The Invention of the Holy Cross

Double of II Class

1st Vespers

Matins

Lauds

Prime

Terce

Sext

None

2nd Vespers

COLLECT OF THE DAY

CLOSING VERSICLES AND THAT WHICH FOLLOWETH
 

First Vespers

The first part of Vespers is in the Ordinary

Ant.    O magnum pietátis opus : * mors mórtua tunc est, in ligno quando mórtua Vita fuit, allelúja.

Ant.    O mighty work of mercy! * Death then died when Life died on the Tree, alleluia.

Psalmus 109.  Dixit Dominus

Dixit Dóminus Dómino meo: * Sede a dextris meis:
2  Donec ponam inimícos tuos, * scabéllum pedum tuórum.
3  Virgam virtútis tuæ emíttet Dóminus ex Sion: * domináre in médio inimicórum tuórum.
4  Tecum princípium in die virtútis tuæ in splendóribus sanctórum: * ex útero ante lucíferum génui te.
5  Jurávit Dóminus, et non pœnitébit eum: * Tu es sacérdos in ætérnum secúndum órdinem Melchísedech.
6  Dóminus a dextris tuis, * confrégit in die iræ suæ reges.
7  Judicábit in natiónibus, implébit ruínas: * conquassábit cápita in terra multórum.
8  De torrénte in via bibet: * proptérea exaltábit caput.

The Lord said unto my Lord, * Sit thou on my right hand:
2  Until I make thine enemies * thy footstool.
3  The Lord shall send the rod of thy power out of Sion: * be thou ruler, even in the midst among thine enemies.
4  Thine shall be the dominion in the day of thy power, amid the brightness of the saints : * from the womb before the day star have I begotten thee.
5  The Lord sware, and will not repent, * Thou art a priest for ever after the order of Melchisedech.
6  The Lord upon thy right hand * shall wound even kings in the day of his wrath.
7  He shall judge among the heathen; he shall fill the places with the dead bodies: * and smite in sunder the heads over divers countries.
8  He shall drink of the brook in the way; * therefore shall he lift up his head.

Ant.    O magnum pietátis opus : mors mórtua tunc est, in ligno quando mórtua Vita fuit, allelúja.

Ant.    O mighty work of mercy! Death then died when Life died on the Tree, alleluia.

Ant.    Salva nos, * Christe Salvátor, per virtútem Crucis : qui salvásti Petrum in mari, miserére nobis, allelúja.

Ant.    Save us, * O Christ our Saviour, by the virtue of the Cross: thou who savedst Peter perishing in the sea, have mercy upon us, alleluia.

Psalmus 110.  Confitebor

Confitébor tibi, Dómine, in toto corde meo: * in consílio justórum, et congregatióne.
2  Magna ópera Dómini: * exquisíta in omnes voluntátes ejus.
3  Conféssio et magnificéntia opus ejus: * et justítia ejus manet in sæculum sæculi.
4  Memóriam fecit mirabílium suórum, miséricors et miserátor Dóminus: * escam dedit timéntibus se.
5  Memor erit in sæculum testaménti sui: * virtútem óperum suórum annuntiábit pópulo suo:
6  Ut det illis hereditátem géntium: * ópera mánuum ejus véritas, et judícium.
7  Fidélia ómnia mandáta ejus: confirmáta in sæculum sæculi, * facta in veritáte et æquitáte.
8  Redemptiónem misit pópulo suo: * mandávit in ætérnum testaméntum suum.
9  (fit reverentia) Sanctum, et terríbile nomen ejus: * inítium sapiéntiæ timor Dómini.
10  Intelléctus bonus ómnibus faciéntibus eum: * laudátio ejus manet in sæculum sæculi.

Psalm 110.  Confitebor

I will give thanks unto the Lord with my whole heart, * in the assembly of the righteous, and in the congregation.
2  The works of the Lord are great, * meet to serve for the doing of his will.
3  His work is worthy to be praised and had in honour, * and his righteousness endureth for ever.
4  He hath made a memorial of his marvellous works; the Lord is merciful and gracious : * he hath given meat unto them that fear him.
5  He shall ever be mindful of his covenant : * he will shew his people the power of his works.
6  That he may give them the heritage of the heathen : * the works of his hands are verity and judgment.
7  All his commandments are true; they stand fast for ever and ever : * and are done in truth and equity.
8  He sent redemption unto his people; * he hath commanded his covenant for ever.
9  (all bow) Holy and terrible is his Name : * the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom.
10  A good understanding have all they that do thereafter; * his praise endureth for ever.

Ant.    Salva nos, Christe Salvátor, per virtútem Crucis : qui salvásti Petrum in mari, miserére nobis, allelúja.

Ant.    Save us, O Christ our Saviour, by the virtue of the Cross: thou who savedst Peter perishing in the sea, have mercy upon us, alleluia.

Ant.    Ecce Crucem Dómini, * fúgite, partes advérsæ, vicit leo de tribu Juda, radix David, allelúja.

