Invitatorium: A Liturgy of the Hours Player

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Ordinary Time

Saint Peter Claver, Priest

Wednesday · Memorial · Psalter Week 3

The Hours

Invitatorium

Now

Invitatory · 1:31

0:00 1:31

Lord, open my lips.

And my mouth will proclaim your praise.

Ant. Come, let us worship Christ, chief shepherd of the flock.

Come, let us sing to the Lord

and shout with joy to the Rock who saves us.

Let us approach him with praise and thanksgiving

and sing joyful songs to the Lord.

The Lord is God, the mighty God,

the great king over all the gods.

He holds in his hands the depths of the earth

and the highest mountains as well.

He made the sea; it belongs to him,

the dry land, too, for it was formed by his hands.

Come, then, let us bow down and worship,

bending the knee before the Lord, our maker.

For he is our God and we are his people,

the flock he shepherds.

Today, listen to the voice of the Lord:

Do not grow stubborn, as your fathers did

in the wilderness,

when at Meriba and Massah

they challenged me and provoked me,

Although they had seen all of my works.

Forty years I endured that generation.

I said, “They are a people whose hearts go astray

and they do not know my ways.”

So I swore in my anger,

“They shall not enter into my rest.”

Glory to the Father, and to the Son,

and to the Holy Spirit:

as it was in the beginning, is now,

and will be for ever. Amen.

Ant. Come, let us worship Christ, chief shepherd of the flock.

Matins

Now

Office of Readings · 13:17

0:00 13:17

God, come to my assistance.

Lord, make haste to help me.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit:

as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever. Amen. Alleluia.

HYMN

Christ, Prince of Pastors, Head and sov’reign ruler,

your joyful people long with all devotion

to laud this Pastor, off’ring him due praises

with hymns and anthems.

Chosen to serve you, sharing in your priesthood,

you gave this Pastor to your holy people,

that he might guide them as a faithful leader

and a good father.

Shepherd and pattern for the flock he tended,

light bringing comfort to the blind and wretched,

provident father, in all things becoming

all things to others.

Christ, Lord in heaven, crowning saints for merit,

grant us to follow in this Pastor’s footsteps

with lives of goodness and attain hereafter

like crowns of glory.

Let equal praises honor God the Father

and you our Savior, loving King eternal;

through all creation, let the Spirit’s glory

echo for ever. Amen.

Psalm 89:2-38

Ant. Wherever you are, Lord, there is mercy, there is truth.

I will sing for ever of your love, O Lord;

through all ages my mouth will proclaim your truth.

Of this I am sure, that your love lasts for ever,

that your truth is firmly established as the heavens.

“With my chosen one, I have made a covenant;

I have sworn to David my servant:

I will establish your dynasty for ever

and set up your throne through all ages.”

The heavens proclaim your wonders, O Lord;

the assembly of your holy ones proclaims your truth.

For who in the skies can compare with the Lord

or who is like the Lord among the sons of God?

A God to be feared in the council of the holy ones,

great and dreadful to all around him.

O Lord God of hosts, who is your equal?

You are mighty, O Lord, and truth is your garment.

It is you who rule the sea in its pride;

it is you who still the surging of its waves.

You crushed the monster Rahab and killed it,

scattering your foes with your mighty arm.

The heavens are yours, the world is yours.

It is you who founded the earth and all it holds;

it is you who created the North and the South.

Tabor and Hermon shout for joy at your name.

Yours is a mighty arm, O Lord;

your hand is strong, your right hand ready.

Justice and right are the pillars of your throne,

love and truth walk in your presence.

Happy the people who acclaim such a king,

who walk, O Lord, in the light of your face,

who find their joy every day in your name,

who make your justice the source of their bliss.

For you, O Lord, are the glory of their strength;

by your favor it is that our might is exalted:

for our ruler is in the keeping of the Lord;

our king in the keeping of the Holy One of Israel.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son,

and to the Holy Spirit:

as it was in the beginning, is now,

and will be for ever. Amen.

Ant. Wherever you are, Lord, there is mercy, there is truth.

Ant. When the Son of God came into this world, he was born of David’s line.

Of old you spoke in a vision.

To your friends the prophets you said:

“I have set the crown on a warrior,

I have exalted one chosen from the people.

I have found David my servant

and with my holy oil anointed him.

My hand shall always be with him

and my arm shall make him strong.

The enemy shall never outwit him

nor the evil man oppress him.

I will beat down his foes before him

and smite those who hate him.

My truth and my love shall be with him;

by my name his might shall be exalted.

I will stretch out his hand to the Sea

and his right hand as far as the River.

He will say to me: ‘You are my father,

my God, the rock who saves me.’

And I will make him my first-born,

the highest of the kings of the earth.

I will keep my love for him always;

for him my covenant shall last.

I will establish his dynasty for ever,

make his throne endure as the heavens.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son,

and to the Holy Spirit:

as it was in the beginning, is now,

and will be for ever. Amen.

Ant. When the Son of God came into this world, he was born of David’s line.

Ant. Once for all I swore to my servant David: his dynasty shall never fail.

“If his sons forsake my law

and refuse to walk as I decree

and if ever they violate my statutes,

refusing to keep my commands;

then I will punish their offenses with the rod,

then I will scourge them on account of their guilt.

But I will never take back my love:

my truth will never fail.

I will never violate my covenant

nor go back on the word I have spoken.

Once for all, I have sworn by my holiness.

‘I will never lie to David.

His dynasty shall last for ever.

In my sight his throne is like the sun;

like the moon, it shall endure for ever,

a faithful witness in the skies.’”

Glory to the Father, and to the Son,

and to the Holy Spirit:

as it was in the beginning, is now,

and will be for ever. Amen.

Ant. Once for all I swore to my servant David: his dynasty shall never fail.

When we listen to your word, our minds are filled with light.

It is the lowly heart that understands.

From the book of the prophet Habakkuk

Wealth, too, is treacherous:

the proud, unstable man—

He who opens wide his throat like the nether world,

and is insatiable as death,

Who gathers to himself all the nations,

and rallies to himself all the peoples—

Shall not all these take up a taunt against him,

satire and epigrams about him, to say:

Woe to him who stores up what is not his:

how long can it last!

he loads himself down with debts.

Shall not your creditors rise suddenly?

Shall not they who make you tremble awake?

You shall become their spoil!

Because you despoiled many peoples

all the rest of the nations shall despoil you;

Because of men’s blood shed,

and violence done to the land,

to the city and to all who dwell in it.

Woe to him who pursues evil gain for his household,

setting his nest on high

to escape the reach of misfortune!

You have devised shame for your household,

cutting off many peoples, forfeiting your own life:

For the stone in the wall shall cry out,

and the beam in the woodwork shall answer it!

Woe to him who builds a city by bloodshed,

and establishes a town by wickedness!

Is not this from the Lord of hosts:

peoples toil for the flames,

and nations grow weary for nought!

