.
If the Prefect is absent, his place is taken by the First
Assistant; if he too is absent, by the Second Assistant.
55. It is the duty of the Secretary to write up the
minutes of the Council meetings, to keep the general
journal of the Sodality, to write and sign certificates of
membership and other Diplomas, testimonials, letters,
notices and other official documents. In all such matters
he shall act according to the mind of the Director and
the Prefect. The minutes of the Council, the general
journal of the Sodality and the enrolment of the Sodalists
should be in three distinct books, which should not be
lacking in any Sodality.
56. The members of the Council, as their name indi
cates, are consultors not only in meetings of the Council,
at which they are present with deliberative vote, but also
in private when called upon by the Director or the Pre
fect. In order to give reliable advice, let them be careful
to become acquainted with the Sodalists, as far as they
can, and be familiar with whatever concerns the Sodality.
They should on all occasions bear in mind, as it refers
especially to them, what was said about Officers in gen
eral, touching the avoidance of party spirit and the
necessity of a right intention in giving their opinion.
57. The duty of the Instructor of Candidates is to
direct the Candidates and instruct them in the customs
and spirit of the Sodality, during the time of probation
which precedes their reception into the Sodality. Let
him communicate to the Father Director what he ob
serves about the Candidates' behavior, in the Sodality and
out, so that the Director may be able, with better knowl
edge of the case, to grant, put off or deny the final
reception.
58. The Treasurer collects the alms or fixed contribu
tions of the Sodalists and Benefactors, ordinarily keeps
in deposit the money of the Sodality, and on the order
34 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MAR*
of the Director or Prefect pays the expenses of the
Sodality. Let him be careful to keep his books and
papers very clear and accurate and to act in all the
details of his administration as a faithful steward of the
little treasure of Our Lady intrusted to him.
ARTICLE 8
Minor Officers
59. The Minor Officers, like the Major, ought to be
distinguished for piety and love of the Sodality, to fulfil
their duties with earnest zeal and to visit the Director
more or less often as the nature of each one's office
requires.
60. The Sodality shall have at least two Sacristans.
Their duty shall be to prepare the Chapel for the So
dality meetings and to procure what is necessary for the
use of the Sodality at its services or at religious func
tions.
61. It is also very necessary that there should be two
or more Recorders. These shall have a book properly
arranged with the names of all the Sodalists and Candi
dates, to note each day the attendance of each or the
reasons of his absence which have the approval of the
Director.
62. The Reader has charge of the spiritual reading
usual at the services of the Sodality, as also of the
announcement of the Saints and notices for the week,
where this is customary.
63. The charge of the Library shall be given to one
or more Librarians. On the days and at the hours
appointed, they shall tender the Sodalists the Catalogue
of books belonging to the Sodality, deliver to them the
books they call for and restore to their place the books
returned.
64. As the Director and Prefect can not visit fre
quently such Sodalists as are ill, it will be necessary to
COMMON RULES 35
name Visitors from among the most zealous and pru
dent, to cooperate in this pious duty. The Visitors should
try to make their visits pleasant to the sick and by their
spiritual conversation afford them help and consolation.
Let them pray themselves for them and, when the sick-
nes becomes serious, see that the same is done in the
Sodality. In this case, let them immediately notify
the Director, so that the sick may be fortified in time
with the Sacraments.
65. The Major and Minor Officers described in these
Rules are common to all Sodalities. If others are cre
ated in some Sodalities because of particular need, their
character, prerogatives and duties shall be determined by
the Director of each Sodality, who alone has the right to
create them.
ARTICLE 9
Intercommunication of Sodalities
66. In order to secure more easily and certainly the
end of each Sodality or of several of the same class or
finally of all the Sodalities, Congresses of Sodality Di
rectors and of Sodalists, especially of the same country,
are to be recommended. These Congresses should direct
all their deliberations and functions to the good of
souls and to solid piety, should not spend money on the
mere splendor of the Festival, and should strive to pro
duce practical and permanent results.
67. Commendable also is the practice both of publishing
and of reading Sodality periodicals which treat of So
dality matters and foster the Sodality spirit in their
readers.
68. It also helps to the greater glory of God and the
honor of Our Blessed Mother, that, where it can be
done, Sodalities of the same class or country should
form a permanent league among themselves, with a
common Council.
36 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
ARTICLE 10
Local Rules
69. By the arrangement of Very Rev. Father Ander-
ledy, if Rules somewhat different from the above are
desired, they can be proposed to none but the Very Rev.
Father General.1 Local Rules additional to the present,
if such are made, are not to be contrary to them, and if
meant to b*e permanent are to be submitted to the Pro
vincial or Superior of the Mission for approval.2
CHAPTER II.
THE SOLEMN RECEPTION OF NEW MEMBERS.
Synopsis of the Ceremonial of Reception.
1. Veni Creator, or Vent Sancte Spiritus, or a hymn to
the Blessed Virgin.
2. Sermon.
3. Blessing of medals with which the new members are
to be invested.
4. The candidates' names are read, and they approach
the altar rail.
5. The candidates are questioned by the Director, as in
ceremonial.
6. The Veni Creator is recited.
7. The candidates recite the Act of Consecration.
8. The candidates are invested with the medals.
9. The Magnificat or a hymn to the Blessed Virgin is
sung.
1 For Sodalities of Our Lady subject to him; but for
others, they should be laid before the Ordinary of the
place for his approval, and, when aggregation is peti
tioned, before the. Father General.
2 But for Sodalities which are not subject to the Father
General, additional rules must be submitted to the Or-
dinarv of the olace.
CEREMONY OF SOLEMN RECEPTION
37
10. The Director announces the Plenary Indulgence
attached to the Consecration, and the prayers (which may
be five Our Fathers and five Hail Marys') are recited. for
the intentions of the Pope.
11. Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament, if permitted
by the Ordinary.
12. The ceremony may be concluded by the Te Deunt,
or Holy God, we praise Thy name.
CHAPTER III.
CEREMONY OF SOLEMN RECEPTION.
The Vcni Creator is intoned by the Celebrant, and con
tinued by the Choir.
COME, O Creator, Spirit
blessed,
And in our souls take up
Thy rest;
Come with Thy grace .and
heavenly aid,
To fill the hearts which
VENI Creator Spiritus
Mentes tucrum visita,
Imple superna gratia,
Quae tu creasti pectora.
Thou hast made.
Qui diceris Paraclitus,
Altissimi donum Dei,
Et spiritalis unctio.
Great Paraclete, to Thee
we cry;
O highest gift of God most
high!
Fons vivus, ignis, charitas, O fount of life, O fire of
love,
And sweet anointing from
above;
Tu septiformis munere, Thou in Thy sevenfold
gifts art known;
Digit us Paternae dexterse, The finger of God's hand
38 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
Tu rite promissum Patris,
Sermone ditans guttura.
The promise of the Father
Thou,
Who dost the tongue with
pow'r endow.
Accende lumen sensibus
Infunde amorem cordibus,
Infirma nostri corpo.ris
Virtute firmans perpeti.
Kindle our senses from
above,
And make our hearts o'er-
flow with love,
With patience firm, and
virtue high,
The weakness of our flesh
supply.
Hostem repellas longius, Far from us drive the £oe
we dread,
Pacemque dones protinus; And grant us Thy true
peace instead;
So shall we not, with Thee
Ductore sic te praevio,
Vitemus omne noxium.
for guide,
Turn from the path of life
aside.
Per te sciamus da Patrem, Oh, may Thy grace on us
bestow
The Father and the Son to
know,
And Thee through endless
times confesse •"
Noscamus atque Filium,
Teque utriusque Spiritum
Credamus omni tempore.
Of both th' eternal Spirit
blessed.
Deo Patri sit gloria,
Et Filio, qui a mortuis
All glory while the ages
run.
Be to the Father and the
Son,
CEREMONY OF SOLEMN RECEPTION
Surrexit, ac Paraclito,
In saeculorum saecula.
Amen.
V. Emitte Spiritum tuum,
et creabunter. (Alleluia.)
R. Et renovabis faciem
terrae. (Alleluia.)
Or emus.
DEUS, qui corda fidelium
sancti Spiritus illustratione
docuisti, da nobis in eo-
dem Spiritu recta sapere, et
de ejus semper consolatione
gaudere. Per Christum,
Dominum nostrum. Amen.
Who rose from death; the
same to Thee,
O Holy Ghost, eternally.
Amen.
V. Send forth Thy Spirit,
and They shall be created.
(Alleluia.)
R. And Thou shalt re
new the face of the earth.
(Alleluia.)
Let us pray.
O GOD, who didst teach
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 consolations.
Through Christ our Lord.
Amen.
Here follows the Sermon.
The Blessing of the Medals.
V. Adjutorium nostrum
in nomine Domini.
R. Qui fecit coelum et
terrar &
V . '"Domine exaudi ora-
tionem meam.
R. Et clamor meus ad
te veniat.
V. Dominus vobiscum.
R. Et cum spiritu tuo.
V. Our help is in the
name of the Lord.
R. Who made heaven
and earth.
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.
40 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
Oremus.
OMNIPOTENS sempiterne
Deus, qui sanctorum tuor-
um imagines (sive effigies)
sculpi aut pingi non repro-
bas, ut quoties illas oculis
corporis intuemur, toties
eorum actus et sanctitatem
ad imitandum memoriae
oculis meditemur; .has
quaesumus, imagines in
honorem et memoriam be-
atissimse Virginis Mariae,
Matris Domini nostri Jesu
Christi, adaptatas bene ffa
dicere et sancti ^ ficare
digneris, et praesta, ut qui-
cumque coram illis beatis-
simam Virginem suppliciter
colere et honorare studuer-
it illius meritis et obtentu
a te gratiam in prassenti et
asternam gloriam obtineat
in futurum. Per Christum
Dominum nostrum.
R. Amen.
Let us pray.
ALMIGHTY and eternal
God, who hast permitted
the images of Thy saints to
be carved or painted in or
der that beholding them
every day with our corporal
eyes and meditating upon
the actions and sanctity of
Thy saints, we may be led
to imitate their virtues.
Deign to bless and to sanc
tify these medals which
have been made in honor
and commemoration of the
Most Blessed Virgin Mary,
Mother of our Lord Jesus
Christ, and grant that who
ever humbly invokes the
Blessed Virgin before them
may obtain through her
merits grace in this present
life and eternal glory in
the life to come. Through
Christ our Lord.
R. Amen.
Here the Medals are sprinkled with Koly Water.
At the appointed time the Secretary bids the candidates
approach, saying aloud:
Let those who are to be promoted to the
degree of Sodalists come forward.
The candidates immediately advance and form them
selves, if convenient, in one line, standing before the
Director and the Prefect. The Secretary, addressing
the Director and the Prefect, says:
CEREMONY OF SOLEMN RECEPTION 41
Reverend Father and worthy Prefect, the
candidates here present beg admission into the
Sodality of the Blessed Virgin Mary. During
the time of their probation their conduct has
been edifying, and the whole Sodality is will
ing that they should be received; hence we
earnestly request you to accede to their eager
desires.
The Director answers:
If so, let their names be read.
The Secretary reads aloud the names. The Director
then addresses the future Sodalists:
Pious and beloved friends, as you are now
to be promoted to the holy rank of Sodalists,
and to enjoy all the spiritual advantages
granted by the Holy Apostolic See, it is meet
that your dispositions should be manifested to
us: hence, answer candidly the questions
which our Secretary will propose to you.
The Secretary then speaks in the following words:
The Sodality asks whether you are disposed
to cherish with special devotion the Blessed
Virgin Mary and our holy patron St.
The candidates answer in a loud and distinct voice:
Yes, we wish it most earnestly.
Secretary: The Sodality asks, whether you
are resolved faithfully to observe all its rules
and regulations?
42 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
Candidates: Yes, we wish it most earn
estly.
Secretary: The Sodality asks, whether you
will, according to your power and the spirit of
our Society, promote, by word and example,
the glory of God and a tender devotion to the
Blessed Virgin Mary;
Candidates: Yes, we wish it most earn
estly.
The Director then says:
Since you are resolved ever to remain faith
ful, you are now allowed to recite the Act
consecrating yourselves to God and His Holy
Mother. And now we invite all the Sodalists
here present to invoke with us the divine
assistance of the Holy Spirit on those who are
soon to be united to us by a holy and spiritual
tie.
All kneel — the hymn to the Holy Ghost is sung or
recited. Each candidate is then called, and reads the
Act of Consecration.
If there are many to be received, it may be found
more convenient that the Director or Prefect recite the
Act of Consecration aloud, all the candidates repeating it
clause for clause after him.
CEREMONY OF SOLEMN RECEPTION 43
ACT OF CONSECRATION.
Holy Mary, Virgin Mother of God, I choose
thee this day to be my Queen, my Patroness and
my Advocate, and I firmly purpose never to de
sert thee and never to say or do anything against
thee and never to permit others to do anything
against thy honor. Receive me, then, I pray thee,
for thy servant forever ; aid me in my every action
and desert me not at the hour of my death. Amen.
Then the Father Director, or another Priest delegated
by him, shall invest them with the medal, using the
ordinary formula, and shall declare their admission, say
ing:
FORMULA OF ADMISSION
In virtue of powers duly vested in me, I re
ceive you into the Sodality of Our Lady (Primary
Title) and (Secondary Title) and render you par
ticipants of all the Indulgences granted to the Ro
man Prima-Primaria and to our Sodality. Your
names shall now be entered on the roll of the So
dality: may they be written eternally in Heaven.
The new members then return to their places, and
the Magnificat or a hymn to the Blessed Virgin is sung,
unless it be preferred to sing the Tc Dcutn or Holy God
here.
44 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
The Director then announces the Plenary Indulgence
attached to the entrance or consecration of new members,
and the prayers — which may be five Our Fathers and five
Hail Marys — are recited for the intentions of the Pope.
Where it is permitted it is advisable to conclude the
ceremony with the Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament,
after which, if desirable, either the Te Deum or the Holy
God may be sung, unless it has been sung immediately
after the Act of Consecration.
CHAPTER IV.
ORDER OF EXERCISES AT REGULAR MEETINGS
The regular exercises of these meetings are usually
as follows:
1. Invocation of the Holy Ghost by the Hymn Veni
Creator;
2. Reading of some pious book for 10 or 15 minutes,
while the Sodalists are assembling;
3. Announcement, where customary, of the Saints and
the Church events for the week. These notices are
taken from a Calendar approved for common use or for
the special use of the Sodality;
4. Singing of Matins or Vespers of the Little Office
of Our Lady, according as the meeting occurs in the
morning or the evening. The recitation or singing of
some other Office of Our Lady may be substituted;
5. A short conference by the Father Director on sub
jects touching the spiritual progress of the Sodality;
EXERCISES FOR MEETINGS
45
6. The meeting shall close with the recitation of the
Litany of Loretto, or with prayers to the Secondary
Patron, or with others determined by custom;
7. Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament if permitted.
CHAPTER V.
PRAYERS FOR REGULAR OR OCCASIONAL MEETINGS.
Invocation of the Holy Ghost.
Veni, Sancte Spiritus
reple tuorum corda fideli-
um, et tui amoris in eis ig-
nem accende.
V. Emitte spiritum tuum
et creabuntur. (Alleluia).
R. Et renovabis faciem
terrae. (Alleluia).
Oremus.
DEUS, qui corda fidelium
Sancti Spiritus illustratione
docuisti, da nobis in eo-
dem spiritu recta sapere et
de ejus semper consola-
tione gaudere. Per Chris
tum Dominum nostrum.
Amen.
Come, O Holy Spirit,
enlighten the hearts of Thy
faithful, and kindle in them
the fire of Thy love.
V. Send forth Thy Spirit
and they shall be created.
(Alleluia).
R. And Thou shalt re
new the face of the earth.
(Alleluia).
Let us pray.
O GOD, who didst teach
the hearts of the faithful by
the light of the Holy
Spirit, grant us by the
same Spirit to relish what
is right, and ever more to
rejoice in His consolation.
Through Christ our Lord.
Amen.
The Litany of Loretto.
Kyrie eleison. Lord, have mercy on us.
Christe eleison. Christ, have mercy on us.
46 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
Kyrie eleison.
Christe audi nos.
Christe exaudi nos.
Pater de ccelis Deus, mise
rere nobis.
Fili Redemptor mundi De
us, miserere nobis.
Spiritus Sancte Deus, mise
rere nobis.
Sancta Trinitas, unus Deus,
miserere nobis.
Sancta Maria,
Sancta Dei genitrix,
Sancta Virgo virginum.
Mater Christi,
Mater divinae gratiae,
Mater purissima.
Mater castissima,
Mater inviolata,
Mater intemerata.
Mater amabilis,
Mater admirabilis,
Mater boni Consilii.
Mater Creatoris.
Mater Salvatoris,
Virgo prudentissima,
Virgo veneranda,
Virgo praedicanda,
Virgo potens,
Virgo clemens,
Virgo fidelis,
Speculum justitisr,
Sedes sapientiae,
Causa nostrae laetitiae,
Vas spirituale,
O
i
>•§
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, pray for
us,
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 admira
ble,
Mother of Good Counsel.
Mother of our Creator,
Mother of our Saviour,
Virgin most prudent,
Virgin most venerable,
Virgin most renowned,
Virgin most powerful,
Virgin most merciful,
Virgin most faithful,
Mirror of Justice,
Seat of wisdom,
Cause of our joy,
Spiritual vessel,
EXERCISES FOR MEETINGS
47
Vas honorabile, "j Vessel of honor, ^
Vas insigne devotionis,
Singular vessel of de
votion,
Rosa mystica,
Mystical rose,
Turris Davidica,
Tower of David,
Turris eburnea,
Tower of ivory,
Domus aurea,
House of gold,
Fcederis area,
Ark of the covenant,
Janua coeli,
Gate of heaven,
Stella matutina,
Morning star,
Salus infirmorum,
Health of the sick,
Refugium peccatorum,
Refuge of sinners,
Consolatrix afflictorum,
Comfortress of the af
flicted,
Auxilium Christiano-
Help of Christians.
rum,
0
Regina angelorum,
3 Queen of angels,
Regina patriarcharum,
"% Queen of patriarchs,
Regina prophetarum,
* ° Queen of prophets,
Regina apostolorum,
o Queen of apostles,
Regina martyrum,
f- Queen of martyrs,
Regina confessorutn.
Queen of confessors,
Regina virginum,
Queen of virgins,
Regina sanctorum om
Queen of all saints,
nium,
Regina sine labe origi-
Queen conceived with
nali concepta,
out original sin,
Regina sacratissimi Ro-
Queen of the most
sarii,
holy Rosary,
Agnus Dei, qui tollis
Lamb of God, who
peccata mundi,
takest away the sins
parce nobis, Dom-
of the world, spare
ine.
us, O Lord.
Agnus Dei, qui tollis
Lamb of God, who tak
peccata mundi, ex-
est away the sins of
audi nos Domine.
the world, gracious-
ly hear us, O Lord. .
48 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
Agnus Dei, qui tollis pecca-
ta mundi, miserere nobis.
V. Ora pro nobis, sancta
Dei Genitrix.
R. Ut digni efficiamur pro-
missionibus Christi.
Oremus.
Gratiam, tuam, quassumus
Domine, mentibus nostris
infunde; ut qui, angelo
nuntiante, Christi Filii tui
incarnationen cognovimus,
per passionem ejus et cru-
cem, ad resurrectionis glo-
riam perducamur. Per
eundem Christum Dominum
nostrum. Amen.
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 promises of
Christ.
Let us pray.
Pour forth, we beseech
Thee, O Lord, Thy grace
into our hearts, that we to
whom the Incarnation " of
Christ, Thy Son, was made
known by the message of an
angel, may by His passion
and cross be brought to
the glory of His Resurrec
tion, through tne same
Christ, our Lord. Amen.
Salve Regina.
IT 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 vale of tears. Turn, then, most
gracious Advocate, thine eyes of mercy to
wards us, and after this our exile, show unto us
the blessed fruit of thy womb, Jesus. O cle
ment, O pious, O sweet Virgin Mary !
PR A YERS 49
V. Pray for us, O holy Mother of God.
R. That we may be made worthy of the
promises of Christ.
Let us pray.
O Almighty and Eternal God, who, by the
co-operation of the Holy Ghost, didst prepare
the body and soul of the glorious Virgin Mary
to become the worthy habitation of Thy Son :
grant that, as we rejoice in her commemora
tion, so by her gracious intercession, we may be
delivered both from present evils and everlast
ing death. Through the same Christ our Lord.
R. Amen.
The Memorare.
D EMEMBER, O most gracious Virgin
*^ Mary, that never was it known that any
one who fled to thy proection, implored thy help,
and sought thy intercession, was left unaided.
Inspired with this confidence, I fly to thee, O
Virgin of virgins, my Mother. To thee I
come ; before thee I stand, sinful and sorrow
ful. O Mother of the Word Incarnate, despise
not my petition, but in thy mercy hear and
grant my prayer. Amen.
50 SODALITY OF THE. BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
Prayer of St Aioysius.
HOLY Mary, my mother and Advocate, to
thy care and particular protection, and
into the bosom of thy mercy, to-day and every
day, and at the hour of my death, I commend
my soul and body; all my hope and consola
tion, my difficulties and afflictions, my life, and
the end of my life, I commend to thee; that,
through thy most powerful intercession, and
through thy merits, all my works and actions
may be directed according to thy will, and that
of thy divine Son. Amen.
Prayer of the Sodality.
O JESUS, Son of the Blessed Virgin, we
are the adopted children of Thy Mother,
Thy own brothers by adoption. Love us, then,
O Jesus, with a special love ; protect us, guide
us, strengthen us by Thy grace ; take good care
of us, make* us be worthy members of the So
dality, and grant us to die a holy death, that,
after this life, we may be united forever with
Thee, with Thy Eternal Father and the Holy
Ghost, with our common Mother, the Blessed
Virgin, with Thy angels and saints, and with
our departed brethren of the Sodality, who now
reign with Thee in the heavenly Jerusalem.
PRAYERS
51
Prayer for a Sick Member.
OMNIPOTENS, sempiterne
Deus, salus aeterna creden-
tium, exaudi nos pro famu-
lo tuo infirmo, pro quo mis-
ericordiae tuas imploramus
auxilium, ut, reddita sibi
sanitate, gratiarum tibi in
ecclesia tua referat actiones.
Per Christum Dominum
nostrum.
R. Amen.
ALMIGHTY, everlasting
God, the eternal salvation
of them that believe; hear
us in behalf of Thy servant
who is sick, for whom we
implore the aid of Thy
mercy that, being restored
to health, he (she) may
render thanks to Thee in
Thy Church. Through
Christ our Lord.
R. Amen.
BENEDICTION OF THE BLESSED SACRAMENT.
0 Salutaris.
O salutaris Hostia,
Quae coeli pandis ostium:
Bella premunt hostilia,
Da robur, fer auxilium.
Uni trinoque Domino,
Sit sempiterna gloria,
Qui vitam sine termino,
Nobis donet in patria.
Amen.
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.
To Thy great name be end
less praise,
Immortal Godhead, One
in Three,
O grant us endless length
of days
In our true native land
with Thee. Amen.
52 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
Tantum Ergo.
Tantum ergo sacramentum Down in adoration falling,
Veneremur cernui;
Et antiquum documentum
Novo cedat ritui;
Praestet fides supplemen-
tum
Sensuum defectui.
Genitori, Genitoque,
Laus et jubilato;
Salus, honor virtus quoque,
Sit et benedictio;
Procedenti ab utroque,
Compar sit laudatio.
Amen.
V. Panem de coelo prae-
stitisti eis. (Alleluia.)
R. Omne delectamentum
in se habentem. (Alleluia.)
Oretnus.
DEUS, qui nobis sub sa-
cramento mirabili, passionis
tuae memoriam reliquisti;
tribue, quaesumus, ita nos
Lo! the sacred Host we
hail;
Lo! o'er ancient forms de
parting
Newer rights of grace
prevail ;
Faith for all defects sup
plying
Where the feeble senses
fail.
To the everlasting Father,
And the Son who reigns
on high,
With the Holy Ghost pro
ceeding
Forth from each eter
nally
Be salvation, honor, bless
ing,
Might, and endless ma
jesty! Amen.
V. Thou hast given them
bread from heaven. (Alle
luia.)
R. Containing in itself
all sweetness. (Alleluia.)
Let us pray.
O GOD, who under a
wonderful sacrament, hast
left us a memorial of Thy
passion, grant us, we be-
PRAYERS 53
corporis et sanguinis tui sa- seech Thee so to venerate
era mysteria venerari, ut the sacred mysteries of Thy
redemptionis tuae fructum body and blood, that we
in nobis jugiter sentiamus; may ever feel within us the
qui vivis et regnas in sae- fruit of Thy redemption;
cula saeculorum. Amen. who livest and reignest for
ever and ever. Amen.
The Divine Praises.
Blessed 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 Con
ception.
Blessed be the name of Mary, Virgin and
Mother.
Blessed be God in His angels and in His
saints.
PART II
OFFICES
USUALLY RECITED IN
THE SODALITY
56 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
Prayer Before the Recitation of the Office.
A PERI, Domine, os meum ad benedicendum
nomen sanctum tuum; mtmda quoque cor
meum ab omnibus vanis, perversis et alienis
cogitationibus ; intellectum illumina, affectum
inflamma, ut digne, attente ac devote hoc offici-
um recitare valeam, et exaudiri merear ante
conspectum divinae Majestatis tuae. Per Chris
tum, Dominum nostrum.
R. Amen.
Domine, in unione illius divinae intentionis,
qua ipse in terris laudes Deo persolvisti, has
tibi horas persolvo.
Prayer After the Recitation of the Office.
CACROSANCT^ et individual Trinitati,
*^ crucifixi Domini nostri Jesu Christi
humanitati, beatissimae et gloriosissimae semper-
que Virginis Mariae foecundae integritati, et
omnium Sanctorum universitati sit sempiterna
laus, honor, virtus et gloria ab omni creatura,
nobisque remissio omnium peccatorum, per
infinita saecula saeculorum.
R. Amen.
V. Beata viscera Marise Virginis, quae por-
taverunt asterni Patris Filium.
R. Et beata ubera, quae lactaverunt Chris
tum Dominum.
Pater nosier. Ave Maria.
PRA YERS BEFORE AND AFTER OFFICE 57
Prayer Before the Recitation of the Office.
/~\ PEN, O Lord, our mouths to bless Thy
^^ holy name; cleanse our hearts from all
vain, bad, and distracting thoughts; enlighten
our understanding, inflame our will, that we
may worthily, attentively, and devoutly recite
this Office, and deserve to be heard in the
presence of Thy divine Majesty: through
Christ our Lord.
R. Amen.
O Lord, we offer these hours to Thee in
union with that divine intention with which
Thou Thyself, whilst on earth, didst render
praises to God.
T
Prayer After the Recitation of the Office.
O the most holy and undivided Trinity, to
the humanity of our Lord Jesus Christ
crucified, to the fruitful purity of the most
blessed and glorious Virgin Mary, and to all
the Saints, be everlasting praise, honor, power
and glory from every creature; and to us the
remission of all our sins, forever and ever.
R. Amen.
V. Blessed is the womb of the Virgin Mary
that bore the Son of the eternal Father.
7^. And blessed are the breasts that suckled
Christ the Lord.
Our Father. Hail Mary.
THE LITTLE OFFICE
OF THE
BLESSED VIRGIN MARY.
MATINS.
AVE Maria, gratia plena, Dominus tecum:
benedicta tu in mulieribus, et benedictus fruc-
tus ventris tui, Jesus. Sancta Maria, Mater
Dei, ora pro nobis peccatoribus, nunc et in
hora mortis nostrae. Amen.
Ave Maria is said inaudibly.
Pref. DOMINE, labia mea aperies.
All. Et os meum annuntiabit laudem tuam.
Pref. Deus, in adjutorium meum intende.
All. Domine, ad adjuvandum me festina.
Gloria Patri, et Filio, et Spiritui Sancto.
Sicut erat in principio, et nunc et semper, et
in ssecula saeculorum. Amen. Alleluia. (From
Septuagesima to Easter: Laus tibi Domine,
Rex aeternae glorise.)
Initiatory.
Pref. Ave Maria, gratia plena, Dominus
tecum.
All. Ave Maria, gratia plena, Dominus te
cum.
58
THE LITTLE OFFICE
OF THE
BLESSED VIRGIN MARY.
MATINS.
HAIL, Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with
thee; blessed art thou among 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.
Hail Mary is said inaudibly.
Pref. THOU wilt open my lips, O Lord.
All. And my mouth shall show forth Thy
praise.
Pref. O Lord, come to my assistance.
AIL O Lord, make haste to help me.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and
to the Holy Ghost. As it was in the begin
ning, is now, and ever shall be, world without
end. Amen. Alleluia. (From Septuagesima
to Easter: Praise be to Thee, O Lord, King
of everlasting glory.)
Invitatory.
Pref. Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is
with thee.
AIL Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is
with thee.
59
60 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
Psalm xciv.
Pref. Venite, exultemus Domino, jubilemus
Deo salutari nostro: praeoccupemus faciem
ejus in confessione, et in psalmis jubilemus ei.
All. Ave Maria, gratia plena, Dominus
tecum.
Pref. Quoniam Deus magnus Dominus, et
Rex magnus super omnes deos: quoniam non
repellet Dominus plebem suam, quia in manu
ejus sunt omnes fines terrae, et altitudines mon-
tium ipse conspicit.
All. Dominus tecum.
Pref. Quoniam ipsius est mare, et ipse fecit
illiid, et aridam fundaverunt manus ejus : venite
adoremus, et procidamus ante Deum, ploremus
coram Domino, qui fecit nos, quia ipse est
Dominus Deus noster: nos autem populus ejus,
et oves pascuae ejus.
All. Ave Maria, gratia plena, Dominus
tecum.
Pref. Hodie si vocem ejus audieritis, nolite
obdurare corda vestra, sicut in exacerbatione
secundum diem tentationis in deserto: ubi ten-
taverunt me patres vestri, probaverunt, et
viderunt opera mea.
All. Dominus tecum.
Pref. Quadraginta annis proximus fui gen-
erationi huic, et dixi : semper hi errant corde :
LITTLE OFFICE OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN 61
Psalm xc'^v.
Pref. Come, let us praise the Lord with joy ;
let us joyfully sing to God, our Saviour. Let
us come before His presence with thanksgiving ;
and make a joyful noise to Him with psalms.
All. Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is
with thee.
Pref. For the Lord is a great God, and a
great King above all gods. For the Lord will
not reject His people. For in His hand are all
the ends of the earth: and the heights of the
mountains He beholdeth.
All. The Lord is with thee.
Pref. For the sea is His, and He made it:
and His hands formed the dry land. Come, let
us adore and fall down, and weep before the
Lord that made us. For He is the Lord our
God; and we are the people and the sheep of
His pasture.
All. Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is
with thee.
Pref. To-day, if ye hear His voice, harden
not your hearts, as in the provocation, accord
ing to the day of temptation in the wilderness,
where your fathers tempted me; they proved
me, and saw my works.
All. The Lord is with thee.
Pref. Forty years long was I offended with
that generation, and I said : these always err in
62 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
ipsi vero non cognoverunt vitas meas, quibus
juravi in ira mea, si introibunt in requiem
meam.
All. Ave Maria, gratia plena, Dominus
tecum.
Pref. Gloria Patri, et Filio, et Spiritui
Sancto.
AIL Dominus tecum.
Pref. Ave Maria, gratia plena, Dominus
tecum.
Hymn.
Quern terra, pontus, sidera
Colunt, adorant, predicant,
Trinam regentem machinam
Claustrum Marise bajulat.
Cui luna, sol, et omnia
Deserviunt per tempora,
Perfusa coeli gratia,
Gestant puellse viscera.
Beata mater munere,
Cujus, supernus Artifex
Mundum pugillo continens,
Ventris sub area clausus est.
Beata coeli nuntio,
Fcecunda sancto Spiritu,
Desideratus gentibus,
Cujus per alvum fusus est.
LITTLE OFFICE OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN 63
heart. And these men have not known my
ways: so I swore in my wrath, that they shall
not enter into. my rest.
All. Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is
with thee.
Pref. Glory be to the Father, and to the
Son, and to the Holy Ghost.
All. The Lord is with thee.
Pref. Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is
with thee.
Hymn.
The Lord whom earth and sea and sky,
With one adoring voice proclaim;
Who rules them all in majesty,
Inclosed Himself in Mary's frame.
Lo ! in an humble Virgin's womb,
O'ershadowed by Almighty power,
He whom the stars and sun and moon,
Each serve in their appointed hour.
O Mother blest, to whom was given
Within thy body to contain
The Architect of earth and heaven,
Whose hands the universe sustain.
To thee was sent an angel down,
In thee the Spirit was enshrined;
Of thee was born that mighty One.
The long Desired of all mankind.
64 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
Jeus, tibi sit gloria,
Qui natus es de Virgine,
Cum Patre, et Almo Spiritu,
In sempiterna ssecula. Amen.
Ant. Benedicta tti.
Psalm viii.
Domine Dominus noster: quam admirabile
est nomen tuum in universa terra.
Quoniam elevata est magnificentia tua : super
coelos.
Ex ore infantium et lactentium perfecisti
laudem propter inimicos tuos: ut destruas in-
imicum et ultorem.