Ant.    Behold the Cross of the Lord, * flee ye of the contrary part: the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the root of David, hath prevailed, alleluia.

Psalmus 111.  Beatus vir

Beátus vir, qui timet Dóminum: * in mandátis ejus volet nimis.
2  Potens in terra erit semen ejus: * generátio rectórum benedicétur.
3  Glória, et divítiæ in domo ejus: * et justítia ejus manet in sæculum sæculi.
4  Exórtum est in ténebris lumen rectis: * miséricors, et miserátor, et justus.
5  Jucúndus homo qui miserétur et cómmodat, dispónet sermónes suos in judício: * quia in ætérnum non commovébitur.
6  In memória ætérna erit justus: * ab auditióne mala non timébit.
7  Parátum cor ejus speráre in Dómino, confirmátum est cor ejus: * non commovébitur donec despíciat inimícos suos.
8  Dispérsit, dedit paupéribus: justítia ejus manet in sæculum sæculi, * cornu ejus exaltábitur in glória.
9  Peccátor vidébit, et irascétur, déntibus suis fremet et tabéscet: * desidérium peccatórum períbit.

Psalm 111.  Beatus vir

Blessed is the man that feareth the Lord; * he hath great delight in his commandments.
2  His seed shall be mighty upon earth; * the generation of the righteous shall be blessed.
3  Glory and riches shall be in his house; * and his righteousness endureth for ever.
4  Unto the godly there ariseth up light in the darkness; * he is merciful, loving, and righteous.
5  Happy is the man that sheweth mercy, and lendeth; he will guide his words with discretion : * for he shall never be moved.
6  The righteous shall be had in everlasting remembrance : * he shall not be afraid of any evil tidings.
7  His heart is ready, trusting in the Lord, his heart is stablished, * he shall not be afraid until he see his desire upon his enemies.
8  He hath dispersed abroad, and given to the poor, and his righteousness remaineth for ever; * his horn shall be exalted with honour.
9  The ungodly shall see it, and be grieved; he shall gnash with his teeth, and consume away; * the desire of the ungodly shall perish.

Ant.    Ecce Crucem Dómini, fúgite, partes advérsæ, vicit leo de tribu Juda, radix David, allelúja.

Ant.    Behold the Cross of the Lord, flee ye of the contrary part: the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the root of David, hath prevailed, alleluia.

Ant.    Nos autem gloriári * opórtet in Cruce Dómini nostri Jesu Christi, allelúja.

Ant.    But as for us, * it behoveth us to glory in the Cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, alleluia.

Psalmus 112.  Laudate, pueri

Laudáte, púeri, Dóminum: * laudáte nomen Dómini.
2  (fit reverentia) Sit nomen Dómini benedíctum, * ex hoc nunc, et usque in sæculum.
3  A solis ortu usque ad occásum, * laudábile nomen Dómini.
4  Excélsus super omnes gentes Dóminus, * et super cælos glória ejus.
5  Quis sicut Dóminus, Deus noster, qui in altis hábitat, * et humília réspicit in cælo et in terra?
6  Súscitans a terra ínopem, * et de stércore érigens páuperem:
7  Ut cóllocet eum cum princípibus, * cum princípibus pópuli sui.
8  Qui habitáre facit stérilem in domo, * matrem filiórum lætántem.

Psalm 112.  Laudate, pueri

Praise the Lord, O ye his servants; * O praise the Name of the Lord.
2  (all bow) Blessed be the Name of the Lord * from this time forth for evermore.
3  From the rising up of the sun unto the going down of the same, * the Lord's Name be praised.
4  The Lord is high above all nations, * and his glory above the heavens.
5  Who is like unto the Lord our God, that hath his dwelling on high, * and beholdeth what is lowly in heaven and in the earth?
6  He raiseth up the poor out of the dust, * and lifteth the needy out of the dung hill.
7  That he may set him with the princes, * even with the princes of his people.
8  He maketh the barren woman to keep house, * and to be a joyful mother of children.

Ant.    Nos autem gloriári opórtet in Cruce Dómini nostri Jesu Christi, allelúja.

Ant.    But as for us, it behoveth us to glory in the Cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, alleluia.

Ant.    Per signum Crucis * de inimícis nostris líbera nos, Deus noster, allelúja.

Ant.    By the Sign of the Cross, * deliver us from our enemies, O Lord our God, alleluia.

Psalmus 116.  Laudate Dominum

Laudáte Dóminum, omnes Gentes: * laudáte eum, omnes pópuli :
2  Quóniam confirmáta est super nos misericórdia ejus: * et véritas Dómini manet in ætérnum.

Psalm 116.  Laudate Dominum

O praise the Lord, all ye nations; * praise him, all ye peoples.
2  For his mercy is confirmed upon us; * and the truth of the Lord endureth for ever.

Ant.    Per signum Crucis de inimícis nostris líbera nos, Deus noster, allelúja.