But the earth shall be filled

with the knowledge of the Lord’s glory

as water covers the sea.

Woe to you who give your neighbors

a flood of your wrath to drink,

and make them drunk, till their nakedness is seen!

You are filled with shame instead of glory;

drink, you too, and stagger!

On you shall revert the cup from the Lord’s right hand,

and utter shame on your glory.

For the violence done to Lebanon shall cover you,

and the destruction of the beasts shall terrify you;

Because of men’s blood shed,

and violence done to the land,

to the city and to all who dwell in it.

Woe to him who says to wood, “Awake!”

to dumb stone, “Arise!”

Can such a thing give oracles?

See, it is overlaid with gold and silver,

but there is no life breath in it.

Of what avail is the carved image,

that its maker should carve it?

Or the molten image and lying oracle,

that its very maker should trust in it,

and make dumb idols?

But the Lord is in his holy temple;

silence before him, all the earth!

Romans 2:12; 3:23; 11:32

Sinners who were not under the law

will also perish outside of the law;

sinners subject to the law

will be judged in accordance with it.

All have sinned and are deprived of God’s glory.

God has imprisoned all in their disobedience,

that he might show mercy to all.

All have sinned and are deprived of God’s glory.

From a letter by Saint Peter Claver, priest

Yesterday, May 30, 1627, on the feast of the Most Holy Trinity, numerous blacks, brought from the rivers of Africa, disembarked from a large ship. Carrying two baskets of oranges, lemons, sweet biscuits, and I know not what else, we hurried toward them. When we approached their quarters, we thought we were entering another Guinea. We had to force our way through the crowd until we reached the sick. Large numbers of the sick were lying on the wet ground or rather in puddles of mud. To prevent excessive dampness, someone had thought of building up a mound with a mixture of tiles and broken pieces of bricks. This, then, was their couch, a very uncomfortable one not only for that reason, but especially because they were naked, without any clothing to protect them.

We laid aside our cloaks, therefore, and brought from a warehouse whatever was handy to build a platform. In that way we covered a space to which we at last transferred the sick, by forcing a passage through bands of slaves. Then we divided the sick into two groups: one group my companion approached with an interpreter, while I addressed the other group. There were two blacks, nearer death than life, already cold, whose pulse could scarcely be detected. With the help of a tile we pulled some live coals together and placed them in the middle near the dying men. Into this fire we tossed aromatics. Of these we had two wallets full, and we used them all up on this occasion. Then, using our own cloaks, for they had nothing of this sort, and to ask the owners for others would have been a waste of words, we provided for them a smoke treatment, by which they seemed to recover their warmth and the breath of life. The joy in their eyes as they looked at us was something to see.

This was how we spoke to them, not with words but with our hands and our actions. And in fact, convinced as they were that they had been brought here to be eaten, any other language would have proved utterly useless. Then we sat, or rather knelt, beside them and bathed their faces and bodies with wine. We made every effort to encourage them with friendly gestures and displayed in their presence the emotions which somehow naturally tend to hearten the sick.

After this we began an elementary instruction about baptism, that is, the wonderful effects of the sacrament on body and soul. When by their answers to our questions they showed they had sufficiently understood this, we went on to a more extensive instruction, namely, about the one God, who rewards and punishes each one according to his merit, and the rest. We asked them to make an act of contrition and to manifest their detestation of their sins. Finally, when they appeared sufficiently prepared, we declared to them the mysteries of the Trinity, the Incarnation and the Passion. Showing them Christ fastened to the cross, as he is depicted on the baptismal font on which streams of blood flow down from his wounds, we led them in reciting an act of contrition in their own language.

Matthew 25:35, 40

I was hungry and you gave me food;

I was thirsty and you gave me drink;

I was homeless and you took me in.

Now I tell you this:

When you did these things for the most neglected of my brothers,

you did them for me.

This is what I command:

Love one another as I have loved you.

Now I tell you this:

When you did these things for the most neglected of my brothers,

you did them for me.

CONCLUDING PRAYER

Let us pray.

O God, who made Saint Peter Claver a slave of slaves

and strengthened him with wonderful charity and patience

as he came to their help,

grant, through his intercession,

that, seeking the things of Jesus Christ,

we may love our neighbor in deeds and in truth.

Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,

who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,

God, for ever and ever.

Amen.

ACCLAMATION

Let us praise the Lord.

And give him thanks.

Lauds

Now

Morning Prayer · 9:34

0:00 9:34

God, come to my assistance.

Lord, make haste to help me.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit:

as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever. Amen. Alleluia.

HYMN

Faithful confessor, father wise and prudent,

this glorious Pastor, filled with joy forever,

reigns in the heavens, as we praise and honor

his worthy triumph.

This Priest and Pastor, glorious and noble,

taught by example holiness and virtue,

as he strove always, pure of heart and blameless,

to find God’s favor.

Now let us ask him, earnestly beseeching

that we be washed clean of our guilt and failings;

by his petitions, may he lead us onward

to heights of heaven.

To God be glory; who alone is mighty,

praise in the highest, honor through all ages,

who rules and governs with his laws and wisdom

all of creation. Amen.

Psalm 86

Ant. Give joy to your servant, Lord; to you I lift up my heart.

Turn your ear, O Lord, and give answer

for I am poor and needy.

Preserve my life, for I am faithful:

save the servant who trusts in you.

You are my God, have mercy on me, Lord,

for I cry to you all the day long.

Give joy to your servant, O Lord,

for to you I lift up my soul.

O Lord, you are good and forgiving,

full of love to all who call.

Give heed, O Lord, to my prayer

and attend to the sound of my voice.

In the day of distress I will call

and surely you will reply.

Among the gods there is none like you, O Lord;

nor work to compare with yours.

All the nations shall come to adore you

and glorify your name, O Lord:

for you are great and do marvelous deeds,

you who alone are God.

Show me, Lord, your way

so that I may walk in your truth.

Guide my heart to fear your name.

I will praise you, Lord my God, with all my heart

and glorify your name for ever;

for your love to me has been great:

you have saved me from the depths of the grave.

The proud have risen against me;

ruthless men seek my life:

to you they pay no heed.

But you, God of mercy and compassion,

slow to anger, O Lord,

abounding in love and truth,

turn and take pity on me.

O give your strength to your servant

and save your handmaid’s son.

Show me a sign of your favor

that my foes may see to their shame

that you console me and give me your help.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son,

and to the Holy Spirit:

as it was in the beginning, is now,

and will be for ever. Amen.

Ant. Give joy to your servant, Lord; to you I lift up my heart.

Isaiah 33:13-16

Ant. Blessed is the upright man, who speaks the truth.

Hear, you who are far off,

what I have done;

you who are near,

acknowledge my might.

On Zion sinners are in dread,

trembling grips the impious;

“Who of us can live with the consuming fire?

Who of us can live with the everlasting flames?”