Quoniam videbo coelos tuos, opera digitorum
tuorum: lunam et Stellas, quae tu fundasti.
Quid est homo, quod memor es ejus? aut
filius hominis, quoniam visitas eum?
Minuisti eum paulo minus ab angelis, gloria
et honore coronasti eum: et constituisti eum
super opera manuum tuarum.
Omnia subjecisti sub pedibus ejus, oves et
boves universes: insuper et pecora campi.
Volucres coeli, et pisces maris, qui perambu-
lant semitas maris.
LITTLE OFFICE OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN 65
O Jesus, born of Virgin bright,
Immortal glory be to Thee;
Praise to the Father Infinite,
And Holy Ghost eternally. Amen.
Ant. Blessed art thou.
Psalm viii.
O Lord, our Lord, how adorable is Thy name
in the whole earth.
For Thy magnificence is elevated above the
heavens.
Out of the mouth of infants and of sucklings
Thou hast drawn praise, because of Thy ene
mies, that Thou mayest confound the enemy
and the avenger.
For I will behold the heavens, the works of
Thy fingers : the moon and the stars which
Thou hast set.
What is man that Thou art mindful of him ?
or the son of man that Thou visitest him?
Thou hast made him a little less than the
angels : Thou hast crowned him with glory and
honor : and hast set him over the works of Thy
hands.
Thou hast put all things under his feet, all
sheep and oxen: moreover the beasts also of
the field:
The birds of the air and the fishes of the sea,
that pass through the paths of the sea.
66 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
Domine Dominus noster: quam admirabile
est nomen tuum in universa terra.
Gloria, Patri, etc.
Ant. Benedicta tu in mulieribus, et bene-
dictus fructus ventris tui.
Ant. Sicut myrrha.
Psalm xviii.
Cceli enarrant gloriam Dei : et opera manuum
ejus annuntiat firmamentum.
Dies diei eructat verbum: et nox nocti in-
dicat scientiam.
Non sunt loquelae, neque sermones: quorum
non audiantur voces eoruni.
In omnem terram exivit sonus eorum: et in
fines orbis terrse verba eorum.
In sole posuit tabernaculum suum: et ipse
tamquam sponsus procedens de thalamo suo :
Exultavit ut gigas ad currendam viam: a
summo coelo egressio ejus:
Et occursus ejus usque ad summuni ejus:
nee est qui se abscondat a calore ejus.
Lex Domini immaculata convertens animas :
testimonium Domini fidele, sapientiam praestans
parvulis.
LITTLE OFFICE OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN 67
O Lord, our Lord, how admirable is Thy
name in all the earth.
Glory be to the Father, etc.
Ant. Blessed art thou among women, and
blessed is the fruit of thy womb.
Ant. Like choicest myrrh.
Psalm xvi'ri.
The heavens show forth the glory of God,
and the firmament declareth the works of His
hands.
Day to day uttereth speech, and night to
night showeth knowledge.
They are not speeches nor languages, of
which the voices are not heard.
Their sound hath gone forth into all the
earth; and their words unto the ends of the
world.
He hath set His tabernacle in the sun: and
as a bridegroom coming out of his bride-
chamber :
He hath rejoiced as a giant to run His course :
His going out is from the end of heaven.
And His circuit even unto the end thereof:
and there is no one that can hide himself from
His heat.
The law of the Lord is unspotted, convert
ing souls; the testimony of the Lord is faith
ful, giving wisdom to little ones.
68 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
Justitiae Domini rectae, laetificantes corda:
prseceptum Domini lucidum, illuminans oculos.
Timor Domini sanctus, permanens in saec-
ulum sseculi: judicia Domini vera, justificata
in semetipsa.
Desiderabilia super aurum et lapidem pretio-
sum multum: et dulciora super mel et favum.
Etenim servus tuus custodit ea : in custodi-
endis illis retributio multa.
Delicta quis intelligit? ab occultis meis
munda me: et ab alienis parce servo tuo.
Si mei non fuerint dominati, tune immacu-
latus ero : et emundabor a delicto maximo.
Et erunt ut complaceant eloquia oris mei :
et meditatio cordis mei in conspectu tuo
semper.
Domine adjutor meus: et redemptor meus.
Gloria Patri, etc.
Ant. Sicut myrrha electa odorem dedisti
suavitatis, sancta Dei genitrix.
Ant. Ante torum.
Psalm xxiii.
Domini est terra, et plenitudo ejus: orbis
terrarum, et universi, qui habitant in eo.
LITTLE OFFICE OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN 69
The precepts of the Lord are right, giving
joy to hearts; the commandment of the Lord
is lightsome, enlightening the eyes.
The fear of the Lord is holy, enduring for
ever and ever; the judgments of the Lord are
true, justified in themselves.
More to be desired than gold and many
precious stones, and sweeter than honey and
the honeycomb.
For thy servant keepeth them: in keeping
them there is a great reward.
Who can understand sins ? From my secret
ones cleanse me, O Lord; and from those of
others spare thy servant.
If they shall have no dominion over me,
then shall I be without spot; and I shall be
cleansed from the greatest sin.
And the words of my mouth shall be such as
may please: and the meditation of my heart
always in thy sight.
O Lord, my helper and my redeemer.
Glory be to the Father, etc.
Ant. Like choicest myrrh thou hast yielded
an odor of sweetness, O holy Mother of God.
Ant. Before thy couch.
Psalm xxm.
The earth is the Lord's, and the fulness
thereof: the world and all that dwell therein.
TO SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MAR*
Quia ipse super maria fundavit eum; et
super flumina praeparavit eum.
Quis ascendet in montem Domini? aut quis
stabit in loco sancto ejus?
Innocens manibus, et mundo corde qui non
accepit in vano animam suam: nee juravit in
dolo proximo suo.
Hie accipiet benedictionem a Domino: et
misericordiam a Deo salutari suo.
Haec est generatio quaerentium eum: quae-
rentium faciem Dei Jacob.
Attollite portas, principes, vestras, et eleva-
mini, portae aeternales: et introibit Rex gloriae.
Quis est iste Rex glorias? Dominus fortis et
potens: Dominus potens in prcelio.
Attollite portas, principes, vestras, et eleva-
mini, portae seternales : et introibit Rex gloriae.
Qui est iste Rex gloriae? Dominus virtutum
ipse est Rex gloriae.
Gloria Patri, etc.
Ant. Ante torum hujus Virginis frequentate
nobis dulcia cantica dramatis.
V. Diffusa est gratia in labiis tuis.
R. Propterea benedixit te Deus in aeternum.
Pater noster (the rest inaudibly).
V. Et ne nos inducas in tentationem.
R. Sed libera nos a malo.
LITTLE OFFICE OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN 71
For he hath founded it upon the seas, and
hath prepared it upon the rivers.
Who shall ascend into the mountain of the
Lord? Or who shall stand in the holy place?
He that hath clean hands and a pure heart,
who hath not taken his soul in vain, nor sworn
deceitfully to his neighbor.
He shall receive a blessing from the Lord,
and mercy from God his Saviour.
This is the generation of them that seek him,
of them that seek the face of the God of Jacob.
Lift up your gates, O ye princes, and be ye
lifted up, O eternal gates: and the King of
glory shall enter in.
Who is this King of glory? The Lord,
strong and mighty: the Lord, mighty in
battle.
Lift up your gates, O ye princes, and be ye
lifted up, O eternal gates, and the King of
glory shall enter in.
Who is this King of glory? The Lord of
hosts, he is the King of glory.
Glory be to the Father, etc.
Ant. Before the couch of this Virgin, sing
often unto us sweet chants with solemnity.
V. Grace is poured forth on thy lips.
R. Therefore God hath blessed thee forever
Our Father (the rest inaudibly).
V. And lead us not into temptation.
R. But deliver us from evil.
72 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
Absolution.
Precibus et meritis beatse Mariae semper vir-
ginis, et omnium sanctorum, perducat nos Do-
minus ad regna coelorum.
R. Amen.
V. Jube, Domine, benedicere.
Blessing.
Nos cum prole pia benedicat Virgo Maria.
R. Amen.
First Lesson.
In omnibus requiem qusesivi, et in haeredit-
ate Domini morabor. Tune prsecepit, et
dixit mihi Creator omnium: et qui creavit me,
requievit in tabernaculo meo, et dixit mihi:
in Jacob inhabita, et in Israel hsereditare, et in
electis meis mitte radices. Tu autem, Domine,
miserere nobis.
R. Deo gratias.
R. Sancta et immaculata virginitas, quibus
te laudibus efferam, nescio: quia quern cceli
capere non poterant, tuo gremio contulisti.
V. Benedicta tu in mulieribus, et benedictus
fructus ventris tui. Quia quern coeli capere
non poterant, tuo gremio contulisti.
V. Jube, Domine, benedicere.
LITTLE OFFICE OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN 73
Absolution.
By the prayers and merits of the Blessed
Mary ever Virgin, and of all the Saints, may
the Lord bring us to the kingdom of heaven.
R. Amen.
V. Pray, Father, a blessing.
Blessing.
May the Virgin Mary, with her loving Child,
bless us.
R. Amen.
First Lesson.
In all these I sought rest, and I shall abide
in the inheritance of the Lord. Then the
Creator of all things commanded, and said to
me : and he that made me, rested in my taber
nacle, and he said to me: let thy dwelling be
in Jacob, and thy inheritance in Israel, and
take root in my elect. But thou, O Lord, have
mercy on us.
R. Thanks be to God.
7?. O holy and Immaculate Virgin, with
what praise I shall extol thee, I know not:
for He whom the heavens could not contain,
rested on thy bosom.
V. Blessed art thou among women, and
blessed is the fruit of thy womb. For He whom
the heavens could not contain rested on thy
bosom.
V. Pray, Father, a blessing.
74 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
Blessing.
Ipsa Virgo virginum intercedat pro nobis ad
Dominum.
R. Amen.
Second Lesson.
Et sic in Sion firmata sum, et in civitate
sanctificata similiter requievi, et in Jerusalem
potestas mea. Et radicavi in populo honorifi-
cato, et in parte Dei mei haereditas illius, et in
plenitudine sanctorum detentio mea. Tu
autem, Domine, miserere nobis.
R. Deo gratias.
R. Beata es, Virgo Maria, quae Dominum
portasti Creatorem mundi : genuisti, qui te
fecit, et in aeternum permanes Virgo.
V. Ave Maria, gratia plena, Dominus tecum.
Genuisti, qui te fecit, et in aeternum permanes
Virgo.
V. Gloria Patri, et Filio, et Spiritui Sancto.
Genuisti qui te fecit, et in aeternum permanes
Virgo.
When the Te Deum is not said, this last part, begin
ning with Gloria Patri, is omitted.
V. Jube, Domne, benedicere.
LITTLE OFFICE OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN 75
Blessing.
May the Virgin of virgins herself interecede
for us with the Lord.
R. Amen.
Second Lesson.
And so was I established in Sion, and in the
holy city likewise I rested: and my power was
in Jerusalem. And I took root in the hon
ored people, and in the portion of my God
which is His inheritance: and my abode is in
the full assembly of saints. But Thou, Lord,
have mercy on us.
R. Thanks be to God.
R. Blessed art thou, O Virgin Mary, whu
didst bear the Lord, the Creator of the world :
thou wast the Mother of Him who made thee,
and remainest a Virgin forever.
V. Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is
with thee. Thou wast the Mother of Him who
made thee, and remainest a Virgin forever.
V. Glory be to the Father, and to the Son,
and to the Holy Ghost. Thou wast the Mother
of Him who made thee, and remainest a Virgin
forever.
When the Te Deum is not said, this last part, begin
ning with Glory be to the Father, is omitted.
V. Pray, Father, a blessing.
76 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
Blessing.
Per Virginem Matrem concedat nobis Dom-
inus salutem et pacem.
R. Amen.
Third Lesson.
Quasi cedrus exaltata sum in Libano, et quasi
cypressus in monte Sion; quasi palma exaltata
sum in Cades, et quasi plantatio rosae in Jericho.
Quasi oliva speciosa in campis, et quasi platanus
exaltata sum juxta aquam in plateis. Sicut
cinnamomum, et balsamum aromatizans odorem
dedi: quasi myrrha electa dedi suavitatem
odoris. Tu autem, Domine, miserere nobis.
R. Deo gratias.
The following Responsory is said when the Te Deum
is omitted.
R. Felix namque es, sacra Virgo Maria, et
omni laude dignissima: quia ex te ortus est
sol justitiae, Christus Deus noster.
V. Ora pro populo, interveni pro clero, in
tercede pro devoto femineo sexu: sentiant om-
nes tuum juvamen, quicumque celebrant tuam
sanctam commemorationem. Quia ex te ortus
est sol justitiae, Christus Deus noster.
LITTLE OFFICE OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN 77
Blessing.
Through the Virgin Mother may the Lord
grant unto us salvation and peace.
*R. Amen.
Third Lesson.
I was exalted like a cedar in Libanus, and
as a cypress tree on Mount Sion. I was ex
alted like a palm tree in Cades, and as a rose
plant in Jericho; as a fair olive tree in the
plains, and as a plane tree by the water in the
meadows, was I exalted. I gave a sweet smell
like cinnamon, and aromatical balm: I yielded
a sweet odor like the best myrrh. But thou,
Lord, have mercy on us.
R. Thanks be to God.
The following Responsory is said when the Te Deum
is omitted.
R. Surely thou art happy, O holy Virgin
Mary, and most worthy of all praise: for out
of thee arose the sun of justice, Christ our
God.
V. Pray for the people, mediate for the
clergy, intercede for the devout female sex.
Let all experience thy assistance, whoever cele
brate thy holy commemoration. For out of
thee arose the sun of justice, Christ our God.
78 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
V. Gloria Patri, et Filio, et Spiritui Sancto.
Quia ex te ortus est sol justitiae, Christus Dens
noster.
Te Deum.
The Te Deum is omitted in Advent and from Septua-
gesima to Easter, except on feasts of our Blessed Lady.
Te Deum laudamus: te Dominum confite-
mur.
Te aeternum Patrem omnis terra veneratur.
Tibi omnes Angeli : tibi coeli, et universae
potestates.
. Tibi Cherubim et Seraphim, incessabili voce
proclamant :
Sanctus, Sanctus, Sanctus : Dominus Deus
Sabaoth.
Pleni sunt coeli et terra majestatis gloriae tuae.
Te gloriosus Apostolorum chorus:
Te Prophetarum laudabilis numerus :
Te Martyrum candidatus laudat exercitus.
Te per orbem terrarum sancta confitetur Ec-
clesia.
Patrem immensae majestatis.
Venerandum tuum verum, et unicum Filium.
LITTLE OFFICE OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN 79
V. Glory be to the Father, and to the Son,
and to the Holy Ghost. For out of thee arose
the sun of justice, Christ our God.
Te Deum.
The Te Deum is omitted in Advent and from Septua-
gesima to Easter, except on feasts of our Blessed Lady.
We praise Thee, O God: we acknowledge
Thee to be the Lord.
All the earth doth worship Thee, the Father
everlasting.
To Thee all the Angels cry aloud: the
heavens, and all the heavenly powers:
To Thee the Cherubim and Seraphim con
tinually do cry:
Holy, Holy, Holy, Lord God of Sabaoth.
Heaven and earth are full of the majesty of
Thy glory.
The glorious choir of the Apostles praise
Thee.
The admirable company of the Prophets
praise Thee.
The white-robed army of Martyrs praise
Thee.
The holy Church throughout the world doth
acknowledge Thee.
The Father of infinite majesty:
Thy adorable, true, and only Son :
80 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
Sanctum quoque Paraclitum Spiritum.
Tu Rex gloriae, Christe.
Tu Patris sempiternus es Filius.
Tu ad liberandum suscepturus hominem, non
horruisti Virginis uterum.
Tu, devicto mortis aculeo, aperuisti credenti-
bus regna coelorum.
Tu ad dexteram Dei sedes, in gloria Patris.
Judex crederis esse venturus.
Te ergo quaesumus, tuis famulis subveni,
quos pretioso sanguine redemisti.
^Eterna fac cum Sanctis tuis in gloria
numerari.
Salvum fac populum tuum, Domine, et ben-
edic hereditati tuae.
Et rege eos, et extolle illos usque in ster
num.
Per singulos dies, benedicimus te.
Et laudamus nomen tuum in saeculum, et in
saeculum saeculi.
Dignare, Domine, die isto sine peccato nos
custodire.
Miserere nostri, Domine, miserere nostri.
Fiat misericordia tua, Domine, super nos:
quemadmodum speravimus in te.
In te, Domine, speravi: non confundar in
aeternnm.
LITTLE OFFICE OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN 81
Also, the Holy Ghost, the Comforter.
Thou, O Christ, art the King of glory.
Thou art the everlasting Son of the Father.
When Thou tookest 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 be
lievers.
Thou sittest at the right hand of God, in the
glory of the Father.
We believe that Thou wilt come to be our
Judge.
We therefore pray Thee to help Thy serv
ants, whom Thou hast redeemed with Thy
precious blood.
Make them to be numbered with Thy Saints
in glory everlasting.
Save Thy people, O Lord: and bless Thy
inheritance.
Govern them and raise them up forever.
Day by day we bless Thee.
And we praise Thy name forever and ever.
Vouchsafe, O Lord, this day, to keep us
without sin.
Have mercy on us, O Lord, have mercy on us.
Let Thy mercy, O Lord, be upon us, as we
have hoped in Thee.
In Thee, O Lord, I have hoped ; let me never
be confounded.
82 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
LAUDS.
Ave Maria (inaudibly).
V. Deus in adjutorium meum intende.
R. Domine, ad adjuvandum me festina.
V. Gloria Patri, et Filio, et Spiritui Sancto.
Sicut erat in principle, et nunc, et semper, et
in saecula sseculorum. Amen. Alleluia. (From
Septuagesima to Easter. Laus tibi Domine,
Rex aeternse glorise.)
Ant. Assumpta est.
Psalm xcii.
Dominus regnavit, decorem indutus est: in-
dutus est Dominus fortitudinem, et praecinxit
se.
Etenim firmavit orbem terrae: qui non com-
movebitur,
Parata sedes tua ex tune: a saeculo tu es.
Elevaverunt flumina Domine : elevaverunt
flumina vocem suam.
Elevaverunt flumina fluctus suos ; a vocibus
aquarum multarum.
Mirabiles elationes maris: mirabilis in altis
Dominus.
Testimonia tua credibilia facta sunt nimis.
LITTLE OFFICE OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN 83
LAUDS.
Hail . Mary ( inaudibly ) .
V. O God, come to my assistance.
R. O Lord, make haste to help me.
V. 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 with
out end. Amen. Alleluia. (FromSeptuagestima
to Easter: Praise be to Thee, O Lord, King
of everlasting glory.)
Ant. Mary was taken up into heaven.
Psalm xc'ri.
The Lord reigneth; He is clothed with
beauty: the Lord is clothed with strength, and
hath girded Himself.
For he hath established the world, which
shall not be moved.
Thy throne is prepared of old; thou art
from everlasting.
The floods have lifted up, O Lord: the
floods have lifted up their voice.
The floods have lifted up their waves, with
the noise of many waters.
Wonderful are the surges of the sea: won
derful is the Lord on high.
Thy testimonies are become exceedingly
84 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
domum tuam decet sanctitudo, Domine, in
longitudinem dierum.
Gloria Patri, etc.
Ant. Assumpta est Maria in ccelum, gaudent
Angeli, laudantes benedicunt Dominum.
Ant. Maria Virgo.
Psalm xcix.
Jubilate Deo omnis terra: servite Domino
in laetitia.
Introite in conspectu ejus: in exultatione.
Scitote quoniam Dominus ipse est Deus:
ipse fecit nos, et non ipsi nos:
Populus ejus, et oves pascuae ejus: introite
portas ejus in confessione, atria ejus in hymnis :
confitemini illi.
Laudate nomen ejus: quoniam suavis est
Dominus, in seternum misericordia ejus: et
usque in generationem et generationem veritas
ejus.
Gloria Patri, etc.
Ant. Maria Virgo assumpta est ad sethereum
thalamum, in quo Rex regum stellato sedet
solio.
Ant. In odorem.
Psalm Ixii.
Deus Deus meus: ad te de luce vigilo.
LITTLE OFFICE OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN 85
credible: holiness becometh Thy house, O
Lord, unto length of days.
Glory be to the Father, etc.
Ant. Mary was taken up into heaven, the
angels rejoice, and with praises bless the Lord.
Ant. The Virgin Mary.
Psalm xcix.
Sing joyfully to God, all the earth: serve ye
the Lord with gladness.
Come into His presence with exceeding great
joy.
Know ye that the Lord He is God : He made
us, and not we ourselves.
We are His people, and the sheep of His pas
ture. Go ye into His gates with praise, into
His courts with hymns, and give glory to Him.
Praise ye His name: for the Lord is sweet,
His mercy endureth forever, and His truth to
generation and generation.
Glory be to the Father, etc.
Ant. The Virgin Mary was taken up to the
heavenly chamber, where the King of kings
sitteth on His starry throne.
Ant. We run to the odor.
Psalm Ix'n.
O God, my God, to Thee do I watch at
break of day.
86 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
Sitivit in te anima mea: quam multipliciter
tibi caro mea.
In terra, deserta, et invia, et inaquosa, sic
in sancto apparui tibi : ut viderem virtutem
tuam, et gloriam tuam.
Quoniam melior est misericordia tua super
vitas: labia mea laudabunt te.
Sic benedicam te in vita mea; et in nomine
tuo levabo manus meas.
Sicut adipe et pinguedine repleatur anima
mea : et labiis exultationis laudabit os meum.
Si mernor fui tui super stratum meum, in
matutinis meditabor in te: quia fuisti adjutor
meus.
Et in velamento alarum tuarum exultabo,
adhsesit anima mea post te: me suscepit dex-
tera tua.
Ipsi vero in vanum qusesierunt animam
meam, introibunt in inferiora terrae: tradentur
in manus gladii, partes vulpium erunt.
Rex vero Isetabitur in Deo, laudabuntur
omnes qui jurant in eo: quia obstructum est
os loquentium iniqua.
Psalm Ixvi.
Deus misereatur nostri, et benedicat nobis:
illuminet vultum suum super nos, et misereatur
nostri.
LITTLE OFFICE OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN 87
For Thee my soul hath thirsted ; for Thee my
flesh, O how much.
In a desert land, and where there is no way
and no water : so in the sanctuary have I come
before Thee, to see Thy power and Thy glory.
For Thy mercy is better than life : Thee my
lips shall praise.
Thus will I bless Thee my life long: and in
Thy name I will lift up my hands.
Let my soul be filled as with marrow and
fatness: and my mouth shall praise Thee with
joyful lips.
If I have remembered Thee upon my bed, I
will meditate on Thee in the morning; because
Thou hast been my helper.
And I will rejoice under the covert of Thy
wings : my soul hath stuck to Thee : Thy right
hand hath upheld me.
But they have sought my life in vain, they
shall go into the lower parts of the earth.
They shall be put to the sword, they shall be
the portions of foxes.
But the King shall rejoice in God, all they
that swear by Him shall be praised: because
the mouths of them that speak wicked things
are stopped.
Psalm Ixvi.
May God have mercy on us, and bless us:
may He cause the light of His countenance to
shine upon us, and may He have mercy on us.
88 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
Ut cognoscamus in terra viam tuam: in
omnibus gentibus salutare tuum.
Confiteantur tibi populi, Deus: confiteantur
tibi populi omnes.
Lsetentur et exultent gentes: quoniam judi-
cas populos in aequitate, et gentes in terra di-
rigis.
Confiteantur tibi populi, Deus: confiteantur
tibi populi omnes : terra dedit f ructum suum.
Benedicat nos Deus, Deus noster, benedicat
nos Deus: et metuant eum omnes fines terrae.
Gloria Patri, etc.
Ant. In odorem unguentorum tuorum cur-
rimus, adolescentulae dilexerunt te nimis.
Ant. Benedicta filia.
The Song of the three Children.
Benedicite, omnia opera Domini, Domino:
laudate et superexaltate eum in saecula.
Benedicite, Angeli Domini, Domino: bene-
dicite coeli Domino.
Benedicite, aquae omnes, quae super coelos
sunt, Domino: benedicite omnes virtutes Do
mini, Domino.
Benedicite, sol et luna, Domino: benedicite,
stellse coeli, Domino.
Benedicite, omnis imber et ros. Domino:
benedicite, omnes spiritus Dei, Domino.
LITTLE OFFICE OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN 89
That we may know Thy way upon earth : Thy
salvation in all nations.
Let the people praise Thee, O God : let all the
people give praise to Thee.
Let the nations be glad and rejoice: for
Thou judgest the people with justice, and
directest the nations upon earth.
Let the people, O God, praise Thee: let all
the people give praise to Thee : the earth hath
yielded her fruit.
May God, our God, bless us, may God bless
us : and may all the ends of the earth fear Him.
Glory be to the Father, etc.
Ant. We run to the odor of thy ointments :
the young maidens have loved thee exceedingly.
Ant. Thou, O daughter.
The Song of the three Children.
AH ye works of the Lord, bless the Lord:
praise and exalt Him above all forever..
O ye angels of the Lord, bless the Lord: O
ye heavens, bless the Lord.
O all ye waters that are above the heavens,
bless the Lord: O all ye powers of the Lord,
bless the Lord.
O ye sun and moon, bless the Lord: O ye
stars of heaven, bless the Lord.
O every shower and dew, bless ye the Lord :
O all ye spirits of God, bless the Lord.
90 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
Benedicite, ignis, et sestus, Domino: bene-
dicite, frigus et aestus, Domino.
Benedicite, rores et pruina, Domino: bene-
dicite, gelu et frigus, Domino.
Benedicite, glacies et nives, Domino: bene-
dicite, noctes et dies, Domino.
Benedicite, lux et tenebrae, Domino: bene-
dicite, fulgura et nubes, Domino.
Benedicat terra Dominum: laudet et super-
exaltet eum in saecula.
Benedicite, montes et colles, Domino: bene-
dicite, universa germinantia in terra, Domino.
Benedicite, fontes, Domino: benedicite,
maria et flumina, Domino.
Benedicite, cete et omnia, quae moventur in
aquis, Domino: benedicite, omnes volucres
coeli, Domino.
Benedicite, omnes bestise et pecora, Domino :
benedicite, filii hominum, Domino.
Benedicat Israel Dominum: laudet, et super-
exaltet eum in saecula.
Benedicite, sacerdotes Domini, Domino : be
nedicite, servi Domini, Domino.
Benedicite, spiritus et animae justorum, Do
mino: benedicite, sancti et humiles corde, Do
mino.
Benedicite Anania, Azaria, Misael, Domino:
laudate et superexaltate eum in saecula.
LITTLE OFFICE OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN 91
O ye fire and heat, bless the Lord: O ye
cold and heat, bless the Lord.
O ye dews and hoar frost, bless the Lord:
O ye frost and cold, bless the Lord.
O ye ice and snow, bless the Lord: O ye
nights and days, bless the Lord.
O ye light and darkness, bless the Lord: O
ye lightnings and clouds, bless the Lord.
O let the earth bless the Lord: let it praise
and exalt Him above all forever.
O ye mountains and hills, bless the Lord:
O all ye things that spring up in the earth,
bless the Lord.
O ye fountains bless the Lord: O ye seas
and rivers, bless the Lord.
O ye whales, and all that move in the
waters, bless the Lord: O all ye fowls of the
air, bless the Lord.
O all ye beasts and cattle, bless the Lord:
O all ye sons of men, bless the Lord.
Let Israel bless the Lord: let them praise
and exalt Him above all forever.
O ye priests of the Lord, bless the Lord:
O ye servants of the Lord, bless the Lord.
O ye spirits and souls of the just, bless the
Lord: O ye holy and humble of heart, bless
the Lord.
O Ananias, Azarias, and Misael, bless ye
the Lord: praise and exalt Him above all
forever.
92 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
Benedicamus Patrem, et Filium cum Sancto
Spiritu: laudemus et superexaltemus eum in
saecula.
Benedictus es, Domine, in firmamento cceli :
et laudabilis, et gloriosus, et superexaltatus in
saecula.
Ant. Benedicta filia tu a Domino; quia per
te fructum vitae communicavimus.
Ant. Pulchra es.
Psalm cxlviii.
Laudate Dominum de ccelis: laudate eum in
excelsis.
Laudate eum, omnes Angeli ejus: laudate
eum, omnes virtutes ejus.
Laudate eum, sol et luna : laudate eum, omnes
stellae, et lumen.
Laudate eum, cceli coelorum: et aquae omnes,
quae super coelos sunt, laudent nomen Domini.
Quia ipse dixit, et facta sunt: ipse mandavit,
et creata sunt.
Statuit ea in aeternum, et in saeculum saeculi :
praeceptum posuit, et non praeteribit.
Laudate Dominum de terra: dracones, et
omnes abyssi.
Ignis, grando, nix, glacies, spiritus procel-
larum : quae faciunt verbum ejus:
LITTLE OFFICE OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN 93
Let us bless the Father, and the Son, with
the Holy Ghost: praise and exalt him above
all forever.
Blessed art thou, O Lord, in the firmament
of heaven, and praised, and glorified, and ex
alted above all forever.
Ant. Thou, O daughter art blessed of the
Lord, for through thee have we been made par
takers of the fruit of life.
Ant. Thou art fair.
Psalm cxlvm.
Praise ye the Lord from the heavens : prais'
ye Him in the high places.
Praise ye Him, all His angels : praise ye Him,
all His hosts.
Praise ye Him, ye sun and moon: praise
Him, all ye stars and light.
Praise Him, ye heavens of heavens: and let
all the waters that are above the heavens,
praise the name of the Lord.
For He spake, and they were made : He com
manded, and they were created.
He hath established them forever, and for
ages of ages: He hath made a decree, and it
shall not pass away.
Praise the Lord from the earth, ye dragons,
and all ye deeps.
Fire, hail, snow, ice, stormy winds, which
fulfil His word:
94 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
Montes et omnes colles: ligna fructifera, et
omnes cedri:
Bestiae, et universa pecora: serpentes, et
volucres pennatae:
Reges terrae et omnes populi: principes et
omnes judices terrae:
Juvenes et virgines, senes cum junioribus,
laudent nomen Domini: quia exaltatum est
nomen ejus solius.
Confessio ejus super coelum et terrain: et
exaltavit cornu populi sui.
Hymnus omnibus sanctis ejus: filiis Israel,
populo appropinquanti sibi.
Psalm cxlix.
Cantate Domino canticum novum: laus ejus
in ecclesia sanctorum.
Laetetur Israel in eo, qui fecit eum et filii
Sion exultent in rege suo.
Laudent nomen ejus in choro: in tympano
et psalterio psallant ei.
Quia beneplacitum est Domino in populo
suo: et exaltabit mansuetos in salutem.
Exultabunt sancti in gloria: laetabuntur in
cubilibus suis.
Exaltationes Dei in gutture eorum : et gladii
ancipites in manibus eorum:
LITTLE OFFICE OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN 95
Mountains and all hills, fruitful trees, and
all cedars:
Beasts and all cattle : reptiles and feathered
fowls.
Kings of the earth, and all peoples: princes
and all judges of the earth:
Young men, and maidens: let the old with
the young praise the name of the Lord: for
His name alone is exalted.
The praise of Him is above heaven and
earth: and He hath exalted the horn of His
people.
A hymn for all His saints: for the children
of Israel, a people approaching to Him.
Psalm cxlix.
Sing ye to the Lord a new canticle : let His
praise be in the church of the saints.
Let Israel rejoice in Him that made Him
and let the children of Sion be joyful in the
King.
Let them praise His name in choir : let them
sing to Him with the timbrel and the psaltery.
For the Lord is well pleased with His people :
and He will exalt the weak unto salvation.
The saints shall rejoice in glory: they shall
be joyful in their beds.
The high praises of God shall be in their
mouth: and two-edged swords in their hands:
96 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
Ad faciendam vindictam in nationibus: in-
crepationes in populis.
Ad alligandos reges eorum in compedibus:
et nobiles eorum in manicis ferreis.
Ut faciant in eis judicium conscriptum :
gloria hsec est omnibus sanctis ejus.
Psalm cl
Laudate Dominum in sanctis ejus: laudate
eum in firmamento virtutis ejus.
Laudate eum in virtutibus ejus: laudate eum
secundum multitudinem magnitudinis ejus.
Laudate eum in sono tubae: laudate eum in
psalterio, et cithara.
Laudate eum in tympano et choro: laudate
eum in chordis, et organo.
Laudate eum in cymbalis benesonantibus :
laudate eum in cymbalis jubilationis: omnis
spiritus laudet Dominum.
Gloria Patri, etc.
Ant. Pulchra es et decora, filia Jerusalem :
terribilis ut castrorum acies ordinata.
The Little Chapter.
Viderunt earn filise Sion, et beatissimam
praedicaverunt : et reginae laudaverunt earn.
R. Deo gratias.
LITTLE OFFICE OP THE BLESSED VIRGIN 97
To execute vengeance upon the nations,
chastisements among the people.
To bind their kings with fetters, and their
nobles with manacles of iron.
To execute upon them the judgment that is
written: this glory have all his saints.
Psalm cl
Praise ye the Lord in His holy places:
praise ye Him in the firmament of His power.
Praise ye Him for His mighty acts: praise
ye Him according to the multitude of His
greatness.