Ant.    By the Sign of the Cross, deliver us from our enemies, O Lord our God, alleluia.

Capitulum           Philipp. 2. 5-7.
Fratres : Hoc enim sentíte in vobis, quod et in Christo Jesu : qui, cum in forma Dei esset, non rapínam arbitrátus est esse se æquálem Deo : sed semetípsum exinanívit, formam servi accípiens, in similitúdinem hóminum factus, et hábitu invéntus ut homo.
R.  Deo grátias.

The Little Chapter        Philip. 2. 5-7.
Brethren : let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: who, being in the form of God thought it not robbery to be equal with God, but made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: and was found in fashion as a man.
R.  Thanks be to God.

Vexílla Regis pródeunt :
Fulget Crucis mystérium,
Qua vita mortem pértulit,
Et morte vitam prótulit.

Quæ, vulneráta lánceæ
Mucróne diro, críminum
Ut nos laváret sórdibus,
Manávit unda et sánguine.

Impléta sunt quæ cóncinit
David fidéli cármine,
Dicéndo natiónibus :
Regnávit a ligno Deus.

Arbor decóra et fúlgida,
Ornáta Regis púrpura,
Elécta digno stípite
Tam sancta membra tángere.

Beáta, cujus bráchiis
Prétium pepéndit sæculi,
Statéra facta córporis,
Tulítque prædam tártari.

Sequens stropha dicitur flexis genibus ; et ultima numquam mutátur.
O Crux, ave, spes única,
Paschále quæ fers gáudium,
Piis adáuge grátiam,
Reísque dele crímina.

Te, fons salútis, Trínitas,
Colláudet omnis spíritus :
Quibus Crucis victóriam
Largíris, adde præmium.  Amen.

The royal banners forward go:
The Cross shines forth in mystic glow,
Where he in flesh, our flesh who made,
Our sentence bore, our ransom paid :

Where deep for us the spear was dyed,
Life's torrent rushing from his side,
To wash us in that precious flood,
Where mingled Water flowed and Blood.

Fulfilled is all that David told
In true prophetic song of old:
Amidst the nations, God, saith he,
Hath reigned and triumphed from the Tree.

O Tree of beauty!  Tree of light!
O Tree with royal purple dight!
Elect on whose triumphal breast
Those holy limbs should find their rest :

On whose dear arms, so widely flung,
The weight of this world's ransom hung,
The price of humankind to pay,
And spoil the spoiler of his prey.

During this stanza all kneel, and the final stanza is never changed.
O Cross, our one reliance, hail!
In this our Easter joy, avail
To give fresh merit to the saint
And pardon to the penitent.

To thee, eternal Three in One,
Let homage meet by all be done:
Whom by the Cross thou dost restore,
Preserve and govern evermore.  Amen.

V.  Hoc signum Crucis erit in cælo, allelúja.
R.  Cum Dóminus ad judicándum vénerit, allelúja.

V.  This Sign of the Cross shall appear in heaven, alleluia.
R.  When the Lord shall come to judgment, alleluia.

Ad Magnif. Ant:  O Crux, * splendídior cunctis astris, mundo célebris, homínibus multum amábilis, sánctior univérsis : quæ sola fuísti digna portáre taléntum mundi, dulce lignum, dulces clavos, dúlcia ferens póndera; salva præséntem catérvam in tuis hódie láudibus congregátam, allelúja, allelúja.

Ant. on Magnif:  O Cross, * surpassing all the stars in splendour, exceeding dear to all Christian people and world-renowned, holiest of earth's treasures: which only wast counted worthy to hold aloft the Price of our Redemption: sweet is thy wood and sweet thine iron, but sweetest of all the Burthen that hung on thee!  O that all who come this day to celebrate thy praises may find in thee salvation, alleluia, alleluia.

MAGNIFICAT

THE MAGNIFICAT

Oremus.
Deus, qui in præclára salutíferæ Crucis Inventióne, passiónis tuæ mirácula suscitásti : concéde ; ut vitális ligni prétio, ætérnæ vitæ suffrágia consequámur : Qui vivis et regnas.

Let us pray.
O God, who in the finding of the Cross of our Salvation didst renew the wonders of thy passion : vouchsafe to grant that through the ransom once paid upon that Tree of life, we may attain unto life eternal.  Who livest and reignest with the Father.

Ant:  O Doctor óptime, Ecclésiæ sanctæ lumen, beáte Athánasi, divínæ legis amátor, deprecáre pro nobis Fílium Dei.  Allelúja.

Ant:  O Doctor right excellent, O light of Holy Church, O blessed Athanasius, lover of the divine law, entreat for us the Son of God.  Alleluia.