He who practices virtue and speaks honestly,

who spurns what is gained by oppression,

brushing his hands

free of contact with a bribe,

stopping his ears lest he hear of bloodshed,

closing his eyes lest he look on evil.

He shall dwell on the heights,

his stronghold shall be the rocky fastness,

his food and drink

in steady supply.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son,

and to the Holy Spirit:

as it was in the beginning, is now,

and will be for ever. Amen.

Ant. Blessed is the upright man, who speaks the truth.

Psalm 98

Ant. Let us celebrate with joy in the presence of our Lord and King.

Sing a new song to the Lord

for he has worked wonders.

His right hand and his holy arm

have brought salvation.

The Lord has made known his salvation;

has shown his justice to the nations.

He has remembered his truth and love

for the house of Israel.

All the ends of the earth have seen

the salvation of our God.

Shout to the Lord, all the earth,

ring out your joy.

Sing psalms to the Lord with the harp

with the sound of music.

With trumpets and the sound of the horn

acclaim the King, the Lord.

Let the sea and all within it thunder;

the world, and all its peoples.

Let the rivers clap their hands

and the hills ring out their joy.

Rejoice at the presence of the Lord,

for he comes to rule the earth.

He will rule the world with justice

and the peoples with fairness.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son,

and to the Holy Spirit:

as it was in the beginning, is now,

and will be for ever. Amen.

Ant. Let us celebrate with joy in the presence of our Lord and King.

Hebrews 13:7-9

Remember your leaders who spoke the word of God to you; consider how their lives ended, and imitate their faith. Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever. Do not be carried away by all kinds of strange teaching.

RESPONSORY

On your walls, Jerusalem, I have set my watchmen to guard you.

Day or night, they will not cease to proclaim the name of the Lord.

I have set my watchmen to guard you.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.

On your walls, Jerusalem, I have set my watchmen to guard you.

Canticle of Zechariah

Ant. What you say of me does not come from yourselves; it is the Spirit of my Father speaking in you.

Blessed be the Lord, the God of Israel;

he has come to his people and set them free.

He has raised up for us a mighty savior,

born of the house of his servant David.

Through his holy prophets he promised of old

that he would save us from our enemies,

from the hands of all who hate us.

He promised to show mercy to our fathers

and to remember his holy covenant.

This was the oath he swore to our father Abraham:

to set us free from the hands of our enemies,

free to worship him without fear,

holy and righteous in his sight

all the days of our life.

You, my child, shall be called the prophet of the Most High;

for you will go before the Lord to prepare his way,

to give his people knowledge of salvation

by the forgiveness of their sins.

In the tender compassion of our God

the dawn from on high shall break upon us,

to shine on those who dwell in darkness and the shadow of death,

and to guide our feet into the way of peace.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son,

and to the Holy Spirit:

as it was in the beginning, is now,

and will be forever. Amen.

Ant. What you say of me does not come from yourselves; it is the Spirit of my Father speaking in you.

INTERCESSIONS

Christ is the Good Shepherd who laid down his life for his sheep. Let us praise and thank him as we pray:

Nourish your people, Lord.

Christ, you decided to show your merciful love through your holy shepherds,

let your mercy always reach us through them.

Nourish your people, Lord.

Through your vicars you continue to perform the ministry of shepherd of souls,

direct us always through our leaders.

Nourish your people, Lord.

Through your holy ones, the leaders of your people, you served as physician of our bodies and our spirits,

continue to fulfill your ministry of life and holiness in us.

Nourish your people, Lord.

You taught your flock through the prudence and love of your saints,

grant us continual growth in holiness under the direction of our pastors.

Nourish your people, Lord.

THE LORD’S PRAYER

Gathering our prayer and praises into one, let us offer the prayer Christ himself taught us:

Our Father, who art in heaven,

hallowed be thy name;

thy kingdom come;

thy will be done on earth

as it is in heaven.

Give us this day our daily bread;

and forgive us our trespasses

as we forgive those who trespass against us;

and lead us not into temptation,

but deliver us from evil.

CONCLUDING PRAYER

O God, who made Saint Peter Claver a slave of slaves

and strengthened him with wonderful charity and patience

as he came to their help,

grant, through his intercession,

that, seeking the things of Jesus Christ,

we may love our neighbor in deeds and in truth.

Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,

who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,

God, for ever and ever.

Amen.

DISMISSAL

May the Lord bless us, protect us from all evil and bring us to everlasting life. Amen.

Terce

Now

Midmorning Prayer · 9 AM · 5:13

0:00 5:13

INTRODUCTION

God, come to my assistance.

Lord, make haste to help me.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit:

as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever. Amen. Alleluia.

HYMN

Now, Holy Spirit, come, descend,

one with the Father and the Son;

come swiftly in and fill our hearts

with your full flood of holiness.

In mind and mouth, with heart and tongue,

with strength and sense, may praise resound,

May charity with ardor blaze

and kindle others with its flame.

Now through your presence may we know

and love the Father and the Son,

and you, the Spirit of them both,

may we profess throughout all time. Amen.

Psalm 119:105-112

Ant. Whoever follows me does not walk in the dark; he will have the light of life.

Your word is a lamp for my steps

and a light for my path.

I have sworn and have made up my mind

to obey your decrees.

Lord, I am deeply afflicted:

by your word give me life.

Accept, Lord, the homage of my lips

and teach me your decrees.

Though I carry my life in my hands,

I remember your law.

Though the wicked try to ensnare me,

I do not stray from your precepts.

Your will is my heritage for ever,

the joy of my heart.

I set myself to carry out your statutes

in fullness, for ever.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son,

and to the Holy Spirit:

as it was in the beginning, is now,

and will be for ever. Amen.

Ant. Whoever follows me does not walk in the dark; he will have the light of life.

Psalm 70

Ant. Help me, O God, for I am poor and needy.

O God, make haste to my rescue,

Lord, come to my aid!

Let there be shame and confusion

on those who seek my life.

O let them turn back in confusion,

who delight in my harm,

let them retreat, covered with shame,

who jeer at my lot.

Let there be rejoicing and gladness

for all who seek you.

Let them say for ever: “God is great,”

who love your saving help.

As for me, wretched and poor,

come to me, O God.

You are my rescuer, my help,

O Lord, do not delay.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son,

and to the Holy Spirit:

as it was in the beginning, is now,

and will be for ever. Amen.

Ant. Help me, O God, for I am poor and needy.

Psalm 75

Ant. God, who is justice and truth, does not judge by appearances.

We give thanks to you, O God,

we give thanks and call upon your name.

We recount your wonderful deeds.

“When I reach the appointed time,

then I will judge with justice.

Though the earth and all who dwell in it may rock,

it is I who uphold its pillars.

To the boastful I say: ‘Do not boast,’

to the wicked: ‘Do not flaunt your strength,

do not flaunt your strength on high.