Praise Him with sound of trumpet: praise
Him with psaltery and harp.
Praise Him with timbrel and choir: praise
Him with strings and organs.
Praise Him on high-sounding cymbals:
praise Him on cymbals of joy : Let every spirit
praise the Lord.
Glory be to the Father, etc.
Ant. Thou art fair and comely, O daughter
of Jerusalem : terrible as an army set in array.
The Little Chapter.
The daughters saw her, and declared her
most blessed : and the queens, and they praised
R. Thanks be to God.
98 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
Hymn.
O gloriosa virginum,
Sublimis inter sidera.
Qui te creavit, parvulum
Lactente nutris ubere.
Quod Heva tristis abstulit
Tu reddis almo germine;
Intrent ut astra flebiles,
Coeli recludis cardines.
Tu regis alti janua,
Et aula lucis fulgida:
Vitam datam per Virginem,
Gentes redemptae, plaudite.
Jeus, tibi sit gloria,
Qui natus es de Virgine;
Cum Patre et almo Spiritu
In sempiterna ssecula. Amen.
Ant. Beata Dei genitrix.
The Canticle of Z a chary.
Benedictus Dominus Deus Israel: quia visi-
tavit, et fecit redemptionem plebis suse:
Et erexit cornu salutis nobis: in domo
David pueri sui.
Sicut locutus est per os sanctorum : qui a
saeculo sunt. prophetarum ejus.
LITTLE OFFICE OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN 99
Hymn.
O Queen of all the virgin choir,
Enthroned above the starry sky:
Who with pure milk from thy own breast
Thy own Creator didst supply.
What man hath lost in hapless Eve,
Thy sacred womb to man restores :
Thou to the wretched here beneath
Hast open'd heaven's eternal doors.
Hail, O refulgent hall of light:
Hail, gate sublime of heaven's high King !
Through thee redeem'd to endless life.
Thy praise let all the nations sing.
O Jesus born of Virgin bright,
Immortal glory be to Thee:
Praise to the Father infinite,
And Holy Ghost eternally. Amen
Ant. O blessed Mother of God.
The Canticle of Zachary.
Blessed be the Lord God of Israel: because
he hath visited and wrought the redemption of
his people:
And he hath raised up for us a horn of salva
tion in the house of David his servant.
As he spoke by the mouth of his holy proph
ets, who are from of old:
100 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
Salutem ex inimicis nostris: et de manu
omnium, qui oderunt nos:
Ad faciendam misericordiam cum patribus
nostris: et memorari testamenti sui sancti
Jusjurandum, quod juravit ad Abraham
patrem nostrum, daturum se nobis:
Ut sine timore, de manu inimicorum nostro-
rum liberati, serviamus illi.
In sanctitate, et justitia coram ipso, omnibus
diebus nostris.
Et tu puer, propheta Altissimi vocaberis:
praeibis enim ante faciem Domini parare vias
ejus:
Ad dandam scientiam salutis plebi ejus: in
remissionem peccatorum eorum:
Per viscera misericordiae Dei nostri, in qui-
bus visitavit nos, oriens ex alto.
Illuminare his, qui in tenebris, et in umbra
mortis sedent: ad dirigendos pedes nostros in
viam pacis.
Gloria Patri, etc.
Ant. Beata Dei genitrix Maria, Virgo perpe-
tua, templum Domini, sacrarium Spiritus
Sancti, sola sine exemplo placuisti Domino
nostro Jesu Christo: ora pro populo, interveni
pro clero, intercede pro devoto femineo sexu.
V. Kyrie eleison.
LITTLE OFFICE OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN 101
Deliverance from our enemies, and from the
hand of all who 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 from the hand of our
enemies, we may serve Him without fear.
In holiness and justice before Him, all our
days.
And thou, child, shalt be called the prophet
of the Most High: for thou shalt go before
the face of the Lord to prepare His ways.
To give knowledge of salvation to His people,
unto the remission of their sins.
Through the tender mercy of our God: in
which the Orient 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, etc.
Ant. O Blessed Mother of God, Mary ever
Virgin, temple of the Lord, sanctuary of the
Holy Ghost: thou alone, without example,
wast well pleasing to our Lord Jesus Christ:
pray for the people, mediate for the clergy,
intercede for the devout female sex.
V. Lord, have mercv on us.
102 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
R. Christe eleison. Kyrie eleison.
V. Domine exaudi orationem meam.
R. Et clamor metis ad te veniat.
Or emus.
Deus, qui de beatae Mariae Virginis utero
Verbum tuum, Angelo nuntiante, carnem susci-
pere voluisti: praesta supplicibus tuis: ut, qui
vere earn Genitricem Dei credimus ejus apud te
intercessionibus adjuvemur. Per eundem Domi-
num nostrum, Jesum Christum Filium Tuum,
qui tecum vivit et regnat in unitate Spiritus
Sancti, Deus per omnia saecula saeculorum.
R. Amen.
Commemoration of the Saints.
Ant. Sancti Dei omnes, intercedere digne-
mini pro nostra omniumque salute.
V. Laetamini in Domino, et exultate justi.
R. Et gloriamini omnes recti corde.
Or emus.
PROTEGE, Domine, populum tuum, et Apos-
tolorum tuorum, Petri et Pauli, et aliorum
apostolorum patrocinio confidentem, perpetua
defensione conserva.
LITTLE OFFICE OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN 103
R. Christ, have mercy on us. Lord have
mercy on us.
V. O Lord, hear my prayer.
R. And let my cry come unto thee.
Let us pray.
O God, who wast pleased that Thy Word, at
the message of an angel, should take flesh in
the womb of the Blessed Virgin Mary: grant
to us, Thy humble servants, that as we believe
her to be truly the Mother of God, we may be
assisted also by her intercession with Thee.
Through the same Jesus Christ, Thy Son, our
Lord, who liveth and reigneth with Thee in the
unity of the Holy Ghost, God world without
end.
R. Amen.
Commemoration of the Saints.
Ant. All ye saints of God, vouchsafe to
make intercession for the salvation of us, and
of all men.
V. Be glad in the Lord, and rejoice, ye
j ust.
R. And glory, all ye right in heart.
Let us pray.
PROTECT, O Lord, Thy people, and let the
confidence we have in the intercession of Thy
blessed apostles, Peter and Paul, and of Thy
104 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
Omnes Sancti tui, quaesumus, Domine, nos
ubique adjuvant; ut, dum eorum merita recoli-
mtis, patrocinia sentiamus: et pacem tuam
nostris concede temporibus, et ab Ecclesia tua
cunctam repelle nequitiam: iter, actus et vo-
luntates nostras, et omnium famulorum tuorum,
in salutis tuse prosperitate dispone: benefac-
toribus nostris sempiterna bona retribue: et
omnibus fidelibus defunctis requiem aeternam
concede. Per Dominum nostrum Jesum Chris
tum Filium tuum. Amen.
V. Domine, exaudi orationem meam.
R. Et clamor meus ad te veniat.
V. Benedicamus Domino.
R. Deo gratias.
V. Fidelium animae per misericordiam Dei
requiescant in pace.
R. Amen.
V. Dominus det nobis suam pacem.
D. Et vitam aeternam. Amen.
Here, as also at the end of Complin, one of the Anti-
phons (p. 129) is said kneeling, except on Sundays, and
in Easter time, when they are said standing.
VESPERS.
AVE Maria (inaudibly).
V. Deus, in adjutorium meum intende.
R. Domine, ad adjuvandum me festina.
LITTLE OFFICE OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN 105
other apostles, prevail with Thee to preserve
and defend us forever.
May all Thy saints, O Lord, we beseech
Thee, everywhere assist us, that whilst we cele
brate their merits, we may be sensible of their
protection: grant us Thy peace in our times,
and repel all wickedness from Thy Church:
prosperously guide the steps, actions, and de
sires of us, and all Thy servants, in the way of
salvation: give eternal blessings to those who
have done good to us, and everlasting rest to
the faithful departed. Through our Lord Jesus
Christ Thy Son. Amen.
V. O Lord, hear my prayer.
R. And let my cry come to Thee.
V. Let us bless the Lord.
R. Thanks be to God.
V. May the souls of the faithful departed,
through the mercy of God, rest in peace.
R. Amen.
V. May the Lord give us His peace.
R. And life everlasting. Amen.
Here, as also at the end of Complin, one of the Anti-
phons (p. 129) is said kneeling, except on Sundays, and
in Easter time, when they are said standing.
VESPERS.
HAIL Mary (inaudibly).
V. O God, come to my assistance.
R. O Lord, make haste to help me.
106 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
V. Gloria Patri, et Filio, et Spiritui Sancto.
R. Sicut erat in principle, et nunc, et sem
per, et in saecula saeculorum. Amen. Alleluia.
(From Septuagesima till Easter: Laus tibi,
Domine, Rex aeternae gloriae.)
Ant. Dum esset rex.
Psalm cix.
DIXIT Dominus Domino meo : sede a dextris
meis:
Donee ponam inimicos tuos scabellum pedum
tuorum.
Virgam virtutis tuae emittet Dominus ex
Sino: dominare in medio inimicorum tuorum.
Tecum principum in die virtutis tuae in
splendoribus sanctorum: ex utero ante luci-
ferum genui te.
Juravit Dominus et non poenitebit eum: tu
es sacerdos in aeternum, secundum ordinem
Melchisedech.
Dominus a dextris tuis: confregit in die irae
suae reges.
Judicabit in nationibus; implebit ruinas:
conquassabit capita in terra multorum.
De torrente in via bibet: propterea exaltabit
caput.
Gloria Patri, etc.
LITTLE OFFICE OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN 107
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. (From Septuagtsima till Easter:
Praise be to Thee, O Lord, King of eternal
glory.)
Ant. While the King.
Psalm cix.
THE Lord said to my Lord: sit thou at my
right hand:
Until I make thy enemies thy foot-stool.
The Lord will send forth the sceptre of thy
power out of Sion: rule thou in the midst of
thy enemies.
With thee is the principality in the day of
thy strength, in the brightness of the saints,
from the womb before the day-star I begat thee.
The Lord hath sworn, and he will not re
pent: thou art a priest forever according to
the order of Melchisedech.
The Lord at thy right hand hath crushed
kings in the day of his wrath.
He shall judge among nations, he shall fill
them with ruins: he shall crush the heads in
the land of many.
He shall drink of the torrent in the way :
therefore, shall he lift up the head.
Glory be to the Father, etc.
108 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
Ant. Dum esset Rex in accubitu suo, nardus
mea dedit odorem suavitatis.
Ant. Lseva ejus.
Psalm cxii.
LAUDATE, pueri Dominum: laudate nomen
Domini.
Sit nomen Domini benedictum: ex hoc
nunc et usque in saeculum.
A solis ortu usque ad occasum: laudabile
nomen Domini.
Excelsus super omnes gentes Dominus: et
super ccelos gloria ejus.
Quis sicut Dominus Deus noster: qui in altis
habitat et humilia respicit, in ccelo et in terra?
Suscitans a terra incpem : et de stercore
erigens pauperem.
Ut collocet eum cum principibus: cum prin-
cipibus populi sui.
Qui habitare facit sterilem in domo : matrem
filiorum laetantem.
Gloria Patri, etc.
Ant. Laeva ejus sub capite meo: et dextera
illius amplexabitur me.
Ant. Nigra sum.
LITTLE OFFICE OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN 109
Ant. While the king was at his repose, my
spikenard sent forth an odor of sweetness.
Ant. His left hand.
Psalm cxii.
PRAISE the Lord, ye children : praise ye the
name of the Lord.
Blessed be the name of the Lord, from
henceforth, now and forever.
From the rising of the sun unto the going
down of the same, the name of the Lord is
worthy of praise.
The Lord is high above all nations: and his
glory above the heavens.
VVho is as the Lord our God, who dwelleth
on high, and looketh down on the low things
in heaven and on earth?
Raising up the needy from the earth, and
lifting up the poor cut of the dunghill.
That he may place him with princes, with
the. princes of the people.
Who maketh a barren woman to dwell in a
house, the joyful mother of children.
Glory be to the Father, etc.
Ant. His left hand under my head, and his
right hand shall embrace me.
Ant. I am black.
110 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
Psalm cxxi.
L^TATUS sum in his, quse dicta sunt mihi ;
in domum Domini ibimus.
Stantes erant pedes nostri: in atriis tuis
Jerusalem.
Jerusalem, quse sedificatur ut civitas: cujus
participatio ejus in idipsum.
Illuc enim ascenderunt tribus, tribus Domini :
testimonium Israel ad confitendum nomini
Domini.
Quia illic sederunt sedes in judicio, sedes su
per domum David.
Rog-ate quse ad pacem sunt Jerusalem: et
abundantia diligentibus te.
Fiat pax in virtue tua: et abundantia in
turribus tuis.
Propter fratres meos, et proximos meos:
loquebar pacem de te:
Propter domum Domini Dei nostri: quaesivi
bona tibi.
Gloria Patri, etc.
Ant. Nigra sum, sed formosa, filiee Jeru
salem: ideo dilexit me Rex, et introduxit me in
cubiculum suum.
Ant. Jam hiems transiit.
Psalm cxxvi.
NISI Dominus sedificaverit domum : in
vanum laboraverunt qui sedificant earn.
LITTLE OFFICE OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN 111
Psalm cxxi.
I REJOICED at the things that were said to
me: We shall go into the house of the Lord.
Our feet were standing in thy courts, O
Jerusalem.
Jerusalem, which is built like a city, which
is compact together.
For thither did the tribes go up, the tribes
of the Lord : the testimony of Israel, to praise
the name of the Lord.
Because there are set thrones of judgment,
seats upon the house of David.
Pray ye for the peace of Jerusalem: and
abundance for them that love thee.
Let peace be in thy strength: and abund
ance in thy towers.
For the sake of my brethren and my neigh
bors, I wished peace to thee:
Because of the house of the Lord our God,
I have sought good things for thee.
Glory be to the Father, etc.
Ant. I am black, but beautiful, O ye
daughters of Jerusalem: and, therefore, hath
the King loved me, and brought me into his
chamber.
Ant. Winter is now past.
Psalm cxxvi.
UNLESS the Lord build the house, they labor
in vain that build it.
112 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
Nisi Dominus custodierit civitatem: frustra
vigilat qui custodit earn.
Vanum est vobis ante lucem surgere: sur-
gite postquam sederitis, qui manducatis panem
doloris.
Cum dederit dilectis suis somnum: ecce
haereditas Domini filii ; merces, f ructus ventris.
Sicut sagittae in manu potentis: ita filii ex-
cussorum.
Beatus vir qui implevit desiderium suum ex
ipsis: non confundetur cum loquetur inimicis
suis in porta.
Gloria Patri, etc.
Ant. Jam hiems transiit, imber abiit, et
recessit: surge arnica mea, et veni.
Ant. Speciosa facta es.
Psalm cxlvii.
LAUDA Jerusalem Dominum : lauda Deum
tuum Sion.
Quoniam confortavvt seras portarum tuarum :
benedixit filiis tuis in te.
Qui posuit fines tuos pacem : et adipe frn-
menti satiat te.
Qui emittit eloquium suum terrae: velocitcr
currit sermo ejus.
Qui dat nivem sicut lanam : nebulam sicut
cinerem spargit.
LITTLE OFFICE OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN 113
Unless the Lord keep the city, he watcheth
in vain that keepeth it.
It is vain for you to rise before light: rise
after ye have rested, ye that eat the bread of
sorrow.
When he shall give sleep to his beloved:
behold the inheritance of the Lord are chil
dren; the reward, the fruit of the womb.
As arrows in the hand of the mighty: so
the children of them that are shaken.
Blessed is the man that has filled his desire
with them: he shall not be confounded when
he shall speak to his enemies in the gate.
Glory be to the Father, etc.
Ant. Winter is now past: the rain is over
and gone : arise, my beloved, and come.
Ant. Thou art become beautiful.
Psalm cxlvii.
PRAISE the Lord, O Jerusalem: praise thy
God, O Sion.
Because he hath strengthened the bolts of
thy gates: he hath blessed thy children within
thee.
Who hath placed peace in thy borders: and
filleth thee with the finest corn.
Who sendeth forth his speech to the earth :
his word runneth swiftly.
Who giveth snow like wool : scattereth
mists like ashes.
114 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
Mittit crystallum suam sicut buccellas: ante
faciem frigoris ejus quis sustinebit.
Bmittet verbum suum, et liquefaciet ea:
flabit spiritus ejus, et fluent aquae.
Qui annuntiat verbum suum Jacob: justitias,
et judicia sua Israel.
Non fecit taliter omni nationi : et judicia
sua non manifestavit eis~
Gloria Patria, etc.
Ant. Speciosa facta es et suavis in deliciis
tuis, sancta Dei genitrix.
The Little Chapter.
AB initio, et ante saecula creata sum, et usque
ad futurum saeculum non desinam, et in habita-
tione sancta coram ipso ministravi.
R. Deo gratias.
Hymn.
AVE maris Stella,
Dei mater alma,
Atque semper virgo,
Felix coeli porta.
Sumens illud Ave
Gabrielis ore,
Fun-da nos in pace
Mutans Hevae nomen.
LITTLE OFFICE OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN 115
He sendeth his crystal like morsels: who
shall stand before the face of his cold?
He shall send out his word, and shall melt
them: his wind shall blow, and the waters
shall run.
Who declareth his word to Jacob: his pre
cepts and his judgments to Israel.
He hath not done in like manner to every
nation: and his judgments he hath not made
manifest to them.
Glory be to the Father, etc.
Ant. Thou art become beautiful and sweet
in thy delights, O Holy Mother of God.
The Little Chapter.
FROM the beginning, and before the world
was I created; and unto the world to come I
shall not cease to be; and in the holy dwelling
place I have ministered before him.
R. Thanks be to God.
Hymn.
BRIGHT Mother of our Maker, hail.
Thou Virgin ever blest,
The ocean's star by which we sail,
And gain the port of rest.
Whilst we this Ave thus to thee.
From G'aibriel's mouth rehearse:
Obtain that peace our lot may be,
And Eva's name reverse.
116 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
Solve vincla reis,
Prefer lumen caecis,
Mala nostra pelle,
Bona cuncta posce.
Monstra te esse matrem,
Sumat per te preces,
Qui pro nobis natus
Tulit esse tuus.
Virgo singularis
Inter omnes mitis,
Nos culpis solutos,
Mites fac et castos.
Vitam pnesta puram,
Iter para tutum,
Ut videntes Jesum, ,
Semper collaetemur.
Sit laus Deo Patri,
Summo Christo decus,
Spiritui sancto,
Tribus honor unus. Amen.
V. Diffusa est gratia in labiis tuis.
R. Propterea benedixit te Deus in aeterntim.
Ant. Beata mater.
The Magnificat.
MAGNIFICAT anima mea Dominum.
LITTLE OFFICE OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN 117
Release our long entangled mind
From all the snares of ill;
With heavenly light instruct the blind,
And all our vows fulfil.
Exert for us a mother's care,
And us thy children own,
Prevail with him to hear our prayer
Who chose to be thy Son.
O spotless Maid, whose virtues shine
With brightest purity
Each action of our lives refine,
And make us pure like thee.
Preserve our lives unstained with ill
In this infectious way;
That heaven alone our souls may fill
With joys that ne'er decay.
To God the Father endless praise;
To God the Son the same;
And Holy Ghost, whose equal rays
One equal glory claim. Amen.
V. Grace is poured forth on thy lips.
R. Therefore hath God blessed thee forever.
Ant. Blessed mother.
The Magnificat.
MY soul doth magnify the Lord:
118 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
Et exultavit Spiritus meus in Deo salutari
meo.
Quia respexit humilitatem ancillae suae: eccc
enim ex hoc beatam me dicent omnes genera-
tiones.
Quia fecit mihi magna qui potens est: et
sanctum nomen ejus:
Et misericordia ejus a progenie in progenies:
timentibus eum.
Fecit potentiam in brachio suo: dispersit
superbos mente cordis sui.
Deposuit potentes de sede: et exaltavit hu-
miles.
Esurientes implevit bonis: et divites dimisit
inanes.
Suscepit Israel puerum suum: recordatus
misericordiae suse.
Sicut locutus est ad patres nostros : Abraham
et semini ejus in saecula.
Gloria Patri, etc.
Ant. Beata Mater, et intacta virgo, gloriosa
regina mundi, intercede pro nobis ad Domi-
num.
V. Kyrie eleison.
R. Christe eleison. V. Kyrie eleison.
V. Domine, exaudi orationem meam.
R. Et clamor meus ad te veniat.
LITTLE OFFICE OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN 119
And my spirit hath rejoiced in God my
Saviour.
Because he hath looked down on the lowli
ness of his handmaid, for behold henceforth
all generations will call me blessed.
Because he that is mighty hath done great
things for me: and holy is his name.
And his mercy is from generation unto gen
eration to them that fear him.
He hath shown might in his arm: he hath
scattered the proud in the conceit of their
heart.
He hath put down the mighty from their
throne, and hath exalted the humble.
He hath filled the hungry with good things,
and the rich he hath sent away empty.
He hath received his servant Israel, being
mindful of his mercy.
As he spake to our fathers, to Abraham and
to his seed forever.
Glory be to the Father, etc.
Ant. Blessed mother and inviolate Virgin,
glorious Queen of the world, intercede for us
with the Lord.
V. Lord, have mercy on us.
R. Christ, have mercy on us. V. Lord, have
mercy on us.
V. O Lord, hear my prayer.
R. And let my cry come unto Thee.
120 SODALITY OP THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
Or emus.
CONCEDE nos famulos tuos, quaesumus, Do-
mine Deus, perpetua mentis et corporis sani
tate gaudere: et gloriosa beatae Mariae semper
Virginis intercessione, a praesenti liberari tristi-
tia, et aeterna perfrui lastitia. Per Dominum
nostrum Jesum Christum filium tuum, qui tecum
vivit et regnat in unitate Spiritus Sancti, Deus
per omnia ssecula saeculorum.
R. Amen.
Commemoration of the Saints, etc^ as on page 102.
COMPLIN.
AVE Maria (inaudibly).
V. Converte nos, Deus salutaris noster.
R. Et averte iram tuam a nobis.
V. Deus in adjutorium meum intende.
R. Domine, ad adjuvandum me festina.
Gloria Patri, etc. Alleluia. (From Septua-
gesima till Easter: Laus tibi, Domine).
Psalm cxxv'iii.
S^EPE expugnaverunt me a juventute mea:
dicat nunc Israel.
Ssepe expugnaverunt me a juventute mea:
etenim non potuerunt mihi.
Supra dorsum meum fabricaverunt pecca-
toro: prolongaverunt iniquitatem suam.
LITTLE OFFICE OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN 121
Let us pray.
GRANT, we beseech Thee, O Lord God, that
we, Thy servants, may enjoy perpetual health,
both of mind and body; and by the glorious
intercession of the Blessed Mary, ever Virgin,
may be delivered from present sorrow, and
attain unto eternal joy. Through our Lord
Jesus Christ, Thy Son, who liveth and reigneth
with Thee in the unity of the Holy Ghost,
God world without end.
R. Amen.
Commemoration of the Saints, etc., as on p. 103.
COMPLIN.
HAIL Mary (inaudibly}.
V. Convert us, O God our Saviour.
R. And turn away Thy anger from us.
V . O God. come to my assistance.
R. O Lord, make haste to help me.
Glory be to the Father, etc. Alleluia.
(From Scptuagesima to Easter: Praise be to
Thee, O Lord.)
Psalm cxxvni.
OFTEN have they fought against me from
my youth, let Israel now say.
Often have they fought against me from
my youth : but they could not prevail over me.
The wicked have wrought over my back:
they have lengthened their iniquities.
122 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
Dominus Justus concidit cervices pecca-
torum: confundantur et convertantur retror-
sum omnes qui oderunt Sion.
Fiant sicut foenum tectorum: quod prius-
quam evellatur, exaruit.
De quo non implevit manum suam qui metit,
et sinum suum qui manipulos colligit.
Et non dixerunt qui praeteribant : benedic-
tio Domini super vos: benediximus vobis in
nomine Domini.
Gloria Patri, etc.
Psalm cxxix.
DE profundis clamavi ad te, Domine: Do-
mine, exaudi vocem meam.
Fiant aures tuae intendentes, in vocem depre-
cationis mese.
Si iniquitates observaveris, Domine: Do-
mine, quis sustinebit?
Quia apud te propitiatio est: et propter
legem tuam sustinui te, Domine.
Sustinuit anima mea in verbo ejus: speravit
anima mea in Domino.
A custodia matutina usque ad noctem: spe-
ret Israel in Domino.
Quia apud Dominum misericordia: et copi-
osa apud eum redemt>tio.
Et ipse redimet Israel : ex omnibus iniqui-
tatibus ejus.
Gloria Patri. etc.
LITTLE OFFICE OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN 123
The Lord, who is just, will cut the necks of
sinners : let them all be confounded and turned
back, that hate Sion.
Let them be as grass upon the tops of houses,
which withereth before it be plucked up.
Whereof the reaper shall not fill his hand,
nor he that gathers the sheaves, his bosom.
And they who .passed by, said not, the bless
ing of the Lord be upon you : we have blessed
you in the name of the Lord.
Glory be to the Father, etc.
Psalm cxxix.
OUT of the depths I have cried to thee, O
Lord: Lord, hear my voice.
Let thy ears be attentive to the voice of my
petition.
If thou regardest iniquities, O Lord; Lord,
who shall bear it?
Because with thee there is mercy; and be
cause of thy law, ] have waited for thee, O
Lord.
My soul has trusted in his word, my soul
hath hoped in the Lord.
From the morning watch even till 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 its
iniquities.
Glorv be to the Father, etc.
124 SOD A LI TY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
Psalm cxxx.
DOMINE, non est exaltatum cor meum:
neque elati sunt oculi mei.
Neque ambulavi in magnis : neque in mira-
bilibus super me.
Si non humiliter sentiebam: sed exaltavi
animam meam.
Sicut ablactatus est super matre sua, ita
retributio in anima mea.
Speret Israel in Domino: ex hoc nunc et
usque in saeculum.
Gloria Patri, etc.
Hymn.
MEMENTO, reruni Conditor,
Nostri quod olim corporis,
Sacrata ab alvo Virginis,
Nascendo, formam sumpseris. «
Maria mater gratiae,
Dulcis parens clementiae
Tu nos ab hoste protege,
Et mortis hora suscipe.
Jesu, tibi sit gloria,
Qui natus es de Virgine,
Cum Patrse, et almo Spiritu,
In sempiterna saecula. Amen.
The Little Chapter.
EGO mater pulchrae dilectionis, et timoris, ct
agnitionis, et sanctse spei.
LITTLE OFFICE OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN 125
Psalm cxxx.
LORD, my heart is not exalted; nor are my
eyes lofty.
Nor have I walked in- great matters, nor in
wonderful things above me.
If I was not humbly minded, but exalted my
soul.
As a child that is weaned is toward his
mother, so let my soul be rewarded.
Let Israel hope in the Lord, from hence
forth, now and forever.
Glory be to the Father, etc.
Hymn.
Remember, O Creator, Lord!
That in the Virgin's sacred womb
Thou wast conceived and of her flesh
Didst our mortality assume.
Mother ol grace, O Mary blest,
To thee, sweet fount of !ove, we fly :
Shield us through life and take us hence
To thy dear bosom, when we die.
0 Jesus, born of Virgin bright,
Immortal glory be to Thee,
Praise to the Father infinite,
And Holy Ghost eternally. Amen.
The Little Chapter.
1 am the mother of fair love, and of fear
and of knowledge, and of holy hope.
126 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
R. Deo gratias.
V. Ora pro nobis, sancta Dei genitrix.
R. Ut digni efficiamur promissionibus
Christi.
Ant. Sub tuum presidium.
Canticle of Simeon.
NUNC dimittis servum tuum, Domine : secun-
dum verbum tuum in pace.
Quia viderunt oculi mei: salutare tuum.
Quod parasti : ante faciem omnium populo-
rum.
Lumen ad revelationem gentium: et gloriam
plebis tuae Israel.
Gloria Patri, etc.
Ant. Sub tuum praesidium confugimus, sancta
Dei Genitrix: nostras deprecationes ne despi-
cias in necessitatibus, sed a periculis cunctis
libera nos semper, Virgo gloriosa et benedicta.
F. Kyrie eleison.
R. Christe eleison. Kyrie eleison.
V. Domine, exaudi orationem meam.
R. Et clamor meus ad te veniat.
Oremus.
BEAT^E et gloriosas semper Virginis Mariae,
quoesumus, Domine, intercessio gloriosa nos
protegat; et ad vitam perducat aeternam. Per
Dominum nostrum Tesum Christum Filium
LITTLE OFFICE OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN 127
R. Thanks be to God.
V. Pray for us, O Holy Mother of God.
R. That we may be made worthy of the
promises of Christ.
Ant. We fly to thy patronage.
Canticle of Simeon.
Now, O Lord, dost thou dismiss thy servant
in peace, according to thy word.
Because my eyes have seen thy salvation.
Which thou hast prepared in sight of all
nations.
A light for the illumination of the gentiles,
and for the glory of thy people Israel.
Glory be to the Father, etc.
Ant. We fly to thy patronage, O Holy
Mother of God: despise not our petitions in
our necessities; but deliver us always from all
dangers, O glorious and blessed Virgin.
V. Lord, have mercy on us.
R. Christ have mercy on us. Lord, have
mercy on us.
V. O Lord, hear my prayer.
R. And let my cry come unto Thee.
Let us pray.
MAY the glorious intercession of the blessed
and glorious Mary, ever Virgin, protect us, we
beseech Thee, O Lord, and bring us to life
everlasting. Through our Lord Jesus Christ,.
128 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
tuum, Qui tecum vivit et regnat in unitate
Spiritus Sancti, Deus in saecula saeculorum.
R. Amen.
V. Domine, exaudi orationem meam.
R. Et clamor meus ad te veniat.
V. Benedicamus Domino.
R. Deo gratias.
The Blessing.
Benedicat, et custodiat nos omnipotens et
misericors Dominus, Pater, et Filius, et Spiri
tus Sanctus.
R. Amen.
Then is said one of the following Antiphons of the
Blessed Virgin, according to the season.
ANTIPHONS OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN.
From the First Sunday in Advent to the Purifi
cation, inclusively.
ALMA Redemptoris Mater, quae pervia coeli,
Porta manes, et stella maris, succurre cadenti,
Surgere qui curat populo; tu quae genuisti,
Natura mirante, tuum sanctum Genitorem,
Virgo prius ac posterius ; Gabrielis ab ore
Sumens illud Ave, peccatorum miserere.
In Advent.
V. ANGELUS Domini nuntiavit Marias.
R. Et concepit de Spiritu Sancto.
LITTLE OFFICE OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN 129
Thy Son, who liveth and reigneth with Thee
in the unity of the Holy Ghost, God world
without end.
R. Amen.
V. O Lord, hear my prayer.
R. And let my cry come unto Thee.
V. Let us bless the Lord.
R. Thanks be to God.
The Blessing.
May the almighty and merciful Lord, Father,
Son, and Holy Ghost, bless and preserve us.
R. Amen.
Then is said one of the following Antiphons of the
Blessed Virgin, according to the season.
ANTIPHONS OF 'THE BLESSED VIRGIN.
From the First Sunday in Advent to the Purifi
cation, inclusively.
MOTHER 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.
In Advent.
V. The Angel of the Lord declared unto
Mary.
R. And she conceived of the Holy Ghost.
130 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
Or emus.
GRATIAM tuam, qusesumus, Domine, menti-
bus nostris inftmde: ut qui, angelo nuntiante,
Christi Filii tui incarnationem cognovimus, per
passionem ejus et crucem ad resurrectionis
gloriam perducamur. Per eundem Christum
Dominum nostrum.
R. Amen.
V. Divinum auxilium maneat semper nobis-
cum.
R. Amen.
From Christmas to Purification.
'V. Post partum, Virgo, inviolata perman-
sisti.
R. Dei Genitrix, intercede pro nobis.
Oremus.
DEUS qui salutis seternse beatae Mariae vir-
ginitate foecunda humano generi praemia prse-
stitisti; tribue, quaesumus, ut ipsam pro nobis
intercedere sentiamus, per quam meruimus
Auctorem vitae suscipere Dominum nostrum
Jesum Christum Filium tuum.
R. Amen.
V . Divinum auxilium maneat semper nobis-
cum.
R. Amen.
LITTLE OFFICE OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN 131
Let us pray.
POUR forth, we beseech Thee, O Lord, Thy
grace into our hearts, that we, to whom the
Incarnation of Christ, Thy Son, was made
known by the message of an angel, may, by
His passion and cross, be brought to the glory
of His resurrection. Through the same Christ
our Lord.
R. Amen.
V. May the divine assistance remain always
with us.
R. Amen.
From Christmas to Purification.
V. AFTER child-birth thou didst remain an
inviolate Virgin.
R. Mother of God, make intercession for us.
Let us pray.
O GOD, who, by the fruitful virginity of the
Blessed Virgin Mary, hast given to mankind
the rewards of eternal salvation; grant, we
beseech Thee, that we may experience her
intercession for us, through whom we have
received the author of life, our Lord Jesus
Christ, Thy Son.
R. Amen.
V. May the divine assistance remain always
with us.
R. Amen.
182 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
From the Purification to Easter.