V.  Justum dedúxit Dóminus per vias rectas, allelúja.
R.  Et osténdit illi regnum Dei, allelúja.

V.  The Lord guided the righteous in right paths, alleluia.
R.  And shewed him the kingdom of God, alleluia.

Oremus.
Exáudi, quæsumus, Dómine, preces nostras, quas in beáti Athanásii Confessóris solemnitáte deférimus : et, qui tibi digne méruit famulári, ejus intercedéntibus méritis, ab ómnibus nos absólve peccátis.  Per Dóminum.

Let us pray.
Hear, O Lord, we beseech thee, the prayers which we offer thee on this the solemn Feastday of thy blessed Confessor and Bishop Athanasius, and, for the sake of him who so nobly served thee, forgive us our trespasses.  Through.

COMMEMORATIONS, if there be any

CLOSING VERSICLES AND THAT WHICH FOLLOWETH

Sunday Compline
 

Invitatory and Hymn

Christum Regem crucifíxum, * Veníte, adorémus, allelúja.

Christ crucified is our King, * O come, let us worship, alleluia.

Christum Regem crucifíxum, * Veníte, adorémus, allelúja.

Christ crucified is our King, * O come, let us worship, alleluia.

Psalmus 94.
Venite, exsultemus Domino

Veníte, exsultémus Dómino, jubilémus Deo, salutári nostro : præoccupémus fáciem ejus in confessióne, et in psalmis jubilémus ei.

O come, let us sing unto the Lord ; let us heartily rejoice in the God of our salvation.  Let us come before his presence with thanksgiving ; and shew ourselves glad in him with psalms.

Christum Regem crucifíxum, * Veníte, adorémus, allelúja.

Christ crucified is our King, * O come, let us worship, alleluia.

Quóniam Deus magnus Dóminus, et Rex magnus super omnes deos : quóniam non repéllet Dóminus plebem suam : quia in manu ejus sunt omnes fines terræ, et altitúdines móntium ipse cónspicit.

For the Lord is a great God ; and a great King above all gods:  For the Lord will not cast off his people:  In his hand are all the corners of the earth, and the strength of the hills is his also.

Veníte, adorémus, allelúja.

O come, let us worship, alleluia.

In the following verse of the Psalm, at the words veníte, adorémus, et procidámus ante Deum (O come, let us worship and fall down, and kneel before the Lord our Maker) all genuflect.

Quóniam ipsíus est mare, et ipse fecit illud, et áridam fundavérunt manus ejus : veníte, adorémus, et procidámus ante Deum : plorémus coram Dómino, qui fecit nos, quia ipse est Dóminus Deus noster ; nos autem pópulus ejus, et oves páscuæ ejus.

The sea is his and he made it ; and his hands prepared the dry land.  O come, let us worship and fall down, and kneel before the Lord our Maker: For he is the Lord our God ; and we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture.

Christum Regem crucifíxum, * Veníte, adorémus, allelúja.

Christ crucified is our King, * O come, let us worship, alleluia.

Hódie, si vocem ejus audiéritis, nolíte obduráre corda vestra, sicut in exacerbatióne, secúndum diem tentatiónis in desérto : ubi tentavérunt me patres vestri, probavérunt et vidérunt ópera mea.

Today if ye will hear his voice, harden not your hearts, as in the provocation, and as in the day of temptation in the wilderness ; when your fathers tempted me, proved me, and saw my works.

Veníte, adorémus, allelúja.

O come, let us worship, alleluia.

Quadragínta annis próximus fui generatióni huic, et dixi : Semper hi errant corde ; ipsi vero non cognovérunt vias meas : quibus jurávi in ira mea : Si introíbunt in réquiem meam.

Forty years long was I grieved with this generation, and said, It is a people that do err in their hearts, for they have not known my ways:  unto whom I sware in my wrath, that they should not enter into my rest.

Christum Regem crucifíxum, * Veníte, adorémus, allelúja.

Christ crucified is our King, * O come, let us worship, alleluia.

Glória Patri, et Fílio, et Spirítui Sancto.  Sicut erat in princípio, et nunc, et semper,  et in sæcula sæculórum.  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.

Veníte, adorémus, allelúja.

O come, let us worship, alleluia.

Christum Regem crucifíxum, * Veníte, adorémus, allelúja.

Christ crucified is our King, * O come, let us worship, alleluia.

As soon as the introductory part of Matins is finished, there is begun The First Nocturn. 
 

First Nocturn

Ant.    Invéntæ Crucis * festa recólimus, cujus præcónium univérsum per orbem micánti lúmine fulget, allelúja.

Ant.    All the earth * this day is making glad memorial of the Finding of the holy Cross, whose blessed light streameth over every land and people, alleluia.

COMMENTARY

Psalmus 1.  Beatus vir

Beátus vir, qui non ábiit in consílio impiórum, et in via peccatórum non stetit, * et in cáthedra pestiléntiæ non sedit :
2  Sed in lege Dómini volúntas ejus, * et in lege ejus meditábitur die ac nocte.
3  Et erit tamquam lignum, quod plantátum est secus decúrsus aquárum, * quod fructum suum dabit in témpore suo:
4  Et fólium ejus non défluet: * et ómnia quæcúmque fáciet, prosperabúntur.
5  Non sic ímpii, non sic: * sed tamquam pulvis, quem prójicit ventus a fácie terræ.
6  Ideo non resúrgent ímpii in judício: * neque peccatóres in concílio justórum.
7  Quóniam novit Dóminus viam justórum: * et iter impiórum períbit.