Do not speak with insolent pride.’”

For neither from the east nor from the west,

nor from desert or mountains comes judgment,

but God himself is the judge.

One he humbles, another he exalts.

The Lord holds a cup in his hand,

full of wine, foaming and spiced.

He pours it; they drink it to the dregs:

all the wicked on the earth must drain it.

As for me, I will rejoice for ever

and sing psalms to Jacob’s God.

He shall break the power of the wicked,

while the strength of the just shall be exalted.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son,

and to the Holy Spirit:

as it was in the beginning, is now,

and will be for ever. Amen.

Ant. God, who is justice and truth, does not judge by appearances.

1 Corinthians 13:4-7

Love is patient; love is kind. Love is not jealous, it does not put on airs, it is not snobbish. Love is never rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not prone to anger; neither does it brood over injuries. Love does not rejoice in what is wrong but rejoices with the truth. There is no limit to love’s forbearance, to its trust, its hope, its power to endure.

All who seek you, Lord, will dance for joy.

They will proclaim your greatness for ever.

CONCLUDING PRAYER

Let us pray.

God of truth, Father of all,

you send your Spirit as you promised

to bring together in love

all whom sin has driven apart.

Strengthen us to work for your blessings

of unity and peace in the world.

Grant this through Christ our Lord.

Amen.

DISMISSAL

Let us praise the Lord.

And give him thanks.

Sext

Now

Midday Prayer · 12 PM · 5:03

0:00 5:03

INTRODUCTION

God, come to my assistance.

Lord, make haste to help me.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit:

as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever. Amen. Alleluia.

HYMN

O mighty Ruler, God of truth,

for days and seasons setting bounds,

you clothe with splendor morning light

and midday skies with brilliant heat.

Extinguish flames of bitter strife,

all harmful passion take away,

grant health unto our mortal frame,

and on our hearts bestow true peace.

Most loving Father, hear our prayer,

and you, O Christ coequal Son,

who with the Spirit Paraclete

now reign for all eternity. Amen.

Psalm 119:105-112

Ant. Whoever follows me does not walk in the dark; he will have the light of life.

Your word is a lamp for my steps

and a light for my path.

I have sworn and have made up my mind

to obey your decrees.

Lord, I am deeply afflicted:

by your word give me life.

Accept, Lord, the homage of my lips

and teach me your decrees.

Though I carry my life in my hands,

I remember your law.

Though the wicked try to ensnare me,

I do not stray from your precepts.

Your will is my heritage for ever,

the joy of my heart.

I set myself to carry out your statutes

in fullness, for ever.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son,

and to the Holy Spirit:

as it was in the beginning, is now,

and will be for ever. Amen.

Ant. Whoever follows me does not walk in the dark; he will have the light of life.

Psalm 70

Ant. Help me, O God, for I am poor and needy.

O God, make haste to my rescue,

Lord, come to my aid!

Let there be shame and confusion

on those who seek my life.

O let them turn back in confusion,

who delight in my harm,

let them retreat, covered with shame,

who jeer at my lot.

Let there be rejoicing and gladness

for all who seek you.

Let them say for ever: “God is great,”

who love your saving help.

As for me, wretched and poor,

come to me, O God.

You are my rescuer, my help,

O Lord, do not delay.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son,

and to the Holy Spirit:

as it was in the beginning, is now,

and will be for ever. Amen.

Ant. Help me, O God, for I am poor and needy.

Psalm 75

Ant. God, who is justice and truth, does not judge by appearances.

We give thanks to you, O God,

we give thanks and call upon your name.

We recount your wonderful deeds.

“When I reach the appointed time,

then I will judge with justice.

Though the earth and all who dwell in it may rock,

it is I who uphold its pillars.

To the boastful I say: ‘Do not boast,’

to the wicked: ‘Do not flaunt your strength,

do not flaunt your strength on high.

Do not speak with insolent pride.’”

For neither from the east nor from the west,

nor from desert or mountains comes judgment,

but God himself is the judge.

One he humbles, another he exalts.

The Lord holds a cup in his hand,

full of wine, foaming and spiced.

He pours it; they drink it to the dregs:

all the wicked on the earth must drain it.

As for me, I will rejoice for ever

and sing psalms to Jacob’s God.

He shall break the power of the wicked,

while the strength of the just shall be exalted.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son,

and to the Holy Spirit:

as it was in the beginning, is now,

and will be for ever. Amen.

Ant. God, who is justice and truth, does not judge by appearances.

1 Corinthians 13:8-9, 13

Love never fails. Prophecies will cease, tongues will be silent, knowledge will pass away. Our knowledge is imperfect and our prophesying is imperfect. There are in the end three things that last: faith, hope, and love, and the greatest of these is love.

Lord, show us your love and mercy.

For we put our trust in you.

CONCLUDING PRAYER

Let us pray.

God of mercy,

this midday moment of rest

is your welcome gift.

Bless the work we have begun,

make good its defects

and let us finish it in a way that pleases you.

Grant this through Christ our Lord.

Amen.

DISMISSAL

Let us praise the Lord.

And give him thanks.

None

Now

Midafternoon Prayer · 3 PM · 4:59

0:00 4:59

INTRODUCTION

God, come to my assistance.

Lord, make haste to help me.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit:

as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever. Amen. Alleluia.

HYMN

O God, our firm and steadfast strength,

remaining in yourself unmoved,

you rule the span of daily light

and guide the course of all the hours.

Bestow at eventide a light

by which our life may never fail;

may endless glory be the crown

that follows on a holy death.

Most loving Father, hear our prayer,

and you, O Christ, coequal Son,

who with the Spirit Paraclete

now reign for all eternity. Amen.

Psalm 119:105-112

Ant. Whoever follows me does not walk in the dark; he will have the light of life.

Your word is a lamp for my steps

and a light for my path.

I have sworn and have made up my mind

to obey your decrees.

Lord, I am deeply afflicted:

by your word give me life.

Accept, Lord, the homage of my lips

and teach me your decrees.

Though I carry my life in my hands,

I remember your law.

Though the wicked try to ensnare me,

I do not stray from your precepts.

Your will is my heritage for ever,

the joy of my heart.

I set myself to carry out your statutes

in fullness, for ever.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son,

and to the Holy Spirit:

as it was in the beginning, is now,

and will be for ever. Amen.

Ant. Whoever follows me does not walk in the dark; he will have the light of life.

Psalm 70

Ant. Help me, O God, for I am poor and needy.

O God, make haste to my rescue,

Lord, come to my aid!

Let there be shame and confusion

on those who seek my life.

O let them turn back in confusion,

who delight in my harm,

let them retreat, covered with shame,

who jeer at my lot.

Let there be rejoicing and gladness

for all who seek you.

Let them say for ever: “God is great,”

who love your saving help.

As for me, wretched and poor,

come to me, O God.