Ave Regina coelorum;
Ave, Domina Angelorum,
Salve, radix; salve, porta,
Ex qua mundo lux est orta,
Gaude, virgo gloriosa,
Super omnes speciosa;
Vale, 0 valde decora,
Et pro nobis Christum exora.
V . Dignare me laudare te, virgo sacrata.
R. Da mihi virtutem contra hostes tuos.
Or emus.
CONCEDE, misericors Deus, fragilitati nostrae
presidium : ut qui sanctse Dei Genitricis memo-
riam agimus, intercessionis ejus auxilio a nos-
tris iniquitatibus resurgamus. Per eundem
Christum Dominum nostrum.
R. Amen.
V. Divinum auxilium maneat semper nobis-
cum.
R. Amen.
From Easter to Trinity Eve.
REGINA coeli, laetare, Alleluia;
Quia, quern meruisti portare, Alleluia ;
Resurrexit, sicut dixit, Alleluia.
Ora pro nobis Deum, Alleluia.
LITTLE OFFICE OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN 183
From the Purification to Easter.
HAIL, O Queen of heaven enthroned,
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.
V. Vouchsafe that I may praise thee, O
sacred Virgin.
R. Give me strength against thy enemies.
Let us pray.
GRANT, O merciful God, support to our
frailty: that we who commemorate the Holy
Mother of God, may, by the help of her inter
cession, arise from our iniquities. Through
the same Christ our Lord.
R. Amen.
V. May the divine assistance remain always
with us.
R. Amen.
From Easter to Trinity Eve.
O QUEEN of heaven, rejoice, Alleluia;
For He whom thou didst deserve to bear,
Alleluia;
Is risen again as He said. Alleluia.
Prav for us to God, Alleluia.
134 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
V. Gaude et Isetare, Virgo Maria, Alleluia.
R. Quia surrexit Dominus vere, Alleluia.
Or emus.
DEUS, qui, per resurrectionem Filii tui Do
mini nostri Jesu Christi, mundum laetificare
dignatus, praesta, quaesumus, ut per ejus Geni-
tricem virginem Mariam perpetuae capiamus
gaudia vitae. Per eundetn Christum Dominum
nostrum.
R. Amen.
V. Divinum auxilium maneat semper nobis-
cum.
R. Amen.
From Trinity Sunday to Advent.
Salve Regina, mater misericordiae ; vita dul-
cedo, et spes nostra, salve. Ad te clamamus,
exules filii Evae. Ad te suspiramus, gemen-
tes et flentes, in hac lacrymarum valle. Eia
ergo advocata nostra, illos tuos misericordes
oculos ad nos converte. Et Jesum, benedictum
fructum ventris tui, nobis post hoc exilium
ostende. O clemens, O pia, O dulcis Virgo
Maria.
V. Ora pro nobis, Sancta Dei Genitrix.
R. Ut di<nii efficiamur promissionibus
Christi.
LITTLE OFFICE OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN 135
V. Rejoice and be glad, O Virgin Mary,
Alleluia.
R. Because our Lord is truly risen. Alleluia.
Let us pray.
O GOD, who, by the resurrection of Thy
Son, our Lord Jesus Christ, hast been pleased
to fill the world with joy, grant, we beseech
Thee, that through the Virgin Mary, His
Mother,' we may receive the joys of eternal
life. Through the same Christ our Lord.
R. Amen.
V. May the divine assistance always remain
with us.
R. Amen.
From Trinity Sunday to Advent.
Salve Regina.
HAIL, 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 weep
ing in this vale 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 pious, 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.
136 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
Orcmiis.
OMNIPOTENS sempiterne Deus, qui glories*
Virginis Matris Mariae corpus et animam, ul
dignum Filii tui habitaculum effici mereretur,
Spiritu Sancto cooperante, praeparasti; da ut
cujus commemoratione laetamur ejus pia inter-
cessione ab instantibus malis, et a morte per-
petua liberemur. Per eundem Christum Do-
minum nostrum.
R. Amen.
V. Divinum auxilium maneat semper nobis-
cum.
R. Amen.
LITTLE OFFICE OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN 137
Let us pray.
O almighty and eternal God, who by the
co-operation of the Holy Ghost, didst prepare
the body and soul of the glorious Virgin Mary
to become the worthy habitation of Thy Son ;
grant that, as we rejoice in her commemoration,
so by her gracious intercession we may be
delivered both from present evils and everlast
ing death. Through the same Christ our Lord.
R. Amen.
V. May the divine assistance always remain
with us.
R. Amen.
THE LITTLE OFFICE
OF THE
IMMACULATE CONCEPTION.
AT MATINS.
EJA, mea labia, nunc annuntiate
Laudes et praeconia Virginis beatae.
V . Domina, in adjutorium meum intende.
R. Me de manu hostium potenter defende.
Gloria Patri. Alleluia. (From Septuagesima
to Easter: Laus tibi, Domine, Rex seternae
gloriae.)
Hymn.
r
Salve, mundi Domina,
Coelorum Regina;
Salve, Virgo virginum,
Stella matutina.
Salve, plena gratia,
Clara luce divina:
Mundi in auxilium,
Domina, festina.
13S
THE LITTLE OFFICE
OF THE
IMMACULATE CONCEPTION.
AT MATINS.
COME, my lips, and wide proclaim
The Blessed Virgin's spotless fame.
V. O Lady, make speed to befriend me.
R. From the hands of the enemy mightily
defend me.
V. Glory be to the Father, etc. Alleluia.
(From Septuagesima to Easter: Praise be to
Thee, O Lord, King of everlasting glory.)
Hymn.
Hail, Queen of the heavens,
Hail, Mistress of earth,
Hail, Virgin most pure,
Of immaculate birth ;
Clear star of the morning,
In beauty enshrined,
O Lady, make speed
To the help of mankind.
140 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
Ab aeterno Dominus
Te praeordinavit
Matrem unigeniti
Verbi, quo creavit
Terrain, pontum, aethera:
Te pulchram ornavit
Sibi Sponsam, quae in
Adam non peccavit. Amen.
V. Elegit earn Deus, et praeelegit earn.
R. In tabernaculo suo habitare fecit earn.
V. Domina, exaudi orationem meam.
R. Et clamor meus ad te veniat.
Oremus.
SANCTA Maria, Regina coelorum, mater
Domini nostri Jesu Christi, et mundi Domina,
quae nullum derelinquis, nullum despicis; res-
pice me, Domina, clementer oculis pietatis,
et impetra mihi apud tuum dilectum Filium
cunctorum veniam peccatorum: ut qui nunc
tuam sanctam et Immaculatam Conceptionem
devoto effectu recolo aeternae in futurum beati-
tudinis bravium capiam, ipso, quern virgo pepe-
risti, donante Domino nostro Jesu Christo:
qui cum Patre et Sancto Spiritus vivit et reg-
nat, in Trinitate perfecta, Deus in saecula
sseculorum. Amen.
OFFICE OF IMMACULATE CONCEPTION 141
Thee God in the depth
Of eternity chose;
And formed thee all fair
As His glorious Spouse ;
And called thee His Word's
Own Mother to be,
By whom He created
The earth, sky, and sea. Amen.
V. God elected her, and pre-elected her.
R. He made her to dwell in His tabernacle.
V. O Lady, hear my prayer.
R. And let my cry come unto thee.
Let us pray.
HOLY Mary, Queen of heaven, Mother of
our Lord Jesus Christ, and Mistress of the
world, who forsakest no one, and despisest no
one; look upon me, O Lady, with an eye of
pity, and entreat for me, of thy beloved Son,
the forgiveness of all my sins: that, as I now
celebrate with devout affection thy holy and
Immaculate Conception, so, hereafter, I may
receive the prize of eternal blessedness, by
the grace of Him whom thou, in virginity
didst bring forth, Jesus Christ our Lord : who,
with the Father and the Holy Ghost, liveth
and reigneth, in perfect Trinity, God, world
without end. Amen.
142 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
V . Domina, exaudi orationem meam.
R. Et clamor meus ad te veniat.
V. Benedicamus Domino.
R. Deo gratias.
V. Fidelium animce per rnisericordiam Dei
requiescant in pace.
R, Amen.
AT PRIME.
V. DOMINA, in adjutorium, etc. (as at
Matins).
Hymn.
SALVE, Virgo sapiens,
Domus Deo dicata,
Columna septemplici
Mensaque exornata.
Ab omni contagio
Mundi praeservata:
Ante sancta in utero
Parentis, quam nata.
Tu mater viventium,
Et porta es sanctorum:
Nova stella Jacob,
Domina angelorum
Zabulo terribilis,
Acies castrorum:
Portus et refugium
Sis Christianorum. Amen.
OFFICE OF IMMACULATE CONCEPTION 143
V. O Lady, hear my prayer.
R. And let my cry come unto thee.
V. Let us bless the Lord.
R. Thanks be to God.
V. May the souls of the faithful, through
the mercy of God, rest in peace.
R. Amen.
AT PRIME.
V. O Lady, make speed, etc. (a.? at
Matins).
Hymn.
HAIL, Virgin most wise,
Hail, Deity's shrine,
With seven fair pillars,
And table divine,
Preserved from the guilt
Which hath come on us all,
Exempt, in the womb,
From the taint of the Fall.
O new star of Jacob,
Of Angels the Queen,
O gate of the Saints,
O Mother of men,
O terrible as
The embattled array,
Be thou of the faithful
The refuge and stay. Amen.
144 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
V. IPSE creavit illam in Spiritu Sancto.
R. Et effudit illam inter omnia opera sua.
V. Domina, exaudi, etc. (as* at Matins').
AT TIERCE.
f
V. DOMINA, in adjutorium, etc. (as at
Matins).
Hymn,
SALVE, area foederis,
Thronus Salomonis,
Arcus pulcher aetheris,
Rubus visionis:
Virga frondens germinis,
Vellus Gedeonis :
Porta clausa numinis,
Favusque -Samsonis.
Decebat tarn nobilem
Natum, prsecavere
Ab original i
Labe Matris Evce.
Almam, quam elegerat,
Genitricem vere,
Nulli prorsus sinens
Culpae subjacere. Amen.
OFFICE OF IMMACULATE CONCEPTION 146
V. THE Lord Himself created her in the
Holy Ghost.
R. And poured her out among all His works.
V. O Lady, hear, etc. (as at Matins).
AT TIERCE.
V. O LADY, make speed, etc. (as at
Matins) .
Hymn.
HAIL, Solomon's throne,
Pure arch of the law,
Fair Rainbow, and bush,
Which the Patriarch saw.
Hail, Gideon's fleece,
Hail, blossoming rod,
Samson's sweet honeycomb,
Portal of God.
Well fitting it was,
That a Son so divine
Should preserve from all touch
Of original sin :
Nor suffer by smallest
Defect to be stained,
That Mother whom He
For Himself had ordained. Amen.
14« SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
V . EGO i'i altissimis habito,
R. Et thronus meus in columna nubis.
V. Domina, exaudi, etc. (as at Matins).
AT SEXT.
V. DOMINA, in adjutorium, etc. (as at
Matins).
Hymn.
SALVE Virgo puerpera,
Templum Trinitatis,
Angelorum gaudium,
Cella puritatis:
Solamen moerentium,
Hortus voluptatis:
Palma patientiae,
Cedrus castitatis.
Terra es benedicta
Et sacerdotalis,
Sancta et immunis
Culpae originalis.
Civitas Altissimi,
Porta orientalis:
In te est omnis gratia,
Virgo singularis. Amen.
V. SICUT lilium inter spinas.
R. Sic arnica mea inter filias Adae.
OFFICE OF IMMACULATE CONCEPTION 147
V. I DWELL in the highest.
R. And my throne is on the pillar of the
clouds.
V. O Lady, hear, etc. (as at Matins).
AT SEXT.
V. O LADY, make speed, etc. (as at Matins).
Hymn.
HAIL, virginal Mother,
Hail, purity's cell,
Fair shrine where the Trinity
Loveth to dwell.
Hail, garden of pleasure
Celestial balm
Cedar of chastity
Martyrdom's palm.
Thou land set apart
From uses profane,
And free from the curse
Which in Adam began.
Thou city of God,
Thou gate of the east,
In thee is all grace,
O joy of the blest. Amen.
V. As the lily among the thorns.
R. So is my beloved among the daughters
of Adam.
148 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
V. Domina, exaudi, etc. (as at Matins).
AT NONE.
V. DOMINA, in adjutorium, etc. (as at
Matins).
Hymn.
SALVE, urbs refugii,
Turrisqne munita
David, propmgnaculis
Armisque insignita.
In conceptione
Charitate ignita ;
Draconis potestas
Est a te contrita.
O mulier fortis,
Et in vita Judith,
Pulchra Abisag, virgo,
Verum fovens David.
Rachel curatorem
JEgypti gestavit;
Salvatorem mundi
Maria portavit. Amen.
V. TOTA pulchra es, arnica mea.
R. Et macula originalis numquam fuit in te.
V. Domina, exaudi, etc. (as at Matins).
AT VESPERS.
F. DOMINA, in adjutorium (as at Matins.}
OFFICE OF IMMACULATE CONCEPTION 14»
I'. O Lady, hear, etc. (as at Matins).
AT NONE.
V. O LADY, make speed, etc. (as at Matins).
Hymn.
HAIL, city of refuge,
Hail, David's high tower,
With battlements crowned
And girded with power.
Filled at thy conception
With love and with light,
The dragon by thee
WTas shorn of his might.
O woman most valiant,
O Judith thrice blest,
As David was nursed
In fair Abisag's breast.
As the saviour of Egypt
Upon Rachel's knee,
So the world's great Redeemer
Was cherished by thee. Amen.
V. THOU art all fair, my beloved.
R. And the original stain was never in thee.
V. O Lady, hear, etc. (as at Matins).
AT VESPERS.
V. O LADY, make speed, etc. (as at Matins).
150 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
Hymn.
SALVE, horologium,
Quo retrogrediatur
Sol in decem lineis ;
Verbum incarnatur.
Homo ut ab inferis
Ad summa attollatur,
Immensus ab Angelis
Paulo minoratur.
Solis hujus radiis
Maria coruscat;
Consurgens aurora
In conceptu micat.
Lilium inter spinas,
Quse serpentis conterat
Caput: pulchra ut luna
Errantes collustrat. Amen.
V. EGO feci in coelis, ut oriretur lumen incle-
ficiens.
R. Et quasi nebula texi omnem terram.
V. Domina, exaudi, etc. (as at Matins').
AT COMPLIN.
V. CONVERTAT nos, Domina, tuis precibus
placatus Jesus Christus Filius tuus.
R. Et avertat iram suam a nobis.
V. Domina, in adjutorium, etc. (as #1
Matins}.
OFFICE OF IMMACULATE CONCEPTION 151
Hymn.
HAIL, dial of Achaz,
On thee the true sun
Told backward the course
Which from old he had run.
And, that man might be raised,
Submitting to shame,
A little more low
Than the angels became.
Thou, wrapt in the blaze
Of His infinite light,
Dost shine as the morn
On the confines of night:
As the moon on the lost
Through obscurity dawns;
The serpent's destroyer,
A lily 'mid thorns. Amen.
V. I MADE an unfailing light to arise in
heaven.
R. And as a mist I overspread the whole
earth.
V. O Lady, hear, etc. (as at Matins}.
AT COMPLIN.
V. MAY Jesus Christ, thy Son, reconciled
by thy prayers, O Lady, convert our hearts.
R. And turn away His anger from us.
V. O Lady, make speed, etc. (as at Matins^.
153 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
Hymn.
SALVE, Virgo florens
Mater illibata,
Regina clementiae,
Stellis coronata.
Super omnes angelos
Pura immaculata,
Atque ad regis dexteram
Stans veste deaurata.
Per te Mater gratise,
Dulcis spes reorum.
Fulgens stella maris,
Portus naufragorum,
Patens coeli janua,
Salus infirmorum,
Videamus Regem,
In aula sanctorum. Amen.
V. OLEUM effusum, Maria, nomen tuum.
R. Servi tui dilexerunt te nimis.
V. Domina exaudi, etc. (as at Matins).
THE COMMENDATION.
SUPPLICES offerimus
Tibi, Virgo pia,
Hsec laudum prseconia ;
Fac nos ut in via.
OFFICE OF IMMACULATE CONCEPTION 153
Hymn.
HAIL, Mother most pure,
Hail, Virgin renowned,
Hail, Queen with the stars
As a diadem crowned.
Above all the angels
In glory untold,
Standing next to the King
In a vesture of gold.
O Mother of mercy,
O star of the wave,
O hope of the guilty,
0 light of the grave.
Through thee may we come
To the haven of rest,
And see heaven's King
In the courts of the blest. Amen.
V '. THY name, O Mary, is as oil poured out.
R. Thy servants have loved thee exceed
ingly.
V. O Lady, hear, etc. (as at Matins}.
THE COMMENDATION.
THESE praises and prayers
1 lay at thy feet,
O Virgin of virgins,
O Mary most sweet.
154 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
Ducas cursu prospero;
Et in agonia
Tu nobis assiste,
O dulcis Maria. Amen.
R. Deo gratias.
OFFICE OF IMMACULATE CONCEPTION 155
Be thou my true guide
Through this pilgrimage here;
And stand by my side
When death draweth near. Amen.
R. Thanks be to God.
THE OFFICE Oir THE DEAD.
VESPERS.
Ant. Placebo Domino in regione vivorura.
Psalm cxiv.
DILEXI quoniam exaudiet Dominus: vocem
orationis mese.
Quia inclinavit aurem suam mihi: et in
diebus meis invocabo.
Circumdederunt me dolores mortis: et peri-
cula inferni invenerunt me.
Tribulationem et dolorem inveni : et nomen
Domini invocavi.
O Domine, libera animam meam: misericors
Dominus, et Justus: et Deus noster miseretur.
Custodiens parvttlos Dominus: humiliatus
sum, et liberavit me.
Converte, anima mea, in requiem tuam:
quia Dominus benefecit tibi.
Quia eripuit animam meam de morte: ocu-
los meos a lacrymis, pedes meos a lapsu.
Placebo Domino: in regione vivorum.
Requiem asternam dona eis, Domine:
Et lux perpetua luceat cis.
158
THE OFFICE OF THE DEAD.
VESPERS.
Ant. I will please the Lord in the land of
the living.
Psalm cxiv.
I HAVE loved, because the Lord will hear
the voice of my prayer.
Because he hath inclined his ear to me:
and in my days I will call upon him.
The sorrows of death have compassed me:
and the perils of hell have found me.
I met with trouble and sorrow : and I called
upon the name of the Lord.
0 Lord, deliver my soul : the Lord is merci
ful and just, and our God showeth mercy.
The Lord is the keeper of the little ones: I
was humbled, and he delivered me.
Turn, O my soul, into thy rest: for the
Lord hath been bountiful to thee.
For he hath delivered my soul from death:
my eyes from tears : my feet from falling.
1 will please the Lord in the land of the
living.
Grant them eternal rest, O Lord:
And let perpetual light shine on them.
157
158 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
Ant. Placebo Domino in regione vivorum.
Ant. Heu mihi, Domine, quia incolatus
meus prolongatus est.
Psalm cxix.
AD Dominum cum tribularer clamavi : et ex-
audivit me.
Domine, libera animam meam a labiis ini-
quis, et a lingua dolosa.
Quid detur tibi, aut quid apponatur tibi ad
linguam dolosam?
Sagittse potentis acute, cum carbonibus
desolatoriis.
Heu mihi, quia incolatus meus prolongatus
est ! habitavi cum habitantibus Cedar : multum
incola fuit anima mea.
Cum his qui oderunt pacem, eram pacificus :
cum loquebar illis, impugnabant me gratis.
Requiem seternam, etc.
Ant. Heu mihi, Domine, quia incolatus
meus prolongatus est.
Ant. Dominus custodit te ab omni malo:
custodiat animam tuam Dominus.
Psalm cxx.
Levavi oculos meos in montes, unde veniet
auxilium mihi.
OFFICE OF THE DEAD 159
Ant. I will please the Lord in the land of
the living.
Ant. Woe is me that my sojourning is pro
longed.
Psalm cxix.
IN my trouble I cried to the Lord and he
heard me.
0 Lord, deliver my soul from wicked lips,
and a deceitful tongue.
What shall be given to thee, or what shall be
added to thee, to a deceitful tongue?
The sharp arrows of the mighty, with coals
that lay waste.
Woe is me, that my sojourning is prolonged;
I have dwelt with the inhabitants of Cedar :
my soul hath been long a sojourner.
With them that hated peace I was peaceful :
when I spoke to them, they fought against me
without cause.
Grant them eternal rest, etc.
Ant. Woe is me, that my sojourning is pro
longed.
Ant. The Lord keepeth thee from all evil:
may the Lord keep thy soul.
Psalm cxx.
1 HAVE lifted up my eyes to the mountains,
from whence help shall come to me.
160 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
Auxilium meum a Domino, qui fecit coelum
et terram.
Non det in commotionem pedem tuum, neque
dormitet, qui custodit te.
Ecce non dormitabit, neque dormiet, qui
custodit Israel.
Dominus custodit te, Dominus protectio tua,
super manum dexteram tuam.
Per diem sol non uret te, neque luna per
noctem.
Dominus custodit te ab omni malo : custodiat
animam tuam Dominus.
Dominus custodiat introitum tuum, et exi-
tum tuum: ex hoc nunc, et usque in sseculum.
Requiem aeternam, etc.
Ant. Dominus custodit te ab omni malo:
custodiat animam tuam Dominus.
Ant. Si iniquitates observaveris Domine:
Domine, quis sustinebit?
Psalm cxxix.
DE profundis clamavi ad te Domine: Do
mine, exaudi vocem meam.
Fiant aures tuae intendentes: in vocem de-
precationis meae.
Si iniquitates observaveris, Domine : Domine,
quis sustinebit
OFFICE OF THE DEAD 161
My help is from the Lord, who made heaven
and earth.
May he not suffer thy foot to slip: neither
let him that keepeth thee slumber.
Behold he that keepeth Israel shall neither
slumber nor sleep.
The Lord is thy keeper: the Lord is thy
protection upon thy right hand.
The sun shall not burn thee by day : nor the
moon by night.
The Lord keepeth thee from all evil: may
the Lord keep thy soul.
May the Lord guard thy coming in and thy
going out: from henceforth, now and forever.
Grant them eternal rest, etc.
Ant. The Lord keepeth thee from all evil :
may the Lord keep thy soul.
Ant. If thou, O Lord, wilt mark iniquities,
Lord, who shall stand?
Psalm cxxix.
OUT of the depths I have cried to thee, O
Lord: Lord, hear my voice.
Let thy ears be attentive to the voice of my
supplication.
If thou, O Lcrd, wilt mark iniquities, Lord,
who shall stand?
162 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
Quia apud te propitiatio est: et propter
legem tuam sustinui te, Domine.
Sustinuit anima mea in verbo ejus: speravit
anima mea in Domino.
A custodia matutina usque ad noctem :
speret Israel in Domino.
Quia apud Dominum misericordia: et copi-
osa apud eum redemptio.
Et ipse redimet Israel : ex omnibus iniquita-
tibus ejus.
Requiem seternam, etc.
Ant. Si iniquitates observaveris, Domine:
Domine, quis sustinebit?
Ant. Opera manuum tuarum, Domine, ne
despicias.
Psalm cxxxvii.
CONFITEBOR tibi, Domine, in toto corde meo :
quoniam audisti verba oris mei.
In conspectu angelorum psallam tibi : ador-
abo ad templum sanctum tuum, et confitebor
nomini tuo.
Super misericordia tua, et veritate tua : quo
niam magnificasti super omne, nomen sanctum
tuum.
In quacumque die invocavero te, exaudi me :
multiplicabis in anima mea virtutem.
OFFICE OF THE DEAD 163
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 until 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 ini
quities.
Eternal rest grant to them, etc.
Ant. If thou, O Lord, wilt mark iniquities,
Lord, who shall stand?
Ant. Despise not, O Lord, the works of thy
hands.
Psalm cxxxvii.
I WILL praise thee, O Lord, with my whole
heart: for thou hast heard the words of my
mouth.
I will sing praise to thee in the sight of the
angels : I will worship toward thy holy temple,
and I will give glory to thy name.
For thy mercy, and for thy truth: for thou
hast magnified thy holy name above all.
In what day soever I shall call upon thee,
hear me: thou wilt multiply strength in my
soul.
164 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
Confiteantur tibi, Domine, omnes reges
terrae: quia audierunt omnia verba oris tui.
Et cantent in viis Domini: quoniam magna
est gloria Domini.
Quoniam excelsus Dominus, et humilia res-
picit: et alta a longe cognoscit.
Si ambulavero in medio tribulationis vivifica-
bis me : et super iram inimicorum meorum ex-
tendisti manum tuam, et salvum me fecit dex-
tera tua.
Dominus retribuet pro me: Domine miseri-
cordia tua in saeculum : opera manuum tuarum
ne despicias.
Requiem aeternam, etc.
Ant. Opera manuum tuarum, Domine, ne
despicias.
V. Audivi vocem de coelo dicentem mihi.
R. Beati mortui qui in Domino moriuntur.
Ant. Omne quod dat mihi Pater ad me
veniet: et eum qui venit ad me non ejiciam
foras.
The Magnificat.
MAGNIFICAT anima mea Dominum.
Et exultavit spiritus meus; in Deo salutari
meo.
OFFICE OF 'I HE DEAD 1C5
May all the kings of the earth give glory to
thee : for they have heard all the words of thy
mouth.
And let them sing in the ways of the Lord:
for great is the glory of the Lord.
For the Lord is high, and looketh on the
low: and the high he knoweth afar off.
If I shall walk in the midst of tribulation,
thou wilt quicken me: and thou hast stretched
forth thy hand against the wrath of my ene
mies: and thy right hand hath saved me.
The Lord will repay for me: thy mercy, O
Lord, endureth forever: O despise not the
works of thy hands.
Grant them eternal rest, etc.
Ant. Despise not, O Lord, the works of Thy
hands.
V. I hear a voice from heaven, saying to me.
R. Blessed are the dead, who die in the
Lord.
Ant. All that the Father giveth me, shall
come to me: and him that cometh to me I
will not cast out.
The Magnificat.
My soul doth magnify the Lord.
And my spirit hath rejoiced in God my
Saviour.
166 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
Quia respexit humilitatem ancillae suae: ecce
enim ex hoc beatam me dicent omnes genera-
tiones.
Quia fecit mihi magna qui potens est: et
sanctum nomen ejus.
Et misericordia ejus a progenie in progenies :
timentibus eum.
Fecit potentiam in brachio suo: dispersit
superbos mente cordis sui.
Deposuit potentes de sede: et exaltavit hu-
miles.
Esurientes implevit bonis: et divites dimisit
inanes.
Suscepit Israel puerum suum: recordatus
misericordiae suae.
Sicut locutus est ad patres nostros : Abraham,
et semini ejus in saecula.
Requiem aeternam, etc.
Ant. Omne quod dat mihi Pater ad me
veniet: et eum qui venit ad rne non ejiciam
foras.
The following prayers are said kneeling.
Pater noster (the rest inaudibly).
V . Et ne nos inducas in tentationem.
R. Sed libera nos a malo.
Psalm cxlv.
LAUDA, anima mea Dominum; laudabo
OFFICE OF THE DEAD 167
Because he hath regarded the humility of
his handmaid: for behold, from henceforth
all generations shall call me blessed.
For he that is mighty hath done great things
to me : and holy is his name.
And his mercy is from generation to gen
eration : to them that fear him.
He hath showed might in his arm: he hath
scattered the proud in the conceit of their heart.
He hath put down the mighty from their
seat: and hath exalted the humble.
He hath filled the hungry with good things:
and the rich he hath sent away empty.
He hath received his servant Israel: being
mindful of his mercy.
As he spoke to our fathers : to Abraham and
to his seed forever.
Eternal rest, etc.
Ant. All that the Father giveth me shall
come to me : and him that cometh to me I will
not cast out.
The following prayers are said kneeling.
Our Father (the rest inaudibly).
V . And lead us not into temptation.
R. But deliver us from evil.
Psalm cxlv.
PRAISE the Lord, O my soul: in my life I
168 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
Dominum in vita mea : psallam Deo meo quam-
diu fuero.
Nolite confidere in principibus: in filiis
hominum, in quibus non est salus.
Exibit spiritus ejus, et revertetur in terram
suam; in ilia die peribunt omnes cogitationes
eorum.
Beatus cujus Deus Jacob adjutor ejus, spes
ejus in Domino Deo ipsius: qui fecit ccelum
et terram, mare, et omnia quae in eis sunt.
Qui custodit veritatem in speculum facit judi-
cium injuriam patientibus: dat escam esurienti-
bus.
Dominus solvit compeditos: Dominus illu-
minat csecos.
Dominus erigit elisos: Dominus diligit justos.
Dominus custodit advenas : pupillum et vidu-
am suscipiet, et vias peccatorum disperdet.
Regnabit Dominus in s-secula: Deus tuus,
Sion, in generationem et generationem.
Requiem seternam, etc.
V. A porta inferi.
R. Erue, Domine, animas eorum.
V. Requiescant in pace.
R. Amen.
V. Domine, cxaudi orationem meam.
R. Et clamor TMCUS ad :e veniat.
OFFICE OF THE DEAD 169
will praise the Lord: I will sing to my God as
long as I shall be.
Put not your trust in princes; in the chil
dren 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 are in them.
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, from generation to generation.
Grant them eternal rest, etc.
V. From the gates of hell.
R. Deliver their souls, O Lord.
V. May their souls rest in peace.
R. Amen.
V. O Lord, hear my prayer.
R. And let my cry come to Thee.
170 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
Oremus.
Absolve, quaesumus, Domine, animam famuli
tui, N., fratris nostri, ut defunctus saeculo, tibi
vivat: et quae per fragilitatem carnis humana
conversatione commisit, tu venia misericordis-
simae pietatis clementer absterge.
Deus, veniae largitor, et humanae salutis ama-
tor; quaesumus clementiam tuam, ut nostrae
congregationis f ratres, propinquos et benefacto-
res, qui ex hoc saeculo transierunt, beata Maria
semper Virgine intercedente, cum omnibus
Sanctis tuis, ad perpetuae beatitudinis con
sortium pervenire concedas.
Fidelium Deus, omnium Conditor et Re-
demptor, animabus famulorum famularumque
tuarum remissionem cunctorum tribue peccato-
rum: ut indulgentiam, quam semper optave-
runt, piis supplicationibus consequantur. Qui
vivis et regnas, cum Deo Patre, in unitate Spir-
itus Sancti Deus, per omnia saecula saeculorum
R. Amen.
V. Requiem aeternam dona eis, Domine.
R. Et lux perpetua luceat eis.
V '. Requiescant in pace. R. Amen.
For a Bishop or Priest.
Deus, qui inter apostolicos sacerdotes famu-
OFFICE OF THE DEAD 171
Let us pray.
Absolve, we beseech Thee, O Lord, the soul
of Thy servant, N., that, being dead to the
world, he (or she) may live to Thee; and
whatever he (or she) has committed through
human frailty, do Thou wipe away by the par
don of Thy most merciful goodness.
O God, the giver of pardon, and lover of
human salvation, we beseech Thy clemency
to grant that the brethren, relations, and bene
factors of our congregation, who have de
parted this life, may, by the intercession of
the Blessed Mary, ever Virgin, and of all Thy
saints, attain to the fellowship of eternal beati
tude.
O 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 supplication, they may obtain
the pardon which they have always desired;
who livest and reignest with God, the Father,
in the unity of the Holy Ghost, one God,
world without end.
R. Amen.
V. Grant them eternal rest, O Lord.
R. And let perpetual light shine upon them.
V. May they rest in peace. R. Amen.
For a Bishop or Priest.
O God, who amongst apostolic priests hast
172 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
lum tuum, N., pontifical! (seu sacerdotal!)
fecisti dignitate vigere: prsesta, quaesumus, ut
eorum quoque perpetuo aggregetur consortio.
Per Dominum nostrum, Jesum Christum Filium
tuum, qui tecum vivit et regnat, in unitate
Spiritus Sancti Deus, per omnia saecula
saeculorum. Amen.
V . Anima ejus et animae omnium fidelium
per misericordiam Dei requiescant in pace.
R. Amen.
OFFICE OF THE DEAD 173
adorned Thy servant, N., with the episcopal
(or sacerdotal) dignity; grant, we beseech
Thee, that he may also be associated with them
in everlasting fellowship. Through our Lord
Jesus Christ, Thy Son, who liveth and reigneth
with Thee, in the unity of the Holy Ghost,
one God, world without end. Amen.
V. May his soul and the souls of all the
Jaithful departed, through the mercy of God
rest in peace.
R. Amen.
MATINS.
The following Invitatory is recited on All-Souls' Day.
At other times it is omitted, and the Office begins with
the Antiphon of the Psalms.
THE INVITATORY.
Pref. REGEM cui omnia vivunt, venite
adoremus. 9
All. Regem cui omnia vivunt, venite adore
mus.
Psalm xc\v.
Pref. VENITE exultemus Domino, jubilemus
Deo salutari nostro; prseoccupemus faciem
ejus in confessione, et in psalmis jubilemus ei.
All. Regem cui omnia vivunt, venite adore
mus.