Blessed is the man that hath not walked in the counsel of the ungodly, nor stood in the way of sinners, * and hath not sat in the seat of pestilence.
2  But his delight is in the law of the Lord; * and in his law will he exercise himself day and night.
3  And he shall be like a tree planted by the water-side, * that will bring forth his fruit in due season.
4  His leaf also shall not wither; * and all whatsoever he doeth, it shall prosper.
5  As for the ungodly, it is not so with them; * but they are like the chaff, which the wind scattereth away from the face of the earth.
6  Therefore the ungodly shall not rise again in judgment; * neither the sinners in the congregation of the righteous.
7  For the Lord knoweth the way of the righteous; * and the way of the ungodly shall perish.

COMMENTARY

Psalmus 2.  Quare fremuerunt gentes?

Quare fremuérunt Gentes: * et pópuli meditáti sunt inánia?
2  Astitérunt reges terræ, et príncipes convenérunt in unum * advérsus Dóminum, et advérsus Christum ejus.
3  Dirumpámus víncula eórum: * et projiciámus a nobis jugum ipsórum.
4  Qui hábitat in cælis, irridébit eos: * et Dóminus subsannábit eos.
5  Tunc loquétur ad eos in ira sua, * et in furóre suo conturbábit eos.
6  Ego autem constitútus sum Rex ab eo super Sion montem sanctum ejus, * prædicans præcéptum ejus.
7  Dóminus dixit ad me: * Fílius meus es tu, ego hódie génui te.
8  Póstula a me, et dabo tibi Gentes hereditátem tuam, * et possessiónem tuam términos terræ.
9  Reges eos in virga férrea, * et tamquam vas fíguli confrínges eos.
10  Et nunc, reges, intellígite: * erudímini, qui judicátis terram.
11  Servíte Dómino in timóre: * et exsultáte ei cum tremóre.
12  Apprehéndite disciplínam, nequándo irascátur Dóminus, * et pereátis de via justa.
13  Cum exárserit in brevi ira ejus: * beáti omnes qui confídunt in eo.

Psalm 2.  Quare fremuerunt gentes?

Why do the heathen so furiously rage together? * and why do the people imagine a vain thing?
2  The kings of the earth have arisen, and the rulers have taken counsel together * against the Lord, and against his Anointed.
3  Let us break their bonds asunder, * and cast away their cords from us.
4  He that dwelleth in heaven shall laugh them to scorn: *  the Lord shall have them in derision.
5  Then shall he speak unto them in his wrath, * and vex them in his sore displeasure :
6  Yet I have been stablished King by him upon his holy hill of Sion, * preaching his commandment.
7  The Lord hath said unto me : * Thou art my Son, this day have I begotten thee.
8  Desire of me, and I shall give thee the heathen for thine inheritance, * and the utmost parts of the earth for thy possession.
9  Thou shalt rule them with a rod of iron, * and break them in pieces like a potter's vessel.
10  Be wise now therefore, O ye kings; * be learned, ye that are judges of the earth.
11  Serve the Lord in fear, * and rejoice unto him with reverence.
12  Embrace discipline, lest at any time the Lord be angry, * and so ye perish from the right way.
13  If his wrath be kindled, yea, but in a short time : *  blessed are all they that put their trust in him.

COMMENTARY

Psalmus 3.  Domine quid multiplicati?

Dómine quid multiplicáti sunt qui tríbulant me? * multi insúrgunt advérsum me.
2  Multi dicunt ánimæ meæ: * Non est salus ipsi in Deo ejus.
3  Tu autem, Dómine, suscéptor meus es, * glória mea, et exáltans caput meum.
4  Voce mea ad Dóminum clamávi: * et exaudívit me de monte sancto suo.
5  Ego dormívi, et soporátus sum: * et exsurréxi, quia Dóminus suscépit me.
6  Non timébo míllia pópuli circumdántis me: * exsúrge, Dómine, salvum me fac, Deus meus.
7  Quóniam tu percussísti omnes adversántes mihi sine causa: * dentes peccatórum contrivísti.
8  Dómini est salus: * et super pópulum tuum benedíctio tua.

Psalm 3.  Domine quid multiplicati?

Lord, how are they increased that trouble me! * many are they that rise against me.
2  Many one there be that say of my soul, * There is no help for him in his God.
3  But thou, O Lord, art my defender; * thou art my worship, and the lifter up of my head.
4  I did call upon the Lord with my voice, * and he heard me out of his holy hill.
5  I laid me down and slept, * and rose up again, for the Lord sustained me.
6  I will not be afraid for thousands of the people that have set themselves against me round about ; * up, Lord, and help me, O my God.
7  For thou smitest all that are mine enemies without cause ; * thou hast broken the teeth of the ungodly.
8  Salvation belongeth unto the Lord; * and thy blessing is upon thy people.