You are my rescuer, my help,

O Lord, do not delay.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son,

and to the Holy Spirit:

as it was in the beginning, is now,

and will be for ever. Amen.

Ant. Help me, O God, for I am poor and needy.

Psalm 75

Ant. God, who is justice and truth, does not judge by appearances.

We give thanks to you, O God,

we give thanks and call upon your name.

We recount your wonderful deeds.

“When I reach the appointed time,

then I will judge with justice.

Though the earth and all who dwell in it may rock,

it is I who uphold its pillars.

To the boastful I say: ‘Do not boast,’

to the wicked: ‘Do not flaunt your strength,

do not flaunt your strength on high.

Do not speak with insolent pride.’”

For neither from the east nor from the west,

nor from desert or mountains comes judgment,

but God himself is the judge.

One he humbles, another he exalts.

The Lord holds a cup in his hand,

full of wine, foaming and spiced.

He pours it; they drink it to the dregs:

all the wicked on the earth must drain it.

As for me, I will rejoice for ever

and sing psalms to Jacob’s God.

He shall break the power of the wicked,

while the strength of the just shall be exalted.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son,

and to the Holy Spirit:

as it was in the beginning, is now,

and will be for ever. Amen.

Ant. God, who is justice and truth, does not judge by appearances.

Colossians 3:14-15

Over all these virtues put on love, which binds the rest together and makes them perfect. Christ’s peace must reign in your hearts, since as members of the one body you have been called to that peace. Dedicate yourselves to thankfulness.

The gentle will inherit the earth.

They will have peace to their heart’s content.

CONCLUDING PRAYER

Let us pray.

Lord Jesus Christ,

to save all mankind

you stretched out your arms on the cross.

Let our work be pleasing to you:

may it proclaim your salvation to the world,

for you live and reign forever and ever.

Amen.

DISMISSAL

Let us praise the Lord.

And give him thanks.

Vespers

Now

Evening Prayer · 9:20

0:00 9:20

INTRODUCTION

God, come to my assistance.

Lord, make haste to help me.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit:

as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever. Amen. Alleluia.

HYMN

Receive this hymn, O noble Priest,

bright pattern of a virtuous life;

as with due praise we sing your name,

we laud the wondrous works of God.

Christ came as Lord and great High Priest

to bind the human race to God,

restoring us to peace once more

through his eternal covenant.

In loving providence he willed

to make you steward of his gifts,

that God the Father might be praised

and all his people find new life.

You scaled the height and reached the crown,

the summit of this royal life;

by word and virtue you excelled

as teacher, priest, and sacrifice.

As you reside in heaven’s peace,

be mindful of the holy Church,

that all the sheep may seek and find

rich pasture in the joy of Christ.

All glory to the Triune God,

who crowns you with a worthy joy,

his true and zealous minister,

for service by your holy state. Amen.

Psalm 126

Ant. Those who sow in tears will reap in joy.

When the Lord delivered Zion from bondage,

it seemed like a dream.

Then was our mouth filled with laughter,

on our lips there were songs.

The heathens themselves said: “What marvels

the Lord worked for them!”

What marvels the Lord worked for us!

Indeed we were glad.

Deliver us, O Lord, from our bondage

as streams in dry land.

Those who are sowing in tears

will sing when they reap.

They go out, they go out, full of tears,

carrying seed for the sowing:

they come back, they come back, full of song,

carrying their sheaves.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son,

and to the Holy Spirit:

as it was in the beginning, is now,

and will be for ever. Amen.

Ant. Those who sow in tears will reap in joy.

Psalm 127

Ant. May the Lord build our house and guard our city.

If the Lord does not build the house,

in vain do its builders labor;

if the Lord does not watch over the city,

in vain does the watchman keep vigil.

In vain is your earlier rising,

your going later to rest,

you who toil for the bread you eat:

when he pours gifts on his beloved while they slumber.

Truly sons are a gift from the Lord,

a blessing, the fruit of the womb.

Indeed the sons of youth

are like arrows in the hand of a warrior.

O the happiness of the man

who has filled his quiver with these arrows!

He will have no cause for shame

when he disputes with his foes in the gateways.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son,

and to the Holy Spirit:

as it was in the beginning, is now,

and will be for ever. Amen.

Ant. May the Lord build our house and guard our city.

Colossians 1:12-20

Ant. He is the first-born of all creation; in every way the primacy is his.

Let us give thanks to the Father

for having made you worthy

to share the lot of the saints

in light.

He rescued us from the power of darkness

and brought us into the kingdom of his beloved Son.

Through him we have redemption,

the forgiveness of our sins.

He is the image of the invisible God,

the first-born of all creatures.

In him everything in heaven and on earth was created,

things visible and invisible.

All were created through him;

all were created for him.

He is before all else that is.

In him everything continues in being.

It is he who is head of the body, the church!

he who is the beginning,

the first-born of the dead,

so that primacy may be his in everything.

It pleased God to make absolute fullness reside in him

and, by means of him, to reconcile everything in his person,

both on earth and in the heavens,

making peace through the blood of his cross.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son,

and to the Holy Spirit:

as it was in the beginning, is now,

and will be for ever. Amen.

Ant. He is the first-born of all creation; in every way the primacy is his.

1 Peter 5:1-4

To the elders among you, I, a fellow elder, a witness of Christ’s sufferings and sharer in the glory that is to be revealed, make this appeal. God’s flock is in your midst; give it a shepherd’s care. Watch over it willingly, as God would have you do, not under constraint, and not for shameful profit, either, but generously. Be examples to the flock, not lording it over those assigned to you, so that when the chief Shepherd appears, you will win for yourselves the unfading crown of glory.

RESPONSORY

This is a man who loved his brethren and ever prayed for them.

He spent himself in their service,

and ever prayed for them.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.

This is a man who loved his brethren and ever prayed for them.

Canticle of Mary

Ant. This is a faithful and wise steward: the Lord entrusted the care of his household to him, so that he might give them their portion of food at the proper season.

My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord,

my spirit rejoices in God my Savior

for he has looked with favor on his lowly servant.

From this day all generations will call me blessed:

the Almighty has done great things for me,

and holy is his Name.

He has mercy on those who fear him

in every generation.

He has shown the strength of his arm,

he has scattered the proud in their conceit.

He has cast down the mighty from their thrones,

and has lifted up the lowly.

He has filled the hungry with good things,

and the rich he has sent away empty.

He has come to the help of his servant Israel

for he has remembered his promise of mercy,

the promise he made to our fathers,

to Abraham and his children for ever.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son,

and to the Holy Spirit:

as it was in the beginning, is now,

and will be for ever. Amen.

Ant. This is a faithful and wise steward: the Lord entrusted the care of his household to him, so that he might give them their portion of food at the proper season.

INTERCESSIONS

Jesus Christ is worthy of all praise, for he was appointed high priest among men and their representative before God. We honor him and in our frailty we pray:

Bring salvation to your people, Lord.