Pref. Quoniam Deus magnus Dominus, et
Rex magnus super omnes deos: quoniam non
repellet Dominus plebem suam, quia in manu
ejus sunt omnes fines terrae: et altitudines
montium ipse conspicit.
All. Venite adoremus.
Pref. Quoniam ipsius est mare, et ipse fecit
illud, et aridam fundaverunt manus ejus:
Venite adoremus, et procidamus ante Deum:
ploremus coram Domino, qui fecit nos, quia
ipse est Dominus Deus noster: nos autem
populus ejus, et oves pascuas ejus.
174
MATINS.
The following Invitatory is recited on All-Souls' Day.
At other times it is omitted, and the Office begins with
the Antiphon of the Psalms.
THE INVITATORY.
Pref. Come let us adore the King, to whom
all things live.
All. Come let us adore the King, to whom
all things live.
Psalm xc\v.
Pref. COME, let us praise the Lord with joy.
let us joyfully sing to God our Saviour. Let us
come before his presence with thanksgiving:
and make a joyful noise to him with psalms.
All. Come, let us adore the King to whom
all things live.
Pref. For the Lord is a great God, and a
great King above all gods. For the Lord will
not reject his people. For in his hands are all
the ends of the earth: and the heights of the
mountains he beholdeth.
All. Come let us adore.
Pref. For the sea is his and he made it:
and his hands formed the dry land. Come let
us adore and fall down, and weep before the
Lord that made us. For he is the Lord our
God: and we are the people of his pasture,
and the sheep of his hand.
175
176 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
All. Regem cui omnia vivunt, venite adore-
mus. N
Pref. Hodie si vocem ejus audieritis, nolite
obdurare corda vestra, sicut in exacerbation e
secundum diem tentationis in deserto: ubi
tentaverunt me patres vestri, probaverunt, et
viderunt opera mea.
All. Venite adoremus.
Pref. Quadraginta annis proximus fui gene-
rationi huic, et dixi, semper hi errant corde :
ipsi vero non cognoverunt vias meas, quibus
juravi in ira mea, si introibunt in requiem
meam.
All. Regem cui omnia vivunt, venite adore
mus.
Pref. Requiem aeternam dona eis, Domine,
et lux perpetua luceat eis.
AIL Venite adoremus.
Pref. Regem cui omnia vivunt, venite ado
remus.
Ant. Dirige, Domine, Deus meus, in con-
spectu tuo viam meam.
Psalm v.
VERBA mea auribus percipe, Domine: intel-
lige clamorem meum.
Intende voci orationis m?e: Rex meus, et
Deus meus.
Quoniam ad te orabo: Domine, mane ex-
audies vocem meam.
OFFICE OF THE DEAD 177
All. Come, let us adore the King, to whom
all things live.
Pref. To-day, if you hear his voice harden
not your hearts. As in the provocation, ac
cording to the day of temptation in the wilder
ness: where your fathers tempted me, they
proved me, and saw my works.
All. Come, let us adore.
Pref. Forty years long was I offended with
that generation, and I said, these always err in
heart. And these men have not known my
ways: so I swore in my wrath, that they shall
not enter into my rest.
All. Come, let us adore the King, to whom
all things live.
Pref. Grant them eternal rest, O Lord, and
let perpetual light shine on them.
All. Come, let us adore.
All. Come, let us adore the King, to whom
all things live.
Ant. Direct, O Lord, my God, my steps in
thy sight.
Psalm v.
GIVE ear, O Lord, to my words, understand
my cry.
Hearken to the voice of my prayer, O my
King and my God.
For to thee will I pray: O Lord, in the
morning then shalt hear mv voice.
178 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
Mane astabo tibi et videbo: quoniam non
deus volens iniquitatem tu es.
Neque habitabit juxta te malignus: neque
permanebunt injusti ante oculos tuos.
Odisti omnes qui operantur iniquitatem:
perdes omnes, qui loquuntur mendacium.
Virum sanguinum et dolosum abominabi-
tur Dominus: ego autem in multitudine
misericordiae tuae.
Introibo in domum tuam: adorabo ad temp-
lum sanctum tuum, in timore tuo.
Domine, deduc me in justitia tua: propter
inimicos meos dirige in conspectu tuo viam
meam.
Quoniam non est in ore eorum veritas: cor
eorum vanum est.
Sepulchrum patens est guttur eorum : linguis
suis dolose agebant, judica illos, Deus.
Decidant a cogitationibus suis, secundum
multitudinem impietatum eorum expelle eos:
quoniam irritaverunt te, Domine.
Et laetentur omnes qui sperant in te, in seter-
num exultabunt: et habitabis in eis.
Et gloriabuntur in te omnes, qui diligunt
nomen tuum: quoniam tu benedices justo.
Domine, ut scuto bonae voluntatis tuae: coro-
nasti nos.
Requiem seternam,etc.
OFFICE OF THE DEAD 179
In the morning I shall stand before thee, and
will see: because thou art not a God that
willeth iniquity.
Neither shall the wicked dwell near thee:
nor shall the unjust abide before thy eyes.
Thou hatest all workers of iniquity: thou
wilt destroy all that speak a lie.
The Lord abhorreth the bloody and deceitful
man. But as for me I will come into thy
house in the multitude of thy mercy: in thy
fear I will worship in thy holy temple.
Conduct me, O Lord, in thy justice: be
cause of my enemies, direct my way in thy
sight.
For there is no truth in their mouth: their
heart is vain.
Their throat is an open sepulchre: with
their tongues they deal deceitfully: judge them,.
O God.
Let them fall from their devices; according
to the multitude of their iniquities cast them
out: for they have provoked thee, O Lord.
But let all that hope in thee be glad: they
shall rejoice forever, and thou shalt dwell in
them.
And all they that love thy name shall glory
in thee. For thou wilt bless the just.
O Lord, thou hast crowned us with thy good
will as with a shield.
Grant them eternal rest, etc.
180 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
Ant. Dirige, Domine, Deus meus, in coa-
spectu tuo, viam meam.
Ant. Convertere, Domine, et eripe animaui
meam; quoniam non est in morte, qui memor
sit tui.
Psalm vi.
DOMINE, ne in furore tuo arguas me: neque
in ira tua corripias me.
Miserere mei, Domine, quoniam infirmus
sum: sana me Domine quoniam conturbata
sunt ossa mea.
Et anima mea turbata est valde: sed tu,
Domine, usquequo?
Convertere, Domine, et eripe animam meam :
salvum me fac propter misericordiam tuam.
Quoniam non est in morte, qui memor sit
tui : in inferno autem quis confitebitur tibi ?
Laboravi in gemitu meo, lavabo per singulas
nootes lectum meum: lacrimis meis stratum
meum rigabo.
Turbatus est a furore oculus meus : invetera-
vi inter omnes inimicos meos.
Discedite a me omnes qui operamini iniqui-
tatem: quoniam exaudivit Dominus vocem
fletus mei.
Exaudivit Dominus deprecationem meam :
Dominus orationem meam suscepit.
Erubescant et conturbentur vehementer om-
OFFICE OF THE DEAD 181
Ant. Direct, O Lord my God, my steps in
thy sight.
Ant. Turn, O Lord, and deliver my soul :
for there is none in death who will be mindful
of thee.
Psalm vi.
0 LORD, rebuke me not in thy anger, nor
chastise me in thy wrath.
Have mercy on me, O Lord, for I am weak :
heal me, O Lord, for my bones are sore.
And my soul is troubled exceedingly: but
thou, O Lord, how long?
Turn, O Lord, and deliver my soul : O save
me, for thy mercy's sake.
For in death there is no one that is mindful
of thee: and who shall praise thee in hell?
1 have labored in my groanings, every night
I wash my bed: I water my couch with my
tears.
My eye is troubled through indignation: I
have grown old amidst all my enemies.
Depart from me, all ye workers of iniquity :
for the Lord hath heard the voice of my
weeping.
The Lord hath heard my supplication : the
Lord hath received my prayer.
Let all my enemies be put to shame, and be
182 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
nes inimici mei: convertantur et erubescant
valde velociter.
Requiem aeternam, etc.
Ant. Convertere, Domine, et eripe animam
meam: quoniam non est in morte, qui memor
sit tui.
Ant. Ne quando rapiat ut leo animam meam :
dum non est qui redimat, neque qui salvum
faciat.
Psalm z'ii.
DOMINE Deus meus, in te speravi : salvum me
fac ex omnibus persequentibus me, et libera me.
Ne quando rapiat ut leo animam meam : dum
non est qui redimat, neque qui salvum faciat.
Domine Deus meus, si feci istud: si est ini-
quitas in manibus meis.
Si reddidi retribuentibus mihi mala : decidam
merito ab inimicis meis inanis.
Persequatur inimicus animam meam, et com-
prehendat, et conculcet in terra vitam meam :
et gloriam meam in pulverem deducat.
Exurge, Domine, in ira tua: et exaltare in
finibus inimicorum meorum.
Et exurge, Domine Deus meus, in praecepto
OFFICE OF THE DEAD 18»
very much troubled: let them be turned back,
and put to shame very speedily.
Grant them eternal rest, O Lord, and let
perpetual light shine on them.
Ant. Turn, O Lord, and deliver my soul:
for there is none in death who will be mindful
of thee
Ant. Lest at any time like a lion he seize
upon my soul, while there is no one to rescue
me.
Psalm vii.
O LORD my God, in thee have I put my trust :
save me and deliver me from all them that
persecute me.
Lest at any time, like a lion, he seize upon
my soul, while there is no one to rescue me, or
to save me.
O Lord my God, if I have done this thing:
if there be iniquity in my hands.
If I have made a return to them that did
evils to me, let me deservedly fall powerless
before my enemies.
Let the enemy pursue my soul, and take it,
and tread down my life on the earth, and bring
down my glory to the dust.
Rise up, O Lord, in thy anger: and be thou
exalted in the borders of my enemies.
And rise, O Lord my God, for the judgment
184 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
quod mandasti : et synagoga populorum circum-
dabit te.
Et propter hanc in altum regredere: Domi-
nus judicat populos.
Judica me, Domine, secundum justitiam
meam: et secundum innocentiam meam super
me.
Consumetur nequitia peccatorum, et diriges
justum: scrutans corda et renes, Deus.
Justum adjutorium meum a Domino: qui
salvos facit rectos corde.
Deus judex Justus, fortis, et patiens: num-
quid irascitur per singulos dies?
Nisi conversi fueritis gladium suum vibrabit :
arcum suum tetendit, et paravit ilium.
Et in eo paravit vasa mortis: sagittas suas
ardentibus effecit.
Ecce parturiit injustitiam: concepit dolorem,
et peperit iniquitatem.
Lacum aperuit et effodit eum: et incidit in
foveam quam fecit.
Convertetur dolo ejus in caput ejus: et in
verticem ipsius iniquitas ejus descendet.
Confitebor Domino secundum justitiam ejus:
et psallam nomini Domini altissimi.
OFFICE OF THE DEAD 185
which thou hast commanded : and a congrega
tion of people shall surround thee.
And for their sakes, return thou on high:
the Lord judgeth the people.
Judge me, O Lord, according to my justice,
and according to my innocence on me.
The wickedness of sinners shall be brought
to naught: and thou shalt direct the just: the
searcher of hearts and reins is God.
Just is my help from the Lord: who saveth
the upright of heart.
God is a just judge, strong and patient: is he
angry every day?
Unless ye be converted he will brandish his
sword: he hath bent his bow, and made it
ready.
And in it he hath prepared the instruments
of death, he hath made ready his burning
arrows.
Behold he hath been in labor with injustice.
He hath conceived sorrow and brought forth
iniquity.
He hath opened a pit and dug it: and he is
fallen into the hole he made.
His sorrow shall be turned on his own head :
and his iniquity shall come down upon his
crown.
I will give glory to the Lord according to
his justice: and will sing to the name of the
Lord Most High.
186 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
Requiem eternam, etc.
Ant. Ne quando rapiat ut leo animam meam :
dum non est qui redimat, neque qui salvurn
faciat.
V. A porta inferi.
R. Erne, Domine, animas eorum.
Pater noster (inaudibly).
THE FIRST LESSON.
PARCE mihi, Domine, nihil enim sunt dies
mei. Quid est homo, quia magnificas eum?
aut quid apponis erga eum cor tuum? Visitas
eum diluculo, et subito probas ilium. Usque-
quo non parcis mihi, nee dimittis me, ut glutiam
salivam meam? Peccavi; quid faciam tibi, O
custos hominum? Quare posuisti me contra-
rium tibi, et factus sum mihimet ipsi gravis?
Cur non tollis peccatum meum? et quare non
aufers iniquitatem meam? Ecce nunc in pul-
vere dormiam, et si mane me qusesieris, non
subsistam.
R. Credo quod Redemptor meus vivit: et
in novissimo die de terra surrecturus sum: et
in carne mea videbo Deum salvatorem meum.
V. Quern visurus sum ego ipse, et non alius,
et oculi mei conspecturi sunt. Et in carne
mea videbo Deum salvatorem meum.
OFFICE OF THE DEAD 187
Grant them eternal rest, etc.
Ant. Lest at any time, like a lion, he seize
upon my soul, while there is no one to rescue
me, or to save.
V. From the gates of hell.
R. Deliver my soul, O Lord.
Our Father (inaudibly).
THE FIRST LESSON.
Spare me, for my days are nothing. What
is a man that thou shouldest magnify him? Or
why dost thou set thy heart upon him? Thou
visitest him early in the morning, and thou
provest him suddenly. How long wilt thou
not spare me, nor suffer me to swallow down
my spittle? I have sinned, what shall I do to
thee, O keeper of men? Why hast thou set me
opposite to thee, and I am become burdensome
to myself ? Why dost thou not remove my sin,
and why dost thou not take away mine ini
quity? Behold, now I shall sleep in the dust:
and if thou seek me in the morning, I shall
not be.
R. I believe my Redeemer liveth, and that
in the last day I shall rise from the earth, and
in my flesh I shall see God my Saviour.
V , Whom I myself shall see, and not an
other, and my eyes shall behold. And in my
flesh I shall see God, my Saviour.
188 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
THE SECOND LESSON.
TJEDET animam meam vitae meae; dimittam
adversum me eloquium meum, loquar in amari-
tudine animae meae. Dicam Deo: noli me
condemnare: indica mihi, cur me ita judices.
Numquid bonum tibi videtur, si calumnieris
me, et opprimas me opus manuum tuarum, et
consilium impiorum adjuves? Numquid oculi
carnei tibi sunt: aut sicut videt homo, et tu
videbis ? Numquid sicut dies hominis dies tui :
et anni tui sicut humana sunt tempora, ut
quaeras iniquitatem meam, et peccatum meum
scruteris ? Et scias quia nihil impium f ecerim,
cum sit nemo qui de manu tua possit eruere.
R, Qui Lazarum resuscitasti a monumento
fcetidum: tu eis, Domine, dona requiem, et
locum indulgentiae.
V. Qui venturus es judicare vivos et mor-
tuos, et saeculum per ignem. Tu eis, Domine
dona requiem et locum indulgentiae.
THE THIRD LESSON.
MANUS tuae fecerunt me et plasmaverunt me
totum in circuitu : et sic repente praecipitas me ?
Memento, quaeso, quod sicut lutum feceris me,
et in pulverem reduces me. Nonne sicut lac
mulsisti me, et sicut caseum me coagulasti?
Pelle et carnibus vestisti me : ossibus, et nervis
compegisti me. Vitam et misericordiam tribu-
OFFICE OF THE DEAD 189
THE SECOND LESSON.
MY soul is weary of life, I will let go my
speech against myself, I will speak in the bit
terness of my soul, I will say to God : Do not
condemn me: tell me why thou judgest me so?
Doth it seem good to thee that thou shouldst
crush me, and oppress me, the work of thy
own hands, and help the counsel of the wicked?
Hast thou eyes of flesh ; or seest thou as man
seeth? Are thy days as the days of man, and
are thy years as the times of men: that thou
shouldst inquire after my iniquity, and search
after my sin ? And thou knowest that I have
done no wicked thing, whereas there is no man
that can deliver out of thy hand.
R. Thou who didst raise Lazarus from the
corruption of the grave: Thou, O Lord, give
them rest, and a place of pardon.
V. Thou who art to come to judge the living
and the dead, and the world by fire. Thou, O
Lord, give them rest, and a place of pardon.
THE THIRD LESSON.
THY hands have made me, and fashioned me
wholly round about: and dost thou thus cast
me down headlong on a sudden? Remember,
I beseech thee, that thou hast made me as the
clay, and thou wilt bring me into dust again.
Hast thou not pressed me out as milk, and
190 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
isti mihi, et visitatio tua cusfodivit spiritual
meum.
R. Domine, quando veneris judicare terram,
ubi me abscondam a vultu irae tuae? Quia
peccavi nimis in vita mea.
V. Commissa mea pavesco, et ante te eru-
besco: dum veneris judicare, noli me condem-
nare. Quia peccavi nimis in vita mea.
R. Requiem eeternam dona eis, Domine, et
lux perpetua luceat eis. Quia peccavi nimis
in vita mea.
OFFICE OF THE DEAD 191
curdled me like cheese? Thou hast clothed
me with skin and flesh: thou hast put me to
gether with bones and sinews: thou hast
granted me life and mercy, and thy visitation
hath preserved my spirit.
R. O Lord, when Thou wilt come to judge
the earth, where shall I hide myself from the
face of Thy wrath ? For I have sinned exceed
ingly in my life.
V. I dread my misdeeds, and blush before
Thee : do not condemn me when Thou comest
to judge. For I have sinned exceedingly in
my life.
R. Grant them eternal rest, O Lord, and let
perpetual light shine on them. For I have
>inned exceedingly in my life.
192 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
LAUDS.
Ant. EXULTABUNT Domino ossa humiliata.
Psalm I.
MISERERE mei, Deus: secundum magnam
misericordiam tuam.
Tit secundum multitudinem miserationum
tuarum: dele iniquitatem meam.
Amplius lava me ab iniquitate mea: et a
peccato meo munda me.
Quoniam iniquitatem meam ego cognosco:
et peccatum meum contra me est semper.
Tibi soli peccavi, et malum coram te feci :
ut justificeris in sermonibus tuis, et vincas cum
judicaris.
Ecce enim in iniquitatibus conceptus sum:
et in peccatis concepit me mater mea.
Ecce enim veritatem dilexisti: incerta et
occulta sapientiae tuae manifestasti mihi.
Asperges me hyssopo, et mundabor: lavabis
me, et super nivem dealbabor.
Auditui meo dabis gaudium et laetitiam et
exultabunt ossa humiliata.
Averte faciem tuam a peccatis meis: et om-
nes iniquitates meas dele.
OFFICE OF THE DEAD 193
LAUDS.
Ant. THE bones that are humbled shall re
joice in the Lord.
Psalm I.
HAVE mercy on me, O God, according to
thy great mercy.
And according to the multitude of thy ten
der mercies blot out my iniquity.
Wash me yet more from my iniquity, and
cleanse me from my sin.
For I know my iniquity: and my sin is
always before me.
Against thee only have I sinned, and I have
done evil before thee: that thou mayest be
justified in thy words, and mayest overcome
when thou art judged.
For behold, I was conceived in iniquities,
and in sins did my mother conceive me.
For behold, thou lovest truth: the secret
and hidden things of thy wisdom thou hast
made manifest to me.
Thou wilt sprinkle me with hyssop, and I
shall be cleansed: thou wilt wash me and I
shall be made whiter than snow.
To my hearing thou wilt give joy and glad
ness : and the bones that are humbled shall re
joice.
Turn away thy face from my sins, and blot
out all my iniquities.
194 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
Cor miindum crea in me, Deus: et spiritum
rectum innova in visceribus meis.
Ne projicias me a facie tua: et spiritum
tuum ne auferas a me.
Redde mihi laetitiam salutaris tui: et spiritu
principal! confirma me.
Docebo iniquos vias tuas: et impii ad te
convertentur.
Libera me de sanguinibus, Deus, Deus salutis
meae: et exultabit lingua mea justitiam tuam.
Domine, labia mea aperies: et os meum
annuntiabit laudem tuam.
Quoniam si voluisses sacrificium, dedissem
utique: holocaustis non delectaberis.
Sacrificium Deo spiritus contribulatus : cor
contritum et humiliatum, Deus non despicies.
Benigne fac, Domine, in bona voluntate tua
Sion: ut sedificentur muri Jerusalem.
Tune acceptabis sacrificium justitise, obla-
tiones, et holocausta: tune imponent super
altare tuum vitulos.
Requiem aeternam, dona eis, Domine, et lux
perpetua luceat eis.
Ant. Exultabunt Domino ossa humiliata.
OFFICE OF THE DEAD 195
Create a clean heart in me, O God: and re
new a right spirit within, me.
Cast me not away from thy face: and take
not thy Holy Spirit from me.
Restore to me the joy of thy salvation: and
strengthen me with a perfect spirit.
I will teach the unjust thy ways: and the
wicked shall be converted to thee.
Deliver me from blood, O God, thou God
of my salvation : and my tongue shall extol
thy justice.
O Lord, thou wilt open my lips: and my
tongue shall declare thy praise.
For if thou hadst desired sacrifice, I would
indeed have given it : with burnt-offerings thou
wilt not be delighted.
A sacrifice to God is an afflicted spirit: a
contrite and humble heart, O God, thou wilt
not despise.
Deal favorably, O Lord, in thy good will
with Sion : that the walls of Jerusalem may be
built up.
Then shalt thou accept the sacrifice of jus
tice, oblations and whole burnt-offerings; then
shall they lay calves upon thy altar.
Grant them eternal rest, etc.
Ant. The bones that are humbled shall re
joice in the Lord.
196 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
Ant. Exaudi, Domine, orationem meam :
ad te omnis caro veniet.
Psalm Ixiv.
TE decet hymnus, Deus, in Sion : et tibi
reddetur votum in Jerusalem.
Exaudi orationem meam: ad te omnis caro
veniet.
Verba iniquorum praevaluerunt super nos : et
impietatibus nostris tu propitiaberis.
Beatus, quern elegisti, et assumpsisti : in-
habitabit in atriis tuis.
Replebimur in bonis domus tuae: sanctum
est templum tuum, mirabile in aequitate.
Exaudi nos, Deus, salutaris noster: spes
omnium finium terrae, et in mari longe.
Prasparans montes in virtute tua, accinctus
potentia, qui conturbas profundum maris, so-
num fluctuum ejus.
Turbabuntur gentes, et timebunt qui habi
tant terminos a signis tuis: exitus matutini, et
vespere delectabis.
OFFICE OF THE DEAD 197
Ant. Hear my prayer, O Lord, all flesh
shall come to thee.
Psalm Ixiv.
A HYMN, O God, becometh thee in Sion:
and a vow shall be paid to thee in Jerusalem.
Oh, hear my prayer, all flesh shall come to
thee.
The words of the wicked have prevailed
against us: and thou wilt pardon our trans
gressions.
Blessed is he whom thou hast chosen and
taken to thee: he shall dwell in thy courts.
We shall be filled with the good things of
thy house: holy is thy temple, wonderful in
justice.
Hear us, O God our Saviour, who art the
hope of all the ends of the earth, and in the
sea afar off.
Thou who preparest the mountains by thy
strength, being girded with power : who
troublest the depth of the sea, the noise of its
waves.
The gentiles shall be troubled, and they
that dwell in the uttermost borders shall be
afraid at thy signs: thou shalt make the out
goings of the morning and of the evenings to
be joyful.
198 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
Visitasti terram, et inebriasti earn: multipli-
casti locupletare earn.
Flumen Dei repletum est aquis, parasti cibum
illorum: quoniam ita est praeparatio ejus.
Rivos ejus inebria, multiplica genimina ejus:
in stillicidiis ejus laetabitur germinans.
Benedices coronae anni benignitatis tuae: et
campi tui replebuntur ubertate.
Pinguescent speciosa deserti : et exultatione
colles accingentur.
Induti sunt arietes ovium, et valles abunda-
bunt frumento: clamabunt, etenim 'hymnum
dicent.
Requiem aeternam, etc.
Ant. Exaudi, Domine, orationem meam: ad
te omnis caro veniet.
Ant. Me suscepit dextera tua, Domine.
Psalm Ixii.
DEUS, Deus meus, page 84.
Psalm Ixvi.
DEUS misereatur nostri, page 86.
OFFICE OF THE DEAD 199
Thou hast visited the earth, and hast plenti
fully watered it: thou hast in many ways en
riched it.
The river of God is filled with water: thou
hast prepared their food : for so is its prepara
tion.
Fill up plentifully the streams thereof, multi
ply its fruits: it shall spring up and rejoice in
its showers.
Thou shalt bless with thy goodness the crown
of the year: and thy fields shall be filled with
plenty.
The beautiful places of the wilderness shall
grow fat: and the hills shall be girded about
with joy.
The rams of the flock are clothed, and the
vales shall abound with corn : they shall shout,
yea, they shall sing a hymn.
Grant them eternal rest, etc.
Ant. Hear my prayer, O Lord, all flesh shall
come to thee.
Ant. Thy right hand, O Lord, has received
me.
Psalm Ixii.
O God, my God, etc., page 85.
Psalm Ixvl.
May God have mercy on us, etc., page 87.
200 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
Requiem aeternam, etc.
Ant. Me suscepit dextera tua, Domine.
Ant. A porta inferi erue, Domine, animam
meam.
The Canticle of Ezechias.
EGO dixi : in dimidio dierum meorum, vadam
ad portas inferi.
Quaesivi residuum annorum meorum. Dixi :
non videbo Dominum Deum in terra viventium.
Non aspiciam hominem ultra : et habitatorem
quietis.
Generatio mea ablata est, et convoluta est a
me: quasi tabernaculum pastorum.
Prsecisa est velut a texente vita mea: dum
adhuc ordirer, succidit me: de mane usque ad
vesperam finies me.
Sperabam usque ad mane : quasi leo sic
contrivit omnia ossa mea.
De mane usque ad vesperam finies me : sicut
pullus hirundinis sic clamabo, meditabor ut
columba.
Attenuati sunt oculi mei: suspicientes in
excelsum.
Domine, vim patior, responde pro me: quid
dicam aut quid respondebit mini, cum ipse
fecerit?
OFFICE OF THE DEAD 201
Grant them eternal rest, etc.
Ant. Thy right hand, O Lord, has received
me.
Ant. From the gate of hell, deliver my soul,
0 Lord.
The Canticle of Esechias.
I SAID: In the midst of my days, I shall go
to the gates of hell.
I sought for the residue of my years. I
said: I shall not see the Lord God in the land
of the living.
I shall behold man no more, nor the in
habitant of rest.
My generation is at an end: and it is rolled
away from me, as a shepherd's tent.
My life is cut off as by a weaver: whilst I
was yet but beginning, he cut me off: from
morning even to night thou wilt make an end
of me.
I hoped till morning: as a lion, so hath he
broken all my bones.
From morning even to night thou wilt make
an end of me : I will cry like a young swallow ;
1 will meditate like a dove.
My eyes are weakened, looking upward.
Lord, I suffer violence, answer thou for me.
What shall I say, or what will he answer for
me, whereas he himself hath done it?
202 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
Recogitabo tibi omnes annos meos: in am-
aritudine animae meae.
Domine, si sic vivitur, et in talibus vita spiri-
tus mei, corripies me, et vivificabis me: ecce
in pace amaritudo mea amarissima.
Tu autem eruisti animam meam, ut non peri-
ret: projecisti post tergum tuum omnia peccata
mea.
Quia non infernus confitebitur tibi, neque
mors laudabit te: non expectabunt qui
descendant in lacum veritatem tuam.
Vivens, vivens, ipse confitebitur tibi, sicut et
ego hodie : pater filiis notam faciet veritatem
tuam.
Domine, salvum me fac: et psalmos nostros
cantabimus cunctis diebus vitas nostrae, in
domo Domini.
Requiem seternam, etc.
Ant. A porta inferi, erue, Domine, animam
meam.
Ant. Omnis spiritus laudet Dominum.
Psalm cx\v\i\.
LAUDATE Dominum de ccelis, etc., page 92.
Psalm cxlix.
Cantate Dominum, etc., page 94.
OFFICE OF THE DEAD 203
I will recount to thee all my years, in the
bitterness of my soul.
O Lord, if man's life is such, and the life of
my spirit in such things as these, thou wilt cor
rect me and make me live: behold, in peace is
my bitterness most bitter.
But thou hast delivered my soul, that it
should not perish: thou hast cast all my sins
behind thy back.
For hell will not thank thee; neither will
death praise thee: nor will they that go down
into the pit look for thy truth.
The living, the living, he shall give praise to
thee, as I do this day: the father shall make
thy truth known to the children.
O Lord, save me, and we will sing our
psalms all the days of our life in the house of
the Lord.
Grant them eternal rest, etc.
Ant. From the gate of hell, deliver my soul,
O Lord.
Ant. Let every spirit praise the Lord.
Psalm cxlviii.
PRAISE ye the Lord from the heavens, etc.,
page 93.
Psalm cxlix.
Sing ye to the Lord, etc., page 95.
204 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
Psalm cl.
Laudate Dominum in sanctis ejus, etc.,
page 96.
Requiem aeternam, etc.
Ant. Omnis spiritus laudet Dominum.
V. Audivi vocem de coelo dicentem mihi.
R. Beati mortui qui in Domino moriuntur.
Ant. Ego sum resurrectio et vita : qui credit
in me, etiam si mortuus fuerit, vivet; et omnis
qui vivit et credit in me, non morietur in
seternam.
Canticle of Zachary.
Benedictus Dominus Deus Israel, etc., page
98.
Requiem aeternam, etc.
Ant. Ego sum resurrectio et vita; qui credit
in me, etiam si mortuus fuerit, viyiet; et omnis
qui vivit et credit in me, non morietur in aeter-
num.
The following prayers are said kneeling:
Pater noster (the rest inaudibly).
V. Et ne nos inducas in tentationem.
R. Sed libera nos a malo.
OFFICE OF THE DEAD 205
Psalm cl
Praise ye the Lord in his holy places, etc.
Grant them eternal rest, etc.
Ant. Let every spirit praise the Lord.
V. I heard a voice from heaven saying to
me.
R. Blessed are the dead that die in the
Lord.
Ant. I am the resurrection and the life: he
that believeth in me though he be dead, shall
live; and every one that liveth and believeth
in me, shall never die.
Canticle of Zachary.
Blessed be the Lord God of Israel, etc.,
page 99.
Grant them eternal rest, etc.
Ant. I am the resurrection and the life : he
that believeth in me, though he be dead, shall
live: and every one that liveth, and believeth
in me, shall never die.
The following prayers are said kneeling:
Our Father (the rest inaudibly).
V . And lead us not into temptation.
R. But deliver us from evil.
206 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
Psalm cxxix.
De profundis clamavi ad te, Domine : Domi-
ne, exaudi vocem meam.
Fiant aures tuae intendentes: in vocem de-
precationis mese.
Si iniquitates observaveris Domine: Domine
quis sustinebit?
Quia apud te propitiatio est: et propter
legem tuam sustinui te, Domine.
Sustinuit anima mea in verbo ejus: speravit
anima mea in Domino.
A custodia matutina usque ad nocteni : speret
Israel in Domino.
Quia apud Dominum misericordia : et copi-
osa apud eum redemptio.
Et ipse redimet Israel : ex omnibus iniquita-
tibus ejus.
Requiem seternam, etc.
V. A porta inferi.
R. Erue, Domine, animas eorum.
V. Requiescant in pace.
R. Amen.
V. Domine, exaudi orationem meam.
R. Et clamor meus ad te veniat.
Th< other prayers as at the end of Vespers, page 17*.
OFFICE OF THE DEAD 207
Psalm cxxix.
Out of the depths I have cried to thee, O
Lord: Lord, hear my voice.
Let thy ears be attentive to the voice of my
supplication.
If thou, O Lord, will 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 until 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 ini
quities.
Grant to them eternal rest, etc.
V. From the gate of hell.
R. Deliver their souls, O Lord.
V. May they rest in peace.
R. Amen.
V. O Lord hear my prayer.
R. And let my cry come to thee.
The other prayers as at the end of Vespers, fiagt 171.
PART III
DAILY AND OCCASIONAL
PRAYERS AND DEVOTIONS
MORNING PRAYERS.
On awaking give your first thoughts to God, thank
Him for His favors, and beg His grace and protection
for the day, saying:
O MY GOD, my only good and the Author
of my being, and my last end, I give Thee my
heart. Praise, honor and glory be to Thee for
ever and ever. Amen.
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.
Make the Morning Offering to the Sacred Heart of
Jesus.
O JESUS, through the immaculate heart of
Mary, I offer Thee the prayers, works and
sufferings of this day for all the intentions of
Thy divine Heart, in union with the Holy
Sacrifice of the Mass ; and in particular for the
intentions of the Apostleship of Prayer.
Kneel down, if not prevented by infirmity, and say:
IN THE name of the Father, and of the Son,
and of the Holy Ghost. Amen.
Blessed be the holy and undivided Trinity,
now and for evermore. Amen.
Come, O Holy Ghost, replenish my heart,
and enkindle in it the fire of Thy divine love.
Amen.