Ant.    Invéntæ Crucis festa recólimus, cujus præcónium univérsum per orbem micánti lúmine fulget, allelúja.

Ant.    All the earth this day is making glad memorial of the Finding of the holy Cross, whose blessed light streameth over every land and people, alleluia.

STAND

Absolutio: Exáudi, Dómine Jesu Christe, preces servórum tuórum, et miserére nobis : Qui cum Patre et Spíritu Sancto vivis et regnas in sæcula sæculórum.
R.  Amen.

Absolution:  Graciously hear, O Lord Jesu Christ, the prayers of thy servants, and have mercy upon us.  Who, with the Father, and the Holy Ghost, livest and reignest, for ever and ever.
R.  Amen.

Benedíctio 1: Benedictióne perpétua benedícat nos Pater ætérnus.
R.  Amen.

Benediction 1:  May the Father Eternal bless us with a never-ending blessing.
R.  Amen.

Quicúmque ex opéribus legis sunt, sub maledícto sunt.  Scriptum est enim : Maledíctus omnis, qui non permánserit in ómnibus, quæ scripta sunt in libro legis ut fáciat ea.  Quóniam autem in lege nemo justificátur apud Deum, maniféstum est : quia justus ex fide vivit.  Lex autem non est ex fide, sed, Qui fécerit ea, vivet in illis.  Christus nos redémit de maledícto legis, factus pro nobis maledíctum : quia scriptum est : Maledíctus omnis qui pendet in ligno : ut in Géntibus benedíctio Abrahæ fíeret in Christo Jesu, ut pollicitatiónem Spíritus accipiámus per fidem.

For as many as are of the works of the law are under the curse: for it is written, Cursed is every one that continueth not in all things which are written in the book of the law to do them.  But that no man is justified by the law in the sight of God, it is evident: for, The just shall live by faith.  And the law is not of faith: but, The man that doeth them shall live in them.  Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the law, being made a curse for us: for it is written, Cursed is every one that hangeth on a tree: that the blessing of Abraham might come on the Gentiles through Jesus Christ; that we might receive the promise of the Spirit through faith.

V.  Tu autem, Dómine, miserére nobis.
R.  Deo grátias.

V.  But thou, O Lord, have mercy upon us.
R.  Thanks be to God.

R.  Gloriósum diem sacra venerátur Ecclésia, dum triumphále reserátur lignum : * In quo Redémptor noster, mortis víncula rumpens, cállidum áspidem superávit, allelúja, allelúja, allelúja.
V.  In ligno pendens nostræ salútis sémitam Verbum Patris invénit.
R.  In quo Redémptor noster, mortis víncula rumpens, cállidum áspidem superávit, allelúja, allelúja, allelúja.

R.  Lo, the Church with solemn gladness, haileth the day for ever glorious  when in Kingly pomp was lifted that dread tree of mystic triumph  * On whose boughs her dying Saviour shattered death and crushed the serpent, alleluia, alleluia, alleluia.
V.  He the Word of God Eternal, on those stately branches hanging hath for us a new way opened.
R.  On whose boughs her dying Saviour shattered death and crushed the serpent, alleluia, alleluia, alleluia.

Benedíctio 2: Unigénitus Dei Fílius nos benedícere et adjuváre dignétur.
R.  Amen.

Benediction 2: May the Son of God, the sole-begotten, mercifully bless and keep us.
R.  Amen.

Hoc enim sentíte in vobis, quod et in Christo Jesu : qui, cum in forma Dei esset, non rapínam arbitrátus est esse se æquálem Deo : sed semetípsum exinanívit, formam servi accípiens, in similitúdinem hóminum factus, et hábitu invéntus ut homo.  Humiliávit semetípsum factus obédiens usque ad mortem, mortem autem crucis.  Propter quod et Deus exaltávit illum, et donávit illi nomen, quod est super omne nomen : ut in nómine Jesu omne genu flectátur cæléstium, terréstrium, et infernórum : et omnis lingua confiteátur, quia Dóminus Jesus Christus in glória est Dei Patris.

Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: but made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: and being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross.  Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name: that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

V.  Tu autem, Dómine, miserére nobis.
R.  Deo grátias.

V.  But thou, O Lord, have mercy upon us.
R.  Thanks be to God.

R.  Crux fidélis, inter omnes arbor una nóbilis : nulla silva talem profert, fronde, flore, gérmine : * Dulce lignum, dulces clavos, dulce pondus sustínuit, allelúja.
V.  Super ómnia ligna cedrórum tu sola excélsior.
R.  Dulce lignum, dulces clavos, dulce pondus sustínuit, allelúja.