You marvelously illuminated your Church through distinguished leaders and holy men and women,

let Christians rejoice always in such splendor.

Bring salvation to your people, Lord.

You forgave the sins of your people when their holy leaders like Moses sought your compassion,

through their intercession continue to purify and sanctify your holy people.

Bring salvation to your people, Lord.

In the midst of their brothers and sisters you anointed your holy ones and filled them with the Holy Spirit,

fill all the leaders of your people with the same Spirit.

Bring salvation to your people, Lord.

You yourself are the only visible possession of our holy pastors,

let none of them, won at the price of your blood, remain far from you.

Bring salvation to your people, Lord.

The shepherds of your Church keep your flock from being snatched out of your hand. Through them you give your flock eternal life,

save those who have died, those for whom you gave up your life.

Bring salvation to your people, Lord.

THE LORD’S PRAYER

Gathering our prayer and praises into one, let us offer the prayer Christ himself taught us:

Our Father, who art in heaven,

hallowed be thy name;

thy kingdom come;

thy will be done on earth

as it is in heaven.

Give us this day our daily bread;

and forgive us our trespasses

as we forgive those who trespass against us;

and lead us not into temptation,

but deliver us from evil.

CONCLUDING PRAYER

O God, who made Saint Peter Claver a slave of slaves

and strengthened him with wonderful charity and patience

as he came to their help,

grant, through his intercession,

that, seeking the things of Jesus Christ,

we may love our neighbor in deeds and in truth.

Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,

who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,

God, for ever and ever.

Amen.

DISMISSAL

May the Lord bless us, protect us from all evil and bring us to everlasting life. Amen.

Compline

Now

Night Prayer · 5:09

0:00 5:09

Examination of conscience

An examination of conscience is a traditional, optional part of Night Prayer, commended in the General Instruction of the Liturgy of the Hours (86), and the Church leaves its form free: a quiet review of the day, a familiar prayer of sorrow, or something longer. If you would like to be led, here are two to listen to and pray along with. Afterwards, return to Night Prayer.

Coptic act of contrition

11th Hour

If the righteous one is hardly saved, where shall I, a sinner, appear?! The burden and the heat of the day I could not bear because of the weakness of my human nature. But, O merciful God, count me among the laborers of the eleventh hour. For behold, I was brought forth in iniquities, and in sin my mother conceived me. Therefore, I dare not lift my eyes unto heaven. But rather I rely on the abundance of Your mercy and love-of-mankind, crying to You and saying, “Lord, forgive me, a sinner, and have mercy on me.”

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.

O my Savior, hasten to open Your fatherly bosom to me. For I have wasted my life in worldly desires and pleasures, whereas the day has been consumed and far spent. Therefore, now I rely on the abundance of Your infinite compassion. So, then, do not disregard my revering heart which is exceedingly in need of Your mercy. For I cry out to You, O Lord, with reverence, saying, “Father, I have sinned against heaven and in Your sight, and am no longer worthy to be called Your son, make me like one of Your hired servants.”

As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.

With full awareness and enthusiasm did I pursue every transgression, with all eagerness and diligence did I commit every sin, and of all judgment and torment I deserve. Hence, I beseech you, our Lady the Virgin, to lead me to repentance. For to you I plead and through you I seek intercession, and upon you I call to help me that I should not be put to shame. And when my soul departs from my body, please be present and attend to me, and defeat the conspiracies of the enemies, and shut the gates of Hades, lest they might swallow my soul. O you bride without blemish of the true Bridegroom.

12th Hour

Behold, I am about to stand before the just and righteous Judge, terrified and trembling because of my numerous sins. For a life wasted in worldly pleasures deserves condemnation. So repent therefore, O my soul, as long as you dwell on this earth. For the dust in the grave cannot offer any praise, and among the dead no one can remember, nor can anyone in Hades give thanks. Therefore, arise O my soul from the slumber of your laziness, and implore the Savior in repentance saying, “O God have mercy on me and save me.”

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.

Were this life on earth everlasting, and this world ever-existing, you would have had an excuse, O my soul. But now, if your wicked deeds and repulsive evils were to be exposed before the righteous Judge, what answer would you be giving while you are lying on the bed of sins and negligent in disciplining your body?! O Christ our God, before Your awesome seat of judgment I am terrified, and before Your counsel of judgment I am dreadful, and from the radiant light of Your divinity I tremble. For I am a wretched and defiled person who lies in bed, careless of the ways of my life. Yet, I take example of the tax collector’s penance, beating my chest and saying, “O God be merciful to me, a sinner.”

As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.

O pure Virgin, overshadow your servant speedily with your help, keep the waves of evil thoughts away from me, and raise my ailing soul to pray and watch, for it has gone into deep slumber. For you are a capable and compassionate helper, the Mother of the Fountain of life, my King and my God, Jesus Christ my hope.

The Prayer of the Veil

O Lord, You know the alertness of my enemies, and You understand the weakness of my nature, O my Creator. For behold, into Your hands I place my spirit that You may shield me under the wings of Your goodness, lest I sleep unto death. Enlighten my eyes with the greatness of Your sayings, and raise me up to glorify You at all times, for You alone are the Good One and Lover of Mankind.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.

O Lord, Your judgment is fearful, when people shall be gathered, the angels standing, the books opened, the deeds revealed, and thoughts examined. What will be my judgment, I who am entangled by sin?! Who will quench the flames of fire around me?! Who will enlighten my darkness except You, O Lord?! Have mercy on me, for You are kind towards mankind.

As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.

O Theotokos, because we have put our trust in you, we shall not be put to shame; And because we have attained your help and intercessions, O holy and perfect one, we shall not fear, but shall drive out our enemies and disperse them. And, in everything, we take your great help to protect us as if with a shield. We ask and entreat you, proclaiming “O Theotokos” to save us by your intercessions, and raise us up from the darkness of sleep, in order to glorify through the power of God who was incarnate from you.

The Absolution

O Lord, all our sins we have committed against You in this day, whether in deed or in words or in thoughts or through any of our senses, please do forgive and pardon us, for the sake of Your holy name, O good Lord, Lover of Mankind.

Grant us a peaceful night and a sleep free of all worry and anxiety. Send us the guardian angel to protect us from all evil and every affliction and temptation of the enemy.

Through the grace, compassion and love-of-mankind, of Your only-begotten Son, our Lord, God and Savior, Jesus Christ. Through whom the glory, the honor, the dominion, and the adoration are due unto You, O Father, with Him, and the Holy Spirit, the Life-Giver, who is of one essence with You, now and at all times, and unto the age of all ages. Amen.

The Thanksgiving Prayer

Let us give thanks to the beneficent and merciful God, the Father of our Lord, God and Savior, Jesus Christ, for He has covered us, helped us, guarded us, accepted us to Him, had compassion on us, supported us, and has brought us to this hour. Let us also ask Him, the Lord our God, the Pantocrator, to guard us in all peace this holy day and all the days of our life.