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212 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
0 ETERNAL God, most holy and adorable
Trinity, Father, Son, and Holy Ghost, the be
ginning and end of all things, in whom we live,
move, and have our being, I firmly believe that
Thou art here present; I adore Thee with the
most profound humility; I praise Thee; I give
Thee thanks from the bottom of my heart for
having created me after Thine own image and
likeness, and redeemed me with the precious
blood of Thy Son; for having hitherto pre
served me, and brought me safe to the begin
ning of this day. Behold, O Lord, I offer Thee
my whole being, and in particular all my
thoughts, words, and actions, together with
such crosses and contradictions as I may meet
with in the course of this day. I consecrate
them entirely • to the glory of Thy name, in
union with those of Jesus Christ, my Saviour,
that through His infinite merits they may find
acceptance in Thy sight. Give them, O Lord,
Thy blessing. May Thy divine love animate
them; and may they all tend to the greater
honor of Thy Sovereign Majesty. Amen.
Here say the Our Father, Hail Mary and Creed.
The Confiteor.
1 CONFESS to Almighty God, to the 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
MORNING PRAYERS 213
saints, that I have sinned exceedingly, in
thought, word and deed, through my fault,
through my fault, through my most grievous
fault. Therefore I beseech the 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.
O HOLY Virgin, Mother of God, my advo
cate and patroness, pray for thy poor servant;
show thyself a Mother to me. And thou, O
blessed spirit whom God in his mercy hath
appointed to watch over me, intercede for me
this day, that I may not stray from the path
of virtue. St. Joseph, my glorious patron,
pray for me. And thou also, O blessed St. N.,
whose name I bear, pray for me, that I may
serve God faithfully in this life, as thou hast
done, and with thee glorify Him eternally in
heaven.
O Mary, my Queen and my Mother, I offer
myself entirely to thee, and in order to prove
myself devoted to thee, I consecrate to thee
this day, my sight, my hearing, my speech,
214 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
my heart, my whole being. Since, then, I am
thine, O good Mother, preserve me, defend me
as thy property and possession.
Say three Hail Marys in honor of the Immaculate
Conception, to obtain purity of soul and body, and add:
THROUGH thy Immaculate Conception and
sacred Virginity, O most pure Virgin, obtain
for me purity of soul and body.
Memorare.
REMEMBER, 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. Inspired
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 mercy, hear and answer
me. Amen.
A devout offering before beginning the work of the day.
INTO the hands of Thy unspeakable mercy,
O Lord, I commend my soul and body, my
senses, my words, my thoughts, and all my
actions, with all the necessities of my body and
soul; my going forth and coming in, my faith
and conversation, the course and end of my
life, the day and hour of my death, my rest
and resurrection, with Thy saints and elect.
Amen.
MORNING PRA YERS 215
THE ANGELUS.
To be said morning, noon, and night, in memory of
the adorable mystery of the Incarnation of our blessed
Saviour. At Easter time, instead of the Angelas, the
Regina cceli is said (page 133.)
THE ANGEL of the Lord declared unto Mary,
and she conceived of the Holy Ghost.
Hail, Mary, etc.
Behold the handmaid of the Lord: be it
done unto me according to Thy word.
Hail, Mary, etc.
And the Word was made flesh; and dwelt
among us.
Hail, Mary, etc.
Pray for us, O holy Mother of God.
That we may be made worthy of the promises
of Christ.
Let us pray.
POUR forth, we beseech Thee, O Lord, Thy
grace into cur 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 resurrection; through the same Christ
our Lord. Amen.
216 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
The following indulgenced aspirations may be often
repeated during the day.
Jesus, Mary and Joseph, I offer you my
heart and 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!
Sweetest Heart of Jesus, be Thou my love !
Sweetest Heart of Mary, be my salvation!
Sacred Heart of Jesus, have mercy on us !
May the Sacred Heart of Jesus be every
where loved !
My Jesus, mercy !
Immaculate Heart of Mary, pray for us !
NIGHT PRAYERS.
An essential part of a good night prayer is an Exami
nation of Conscience, which may be made in the following
acts:
IN THE name of the Father, and of the
Son, and of the Holy Ghost. Amen.
Blessed be the holy and undivided Trinity,
now and for evermore. Amen.
Come, O Holy Ghost, fill the hearts of Thy
faithful servants, and kindle in them the fire of
Thy divine love. Amen.
Place yourself in the presence of God, and say:
IMPRESSED WITH a most lively sense of the
presence of Thy Eternal Majesty, I most hum
bly adore Thee, O my Creator, my Redeemer,
and my Judge. I believe in Thee, because
Thou art truth itself; I hope in Thee because
Thou art faithful to Thy word; I love Thee
with my whole heart, because Thou art worthy
of my love; and, for Thy sake, I love my
neighbor as myself.
Return thanks to God for the favors He has bestowed
on you.
GRANT ME, O my God, to return Thee thanks
as I ought for all Thy inestimable blessings
and favors.
Thou hast thought of me, and loved me
from all eternity; Thou hast given Thy be-
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218 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
loved Son to the ignominous death of the Cross
for my redemption; Thou didst preserve me
from falling into the abyss of eternal misery,
when my^sins had often provoked Thee to de
prive me of my life; and Thou wert graciously
pleased to spare me, even though I continued
to offend Thee. Alas! my God, what return
can I make for the innumerable blessings Thou
hast conferred on me during the whole course
of my life and particularly for the favors of
this day? O all ye angels and saints, unite
with me in praising the God of mercies, who is
so bountiful to so unworthy a creature.
Beg of God to make your sins known to you.
O ETERNAL source of light, who hast said,
"Let there be light, and there was light," illu
mine the darkness of my understanding, and
dispel those shades of ignorance and error
which conceal from me the guilt and enormity
of my offences. Discover to me, I beseech
Thee, all the sins I have committed this day,
whether in thought, word, deed, or omission ;
grant me a lively sense of their malice that I
may detest them from my heart, and dread noth
ing so much as ever to commit them again.
Examine your conscience, calling to mind the places
where you have been and the company you have kept
during the day. Ask yourself what sins you have com
mitted a-tainst God, against your neighbor, and against
yourself; and how you have discharged the duties of
NIGHT PRAYERS 219
your state. Make a Particular Examen on some
special sin or predominant fault. Then say the Confiteor
(p. 211) and make the following
Act of Contrition.
O FATHER of mercies, who wiliest not the
death of the sinner, look upon me, a miserable
sinner, according to the multitude of Thy mer
cies. I acknowledge and confess, and am heart
ily sorry for all the sins of my past life, and
of this day in particular. I cast myself at Thy
feet, and beseech Thee to cover all my sins with
that infinite love with which Thou hast loved
us from all eternity. I grieve from the bottom
of my heart that I have been so ungrateful to
Thee for Thy benefits, and have so often
offended Thee, my God and my chief good.
Spare me, I beseech Thee, by the death and
love of Jesus Christ Thy Son; and mercifully
forgive me whatsoever sins I have this day, or
heretofore, committed against Thee, against
my neighbor, or myself.
Make a firm purpose of amendment.
O ALMIGHTY and Eternal God, I wish from
the bottom of my heart that I had never sinned
against Thee; but since I have been so un
happy, O grant me now Thy grace that I may
never offend Thee more.
Thou hast said: I will not the death of a
sinner, but rather that he be converted and
220 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
live. Convert me, 'there fore, and I shall be
converted. Have mercy on me according to
Thy great mercy and according to the
multitude of Thy tender mercies, blot out
all my iniquities. I renounce all sin, and the
occasions of it ; and I firmly purpose henceforth
to walk in the path of Thy commandments.
This fixed resolution I am determined to keep,
with the assistance of Thy grace, purchased for
me through the infinite merits of Thine only
Son, Christ Jesus our Lord. Amen.
Here say the Our Father, Hail Mary, the Creed
the Hail Holy Queen and the Angelas; and close your
night prayers with three Hail Marys in honor of the Im
maculate Conception for purity of soul and body.
O MARY, conceived without sin, pray for us
who have recourse to thee.
While composing yourself to sleep repeat some of th«
ejaculations p. 216, and say:
INTO THY hands, O Lord, I commend my
spirit.
THE ACTS.
Should be familiar to all and should be often repeated.
A Prayer Before the Acts.
O ALMIGHTY and Eternal God, grant unto us
an increase of faith, hope, and charity; and
that we may obtain what Thou hast promised,
make us love and practise what Thou com-
mandest; through Jesus Christ our Lord.
Amen.
An Act of Faith.
O MY GOD! I firmly believe that Thou art
one God in three Divine persons, Father, Son,
and Holy Ghost; I believe that Thy Divine
Son became man, and died for our sins, and
that He will come to judge the living and the
dead. I believe these and all the truths which
the Holy Catholic Church teaches, because
Thou hast revealed them, who canst neither
deceive nor be deceived.
An Act of Hope.
O MY GOD ! replying on Thy infinite good
ness and promises, I hope to obtain pardon of
my sins, the help of Thy grace, and life ever
lasting, through the merits of Jesus Christ, my
Lord and Redeemer.
221
•>M SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
An Act of Love.
O 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
forgive all who have injured me, and ask
pardon of all whom I have injured.
An Act of Contrition.
O 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.
ORDINARY OF THE MASS.
MASS OF THE IMMACULATE CONCEPTION.
At the foot of the Altar.
In the name of the Father, and of the Son,
and of the Holy Ghost. Amen.
V. I will go unto the altar of God.
R. To God, who giveth joy to my youth.
V. Judge me, O God, and distinguish my
cause from the nation that is not holy : deliver
me from the unjust and deceitful man.
R. For Thou, O God, art my strength, why
hast thou cast me off? And why do I go sor
rowful whilst the enemy afflicteth me?
V. Send forth Thy light and Thy truth;
they have conducted me and brought me unto
Thy holy mount, and unto Thy tabernacles.
R. And I will go unto the altar of God: to
God who giveth joy to my youth.
V. I will praise Thee on the harp, O God,
my God; why art thou sorrowful, O my soul?
and why dost thou disquiet me?
R. Hope in God, for I will still give praise
to Him; who is the salvation of my counte
nance, and my God.
V. Glory be to the Father, etc.
R. As it was in the beginning, is now, and
ever shall be, world without end. Amen.
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224 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
V. I will go unto the altar of God.
R. To God, who giveth joy to my youth.
F. Our help is in the name of the Lord.
R. Who hath made heaven and earth.
Confiteor of the Priest.
R. May Almighty God have mercy on thee,
forgive thee thy sins, and bring thee to life
everlasting.
V. Amen.
Confiteor of the People.
I confess to Almighty God, to blessed Mary
ever Virgin, to blessed Michael the Archangel,
to blessed John Baptist, to the holy Apostles
Peter and Paul, to all the saints, and to you,
Father, that I have sinned exceedingly in
thought, word and deed, through my fault,
through my fault, through my most grievous
fault. Therefore I beseech blessed Mary ever
Virgin, blessed Michael the Archangel, blessed
John Baptist, the holy Apostles Peter and Paul,
and all the saints, and you, Father, to pray to
the Lord, our God, for me.
V. May Almighty God have mercy upon
you, forgive you your sins, and bring you to
life everlasting.
R. Amen.
V. May the almighty and merciful Lord
grant us pardon, absolution, and remission of
our sins.
7?. Amen.
ORDINARY OF THE MASS 225
F. Thou wilt turn again., O God, and
quicken us.
R. And Thy people shall rejoice in Thee.
V. Show us, O Lord, Thy mercy.
R. And grant us Thy salvation.
F. O Lord, hear my prayer.
R. And let my cry come unto Thee.
V. The Lord be with you.
R. And with thy spirit.
Going up to the Altar.
Take away from, us our iniquities, we be
seech Thee, O Lord; that we may be worthy
to enter with pure minds into the Holy of
Holies. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.
INTROIT.
I will greatly rejoice in the Lord, and my
soul shall be joyful in my God; for He hath
clothed me with the garments of salvation, and
with the robe of justice hath He covered me,
as a bride adorned with her jewels.
I will extol Thee, O Lord; for Thou hast
lifted me up; and hast not made my foes to
rejoice over me.
Glory be to the Father, etc.
KYRIE.
Lord have mercy.
Lord have mercy.
Lord have mercy.
226 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
Christ have mercy.
Christ have mercy.
Christ have mercy.
Lord have mercy.
Lord have mercy.
Lord have mercy.
GLORIA.
Glory 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 L^ord
God, heavenly King, God the Father Almighty,
O Lord Jesus Christ, the only begotten Son ; O
Lord God, Lamb of God, Son of the Father,
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 the Lord ; Thou only, O Jesus Christ,
with the Holy Ghost, art most high in the
glory of God the Father. Amen.
V. The Lord be with you.
R. And with thy spirit.
Let us pray.
COLLECT.
O God, who, by the Immaculate Conception
of the Virgin, didst prepare a worthy habitation
ORDINARY OF THE MASS 227
for Thy Son; we beseech Thee that, as by the
foreseen death of the same Thy Son, Thou
didst preserve her from all stain of sin, so
Thou wouldst enable us, being made pure by
her intercession, to come unto Thee. Through
the same our Lord Jesus Christ, Thy Son, who
liveth and reigneth with Thee in the unity of
the Holy Ghost world without end. Amen.
LESSON.
Prov. viii. 22-35.
The Lord possessed me in the beginning of
his ways, beiore he made anything from the
beginning. I was set up from eternity, and of
old before the earth was made. The depths
were not as yet, and I was already conceived ;
neither had the fountains of waters as yet
sprung out ; the mountains with their huge bulk
had not as yet been established : before the hills
I was brought forth : he had not yet made the
earth, nor the rivers, nor the poles of the world.
When he prepared the heavens, I was present:
when with a certain law and compass he en
closed the depths; when he established the
sky above, and poised the fountains of waters;
when he compassed the sea with its bounds,
and set a law to the waters, that they should
not pass their limits; when he balanced the
foundations of the earth : I was with Him form-
228 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
ing all things; and I was delighted every day,
playing before him at all times; playing in the
world; and my delight was to be with the
children of men. Now therefore, ye children,
hear me: blessed are they that keep my ways,
hear instruction, and be wise, and refuse it not.
Blessed is the man that heareth me, and that
watcheth daily at my gates, and waiteth at the
posts of my door. He that shall find me shall
find life, and shall have salvation from the
Lord.
R. Thanks be to God.
Gradual.
Blessed art Thou, O Virgin Mary, by the
Lord, the most high God, above all women
upon the earth.
Thou art the glory of Jerusalem; thou art
the joy of Israel; thou art the honor of our
people.
Alleluia, Alleluia.
Thou art all fair, O Mary, and there is not a
spot in thee. Alleluia.
Before the Gospel.
Cleanse 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.
ORDINARY OF THE MASS 229
The Lord be in my heart and on my lips,
that I may worthily, and in a becoming man
ner, announce His holy Gospel in the name of
the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy
Ghost. Amen.
V. The Lord be with you.
R. And with thy spirit.
V. The continuation of the holy Gospel ac
cording to St. Luke.
R. Glory be to Thee, O Lord.
THE GOSPEL.
Luke i. 26.
At that time : the Angel Gabriel was sent
from God into a city of Galilee, called Naza
reth to a Virgin espoused to a man whose
name was Joseph, of the house of David: and
the name of the Virgin was Mary. And the
Angel coming in to her, said: Hail, full of
grace, the Lord is with thee: blessed art thou
among women.
7?. Praise be to Thee, O Christ.
V. By the words of the Gospel may our
sins be blotted out.
THE CREED.
I BELIEVE in one God, the Father Almighty,
Maker of heaven and earth, and of all things
visible and invisible. And in one Lord Jesus
230 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
Christ, the only begotten Son of God, born of
the Father before all ages. God of God;
Light of Light; true God of true God; begot
ten, not made; consubstantial with the Father,
by whom all things were made. Who for us
men, and for our salvation came down from
heaven, and was incarnate by the Holy Ghost
of the Virgin Mary; and was made man. He
was crucified also for us, suffered under Pon
tius Pilate, and was buried. The third day
He arose again according to the Scripture;
and ascended 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 adored and glorified:
who spoke by the prophets. And one holy
Catholic and apostolic Church. I confess one
baptism for the remission of sins. And I look
for the resurrection of the dead, and the life
of the world to come. Amen.
V. The Lord be with you.
R. And with thy spirit.
THE OFFERTORY.
HAIL, Mary, full of grace ; the Lord is with
ORDINARY OF THE MASS Z31
thee; blessed art thou among women. Alle
luia.
At the oblation.
Accept, O holy Father, almighty, eternal
God, this immaculate host, which I, Thy
unworthy servant, offer unto Thee, my living
and true God, for my innumerable sins,
offences and negligences, and for all here
present; as also for all faithful Christians,
both living and dead, that it may be profitable
for my own and for their salvation unto life
eternal. Amen.
O God, who in creating human nature, didst
wonderfully dignify it, and hast still more
wonderfully renewed it, grant that, by the
mystery of this water and wine, we may be
made partakers of His divinity, who vouch
safed to become partaker of our humanity,
Jesus Christ, Thy Son, our Lord; who liveth
and reigneth with Thee in the unity of the
Holy Ghost, world without end. Amen.
We offer unto Thee, O Lord, the chalice of
salvation, beseeching Thy clemency, that in
the sight of Thy divine Majesty it may ascend
with the odor of sweetness, for our salvation
and for that of the whole world. Amen.
In the spirit of humility, and with a contrite
heart, let us be received by Thee, O Lord, and
grant that the sacrifice we offer in Thy sight
this day may be pleasing to Thee, O Lord God.
232 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
Come, O Sanctifier, almighty, eternal God
and bless this sacrifice prepared in Thy holy
name.
At the incensing.
Let. my prayer, O Lord, ascend like incense
in Thy sight: and the lifting of my hands be as
an evening 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 sin.
At the washing of the hands.
I will wash my hands among the innocent:
and will encompass Thy altar, O Lord.
That I may hear the voice of praise, and tell
of all Thy marvellous works.
I have loved, O Lord, 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.
As for me, I have walked in my innocence:
redeem me, and have mercy upon me.
My foot hath stood in the right path : in the
churches I will bless Thee, O Lord.
Glory be to the Father, etc.
Bowing over the altar, the priest says:
Receive, O holy Trinity this oblation which
ORDINARY OF THE MASS 233
we make to Thee, in memory of the passion,
resurrection and ascension of our Lord Jesus
Christ, and in honor of the blessed Mary, ever
Virgin, of blessed John Baptist, the holy
apostles Peter and Paul, of these and of all the
saints; that it may be available to their honor
and our salvation: and may they vouchsafe to
intercede for us in heaven, whose memory we
celebrate on earth. Through the same Christ
our Lord. Amen.
Orate Fratres.
Brethren, pray that my sacrifice and
yours may be acceptable to God the Father
almighty.
R. May the Lord receive the sacrifice from
thy hands, to the praise and the glory of His
name, to our benefit, and to that of all His
holy church.
SECRET AND PREFACE.
Accept this saving host, which in the solem
nity of the Immaculate Conception of the
Blessed Virgin Mary we offer unto Thee; and
grant that as we believe her, by Thy preventing
grace, to be free from every stain, so by her
intercession we may be delivered from all our
sins through our Lord Jesus Christ, Thy Son,
who liveth and reigneth with Thee in the unity
of the Holy Ghost.
234 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
V. World without end.
R. Amen.
V. The Lord be with you.
R. And with thy spirit.
y. Lift up your hearts.
R. We have them lifted up unto the Lord.
V. Let us give thanks to the Lord our God.
R. It is meet and just.
It 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,
eternal God, and praise and bless and glorify
Thee in the Immaculate Conception of the
Blessed Mary ever Virgin; who also, by the
overshadowing of the Holy Ghost, has con
ceived Thy only begotten Son; and without
losing the lustre of her virginity, shed upon
the world the eternal light, Jesus Christ our
Lord. Through whom the angels praise Thy
Majesty, the dominations adore Thee, the
powers do stand in awe before Thee, the
heavens and the virtues of the heavens, and
the blessed seraphim do celebrate Thee with
united joy. In union with whom we beseech
Thee that Thou wouldst command our voices
also to be admitted, with suppliant confession,
saying :
Holy, holy, holy, Lord God of Hosts.
Heaven and earth are full of Thy glory.
Hosanna in the highest.
ORDINARY OF THE MASS 235
Blessed is he that cometh in the name of the
Lord.
Hosanna in the highest.
THE CANON.
We therefore humbly pray and beseech
Thee, most merciful Father, through Jesus
Christ, Thy Son, our Lord, that Thou wouldst
vouchsafe 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; and also to protect, unite, and govern
it throughout the world, together with Thy
servant, N. our Pope, N. our Bishop, as also
all orthodox believers and professors of the
Catholic and Apostolic Faith.
Commemoration of the living.
Be mindful, O Lord, of Thy servants and
handmaids, N. and N., and of all here present,
whose faith and devotion are known unto Thee,
for whom we offer, or who offer up to Thee this
sacrifice of praise for themselves, 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 to Thee,
the eternal, living and true God.
Communicating with, and honoring, in the
236 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
first place, the memory of the glorious and ever
Virgin Mary, Mother of our Lord and God,
Jesus Christ; as also of the blessed Apostles
and Martyrs, Peter and Paul, Andrew, James,
John, Thomas, James, Philip, Bartholomew,
Matthew, Simon and Thaddeus, Linus, Cletus,
Clement, Xystus, Cornelius, Cyprian, Lawrence,
Chrysogonus, John and Paul, Cosmas and
Damian, and of all Thy Saints; by whose
merits and prayers grant that we may be al
ways defended by the help of Thy protection.
Through the same Christ our Lord. Amen.
We therefore beseech Thee, O Lord, gra
ciously to accept this oblation of our service,
as also of Thy whole family ; dispose our days
in Thy peace, command us to be delivered
from eternal damnation, and to be numbered in
the flock of Thy elect. Through Christ our
Lord. Amen.
The Consecration.
Which oblation do Thou, O God, vouchsafe
in all respects to bless, approve, ratify and
accept, that it may become to us the body and
the blood of Thy most beloved Son, Jesus
Christ our Lord. Who, the day before He
suffered, took bread into His holy and vener
able hands, and with His eyes lifted up to
wards heaven, to God, His almighty Father;
giving thanks to Thee, did bless, break, and give
ORDINARY OF THE MASS 237
to His disciples, saying: TAKE, AND EAT YE
ALL OF THIS; FOR THIS IS MY BODY.
Elevation of the Host.
In like manner, after He had supped, taking
also this excellent chalice into His holy and
venerable hands, and giving Thee thanks, He
blessed, and gave to His disciples, saying:
TAKE, AND DRINK YE ALL OF THIS; FOR THIS
IS THE CHALICE OF MY BLOOD OF THE NEW AND
ETERNAL TESTAMENT J THE MYSTERY OF FAITH J
WHICH SHALL BE SHED FOR YOU, AND FOR
MANY/ TO THE REMISSION OF SINS.
As OFTEN AS YE DO THESE THINGS, YE SHALL
DO THEM IN REMEMBRANCE OF ME.
Elevation of the Chalice.
Whereof, O Lord, we Thy servants, as also
Thy holy people, calling to mind the blessed
passion of the same Christ, Thy Son, our Lord,
His resurrection from hell, and glorious ascen
sion into heaven, offer unto Thy most excellent
Majesty, of Thy gifts and grants, a pure host,
a holy host, an immaculate host, the holy bread
of eternal lifc, and the chalice of everlasting
salvation.
Upon which vouchsafe to look with a pro
pitious and serene countenance, and to accept
them, as Thou wast graciously pleased to accept
the gifts of Thy just servant Abel, and the sacri-
238 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED 1'IRGIX MARY
fice of our Patriarch Abraham, and that which
Thy High-priest Melchisedech offered to Thee,
a holy sacrifice, an immaculate host.
We most humbly beseech Thee, Almighty
God, command these things to be carried by the
hands of Thy holy angel to Thy altar on high,
in the sight of Thy divine Majesty, that as
many of us as, by participation at this altar,
shall receive the most sacred Body and Blood
of Thy Son may be filled with all heavenly
benediction and grace. Through the same
Christ our Lord. Amen.
Commemoration of the Dead.
Be mindful, O Lord, of Thy servants and
handmaids N. and N., who are gone before
us, with the sign of faith, and slumber in the
sleep of peace.
To these, O Lord, and to all that rest in
Christ, grant, we beseech Thee, a place of re
freshment, light, and peace. Through the same
Christ our Lord. Amen.
And to us sinners, Thy servants, hoping in the
multitude of Thy mercies, vouchsafe to grant
some part and fellowship with the holy Apostles
and Martyrs; with John, Steplien, Matthias,
Barnabas, Ignatius, Alexander, Marcellinus,
Peter, Felicity, Perpetua, Agatha, Lucy, Agnes,
Cecily, Anastasia, and with all Thy Saints ; into
whose company we beseech Thee to admit us,
ORDINARY OF THE MASS 239
not considering our merits, but freely pardon
ing our offences. Through Christ our Lord.
At the little elevation.
By whom, O Lord, Thou dost always create,
sanctify, quicken, bless, and give us all these
things.
Through Him, and with Him, and in Him,
is to Thee, God the Father almighty, in the
unity of the Holy Ghost, all honor and glory.
V. World without end.
R. Amen.
Pater Noster.
Instructed by Thy saving precepts, and fol
lowing Thy divine institution, we presume to
say:
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be
Thy name; Thy kingdom come; Thy will be
done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this
day our daily bread; and forgive us our tres
passes, as we forgive those who trespass
against us. And lead us not into temptation.
R. But deliver us from evil.
V. Amen.
Deliver us, we beseech Thee, O Lord, from
all evils past, present, and to come ; and by the
intercession of the blessed and glorious Mary,
ever Virgin, Mother of God, together with Thy
blessed Apostles, Peter and Paul, and Andrew,
240 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
and all the saints, mercifully 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.
V. May the peace of the Lord be always
with you.
R. And with thy spirit.
May this mixture and consecration of the
Body and Blood of our Lord Jesus Christ be
to us, that receive it, effectual to eternal life.
Amen.
Agnus Dei
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, have mercy on us.
Lamb of God, who takest away the sins of
the world, grant us peace.
Lord Jesus Christ, who saidst to Thy Apos
tles : Peace I leave with you, my peace I give un
to you ; regard not my sins, but the faith of Thy
Church; and vouchsafe to it that peace and
unity which is agreeable to Thy will : who livest
and reignest God for ever and ever. Amen.
ORDINARY OF THE MASS 241
Lord Jesus Christ, Son of the living God,
who, according to the will of the Father,
through the co-operation 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 iniquities and from all
evils; and make me always adhere to Thy
commandments, and never suffer me to be
separated from Thee ; who, with the same God
the Father and Holy Ghost, livest and reignest
God for ever and ever. Amen.
Let not the participation of Thy Body, O
Lord Jesus Christ, which I, all unworthy, pre
sume to receive, turn to my judgment and
condemnation ; but through Thy goodness, may
it be to me a safeguard and remedy, both of
soul and body. Who with God the Father, in
the unity of the Holy Ghost, livest and
reignest God for ever and ever. Amen.
AT THE COMMUNION.
I will take the bread of heaven and call
upon the name of the Lord.
Lord, I am not worthy that Thou shouldst
enter under my roof; say but the word, and
my soul shall be healed.
Taking the Sacred Host.
May the Body of our Lord Jesus Christ pre
serve my soul to life everlasting. Amen.
242 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
Taking the Chalice.
What shall I render to the Lord for all He
hath rendered unto me ? I will take the chalice
of salvation, and call upon the name of the
Lord; with praise I shall call upon the Lord
and I shall be saved from mine enemies.
The Blood of our Lord Jesus Christ pre
serve my soul to. everlasting life. Amen.
For Communion of the people, after the Confiteor.
V. May the almighty God have mercy on
you, forgive you your sins, and bring you to
life everlasting.
R. Amen.
V. May the almighty and merciful Lord
give you pardon, absolution, and remission of
your sins.
R. Amen.
Behold the Lamb of God; behold Him who
taketh away the sins of the world. Lord I 'am
not worthy, etc.
Giving Communion.
May the Body of our Lord Jesus Christ pre
serve thy soul to life everlasting. Amen.
At the Ablutions.
Grant, Lord, that what we have taken with
our mouth, we may receive with a pure
ORDINARY OF THE MASS 243
mind; and of a temporal gift may it become to
us an eternal remedy.
May Thy Body, O Lord, which I have re
ceived, and Thy Blood, which I have drunk,
cleave to my bowels; and grant that no stain
of sin may remain in me, who have been re
freshed with pure and holy sacraments. Who
livest for ever and ever. Amen.
Communion.
GLORIOUS things have been said of thee, O
Mary: because He that is mighty has done
great things in thee.
V. The Lord be with you.
R. And with thy spirit.
' POSTCOMMUNION.
Let us pray.
May the Sacraments which we have re
ceived, O Lord our God, repair in us the
wounds of that sin from which Thou didst sin
gularly preserve the Immaculate Conception of
Blessed Mary. Through our Lord Jesus Christ,
Thy Son, who liveth and reigneth with Thee
in the unity of the Holy Ghost world without
enj
R. Amen.
V. The Lord be with you.
R. And with thy spirit.
244 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
V. Go, the Mass is ended (or, Let us bless
the Lord).
R. Thanks be to God.
V. Amen.
O holy Trinity, let the performance of my
homage be pleasing to Thee; and grant that
the sacrifice which I, unworthy as I am, have
offered up in the sight of Thy Majesty, may be
acceptable to Thee, and through Thy mercy be
a propitiation for me and all those for whom I
have offered it. Through Christ our Lord.
The Blessing.
May almighty God, the Father, Son, and
Holy Ghost, bless you.
R. Amen.
The Last Gospel.
V. The Lord be with you.
R. And with thy spirit.
The beginning of the holy Gospel according
to St. John.
R. Glory be to Thee, O Lord.
In 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
ORDINARY OF THE MASS 245
light shineth in darkness, and the darkness
did not comprehend it.
There was a man sent from God, whose
name was John. This man came for a wit
ness, to give testimony of the light, that all
men might believe through him. He was not
the Light, but was to give testimony of the
Light. That was the true Light which enlight-
eneth 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 gave He power to become the sons of
God: to them that 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: and
THE WORD WAS MADE FLESH, and dwelt among
us : and we saw His glory, as it were, the glory
of the only begotten of the Father, full of
grace and truth.
R, Thanks be to God.
PRAYER AFTER MASS.
Almighty and eternal God, who out of Thy
immense love hast appointed Thy only begot
ten Son to be the mediator between Thee and
sinners; accept, I beseech Thee, this sacrifice
and victim from me, a poor miserable sinner;
pardon my defects and negligences in assisting
248 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
at it; bestow on me Thy divine benediction;
grant that I may serve Thee in all things to
my last breath, and, after this life, deserve to
praise and glorify Thy holy name for all
eternity. Amen.
VISIT TO THE BLESSED SACRAMENT.
PRAYER OF ST. ALPHONSUS.
Y LORD JESUS CHRIST, who for the love
which Thou bearest to men, remainest
night and day in this Sacrament, full of com
passion and of love, calling and welcoming all
who come to visit Thee; I believe Thou art
present in the Sacrament of the altar. I adore
Thee from the abyss of my nothingness, and I
thank Thee for all the graces which Thou hast
bestowed upon me, and in particular for having
given me Thyself in this Sacrament, for having
given me Thy most holy Mother Mary as my
advocate, and for having called me to visit Thee
in this Church. I now salute Thy most loving
Heart; and this for three ends: 1. In thanks
giving for this great gift. 2. To make amends
to Thee for all the outrages which Thou hast
received in this Sacrament from all Thine ene
mies. 3. I intend by this visit to adore Thee in
all the places on earth in which Thou art pres
ent in this Sacrament, and in which Thou art
the least revered and the most abandoned. My
Jesus, I love Thee with my whole heart. I
grieve for having hitherto so many times
offended Thy infinite goodness. I propose by
Thy grace never more to offend Thee for the
time to come ; and now, miserable and unworthy
247
248 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED YIRGIN MARY
though I be, I consecrate myself to Thee with
out reserve ; I give Thee and renounce my en
tire will, my affections, my desires, and all that
I possess. Henceforth do Thou dispose of me
and of all that I have as Thou pleasest. All
that I ask of Thee and desire is Thy holy love,
final perseverance and the perfect accomplish
ment of Thy will. I recommend to Thee the
souls in purgatory, but especially those who
had the most devotion to the Blessed Sacra
ment, and to the most Blessed Virgin Mary. I
also recommend to Thee all poor sinners. In
fine, my dear Saviour, I unite all my affections
with those of Thy most loving Heart, and I
offer them thus united to Thy eternal Father,
and beseech Him in Thy name to vouchsafe,
for Thy love, to accept and grant them.
ACT OF REPARATION.
JESUS, my God, my Saviour, true God and
true Man, with that most profound homage
with which faith itself inspires me, I adore and
love Thee, with my whole heart, concealed in
the most august Sacrament of the altar, in repa
ration for all the acts of irreverence, profana
tion and sacrilege which I may ever have been
so unhappy as to have committed, as well as for
all such like acts that ever have been done, or
which may be done — though God forbid they
should be — in ages yet to come. I adore Thee,
VISIT TO THE BLESSED SACRAMENT 249
therefore, my God, not indeed as Thou deserv-
est, nor as much as I am bound to adore, but
as far as I am able; and I would that I could
adore Thee with all the perfection of which all
rational creatures are capable. Meantime, I
purpose now and ever to adore Thee, not only
for those Catholics who adore Thee not and
love Thee not, but also instead of, and for the
conversion of, all heretics, schismatics, impious
atheists, blasphemers, impostors, infidels, Jews,
and idolaters. Jesus, my God, mayest Thou
be ever known, adored, loved, and praised
every moment, in the most holy and divine
Sacrament. Amen.