R.  Faithful Cross, above all other, one and only noble tree!  None in foliage, none in blossom, none in fruit thy peers may be. * Sweetest wood and sweetest iron, sweetest Weight is hung on thee, alleluia.
V.  Thou , O Cross, above all cedars shall on earth exalted be.
R.  Sweetest wood and sweetest iron, sweetest Weight is hung on thee, alleluia.

Benedíctio 3: Spíritus Sancti grátia illúminet sensus et corda nostra.
R.  Amen.

Benediction 3: May the grace of the Holy Spirit all our heart and mind enlighten.
R.  Amen.

In Christo inhábitat omnis plenitúdo divinitátis corporáliter : et estis in illo repléti, qui est caput omnis principátus et potestátis ; in quo et circumcísi estis circumcisióne non manu facta in exspoliatióne córporis carnis, sed in circumcisióne Christi ; consepúlti ei in baptísmo, in quo et resurrexístis per fidem operatiónis Dei, qui suscitávit illum a mórtuis.  Et vos, cum mórtui essétis in delíctis et præpútio carnis vestræ, convivificávit cum illo, donans vobis ómnia delícta : delens quod advérsus nos erat chirógraphum decréti, quod erat contrárium nobis, et ipsum tulit de médio, affígens illud cruci : et exspólians principátus, et potestátes tradúxit confidénter, palam triúmphans illos in semetípso.

For in him dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily.  And ye are complete in him, which is the head of all principality and power: in whom also ye are circumcised with the circumcision made without hands, in putting off the body of the sins of the flesh by the circumcision of Christ: buried with him in baptism, wherein also ye are risen with him through the faith of the operation of God, who hath raised him from the dead.  And you, being dead in your sins and the uncircumcision of your flesh, hath he quickened together with him, having forgiven you all trespasses; blotting out the handwriting of ordinances that was against us, which was contrary to us, and took it out of the way, nailing it to his cross; and having spoiled principalities and powers, he made a shew of them openly, triumphing over them in it.

V.  Tu autem, Dómine, miserére nobis.
R.  Deo grátias.

V.  But thou, O Lord, have mercy upon us.
R.  Thanks be to God.

R.  Hæc est arbor digníssima, in paradísi médio situáta, * In qua salútis auctor própria morte mortem ómnium superávit, allelúja, allelúja.
V.  Crux præcellénti decóre fúlgida, quam Hélena Constantíni mater concupiscénti ánimo requisívit.
R.  In qua salútis auctor própria morte mortem ómnium superávit, allelúja, allelúja.
V.  Glória Patri, et Fílio, et Spirítui Sancto.
R.  In qua salútis auctor própria morte mortem ómnium superávit, allelúja, allelúja.

R.  This is that noble Tree, planted in the midst of the garden, * Whereon the Author of our salvation by his own death did vanquish death for all men, alleluia, alleluia.
V.  Even the Cross, whereof the glory is so excellent, and which Helena, the mother of Constantine, did therefore so eagerly rescue.
R.  Whereon the Author of our salvation by his own death did vanquish death for all men, alleluia, alleluia.
V.  Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost.
R.  Whereon the Author of our salvation by his own death did vanquish death for all men, alleluia, alleluia.

Second Nocturn

The Emperor Constantine and his mother, St. Helena

Ant.    Felix ille triúmphus * fit salus ægris, vitæ lignum, mortis remédium, allelúja.

Ant.    That happy triumph * hath become a healing to the sick, the tree of life, the remedy of death, alleluia.

COMMENTARY

Psalmus 4. Cum invocarem

Cum invocárem exaudívit me Deus justítiæ meæ: *  in tribulatióne dilatásti mihi.
2  Miserére mei, * et exáudi oratiónem meam.
3  Fílii hóminum, úsquequo gravi corde? *  ut quid dilígitis vanitátem et quæritis mendácium?
4  Et scitóte quóniam mirificávit Dóminus sanctum suum: * Dóminus exáudiet me cum clamávero ad eum.
5  Irascímini, et nolíte peccáre: * quæ dícitis in córdibus vestris, in cubílibus vestris compungímini.
6  Sacrificáte sacrifícium justítiæ, et speráte in Dómino, * multi dicunt quis osténdit nobis bona?
7  Signátum est super nos lumen vultus tui, Dómine: *  dedísti lætítiam in corde meo.
8  A fructu fruménti, vini et ólei sui * multiplicáti sunt.
9  In pace in idípsum * dórmiam et requiéscam;
10  Quóniam tu, Dómine, singuláriter in spe * constituísti me.