O Master, Lord, God the Pantocrator, the Father of our Lord, God, and Savior, Jesus Christ, we thank You for every condition, concerning every condition, and in every condition. For You have covered us, helped us, guarded us, accepted us to You, had compassion on us, supported us, and brought us to this hour.

Therefore, we ask and entreat Your goodness, O Lover of Mankind. Grant us to complete this holy day, and all the days of our life, in all peace in Your fear. All envy, all temptation, all the work of Satan, the counsel of wicked men and the rising up of enemies, hidden and manifest, take them away from us and from all Your people and from this holy place that is Yours. But those things which are good and profitable do provide for us. For it is You who have given us the authority to trample on serpents and scorpions, and upon all the power of the enemy.

And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one, by the grace, compassion and love-of-mankind, of Your only-begotten Son, our Lord, God and Savior, Jesus Christ. Through whom the glory, the honor, the dominion, and the adoration are due unto You, with Him, and the Holy Spirit, the Life-Giver, who is of one essence with You, now and at all times, and unto the age of all ages. Amen.

From the Agpeya, the Coptic Orthodox Book of Hours (St. Mark Coptic Orthodox Church, Jersey City; text as published on copticchurch.net).

INTRODUCTION

God, come to my assistance.

Lord, make haste to help me.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit:

as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever. Amen. Alleluia.

Examination of Conscience

A brief moment of silent reflection is made to examine one’s conscience and recall God’s mercy throughout the day.

I confess to almighty God and to you, my brothers and sisters, that I have greatly sinned, in my thoughts and in my words, in what I have done and in what I have failed to do, through my fault, through my fault, through my most grievous fault; therefore I ask blessed Mary ever-Virgin, all the Angels and Saints, and you, my brothers and sisters, to pray for me to the Lord our God.

May almighty God have mercy on us, forgive us our sins, and bring us to everlasting life. Amen.

HYMN

To you before the close of light,

Creator of all things, we pray:

Be our protector, keep us safe

in your unfailing clemency.

Incline our hearts to dream of you,

to sense your presence as we sleep;

as light returns, so let us sing

your praise and glory evermore.

Grant us the grace of health and strength,

renew our warmth and joy of life;

and let your radiant light dispel

the dreaded darkness of the night.

Almighty Father, grant our prayer

through Jesus Christ your Son our Lord,

who reigns with you from age to age,

one with the Spirit, ever blest. Amen.

Psalm 31:1-6

Ant. Lord God, be my refuge and my strength.

In you, O Lord, I take refuge.

Let me never be put to shame.

In your justice, set me free,

hear me and speedily rescue me.

Be a rock of refuge for me,

a mighty stronghold to save me,

for you are my rock, my stronghold.

For your name’s sake, lead me and guide me.

Release me from the snares they have hidden

for you are my refuge, Lord.

Into your hands I commend my spirit.

It is you who will redeem me, Lord.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son,

and to the Holy Spirit:

as it was in the beginning, is now,

and will be for ever. Amen.

Ant. Lord God, be my refuge and my strength.

Psalm 130

Ant. Out of the depths I cry to you, Lord.

Out of the depths I cry to you, O Lord,

Lord, hear my voice!

O let your ears be attentive

to the voice of my pleading.

If you, O Lord, should mark our guilt,

Lord, who would survive?

But with you is found forgiveness:

for this we revere you.

My soul is waiting for the Lord,

I count on his word.

My soul is longing for the Lord

more than watchman for daybreak.

Let the watchman count on daybreak

and Israel on the Lord.

Because with the Lord there is mercy

and fullness of redemption,

Israel indeed he will redeem

from all its iniquity.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son,

and to the Holy Spirit:

as it was in the beginning, is now,

and will be for ever. Amen.

Ant. Out of the depths I cry to you, Lord.

Ephesians 4:26-27

If you are angry, let it be without sin. The sun must not go down on your wrath; do not give the devil a chance to work on you.

RESPONSORY

Into your hands, Lord, I commend my spirit.

You have redeemed us, Lord God of truth.

I commend my spirit.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.

Into your hands, Lord, I commend my spirit.

Canticle of Simeon

Ant. Protect us, Lord, as we stay awake; watch over us as we sleep, that awake, we may keep watch with Christ, and asleep, rest in his peace.

Lord, now you let your servant go in peace;

your word has been fulfilled:

my own eyes have seen the salvation

which you have prepared in the sight of every people:

a light to reveal you to the nations

and the glory of your people Israel.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son,

and to the Holy Spirit:

as it was in the beginning, is now,

and will be for ever. Amen.

Ant. Protect us, Lord, as we stay awake; watch over us as we sleep, that awake, we may keep watch with Christ, and asleep, rest in his peace.

CONCLUDING PRAYER

Let us pray.

Lord Jesus Christ,

you have given your followers

an example of gentleness and humility,

a task that is easy, a burden that is light.

Accept the prayers and work of this day,

and give us the rest that will strengthen us

to render more faithful service to you

who live and reign for ever and ever.

Amen.

DISMISSAL

May the all-powerful Lord grant us a restful night and a peaceful death. Amen.

MARIAN ANTIPHON

Hail, holy Queen, mother of mercy,

our life, our sweetness, and our hope.

To you do we cry,

poor banished children of Eve.

To you do we send up our sighs

mourning and weeping in this vale of tears.

Turn then, most gracious advocate,

your eyes of mercy toward us,

and after this exile

show us the blessed fruit of your womb, Jesus.

O clement, O loving,

O sweet Virgin Mary.

Also for today

Yesterday Compline

Now

Yesterday Night Prayer · 4:50

0:00 4:50

Examination of conscience

Coptic act of contrition

11th Hour

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.

As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.

12th Hour

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.

As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.

The Prayer of the Veil

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.

As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.

The Absolution

Grant us a peaceful night and a sleep free of all worry and anxiety. Send us the guardian angel to protect us from all evil and every affliction and temptation of the enemy.

The Thanksgiving Prayer

From the Agpeya, the Coptic Orthodox Book of Hours (St. Mark Coptic Orthodox Church, Jersey City; text as published on copticchurch.net).

INTRODUCTION

God, come to my assistance.

Lord, make haste to help me.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit:

as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever. Amen. Alleluia.

Examination of Conscience

A brief moment of silent reflection is made to examine one’s conscience and recall God’s mercy throughout the day.

May almighty God have mercy on us, forgive us our sins, and bring us to everlasting life. Amen.

HYMN

To you before the close of light,

Creator of all things, we pray:

Be our protector, keep us safe

in your unfailing clemency.

Incline our hearts to dream of you,

to sense your presence as we sleep;

as light returns, so let us sing

your praise and glory evermore.

Grant us the grace of health and strength,

renew our warmth and joy of life;

and let your radiant light dispel

the dreaded darkness of the night.