THE PRAYER OF ST. IGNATIUS.
Take, O Lord, and receive all my liberty,
my memory, my understanding and my whole
will. Thou hast given me all that I am and all
that I possess; I surrender all to Thee that
Thou mayest dispose of it according to Thy
will. Give me only Thy love and Thy grace;
with these I shall be rich enough, and have no
more to desire.
PRAYERS FOR CONFESSION.
Before examining your conscience say:
GOD, the searcher of hearts, behold I
here protest, in Thy presence, that what
I now design is sincerely for the honor of Thy
name, and for the purpose of being delivered
from the guilt of my sins; therefore I come tc
this sacrament of penance, that, complying with
Thy holy institution, I may obtain Thy blessing
and pardon. May Thy holy grace assist me in
performing this great duty well, as it is Thy
mercy which has called me to do it.
Here reflect briefly on the benefits of God, particularly
in instituting the sacrament of penance for the remission
of our sins, and say:
How great are my obligations to Thee, O
my God, in thus providing for me, after my
disgrace, the means of a perfect reconciliation.
To have purified me in the waters of baptism
was not enough; Thou hast also left me the
waters of penance, to wash me still more from
my iniquities, and cleanse me from my sins.
For this end Thou hast given to the Church,
in the persons of the apostles, the power of
remitting our offences: Receive ye the Holy
Ghost: whose sins ye shall forgive, shall be
forgiven them. Oh, what excessive goodness !
250
PRAYERS FOR CONFESSION 251
What an advantage to poor sinners to have a
tribunal established for them, always open,
where they may be received into favor ! Can I
ever be sensible of so striking an instance of
Thy bounty? I have withdrawn myself from
Thee by a hateful contempt of Thy law, and
Thou art pleased to make the first advance to
meet me ! O Father of mercies and God of
goodness, be Thou for ever blessed? Permit
me to fly to this powerful refuge, and suffer
not that, by a new ingratitude, I should for the
future ever abuse so excellent a resource of
salvation. No; it is not human respect; it is
not custom, nor the fear .of being thought care
less of my soul, that brings me at present to
this sacrament of reconciliation. It is a sincere
regret for having incurred Thy displeasure —
for who can be at rest, O my God, when he
knows he is Thy enemy, and that he has
offended the very best of Fathers?
Examine your conscience according to the command
ments of God and of the Church and the seven deadly
sins; or according to the brief method of our duties toward
God, our neighbor and ourselves. Having found out
your sins, make a sincere act of contrition and firm pur
pose of amendment, and say:
I have now here before me, O Lord, a sad
prospect of the manifold offences, by which I
have displeased Thy divine Majesty, and which
262 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
I am assured will appear in judgment against
me, if I repent not, and my soul be not dis
posed, by a hearty sorrow, to receive Thy
pardon. But this sorrow, O Lord, this repent
ance must be Thy free gift, and if it comes not
from the hand of Thy mercy, all my endeavors
will be in vain, and I shall be forever miserable.
Have mercy, therefore, on me, O Father of
mercies, and pour forth into my heart Thy
grace, whereby I may sincerely repent of all
my sins; give me a true contrition, that I may
bewail my past misery and ingratitude, and
grieve from my heart for having offended Thee,
so good a God. Permit me not to be deluded
with a false sorrow, as, I fear, I have been too
often, through my own weakness and neglect;
but let it be now Thy gift, descending from
Thee, the Father of lights, that so my repent
ance may be accompanied with amendment
and change of life, and I may be fully acquitted
of the guilt of all my sins, and once more
received into the number of Thy servants.
Through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
AFTER CONFESSION.
Accept, O Lord, I beseech Thee, this my
confession, and mercifully pardon all my
deficiencies, that, according to the greatness
PRAYERS FOR CONFESSION 253
of Thy mercy, I may be fully and perfectly
absolved in heaven. Through Jesus Christ our
Lord. Amen.
Blessed are they whose iniquities are for
given, and whose sins are covered.
Blessed is the man to whom the Lord hath
not imputed sin, and in whose spirit there is no
guile.
I have acknowledged my sins to Thee, O
Lord, and my injustice I have not concealed.
I said : I will confess against myself my in
justice to the Lord, and Thou hast forgiven
the wickedness of my sin.
Glory be to the Father, etc.
O my divine Saviour, I give thanks to Thee,
that . Thou hast been pleased to cleanse me
from my sins by Thy precious blood. Blessed
be Thy name, O Lord, for ever and ever.
I acknowledge and adore Thy mercy, and
dedicate myself wholly to Thy service here
after. Assist my weakness, and suffer me not
again to fall into my past sins and to be sepa
rated 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?
O Blessed Virgin Mary, my holy patron, N.,
and all ye saints and angels, praise and extol
our Lord for His boundless goodness toward
me, a most miserable sinner. Beseech Him
254 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
to accept this my humble confession, and to
supply, through His infinite mercies, all its
deficiencies. Beg of Him to ratify in heaven
the sentence of absolution which His minister,
the priest, hath pronounced in my favor at the
tribunal of confession. Amen.
Before leaving the church,
penance.
if possible, perform your
DEVOTIONS FOR HOLY COMMUNION.
PRAYER BEFORE COMMUNION.
T FIRMLY believe, O my divine Jesus, that
••• Thou art really present in the Blessed Sac
rament of the Altar. I believe that it contains
Thy body and blood accompanied by Thy
very soul and divinity. I acknowledge these
truths, I believe these wonders; I adore the
power that has wrought them — the same power
that said: Let there be light, and light was
made. I submit my senses and reason to Thy
divine authority; I praise and glorify Thy in
finite goodness, which hath prepared this
heavenly banquet for the food and nourishment
of my soul. Blessed be Thy name for ever !
Accept my homage; accept, O my God, my
most hearty thanks. But what am I that Thou
shouldst work such wonders for my sake ? How
shall an unworthy sinner as I am presume to
approach Thee, who art the inexhaustible source
of infinite purity and sanctity? How shall I
venture to lift up my eyes to heaven, much less;
to receive Thee within my breast? I tremble
at the sentence of Thy apostle: Whosoever
shall eat this bread or drink the chalice of the
Lord unworthily, shall be guilty of the body
and blood of the Lord. For I acknowledge
myself to be nothing but dust and ashes — 3k
255
256 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
poor, miserable worm of the earth, subject to
many vices, and void of all virtue and merit.
My life has been nothing -but sin and
misery. I have nothing to confide in but Thy
boundless mercy; nor should I ever presume
to approach Thy sacred table, and partake of
the bread of angels, were I not encouraged by
Thy infinite goodness, and excited by Thy own
most pressing invitations. It is, therefore, in
Thy mercy, which is above all Thy works, that
I put my whole trust; and since Thou art
pleased to call me to this divine banquet, be
hold, I come to it, like Magdalen, to be happily
united to Thee, and lay down all my sins at
Thy feet, in order that they may be cancelled
by Thy precious blood. I come to com
memorate Thy sufferings, as Thou Thyself
hast ordained. I come, as one sick, to the
Physician of life; as one blind, to the Light of
eternal glory; as one poor, needy, and dis
tressed, to the King of heaven and earth. To
Thee I expose all my wounds, that they may
be healed. To Thee I fly for protection,
hoping that Thou wilt be to me a Saviour, and
that Thou wilt wash away every sin that may
defile me.
Take away my blindness, relieve my neces
sities, and clothe me with Thy grace, that
I may receive the adorable sacrament of Thy
Body and Blood with such reverence and hu-
DEVOTIONS FOR HOLY COMMUNION 257
mility, such contrition and devotion, such purity
and faith, as may be for Thy honor and glory,
and the salvation of my soul. I am noi.
worthy, O Lord, to receive Thee : alas ! I am
not: but Thou canst, if Thou wilt, make me
worthy: say but the word, then, and my soul
shall be healed. Thou hast heretofore said to
the leper in the Gospel : I am willing ; be thou
cleansed, and he was immediately cured of his
disease. My soul is covered with a universal
leprosy: heal me, then, O my Saviour, in like
manner; cleanse my soul from its stains; re
move from it all guilt; extinguish in it every
evil disposition; adorn it with the necessary
virtues, and make it a fit abode for Thy decep
tion. May the Body of our Lord Jesus Christ
preserve my soul to life everlasting. Amen.
ASPIRATIONS AFTER COMMUNION.
BEHOLD, O Lord, I now possess Thee who
possessest all things, and who canst do all
things ; take off my heart, then O my God and
my all, from all other things but Thee, for in
them there is nothing but vanity and affliction
of spirit. Let my heart be fixed on Thee
alone ; let me ever repose in Thee, for in Thee
is my treasure, in Thee is the Sovereign Truth,
true happiness, and a blessed eternity.
Let mv soul, O Lord, feel the sweetness of
258 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
Thy presence. Let me taste how sweet Thou
art, O Lord! that, being allured by Thy love,
I may never more run after worldly pleasures ;
for Thou art the joy of my heart, and my por
tion for ever.
Thou art the Physician of our soul, who
healest all our infirmities by Thy sacred blood ;
I am that sick man whom Thou earnest from
heaven to heal: oh, heal my soul, for I have
sinned against Thee !
Thou art the Good Shepherd, who hast laid
down Thy life for Thy sheep! behold, I
am that sheep that was lost, and yet Thou
vouchsafest to feed me with Thy Body and
Blood; take me now upon Thy shoulders to
carry me home. What canst Thou deny me,
who hast given me Thyself? Guide Thou me,
and I shall want nothing in the place of pas
ture where Thou hast put me, until Thou
bringest me to the happy pastures of eternal
life.
O true Light, which enlightenest every man
that cometh into this world, enlighten my eyes
that I may never sleep in death.
O King of heaven and earth, rich in mercy,
behold I am poor and needy: Thou knowest
what I stand most in need of; Thou alone
canst assist and enrich me. Help me, O God,
and out of the treasures of Thy bounty succor
my needy soul.
DEVOTIONS FOR HOLY COMMUNION 259
Thou art the Lamb of God, the Lamb with
out spot, who takest away the sins of the world ;
Oh, take away from me whatever may grieve
and displease Thee, and give me what Thou
knowest to be pleasing to Thee and profitable
to myself.
0 my God and my All, may the sweet flame
of Thy love consume my soul, that so I may
die to the world for the love of Thee, who
hast vouchsafed to die upon the Cross for love
of me.
PRAYER OF ST. THOMAS AQUINAS.
1 GIVE Thee thanks, O holy Lord, Father
almighty, eternal God, that Thou hast vouch
safed, for no merit of my own, but of the mere
condescension of Thy mercy, to refresh me a
sinner and Thine unworthy servant with the
precious Body and Blood of Thy Son, our Lord
Jesus Christ. I implore Thee, let not this
Holy Communion be to me an increase of guilt
unto my punishment, but an availing plea unto
pardon and forgiveness. Let it be to me the
armor of faith and shield of good will. Grant
that it may work the extinction of my vices,
the rooting out of concupiscence and lust, and
the increase within me of charity and patience,
of humility and obedience. Let it be my
strong defence against the snares of all my
enemies, visible and invisible; the perfect
260 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
soothing of all my passions carnal and spiri
tual, my indissoluble union with Thee the one
and true God, and a blessed consummation at
my last end. And I beseech Thee, that Thou
mayest vouchsafe to bring me, sinner as I am,
to that ineffable banquet where Thou, with the
Son and the Holy Ghost, art to Thy saints true
and unfailing Light, fulness of content, joy for
evermore, gladness without alloy, consummate
and everlasting bliss. Through the same Christ
our Lord. Amen.
ANIMA CHRISTI.
Soul of Christ, be my sanctification.
Body of Christ, be my salvation.
Blood of Christ, fill all my veins.
Water of Christ's side, wash out my stains.
Passion of Christ, my comfort be.
O Good Jesu, listen to me.
In Thy Wounds I fain would hide,
Ne'er to be parted from Thy side.
Guard me, should the foe assail me,
Call me when my life shall fail me;
Bid me come to Thee above
With Thy Saints, to sing Thy love,
World without end. Amen.
A Plenary Indulgence is granted to all those who,
after Communion, recite the following prayer before any
Representation of Christ crucified, and pray for the
intentions of the Holy Father, the Pope.
Look down upon me, good and gentle Jesus,
while before Thy face I humbly kneel, and,
with burning soul, pray and beseech Thee to
fix deep in my heart lively sentiments of faith,
hope, and charity, true contrition for my sins,
and a firm purpose of amendment; while I con
template with great love and tender pity Thy
five wounds, pondering over them within me,
calling to mind the words which David, Thy
prophet, said of Thee, my Jesus: They dug
my hands and my feet; they numbered all my
bones. .
261
LITANY OF THE HOLY NAME OF
JESUS.
Lord, 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,
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, powerful God,
Jesus, father of the world to come,
Jesus, angel of the great council,
Jesus, most patient,
Jesus, most obedient,
Jesus, meek and humble of heart,
Jesus, lover of chastity,
Jesus, God of peace,
Jesus, author of life,
Jesus, example of all virtues,
Jesus, zealous lover of souls,
Jesus, our God, *
263
LITANY OF THE HOLY NAME OF JESUS 86*
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, the way, the truth, and the life,
Jesus, joy of angels,
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 unto us: Spare us, O Jesus.
Be merciful unto us: Hear us, O Jesus.
From all evil,
From all sin,
From Thy wrath,
From fhe snares »f the devil,
From the spirit of fornication,
From everlasting death.
From neglect of Thy holy inspirations,
Through the mystery of Thy holy incarnation.
Through Thy nativity,
Through Thy divine infancy.
Through Thy sacred life,
Through Thy labors,
Through Thy agony and passion,
Through Thy cross and dereliction,
Through Thy pains and torments,
Through Thy death and burial,
Through Thy glorious resurrection,
Through Thy ascension,
Through Thy joys and glory,
In the day of judgment,
f
CL
804 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
Lamb of God, who takest away the sins of the world:
Spare us, O Lord Jesus.
Lamb of God, who takest away the sins of the world:
Hear us, O Lord Jesus.
Lamb of God, who takest away the sins of the world:
Have mercy upon us, O Lord Jesus.
Christ Jesus, hear us.
Christ Jesus, graciously hear us.
V. May the name of the Lord be blessed.
R. From henceforth, now, and for ever.
Let us pray.
O LORD Jesus Christ, who hast said: Ask,
and ye shall receive; seek and ye shall find;
knock, and it shall be opened unto you; merci
fully attend to our supplications, and grant us
the gift of divine charity, that we may ever love
Thee with our whole hearts, and never cease
from praising Thy holy name, who livest and
reignest, one God, world without end. Amen.
O divine Redeemer, give us a perpetual fear
and love of Thy holy name, for Thou never
ceasest to direct and govern by Thy grace those
whom Thou instructest in the solidity of Thy
love. Who livest and reignest, one God,
world without end. Amen.
THE STATIONS OF THE CROSS.
ADAPTED FROM
ST. ALPHONSUS LIGUORI.
Let each one make an Act of Contrition, and
form the intention for the application of the
Indulgences to be gained.
O Lord Jesus Christ, Thou hast made this
journey to die for me with unspeakable love,
while I have so many times betrayed and for
saken Thee. But now I love Thee with my
whole heart, and because I love Thee I repent
sincerely of having ever offended Thee. Par
don me, my God, and permit me to accom
pany Thee on this journey. Thou goest to die
for love of me; I wish also, my beloved
Redeemer, to die for love of Thee.
1. At the Cross her station keeping,
Stood the mournful Mother weeping,
Close to Jesus to the last.
1°. At each station begin by announcing the station
and reciting this versicle with its response.
V. We adore Thee, O Christ, and we bless
Thee.
R. Because by Thy holy Cross Thou hast
redeemed the world.
265
266 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED YIRGIN MARY
2°. At the end of each station prayer recite the
following act:
I love Thee, O my Jesus, with my whole
heart, and I repent of ever having offended
Thee. Never permit me to separate myself
from Thee again by sin. Grant that I may
love Thee always, and then do with me what
Thou wilt.
3°. Then say, Our Father, Hail Alary, Glory, and:
V. Have mercy on us, O Lord !
R. Have mercy on us.
4°. Strophe of Stabat Mater.
First Station.
JESUS IS CONDEMNED TO DEATH.
Consider how Jesus, after having been
scourged and crowned with thorns, was un
justly 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 her journey
toward heaven.
2. Through her heart, His sorrow sharing,
And His bitter anguish bearing,
Lo ! the piercing sword had passed !
THE STATIONS OF THE CROSS 367
Second Station.
JESUS IS MADE TO BEAR HIS CROSS.
Consider how Jesus in making this journey
with the Cross on His shoulders, thought of us,
and offered for us to His Father the death He
was about to undergo.
My most beloved Jesus, I accept all the
tribulations Thou hast destined for me until
death. I beseech Thee, by the merits of the
pain Thou didst suffer in bearing Thy Cross,
to give me the necessary help to bear mine
with perfect patience and resignation.
3. O, how sad, and sore distressed,
Now was she, that Mother Blessed
Of the sole-begotten One.
Third Station.
JESUS FALLS THE FIRST TIME.
Consider this first fall of Jesus under His
Cross. His flesh was torn by the scourges,
His head was 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
shoulders. The soldiers struck Him rudely,
and thus He fell several times in His journey.
168 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
My Jesus, it is not the weight of the Cross,
but my sins, which have made Thee suffer so
much pain. Ah, by the merits of this first
fall, deliver me from the misfortune of falling
into mortal sin.
4. Woe-begone, with heart's prostration,
Mother meek, the bitter passion
Saw she of her glorious Son.
Fourth Station.
JESUS MEETS HIS AFFLICTED. MOTHER.
Consider the meeting of the Son and the
Mother, which took place on this journey.
Jesus and Mary beheld each other, and their
looks became as so many darts to wound those
hearts which loved each other so tenderly.
My most loving Jesus, by the sorrow that
Thou didst feel in this meeting, grant me the
grace of a truly devoted love for Thy most
holy Mother. And thou, my Queen, who
wast overwhelmed with sorrow, obtain for me,
by thy intercession, a continual and tender
remembrance of the passion of Thy Son.
5. Who could mark, from tears refraining,
Christ's dear Mother uncomplaining,
In so great a sorrow bowed?
THE STATIONS OF THE CROSS *69
Fifth Station.
SIMON HELPS JESUS TO CARRY HIS CROSS.
Consider how the Jews, seeing that at each
step Jesus was on the point of expiring from
weakness, and fearing that He would die on
the way, when they wished Him to die the
ignominious death on the Cross, constrained
Simon the Cyrenean, to carry the Cross behind
our Lord.
My most beloved Jesus, I will not refuse the
Cross, as Simon did; I accept it — I embrace
it. I accept, in particular, the death Thou hast
destined for me, with all the pains which may
accompany it ; I unite it to Thy death — I offer
it to Thee. Thou hast died for love of me;
I will die for love of Thee and to please Thee.
Help me by Thy grace.
Underneath His cross of anguish,
'Mid the fierce, unpitying crowd?
Sixth Station.
VERONICA WIPES THE FACE OF JESUS.
Consider how the holy woman named
Veronica, seeing Jesus so afflicted, and His
face bathed in sweat and blood, offered Him a
270 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
napkin, with which He wiped His adorable
face, leaving on it the impression of His holy
countenance.
My most beloved Jesus, Thy face was beauti
ful 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, by Thy Passion, canst
restore it to its former beauty.
7. For His people's sins rejected,
She her Jesus, unprotected,
Saw with thorns, with scourges rent.
Seventh Station.
JESUS FALLS THE SECOND TIME.
Consider the second fall of Jesus under the
Cross — a fall which renews the pain of all the
wounds of the head and body 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 in all tempta
tions which assail me I may always commend
mvself to Thee.
THE STATIONS OF THE CROSS §71
8. Saw her Son from judgment taken,
Her belov'd in death forsaken,
Till His spirit forth He sent.
Eighth Station.
JESUS SPEAKS TO THE WOMEN OF JERUSALEM.
Consider how those women wept from com
passion at seeing Jesus in such a pitiable state,
streaming with blood as He walked along.
But Jesus said to them: Weep not for me,
but weep for yourselves and your children.
My Jesus, laden with sorrows, I weep for
the offences I have committed against Thee,
because of the pains they have deserved, and
still more because of the displeasure they have
caused Thee, who hast so loved me. It is Thy
love, more than the fear of hell, which causes
me to weep for my sins.
9. Fount of love and holy sorrow,
Mother, may my spirit borrow
Somewhat of thy woe profound.
Ninth Station.
JESUS FALLS THE THIRD TIME,
Consider the third fall of Jesus Christ HU
weakness was extreme, and the cruelty of His
executioners excessive, who tried to hasten His
steps when He had scarcely strength to more.
272 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
Ah, my outraged Jesus, by the merits of the
weakness Thou didst suffer in going to Cal
vary, give me strength sufficient to conquer all
human respect, and all my wicked passions,
which have led me to despise Thy friendship.
10. Unto Christ, with pure emotion,
Raise my contrite heart's devotion,
Love to read in every wound.
Tenth Station.
JESUS IS STRIPPED OF HIS GARMENTS.
Consider the violence with which the execu
tioners stripped Jesus. His inner garments j
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
torments Thou hast felt, help me to strip my
self of all affection to things of earth, in order
that I may place all my love in Thee, who art
so worthy of my love.
11. Those five wounds on Jesus smitten,
Mother, in my heart be written.
Deep as in thine own they be.
THE STATIONS OF THE CROSS 278
Eleventh Station.
JESUS IS NAILED TO THE CROSS.
Consider how Jesus, 'after being thrown on
the Cross, extended His arms, and offered to
His eternal Father the sacrifice of His life for
our salvation. The executioners fastened His
hands and His feet with nails, and raising the
Cross, left him to die in anguish.
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.
12. Thou, my Saviour's Cross who bearest,
Thou thy Son's rebuke who sharest,
Let me share them both with thee.
Twelfth Station.
JESUS DIES ON THE CROSS.
Consider how Jesus, after three hours' agony
on the Cross, consumed at length with anguish,
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 sins 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 for
Thee. Into Thy hands I commend my spirit.
274 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
13. In the passion of my Maker,
Be my sinful soul partaker,
Weep till death, and weep with Thee.
Thirteenth Station.
JESUS IS TAKEN DOWN FROM THE CROSS.
Consider how, after the death of our Lord,
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 Sorrows, for the love of Thy
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.
14. Mine with thee be that sad station,
There to watch the great salvation,
Wrought upon the atoning Tree.
Fourteenth Station.
JESUS IS PLACED IN THE SEPULCHRE.
Consider how the disciples carried the body
of Tesus 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.
THE STATIONS OF THE CROSS 275
Ah, my buried Jesus, I kiss the stone that
encloses Thee. But Thou didst rise again the
third day. I beseech Thee by Thy Resurrec
tion, make me rise glorious with Thee at the
last day, to be always united with Thee in
heaven, to praise Thee and love Thee for ever.
15. Virgin, thou of virgins fairest,
May the bitter woe Thou sharest
Make on me impression deep.
After this, say the Our Father, Hail Mary, and Glory
five times, in honor of the Passion of Jesus Christ, to gain
the indulgences granted to those who recite them.
DEVOTION OF THE HOLY ROSARY.
The entire Rosary is made up of fifteen Decades,
each Decade consisting of one Our Father, ten Hail
Marys, and one Glory, corresponding to fifteen Mysteries
of the life of our Blessed Lady, which we should medi
tate on while reciting it. These Mysteries are divided
into three groups: the Joyful, the Sorrowful and the
Glorious Mysteries. Each set of Mysteries makes up
what is ordinarily called the Beads. To say the beads:
1. Begin with the Creed.
2. Say three Hail Marys for the increase of faith,
hope and love.
3. Recall the Mystery before each Decade.
4. Recite under each Mystery one Our Father, ten
Hail Marys, and one Glory,
5. The Beads are generally closed with the Hail,
Holy Queen and the following prayer:
V. Pray for us O Holy Mother of God.
R. That we may be made worthy of the
promises of Christ.
Let us pray.
O God, whose only begotten Son, by His
life, death and resurrection, hath purchased for
us the rewards of eternal salvation: grant, we
beseech Thee, that, by meditating upon these
mysteries in the most holy rosary of the Blessed
Virgin Mary, we may both imitate what they
contain, and obtain what they promise. Through
the same Christ, our Lord. Amen.
276
The Mysteries of the Rosary.
THE JOYFUL MYSTERIES.
(Mondays, Thursdays, and Sundays from Advent te Lent.)
1. The Annunciation.
2. The Visitation.
3. The Nativity.
4. The Presentation.
5. The Finding in the Temple.
II. THE SORROWFUL MYSTERIES.
(Tuesdays, Fridays, and the Sundays of Lent.)
1. The Agony.
2. The Scourging.
3. The Crowning with thorns.
4. The Carrying of the Cross.
5. The Crucifixion.
III. THE GLORIOUS MYSTERIES.
(Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays from Easter to
Advent.)
1. The Resurrection.
2. The Ascension.
3. The Coming of the Holy Ghost.
4. The Assumption.
5. The Coronation.
277
DEVOTIONS TO SOME PATRONS OF THE
SODALITY.
DEVOTIONS TO THE HOLY ANGELS.
LITANY OF THE GUARDIAN ANGEL.
(For private devotion.)
Lord, have mercy.
Christ, have mercy.
Lord have mercy.
Christ, hear us.
Christ, graciously hear us.
God the Father of heaven, have mercy on us.
God the Son, Redeemer of the world, hare mercy
on us.
God the Holy Ghost, have mercy on us.
Holy Trinity, one God, have mercy on us.
Holy Mary Queen of Angels,
Holy Angel, my guardian,
Holy Angel, my counsellor,
Holy Angel, my monitor,
Holy Angel, my defender,
Holy Angel, my friend,
Holy Angel, my companion,
Holy Angel, my intercessor,
Holy Angel, my patron,
Holy Angel, my director,
Holy Angel, my ruler,
Holy Angel, my model,
Holy Angel, my protector,
Holy Angel, my comforter,
Holy Angel, my teacher,
Holy Angel, my witness,
Holy Angel, my helper,
Holy Angel, my guide,
278
DEVOTIONS TO SOME PATRONS I7f
Holy Angel, my instructor, i Pray
Holy Angel, my enlightener, L for
Holy Angel, my advocate, j us.
Lamb of God, etc.
V. Pray for us, O holy Angel Guardian.
R. That we may be made worthy of the
promises of Christ.
Let us pray.
ALMIGHTY and eternal God, who in the
counsel of Thy unspeakable goodness, hast ap
pointed to all the faithful a special Angel
Guardian of their body and soul; grant that
I may so love and honor him whom Thou hast
so mercifully given me, that, protected by the
bounty of Thy grace, and by his assistance, I
may merit to behold, with him and all the
angelic host, the glory of Thy countenance in
the heavenly country. Who livest and reignest
world without end. Amen.
Angel of God.
Angel of God, my Guardian, to whose care
I am committed by the divine goodness, en
lighten, guard, rule and govern me. Amen.
Ant. They are all ministering spirits, sent
to minister to them who shall receive the in
heritance of salvation.
V. I will sing praise to Thee in the sight of
the angels.
280 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
R. I will worship towards Thy holy temple,
and I will give glory to Thy name.
Let us pray.
O God, who, in most wonderful order, dost
assign the various offices, both of angels and of
men; grant, we beseech Thee, that they who
always minister before Thy face in heaven, may
also defend us in this our life on earth : through
Jesus Christ Thy Son, our Lord. Amen.
DEVOTION TO ST. JOSEPH.
O BLESSED JOSEPH, faithful guardian of my
Redeemer Jesus Christ, protector of thy chaste
spouse, the Virgin Mother of God, I choose
thee this day to be my especial patron and ad
vocate, and I firmly resolve from this time
forth always to honor thee as such. There
fore I humbly beseech thee to receive me for
thy client, to instruct me in every doubt, to
comfort me in every affliction, and finally to
defend and protect me in the hour of death.
Amen,
O Guardian of Virgins and Father St.
Joseph, to whose faithful care Christ Jesus,
innocence itself, and Mary, the Virgin of vir
gins, were committed: by these two dearest
pledges, Jesus and Mary, I pray and beseech
of thee, preserve me from all imcleanness, and
DEVOTIONS TO SOME PATRONS 881
obtain for me, with an undented ,mind, a pure
heart and a chaste body, faithfully to serve
Jesus and Mary all the days of my life. Amen.
Prayer for a Happy Death.
O BLESSED JOSEPH, who didst breathe thy
last breath in the fond embrace of Jesus and
of Mary, when the seal of death shall close
my course of life, come, holy father, with
Jesus and Mary, to aid me, and obtain for me
this only solace which I ask for in that hour,
to die encircled by their holy arms. Into your
sacred hands, living and dying, Jesus, Mary,
Joseph, I commend my soul. Amen.
V. Pray for us, St. Joseph.
R. That we may be made worthy of the
promises of Christ.
Let tis pray.
We beseech Thee, O Lord, that we may be
assisted by the merits of the spouse of Thy
most holy Mother ; so that what we are unable
to obtain of ourselves, may be granted us
through his intercession: who livest and
reignest, world without end. Amen.
DEVOTION TO ST. ANNE.
O BLESSED ANNE, glorious mother of the
Mother of God, well hast thou deserved thy
name, which means grace; for to thee was it
granted to bear in thy blessed womb the living
Paradise greater than all the heavens, who was
chosen to conceive and give birth to Him
whom the heaven of heavens could not con
tain. Thou art, O privileged mother, the root
of Jesse, from which the fairest flower and the
most delicious fruit, Christ Jesus our Lord,
has sprung forth. Rejoice, O blessed Anne,
for of thy daughter was borne that Son who
was called the Angel of the Great Council,
that is, of the salvation of the whole world.
O holy mother, make me partaker of that
grace which thou hast drawn so plentifully
from the source of all graces, that I may live
and die in the love of thy divine Grandchild,
Jesus Christ, and under the protection of thy
sweetest daughter Mary, His mother. Amen.
O GLORIOUS PATRIARCH, St. Joachim, and
most blessed mother, St. Anne, by the favor
which you have obtained with the Triune God,
the Father, the Spouse, and the Son of Mary,
your immaculate child, obtain for us by your
powerful intercession a tender love for the
Virgin Mother of God, and an ardent and
unceasing desire to be united with her and with
Jesus Christ, her Son. Amen.
282
DEVOTION TO ST. IGNATIUS LOYOLA.
A plenary indulgence may be gained on the usual con
ditions, on ten consecutive Sundays, by all those who per
form some prayers, meditations or other pious works for
the glory of God and in honor of St. Ignatius. The choice
of the Sundays is free to each one.
O GLORIOUS PATRIARCH St. Ignatius, we hum
bly beseech thee obtain for us from God, first
of all, freedom from sin, which is the greatest
of all evils, and after this, deliverance from all
bodily ailments and diseases with which God
is wont to punish the sins of men. May thy
example enkindle in our hearts the constant
desire to employ all our energies for the greater
glory of God and the salvation of our neigh
bor. Obtain for us also by thy intercession
from the most loving Heart of Jesus, our Lord,
that grace which is the crown of all graces,
final perseverance and everlasting bliss. Amen.
V. Pray for us, St. Ignatius.
R. That we may be made worthy of the
promises of Christ.
Let us pray.
O God, who, to extend the greater glory of
Thy name, hast, through blessed Ignatius,
strengthened Thy Church militant with the ad
dition of a new army ; grant that, following his
example, and assisted by his help, we may so
fight the battle of faith on earth, that we may
283
284 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
merit to be crowned with him in heaven.
Through Christ our Lord.
Offering of St. Ignatius, see page 249.
Anima Christi, the favorite prayer of St. Ignatius, see
page 260.
DEVOTION TO ST. FRANCIS XAVIER.
THE NOVENA OF GRACE.
The most popular devotion to St. Francis Xavier is
the No-vena of Grace, which is generally made in
March, beginning on the fourth and ending on the twelfth.
The origin of the novena is due to the Saint himself.
He appeared at Naples in December, 1633, to Father
Marcello Mastrilli, S.J., who lay mortally wounded in
the head by a blow from an iron hammer, weighing two
pounds, falling one hundred feet from the hand of a work
man. There was no hope of recovery. The prayers for
the dying were being said for the sufferer, who had re
ceived the last sacraments. Suddenly the Saint stood by
him, clad as a pilgrim, staff in hand, and radiant with
heavenly light. "Will you go to India or to heaven?"
asked St. Francis, referring to a vow lately made by the
dying man to go to India if his life were spared. "I
have no will but the will of God," was the answer.
"Renew your vow," said the Saint, "kiss the five
wounds of the Crucified, beg to shed your blood for
Him. . . . Be of good cheer. You are cured." It
all came to pass.
The Saint then promised his help to all who should
make a novena from March 4 to 12, confess, and receive
Holy Communion. So remarkably is his promise kept
that the title The Novena of Grace was given to it. Its
efficacy is not restricted to the date mentioned. The fol
lowing prayer has been used for the novena from the be-
DEVOTIONS TO SOME PATRONS 285
ginning, and is attributed to Father Mastrilli. Other
prayers may be added.