Almighty Father, grant our prayer

through Jesus Christ your Son our Lord,

who reigns with you from age to age,

one with the Spirit, ever blest. Amen.

Psalm 143:1-11

Ant. Do not hide your face from me; in you I put my trust.

Lord, listen to my prayer:

turn your ear to my appeal.

You are faithful, you are just; give answer.

Do not call your servant to judgment

for no one is just in your sight.

The enemy pursues my soul;

he has crushed my life to the ground;

he has made me dwell in darkness

like the dead, long forgotten.

Therefore my spirit fails;

my heart is numb within me.

I remember the days that are past:

I ponder all your works.

I muse on what your hand has wrought

and to you I stretch out my hands.

Like a parched land my soul thirsts for you.

Lord, make haste and answer;

for my spirit fails within me.

Do not hide your face

lest I become like those in the grave.

In the morning let me know your love

for I put my trust in you.

Make me know the way I should walk:

to you I lift up my soul.

Rescue me, Lord, from my enemies;

I have fled to you for refuge.

Teach me to do your will

for you, O Lord, are my God.

Let your good spirit guide me

in ways that are level and smooth.

For your name’s sake, Lord, save my life;

in your justice save my soul from distress.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son,

and to the Holy Spirit:

as it was in the beginning, is now,

and will be for ever. Amen.

Ant. Do not hide your face from me; in you I put my trust.

1 Peter 5:8-9a

Stay sober and alert. Your opponent the devil is prowling like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, solid in your faith.

RESPONSORY

Into your hands, Lord, I commend my spirit.

You have redeemed us, Lord God of truth.

I commend my spirit.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.

Into your hands, Lord, I commend my spirit.

Canticle of Simeon

Ant. Protect us, Lord, as we stay awake; watch over us as we sleep, that awake, we may keep watch with Christ, and asleep, rest in his peace.

Lord, now you let your servant go in peace;

your word has been fulfilled:

my own eyes have seen the salvation

which you have prepared in the sight of every people:

a light to reveal you to the nations

and the glory of your people Israel.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son,

and to the Holy Spirit:

as it was in the beginning, is now,

and will be for ever. Amen.

Ant. Protect us, Lord, as we stay awake; watch over us as we sleep, that awake, we may keep watch with Christ, and asleep, rest in his peace.

CONCLUDING PRAYER

Let us pray.

Lord, fill this night with your radiance.

May we sleep in peace and rise with joy

to welcome the light of a new day in your name.

We ask this through Christ our Lord.

Amen.

DISMISSAL

May the all-powerful Lord grant us a restful night and a peaceful death. Amen.

MARIAN ANTIPHON

Hail, holy Queen, mother of mercy,

our life, our sweetness, and our hope.

To you do we cry,

poor banished children of Eve.

To you do we send up our sighs

mourning and weeping in this vale of tears.

Turn then, most gracious advocate,

your eyes of mercy toward us,

and after this exile

show us the blessed fruit of your womb, Jesus.

O clement, O loving,

O sweet Virgin Mary.

Mass Readings

Now

Readings of the Day's Mass · 3:31

0:00 3:31

First Reading

1 Cor 7:25-31

Brothers and sisters:

In regard to virgins, I have no commandment from the Lord,

but I give my opinion as one who by the Lord’s mercy is trustworthy.

So this is what I think best because of the present distress:

that it is a good thing for a person to remain as he is.

Are you bound to a wife? Do not seek a separation.

Are you free of a wife? Then do not look for a wife.

If you marry, however, you do not sin,

nor does an unmarried woman sin if she marries;

but such people will experience affliction in their earthly life,

and I would like to spare you that.

I tell you, brothers, the time is running out.

From now on, let those having wives act as not having them,

those weeping as not weeping,

those rejoicing as not rejoicing,

those buying as not owning,

those using the world as not using it fully.

For the world in its present form is passing away.

Responsorial Psalm

Ps 45:11-12, 14-15, 16-17

℟. Listen to me, daughter; see and bend your ear.

Hear, O daughter, and see; turn your ear,

forget your people and your father’s house.

So shall the king desire your beauty;

for he is your lord, and you must worship him.

All glorious is the king’s daughter as she enters;

her raiment is threaded with spun gold.

In embroidered apparel she is borne in to the king;

behind her the virgins of her train are brought to you.

They are borne in with gladness and joy;

they enter the palace of the king.

The place of your fathers your sons shall have,

you shall make them princes over all the earth.

℟. Listen to me, daughter; see and bend your ear.

Gospel Acclamation

Lk 6:23ab

℟. Alleluia, alleluia.

Rejoice and leap for joy!

Your reward will be great in heaven.

℟. Alleluia, alleluia.

Gospel

Lk 6:20-26

Raising his eyes toward his disciples Jesus said:

“Blessed are you who are poor,

for the Kingdom of God is yours.

Blessed are you who are now hungry,

for you will be satisfied.

Blessed are you who are now weeping,

for you will laugh.

Blessed are you when people hate you,

and when they exclude and insult you,

and denounce your name as evil

on account of the Son of Man.

Rejoice and leap for joy on that day!

Behold, your reward will be great in heaven.

For their ancestors treated the prophets in the same way.

But woe to you who are rich,

for you have received your consolation.

But woe to you who are filled now,

for you will be hungry.

Woe to you who laugh now,

for you will grieve and weep.

Woe to you when all speak well of you,

for their ancestors treated the false prophets in this way.”

Devotional Prayers

The words of the prayers

Prayer Before the Office

Lord, open my lips, to praise Your Holy Name. Cleanse my heart of any worthless, evil, or distracting thoughts. Give me the wisdom and love necessary to pray this Office with attention, reverence, and devotion. Father, let this prayer be heard in Your Presence, for it is offered through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Lord, in union with that intention with which you offered praises to God when on earth, I offer this Hour to You.

I offer this Hour in union with all of the Masses being said throughout the world, and I offer it for the following intention: ____.

Prayer After the Office

Blessed be forever the most loving Hearts and the sweet Names of our Lord Jesus Christ and of the most glorious Virgin Mary, His Mother.

O most merciful Jesus, I thank you with all my heart. Be merciful to me, a miserable sinner. I offer this action to your Divine Heart to be amended and perfected, to the praise and glory of your most holy Name and of your most blessed Mother, and for the salvation of my soul and of your whole Church. Amen.

To the Most Holy and Undivided Trinity, to the Manhood of Our Lord Jesus Christ Crucified, to the Fruitful Virginity of the Most Blessed and Most Glorious Mary, Ever Virgin, and to the Congregation of all the Saints be ascribed everlasting praise, honor, power and glory by every creature, and to us be granted the forgiveness of all our sins, world without end. Amen.

Blessed be the Womb of the Virgin Mary, which bore the Son of the Eternal Father.

And blessed be the Breasts which gave suck to Christ our Lord.

Our Father

Hail Mary