O MOST lovable and loving Saint, in union
with thee I adore the divine Majesty. The
remembrance of the favors with which God
blessed thee during life, and of thy glory after
death, fills me with joy; and I unite with thee
in offering to Him my humble tribute of
thanksgiving and of praise. I implore thee to
secure for me, through thy powerful interces
sion, 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.
(Pray for some special grace}. 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 conducive to both. Amen.
V. Pray for us, St. Francis Xavier.
R. That we may be made worthy of the
promises of Christ.
Let us pray.
O GOD, who didst vouchsafe, by the preach
ing and miracles of St. Francis Xavier, to join
unto Thy Church the nations of the Indies :
grant, we beseech Thee, that we who ven
erate his glorious merits, may also imitate his
example, through Jesus Christ our Lord.
Amen.
286 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
DEVOTION TO ST. ALOYSIUS PATRON OF
YOUTH.
THE SIX SUNDAYS.
Besides the Plenary Indulgence on the feast of the
Saint, six Plenary Indulgences may be gained, on six con
secutive Sundays, by all those who, in addition to the ful
filment of the usual conditions, spend some time in vocal
or mental prayer, or some other pious exercise, in honor
of St. Aloysius. The confession and Communion may
be made on the preceding Saturdays. The devotion of
the Six Sundays is much recommended and widely prac
tised, particularly by young people. It is commonly cele
brated on the six Sundays preceding the feast of the
Saint, June 21. Any six consecutive Sundays, however,
may be chosen.
The following prayers may serve for the purpose as
well as for private devotion.
O BLESSED ALOYSIUS, adorned with angelic
graces, I, thy most unworthy suppliant, recom
mend specially to thee the chastity of my soul
and body, praying thee by thy angelic purity
to plead for me with Jesus Christ, the immacu
late Lamb, and His most holy Mother, the
Virgin of virgins, to keep me from all grievous
sin. Oh, never let me be defiled with any
stain of impurity; but when thou dost see 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 Jesus crucified, im
press deeply on my heart a sense of the holy
fear of God, kindle in me the fire of divine
DEVOTIONS TO SOME PATRONS 287
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, Glory.
LITANY OF ST. ALOYSIUS.
(For private devotion.)
Lord, 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,
St. Aloysius,
Most beloved of Christ,
The delight of the Blessed virgin,
Most chaste youth,
Angelic youth,
Most humble youth,
Model of young students,
Despiser of riches,
Enemy of vanities,
Scorner of honors,
Honor of princes,
Jewel of the nobility,
Flower of innocence,
Ornament of the religious state,
288 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
Mirror of self-denial,
Mirror of perfect obedience,
Lover of evangelical poverty,
Most affectionately devout,
Most zealous observer of rules,
Most desirous of the salvation of souls,
Perpetual adorer of the Holy Eucharist,
Be merciful: Spare us, O Lord.
Be merciful: Hear us, O Lord.
From the lust of the eyes,
From the lust of the flesh,
From the pride of life,
Through the merits and intercession of St. Alo-
ysius,
Through his angelic purity,
Through his sanctity and glory,
We sinners beseech Thee to 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, O Lord.
Christ, hear us.
Christ, graciously hear us.
V. Pray for us, St. Aloysius.
R. That we may be made worthy of
promises of Christ.
the
Lei us pray.
O GOD, the dispenser of heavenly gifts,
who didst unite in the angelic youth Aloysius
wonderful innocence of life with an equal
spirit of penance: grant, through his merits
DEVOTIONS TO SOME PATRONS 289
and prayers, that we, who have failed to follow
the example of his innocence, may imitate his
practice of penance, through Jesus Christ our
Lord. Amen.
Prayer to choose well a state of life.
ANGELIC YOUTH, St. Aloysius, whom the
divine Mother Mary deigned to call to the
Society of Jesus, behold I come to thee with
childlike confidence: assist me in the impor
tant task of choosing a state of life; guide me
by thy most wise counsel, and aid me by thy
powerful intercession, that I may choose that
state of life in which I can best promote the
greater glory of God, and render most secure
the salvation of my soul. Amen.
Our Father, Hail Mary and Glory five times for the
intentions of the Holy Father, to gain Plenary Indul
gence.
DEVOTION TO ST. STANISLAS KOSTKA.
Prayer for purity.
MY most pure patron St. Stanislas, angel
of purity, I rejoice with thee for the marvel
lous gift of virginal purity which graced thy
spotless heart; I humbly pray thee, obtain for
me strength against all impure temptations, and
inspire me with constant watchfulness to guard
my purity — that virtue most glorious in itself,
290 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
and most acceptable to God. Our Father,
Hail Mary, Glory.
Prayer for charity.
MY most loving patron Stanislas, seraph
of charity, I rejoice with thee for the burn
ing flame of love which ever kept thy pure
and innocent heart elevated to and united with
its God; I humbly pray thee, kindle in me the
flame of the love of God, burning so brightly
as to consume all earthly love and set me all
on fire with His love alone. Our Father,
Hail Mary, Glory.
Prayer for a happy death.
MY most tender and holy patron Stan
islas, angel of purity and seraph of charity,
I rejoice with thee on thy most happy death,
originating in thy desire to contemplate Mary
assumed to heaven. I give thanks to Mary
because she obtained from her divine Son the
accomplishment of thy desires: and I pray
thee, gracious Saint, by all the lustre of thy
happy death, be thou my advocate and patron
at the hour of my death. O intercede with
Mary for me, to obtain for me a death, if not
all happiness like thine, yet calm and peace
ful under the safe-conduct of Mary my advo
cate, and thee my special patron. Our Father,
Hail Mary, Glory.
DEVOTIONS TO SOME PATRONS 291
DEVOTION TO ST. JOHN BERCHMANS.
O BLESSED JOHN, who on thy deathbed
didst clasp the crucifix, rosary and holy
rules in thy hands as the most powerful wea
pons against the enemy, and didst exclaim:
"These three things have been most dear to me
in life ; with them I gladly die," I beseech thee
by the precious blood of Jesus Christ, ob
tain for me such reverence for the holy pre
cepts of the Gospel, such devotion to the most
Blessed Virgin Mary, and such love for Jesus
crucified for love of us, that these three senti
ments may ever be my strongest armor to ward
off the darts of the evil one, and when my last
hour shall come, I too may, in accordance with
thy example, with full confidence repeat:
"These three things have been most dear to
me in life; with them I gladly die."
V. Pray for us, St. John.
R. That we may be made worthy of the
promises of Christ.
Let us pray.
O Lord God, we beseech Thee, grant
Thy servants to imitate the example of that
innocence and faithfulness in Thy service, by
which the angelic youth, John, has consecrated
to Thee the flower of his age. Through Christ
our Lord.
292 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
To those who are enrolled in the Berchmans' Society for
Altar Boys, besides many Partial Indulgences, a Plenary
Indulgence is granted on the feast of the Saint, August
13, and on the five consecutive Sundays preceding the
feast, on the usual conditions, provided they perform
some act of devotion each time in honor of St. John
Berchmans.
DEVOTION TO ST. AGNES.
O SWEETEST LORD JESUS CHRIST, source
of all virtues and lover of virgins, most
powerful conqueror of the evil spirits and strict
uprooter of vice, cast a compassionate glance
upon my weakness. By the intercession of the
most Blessed Virgin Mary, and thy beloved
spouse, the holy virgin and martyr, St. Agnes,
grant me the aid of thy heavenly grace, that I
may hate all things earthly and love what is
heavenly; that I may resist vice, never yield
to temptation, walk steadfastly in the path of
virtue, not seek honor and praise, shun pleas
ures, bewail my pasj: sins, keep aloof from the
occasion of sin, avoid evil company, seek the
society of the good and persevere in virtue;
that, by the assistance of Thy grace, I may
deserve the crown of eternal life, in the com
pany of St. Agnes and all the saints of Thy
kingdom for ever and ever. Amen.
V. Pray for us, St. Agnes.
R. That we may be made worthy of the
promises of Christ.
DEVOTIONS TO SOME PATRONS 293
Let us pray.
ALMIGHTY and Eternal God, who dost
choose the weak to confound the strong;
grant, we beseech Thee ; that we, who celebrate
the worship of blessed Agnes, Thy virgin and
martyr, may experience her intercession with
Thee. Through Christ our Lord.
DEVOTION TO ST. AGATHA.
O BLESSED AGATHA, who didst rather
suffer thyself to be reviled, buffeted and
ignominiously and painfully tortured by rack,
fire and sword, rather than to allow thyself to
be defiled in body or soul ; and didst deserve to
be comforted in thy torments by the sight of
thy Guardian Angel and the Prince of the
Apostles, obtain for us thy merits and interces
sion with thy Spouse, Jesus Christ, joyfully to
suffer all temporal loss rather than to prove
unfaithful to our Lord and Leader, to whom
we have promised everlasting fealty in our
baptism. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.
V. Pray for us, St. Agatha.
R. That we -may be made worthy of the
promises of Christ.
Lei us pray.
O God, who amongst other miracles of
Thy power hast also bestowed the crown
Z84 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
of martyrdom on a frail creature, mercifully
grant, that we who celebrate the memory of
Thy blessed virgin and martyr Agatha, may by
her example attain to Thee. Through Jesus
Christ our Lord. Amen.
DEVOTION TO ST. LUCY.
O GLORIOUS VIRGIN AND MARTYR, ST. LuCY,
we admire that light of lively faith which
it pleased the most merciful God to infuse into
thy beautiful soul; enlightened by which thou
didst despise the vain and trivial things of this
miserable earth, keeping thine eyes fixed upon
that heaven for which alone we have been
created. The riches and pleasures which the
seductive world held out to thee, to the preju
dice of faith and divine grace, never clouded
thy mind nor allured thy heart. Far from con
senting to the offers of thy wicked seducer thou
didst show thyself brave and resolute to en
counter even death rather than to be unfaith
ful to thy heavenly Lord. What a shame for
us, who, no less enlightened by faith and
strengthened by grace, yet know not how to
resist our sensual passions and despise the evil
maxims and repel the flattery of the infernal
enemy ! Ah ! obtain for us from God, O dear
St. Lucy, greater light to seek, not the things
of earth, but the things that are above.
Through Christ our Lord. Amen.
DEVOTIONS TO SOME PATRONS 10$
V. Pray for us, St. Lucy.
R. That we may be made worthy of the
promises of Christ.
Let us pray.
HEAR us, O God of salvation, that, as we
rejoice in the heroic constancy of blessed
Lucy, Thy virgin and martyr, so we may be
filled with the spirit of holy devotion.
Through Christ our Lord. Amen.
DEVOTION TO ST. ROSE OF LIMA.
O BLESSED ROSE, sweet flower blooming
on a barren soil, truly wast thou a rose
among thorns. With patience and meekness
didst thou bear the stings of envious tongues.
To these sufferings thou didst add the volun
tary tortures of fasting, watching, the crown of
thorns and the hair-shirt, to subdue thy flesh
and make thyself like to thy divine Spouse. By
the merits which thou hast thus gained with
thy divine bridegroom, obtain for us the grace
to bear patiently all our afflictions, and so to
mortify our passions that we may be always
acceptable to Jesus Christ our Lord and
Saviour; who liveth and reigneth world with
out end. Amen.
V. Pray for us, St. Rose.
296 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
R. That we may be made worthy of the
promises of Christ
Let us pray.
ALMIGHTY GOD, giver of all good things,
who didst enrich the blessed Rose with the
dew of Thy heavenly grace, and didst make
her grow up among the Indians in the full
bloom of purity and patience; grant us, Thy
servants, so to follow in the odor of her sweet
ness, that we may become the good odor of
Christ; who liveth and reigneth God world
without end. Amen.
HYMNS FOR THE USE OF THE SODALITY.
WHAT MORTAL TONGUE.
What mortal tongue can sing thy praise,
Dear Mother of the Lord?
To angels only it belongs
Thy glory to record.
Who born of man can penetrate
Thy soul's majestic shrine?
Who can thy mighty gifts unfold,
Or rightly them divine?
O Virgin, what sweet force was that,
Which from the Father's breast
Drew forth His co-eternal Son,
To be thy bosom's guest?
'Twas not thy guileless faith alone
That lifted thee so high;
'Twas not thy pure seraphic love,
Or peerless chastity.
But oh ! it was thy lowliness,
Well pleasing to the Lord,
That made thee worthy to become
The Mother of the Word.
Praise to the Father with the Son,
And Holy Ghost through whom
The Word eternal was conceived
Within the Virgin's womb.
297
298 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED YIRGIN MARY
DAILY, DAILY SING TO MARY.
Daily, daily sing to Mary,
Sing, my soul, her praises due,
All her feasts, her actions worship,
With the heart's devotion true.
Lost in wond'ring contemplation,
Be her majesty confessed:
Call her Mother, call her Virgin,
Happy Mother, Virgin blest.
She is mighty to deliver;
Call her, trust her lovingly;
When the tempest rages round thee,
She will calm the troubled sea.
Gifts of heaven she has given,
Noble Lady ! to our race :
She the Queen who decks her subjects
With the light of God's own grace.
Sing, my tongue, the Virgin's trophies,
Who for us her Maker bore;
For the curse of old inflicted,
Peace and blessing to restore.
Sing in songs of praise unending,
Sing the world's majestic Queen:
Weary not, nor faint in telling
All the gifts she gives to men.
HYMNS FOR THE USE OF THE SODALITY «9
HAIL, BRIGHT STAR OF OCEAN.
Hail, bright Star of ocean,
God's own Mother blest;
Ever sinless Virgin,
Gate of heavenly rest.
Taking that sweet Ave
Which from Gabriel came.
Peace confirm within us,
Changing Eva's name.
Break the captive's fetters,
Light on blindness pour,
All our ills expelling,
Ev'ry bliss implore.
Show thyself a Mother,
May the Word divine,
Born for us, thine Infant,
Hear our prayers thro' thine.
Keep our life all spotless,
Make our way secure,
Till we find in Jesus
Joy for evermore.
Thro' the highest heaven,
To that mighty Three,
Father, Son and Spirit,
One same glory be.
300 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
IMMACULATE ! IMMACULATE !
O Mother, I could weep for mirth,
Joy fills my heart so fast;
My soul to-day is heav'n on earth.
Oh, could tftat transport last !
I think of thee and what thou art,
Thy majesty, thy state,
And I keep singing in my heart:
Immaculate ! Immaculate.
The angels answer with their songs,
Bright choirs in gleaming rows;
And saints flock round thy feet in throngs,
And heav'n with bliss o'erflows.
I think, etc.
Oh ! I would rather, Mother dear,
Thou should'st be what thou art,
Than sit where thou dost, oh ! so near
Unto the Sacred Heart.
I think, etc.
Oh! I would forfeit all for thee,
Rather than thou should'st miss
One jewel from thy majesty,
One glory from thy bliss.
I think, etc.
HYMNS FOR THE USE OF THE SODALITY 301
STAR OF JACOB.
Star of Jacob, ever beaming
With a radiance all divine,
'Mid the stars of highest heaven
Glows no purer ray than thine.
All in stoles of snowy whiteness,
Unto thee the angels sing;
Unto thee virgin choirs,
Mother of th' eternal King!
Joyful in thy path they scatter
Roses white and lilies fair;
Yet with thy celestial beauty
Rose nor lily may compare.
Oh ! that this low earth of ours
Answ'ring to th' angelic strain,
With thy praises might re-echo,
Till the heavens replied again.
808 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
O MARY, BLEST.
O Mary, blest,
A mother be to me,
For who in heaven or earth can find
A mother half so good and kind,
So fair, so sweet as thee,
So fair, so sweet as thee.
Think, Mother blest,
That thine own Son divine,
When nailed upon His Cross on high,
For me He was about to die,
Made thee, His Mother mine,
Made thee, His Mother mine.
O thou who art
In heav'n at His right hand,
Obtain that I again may see
My parents dear with Him and thee,
In that bright happy land,
In that bright happy
HYMNS FOR THE USE OF THE SODALITY 80S
MOTHER OF GOD.
Mother of God, my life, my hope, my treasure,
Look on thy child, and hear me from above;
Mother of God, what joy, what untold pleasure,
Thrills thro' the soul that thinks on all thy
love.
Mother of Jesus, Mother most fair,
Show to thy children a mother's love and
care,
Show to thy children a mother's lov.e and care.
Mother of God ! my childhood days caressing,
Fondly thy hands my steps have homeward
led,
Mother of God, each moment counts a bless
ing,
Which o'er my soul thy watchful love has
shed.
Mother of Jesus, etc.
Mother of God, if e'er my heart forgetting
Thy love unceasing, that has guarded me,
Mother of God, oh then, may deep regretting
Recall my soul to love of God and thee.
Mother of Tesus, etc.
504 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
HAIL, QUEEN OF HEAVEN.
Hail, Queen of heav'n, the Ocean's Star,
Guide of the wand'rer here below,
Toss'd on life's surge we claim thy care;
Save us from peril and from woe.
Mother of Christ, Star of the Sea,
Pray for the wand'rer, pray for me.
O gentle, chaste and spotless Maid,
We sinners make our prayers through thee,
Remind thy Son that He has paid
The price of our iniquity.
Virgin most pure, Star of the Sea,
Pray for the sinner, pray for me.
Sojourners in this vale of tears,
To thee, blest Advocate, we cry;
Pity our sorrows, calm our fears,
And soothe with hope our misery.
Refuge in grief, Star of the Sea,
Pray for the mourner, pray for me.
And while to Him, who reigns above
In Godhead One, in Person Three,
The source of life, of grace, of love,
Homage we pay on bended knee :
Do thou, bright Queen, Star of the Sea,
Pray for thy children, pray for me.
HYMNS FOR THE USE OF THE SODALITY 306
MEMORARE.
O Mother blest, whom God bestows
On sinners and on just,
What joy, what hope thou givest those
Who in thy mercy trust.
Most holy Mary, at thy feet
Thy children bend a suppliant knee
Dear Mother of my God,
Do thou remember me.
Rememiber, Mary, Virgin fair,
It never yet was told
That he who humbly sought thy care,
Departed unconsoled.
Most holy Mary, etc.
O Mother blest, for me obtain,
Ungrateful though I be,
To love that God who first could deign
To show such love to me.
Most holy Mary, etc.
306 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
CONSECRATION TO OUR LADY.
Daughter of God the Father,
0 Virgin pure and mild;
I venerate and love thee,
Accept me for thy child;
My soul and all its powers
1 consecrate to thee;
Be pleased, most holy Mother,
From sin to keep me free,
Be pleased, most holy Mother,
To pray our Lord for me.
Mother of our Redeemer,
0 Virgin pure and mild ;
I venerate and love thee,
Accept me for thy child ;
My body and its senses
1 consecrate to thee;
Be pleased, etc.
Spouse of the Holy Spirit,
0 Virgin, pure and mild ;
I venerate and love thee,
Accept me for thy child,
My heart and its affections
1 consecrate to thee;
Be pleased, etc.
HYMNS FOR THE USE OF THE SODALITY 307
LOOK DOWN, 0 MOTHER MARY !
Look down, O Mother Mary,
From thy bright throne above;
Cast down upon thy children
One only glance of love.
And if a heart so tender
With pity flows not o'er,
Then turn away, O Mother,
And look on us no more.
See how ingrate and guilty
We stand before thy Son;
His loving Heart reproaches
The evil we have done.
But if thou wilt appease Him,
Speak for us but one word;
Thou only canst obtain us
The pardon of the Lord.
O Mary, dearest Mother,
If thou wouldst have us live,
Say that we are thy children,
And then He will forgive.
Our sins make us unworthy
That title still to bear,
But thou art still our Mother,
Then show a Mother's care.
308 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
SALVE REGINA.
Hail ! holy Queen enthron'd above,
O Maria !
Hail ! Mother of mercy and of love,
O Maria!
Triumph all, ye Cherubim,
Sing with us, ye Seraphim,
Heaven and earth resound the hymn:
Salve, salve, salve Regina !
Our life, our sweetness here below,
O Maria!
Our hope in sorrow and in woe,
O Maria !
Triumph, etc.
To thee, we cry, poor sons of Eve,
O Maria!
To thee we sigh, we mourn, we grieve,
O Maria!
Triumph, etc.
This earth is but a vale of tears,
O Maria!
A place of banishment, of fears,
O Maria!
Triumph, etc.
HYMNS FOR THE USE OF THE SODALITY 809
Turn, then most gracious Advocate,
O Maria!
Tow'rds us thine eyes compassionate,
O Maria!
Triumph, etc.
When this our exile is complete,
O Maria!
Show us thy womb-born Jesus sweet,
O Maria!
Triumph, etc.
O clement, gracious, Mother sweet,
O Maria!
O Virgin Mary, we entreat,
O Maria!
Triumph, etc.
S10 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
O MARY, MY MOTHER.
O Mary, my Mother, most lovely, most mild,
Look down upon me, a poor, weak, lowly
child;
From the land of my exile I call upon thee ;
Then Mary, my Mother, look kindly on me,
Then Mary, my Mother, look kindly on me.
If thou dost forsake me, ah ! where shall I go,
My comfort and refuge in this valley of woe?
When the world and its dangers with terror I
see,
Sweet hopes come to cheer me in thinking of
thee;
Sweet hopes come to cheer me in thinking of
thee.
In sorrow, in darkness, be still at my side,
My light and my refuge, my helper and guide ;
Though snares should surround me, yet why
should I fear?
I know I am weak, but my Mother is near ;
I know I am weak, but my Mother is near.
HYMNS FOR THE USE OF THE SODALITY 311
0 SANCTISSIMA.
O sanctissima,
O piissima,
Dulcis Virgo Maria !
Mater amata,
Intemerata,
Ora, ora pro nobis.
Tu solatium,
Et refugium,
Virgo Mater Maria !
Quidquid optamus,
Per te speramus;
Ora, ora pro nobis.
Ecce debiles,
Perquam flebiles,
Salva nos, O Maria !
Tolle languores,
Sana dolores,
Ora, ora pro nobis.
Virgo respice,
Mater aspice,
Audi nos, O Maria!
Tu medicinam
Portas divinam
Ora, ora pro nobis.
312 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
HAIL ! VIRGIN, DEAREST MARY.
Hail ! Virgin, dearest Mary,
Our lovely Queen of May,
All spotless, blessed Lady,
Accept our gladsome lay.
Thy children humbly bending
Around thy throne so fair,
With heart and voice ascending,
Sweet Mary, hear our prayer.
Hail ! Mary, sun-clad Virgin,
Our smiling Queen of May,
All sinless, star-crowned Lady,
Accept our tuneful lay.
We've gathered fresh, bright flowers
To wreathe our fair Queen's brow,
From gay and verdant bowers,
We haste to crown thee now.
Lo! earth in blossoms springing,
In beauteous form and hue;
All nature gladly bringing
Her sweetest gifts — thy due;
The mignonette, the lilac,
The sweet forget-me-not.
The eglantine and myrtle,
The ivy from the grot;
HYMNS FOR THE USE OF THE SODALITY 313
The rose and lily wreathing,
The humble violet fair;
To thee their perfumes breathing,
With sweetness scent the air.
So now, our Blessed Mother,
Smile on our festal day,
Accept our Spring-tide offerings,
And be our Queen of May.
ON THIS DAY.
On this day, O beautiful Mother!
On this day we give thee our love;
Near thee, Madonna, fondly we hover,
Trusting thy gentle care to prove.
On this day we ask to share,
Dearest Mother, thy sweet care;
Aid us, ere our feet astray
Wander from thy guiding way. — CHORUS.
Rose of Sharon, lovely flower,
Heavenly bud of Eden's 'bower,
Cherished Lily of the Vale,
Virgin Mother, thee we hail.
314 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
CROWNING HYMN.
Bring flowers of the rarest, bring flowers of
the fairest,
From garden and woodland, and hillside and
vale;
Our full hearts are swelling, our glad voices
telling
The praise of the loveliest Rose of the dale.
O Mary, we crown thee with roses to-day,
Queen of the Angels, Queen of the May !
Our voices ascending, in harmony blending,
Oh, thus may our hearts turn, dear Mother,
to thee;
Oh, thus shall we prove thee how truly we
love thee,
How dark without Mary life's journey
would be
O Virgin most tender, our homage we render,
Thy love and protection, sweet Mother, to
win;
In danger defend us, in sorrow befriend us,
And shield our fond hearts from contagion
of sin.
HYMNS FOR THE USE OF THE SODALITY 315
Of mothers the dearest, oh, wilt thou be nearest,
When life with temptations is darkly replete ?
Forsake us, oh, never ! our hearts be they ever
As pure as the lilies we lay at thy feet.
GLORIOUS MOTHER.
Glorious Mother ! from high heaven
Down upon thy children gaze,
Gathered in thy own loved season,
Thee to bless and thee to praise.
CHO. — See, sweet Mary, on thy altars
Bloom the fairest buds of May ;
Oh ! may we, earth's sons and daughters,
Grow, by grace, as pure as they.
Many call upon thee, Mother !
Some in manhood, strong in youth ;
Some in age, in tender childhood —
All in loving faith and truth. — CHO.
816 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
ADESTE FIDELES.
With hearts truly grateful,
Come, all ye faithful,
To Jesus, to Jesus in Bethlehem;
See Christ, your Saviour,
Heaven's greatest favor.
CHO. — Let's hasten to adore Him,
Let's hasten to adore Him,
Let's hasten to adore Him,
Our God and King.
God to God equal,
Light of light eternal;
Carried in Virgin's ever spotless womb;
He all preceded,
Begotten, not created. — CHO.
Angels now praise Him,
Loud their voices raising
The heavenly mansions with joy now ring,
Praise, honor, glory,
To Him, who is Most Holy. — CHO.
HYMNS FOR THE USE OF THE SODALITY 317
TO JESUS HEART.
To Jesus' heart all burning
With fervent love for men,
My heart with fondest yearning
Shall raise the joyful stra'in.
CHO. — While ages course along,
Blest be, with loudest song,
The Sacred Heart of Jesus !
By every heart and tongue,
The Sacred Heart of Jesus !
By every heart and tongue.
O Heart, for me on fire
With love no man can speak,
My yet untold desire
God gives me for thy sake.
When life away is flying,
And earth's false glare is done
Still, Sacred Heart, in dying
I'll say I'm all Thine own.
318 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
CORPUS CHRISTI.
Jesus ! my Lord, my God, my all !
How can I love Thee as I ought?
And how revere this wondrous gift,
So far surpassing hope or thought?
Sweet Sacrament ! we Thee adore !
Oh, make us love Thee more and more !
Had I but Mary's sinless heart,
To love Thee with, my dearest King!
Oh, with what bursts of fervent praise
Thy goodness, Jesus, would I sing!
Sweet Sacrament ! we Thee adore !
Oh, make us love Thee more and more !
Oh, see ! within a creature's hand
The vast Creator deigns to be,
Reposing, infant-like, as though
On Joseph's arm, or Mary's knee.
Sweet Sacrament ! we Thee adore !
Oh, make us love Thee more and more !
Thy Body, Soul, and Godhead, all !
Oh, mystery of love divine !
I cannot compass all I have,
For all Thou hast and art are mine !
Sweet Sacrament ! we Thee adore !
Oh, make us love Thee more and more !
HYMNS FOR THE USE OF THE SODALITY 319
COMMUNION HYMNS.
O Lord, 1 am not worthy
That Thou should come to me,
But speak the words of comfort,
My spirit healed shall be.
And humbly I'll receive Thee,
The bridegroom of my soul,
No more by sin to grieve Thee,
Or fly Thy sweet control.
Happy morning, sweet the hour,
That on which Thou cam'st to me,
Beauteous, too, that glorious power,
Which allures my soul to Thee.
Thou for whom I've long been sighing,
Jesus now, at length Thou'rt mine,
In Thy sweet embraces lying,
Press, oh, press my heart to Thine.
Let not death nor life asunder
Rend the bond that makes me Thine;
Ah, how blissful is the wonder
That uplifts my heart to Thine,
320 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
Come, my heart's delight, my treasure,
Come, my Jesus, make me Thine;
Reign, it is Thy Father's pleasure,
Rule within this heart of mine !
HOLY COMMUNION.
Jesus, Jesus, come to me,
Oh, how much I long for Thee !
Come Thou, of all friends the best,
Take possession of my breast.
Comfort my poor soul distressed,
Come and dwell within my breast;
Oh, how oft I sigh for Thee,
Jesus, Jesus, come to me.
Empty is all worldly joy,
Ever mixed with some alloy;
Give me my true Sovereign Good,
Jesus, Thy own flesh and blood.
On the Cross three hours for me,
Thou didst hang in agony;
I my heart to Thee resign ;
Oh, what rapture to be Thiire !
HYMNS FOR THE USE OF THE SODALITY 321
ST. ALOYSIUS.
Why are those lilies in thy hand,
O saintly youth?
Could they have bloomed on earthly land,
So like are they to angels' wand?
In very sooth,
'Twas in an earthly heart they grew,
Which stain or blemish never knew.
What means the cruel, knotted thong
That hangs beside?
To that fair, crimson-vested throng
Who died for Christ, dost thou belong?
The passions died,
Beneath its sharp and chast'ning pain,
That purity alone might reign.
Why lies that glitt'ring royal crown
Upon the earth?
Disdainfully thou flingest down
All worldly glory and renown,
And pride of birth.
Who could not worldly loss endure,
If loving made the heart more pure?
322 SODALITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
TE DEUM.
Holy 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,
Lo ! the apostolic train
Join, Thy sacred name to hallow ;
Prophets swell the loud refrain,
And the white robed martyrs follow;
And from morn to set of sun
Through the Church the song goes on.
Holy Father, Holy Son,
Holy Spirit, Thee we name Thee,
Though in essence only One.
Undivided God we claim Thee,
And adoring bend the knee,
While we own the mystery.
INDEX.
Act of Consecration to our Blessed Lady 43
Acts of Faith, Hope, Love, Contrition 221
Agatha, Devotion to St 293
Aggregation of Sodality 11
Agnes, Devotion to St 292
Aloysius, Devotion to St 286
Litany of 287
Six Sundays of 286
Angels, Devotion to 278
Litany of..' 278
Prayer to 279
Angelus 215
Anima Christi 260
Anne, Devotion to St 282
Antiphons of the B. V. M 128
Aspirations after Communion 257
Indulgenced 216
Ave Maris Stella 114
Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament 51
Benedictus 98
Blessed Sacrament, Visit to 247
Blessing of Medals of Sodality 39
Ceremony of Reception 37
Synopsis of 36
Commemoration of the Saints 102
Communion, Prayers before 255
Prayers after 257
Confession, Prayers for 250
Prayers after 252
Confiteor 224
Consecration, Act of 4.3
Contrition, Act of 222
Divine Praises, The 53
323
324 INDEX
Dead, Office of the 156
Death, Prayer for a Happy 281
Devotion to Patron Saints of the Sodality 278
Examination of Conscience, Daily 217
For Confession 251
Exercises, Spiritual, to be made by Sodalists 21
Order of, at Meetings 44
Francis Xavier, Devotion to St 284
Novena of Grace in honor of . . 284
Hail, Holy Queen 48
Heart of Jesus, Morning Offering to 211
Hymns 297
Ignatius, Devotion to St •. 283
Prayer of St 249
Indulgence, Plenary after Communion 261
Indulgences of the Sodality 9
Jesus, Litany of the Holy Name of 262
John Berchmans', Devotion to St 291
Joseph, Devotions to St 280
Litany of the Blessed Virgin 45
Of the Holy Name of Jesus 262
Of the Guardian Angel 278
Of St. Aloysius 287
Lucy, Devotion to St 294
Magnificat 116
Mass, Ordinary of the 223
Prayer after 245
Memorare 49
Morning Prayers 211
Night Prayers 217
Offering, the Morning 211
Of St. Ignatius 249
Office, Little of the Blessed Virgin 58
Little of the Immaculate Conception 138
Of the Dead 156
Order of Exercises at Regular Meetings 44
O Salutaris 51
INDEX 325
Prayer Before and After Office 59
Prayer for a Happy Death 281, 290
Of St. Aloysius 50
The Choice of a State of Life 289
For a Sick Member 53
Of St. Thomas Aquinas 259
Prayers for Regular and Occasional Meetings 45
Morning 211
Night 217
To the Guardian Angel 279
For the Grace of Purity 214, 289
For Deceased Bishop or Priest 171
Reception into Sodality, Synopsis of Ceremonial 36
Ceremony of Solemn 37
Regina Coeli 132
Rosary, Devotion of the Holy 276
The Mysteries of the 277
Rose of Lima, Devotion to St 295
Rules of the Sodality 18
Common 18
Of Officers 31
For Admission of Members 24
Sacrament, Visit to the Blessed 247
Sacred Heart, Offering to 211
Saints, Commemoration of the 102
Salve Regina 48
Sodality, Origin and History of 1
Object of 3
Practices of 3
Benefits of 8
Indulgences of 9
Erection and Aggregation of 11
Direction of 12
Useful Hints for Direction of 14
Rules of 18
Ceremony of Reception into 37
Offices Customary to be Recited in 55
326 INDEX
Patron Saints of, Devotion to 278
Prayer for 50
Stanislas, Devotion to St 289
Stations of the Cross 265
Synopsis of the Ceremonial of Reception 36
Tantum Ergo 52
Te Deum 78
Veni, Creator 37
Veni, Sancte Spiritus 45
Visit to the Blessed Sacrament , . 247
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