He hath heard me when I call, the God of my righteousness: * thou hast set me at liberty when I was in trouble.
2  Have mercy upon me, * and hearken unto my prayer.
3  O ye sons of men, how long will ye be dull of heart? * and have such pleasure in vanity, and seek after leasing?
4  Know this also, that the Lord hath chosen to himself the man that is godly; * when I call upon the Lord he will hear me.
5  Be ye angry, and sin not; * the things that ye say in your hearts, repent ye them upon your beds.
6  Offer the sacrifice of righteousness, and put your trust in the Lord, * there be many that say, who will shew us any good?
7  The light of thy countenance, O Lord, is sealed upon us, * thou hast put gladness in my heart.
8  By the fruit of their corn and wine and oil * have they been multiplied.
9  I will lay me down in peace, * and take my rest;
10  For it is thou, Lord, only, * that makest me dwell in safety.

COMMENTARY

Psalmus 5.  Verba mea

Verba mea áuribus pércipe, Dómine, * intéllige clamórem meum.
2  Inténde voci oratiónis meæ: * Rex meus et Deus meus.
3  Quóniam ad te orábo: * Dómine, mane exáudies vocem meam.
4  Mane astábo tibi et vidébo: * quóniam non Deus volens iniquitátem tu es.
5  Neque habitábit juxta te malígnus: * neque permanébunt injústi ante óculos tuos.
6  Odísti omnes, qui operántur iniquitátem: * perdes omnes, qui loquúntur mendácium.
7  Virum sánguinum et dolósum abominábitur Dóminus: * ego autem in multitúdine misericórdiæ tuæ.
8  Introíbo in domum tuam: * adorábo ad templum sanctum tuum in timóre tuo.
9  Dómine, deduc me in justítia tua: * propter inimícos meos dírige in conspéctu tuo viam meam.
10  Quóniam non est in ore eórum véritas: * cor eórum vanum est.
11  Sepúlcrum patens est guttur eórum, linguis suis dolóse agébant, * júdica illos, Deus.
12  Décidant a cogitatiónibus suis, secúndum multitúdinem impietátum eórum expélle eos, * quóniam irritavérunt te, Dómine.
13  Et læténtur omnes, qui sperant in te, * in ætérnum exsultábunt: et habitábis in eis.
14  Et gloriabúntur in te omnes, qui díligunt nomen tuum: * quóniam tu benedíces justo.
15  Dómine, ut scuto bonæ voluntátis tuæ * coronásti nos.

Psalm 5.  Verba mea

Ponder my words, O Lord, * consider my cry.
2  O hearken thou unto the voice of my calling, * my King and my God.
3  For unto thee will I make my prayer : * in the morning shalt thou hear my voice, O Lord.
4  Early in the morning will I stand before thee, and will see : * for thou art the God that hast no pleasure in wickedness.
5  Neither shall any evil dwell with thee : * nor shall the unjust abide before thine eyes.
6  For thou hatest all them that work iniquity : * thou shalt destroy them that speak lies.
7  The Lord will abhor both the blood-thirsty and deceitful man : * but as for me, in the multitude of thy mercy.
8   I will come into thine house; * and in thy fear will I worship toward thy holy temple.
9  Lead me, O Lord, in thy righteousness, * because of mine enemies make my way plain before thy face.
10  For there is no faithfulness in their mouth; * their heart is vain.
11  Their throat is an open sepulchre, they flatter with their tongue : * judge thou them, O God.
12  Let them perish through their own imaginations; cast them out in the multitude of their ungodliness; * for they have rebelled against thee, O Lord.
13  And let all them that put their trust in thee rejoice: * they shall for ever be glad, and thou shalt dwell amongst them.
14  And all they that love thy Name shall be joyful in thee; * for thou, Lord, wilt give thy blessing unto the righteous.
15  Thou hast crowned us, O Lord, * as with a shield of thy good will.

COMMENTARY

Psalmus 8.  Domine, Dominus noster

Dómine, Dóminus noster, * quam admirábile est nomen tuum in univérsa terra!
2  Quóniam eleváta est magnificéntia tua, * super cælos.
3  Ex ore infántium et lacténtium perfecísti laudem propter inimícos tuos, * ut déstruas inimícum et ultórem.
4  Quóniam vidébo cælos tuos, ópera digitórum tuórum: * lunam et stellas, quæ tu fundásti.
5  Quid est homo quod memor es ejus? * aut fílius hóminis, quóniam vísitas eum?
6  Minuísti eum paulo minus ab Angelis, glória et honóre coronásti eum: * et constituísti eum super ópera mánuum tuárum.
7  Omnia subjecísti sub pédibus ejus, * oves et boves univérsas : ínsuper et pécora campi.
8  Vólucres cæli, et pisces maris, * qui perámbulant sémitas maris.
9  Dómine, Dóminus noster, * quam admirábile est nomen tuum in univérsa terra!

O Lord our Governour, * how excellent is thy Name in all the world!
2  For thou hast set thy glory * above the heavens.
3  Out of the mouth of very babes and sucklings hast thou perfected praise, because of thine enemies, * that thou mightest destroy the enemy and the avenger.
4  For I will consider thy heavens, even the works of thy fingers; * the moon and the stars which thou hast ordained;
5  What is man, that thou art mindful of him? * and the son of man, that thou visitest him?
6  Thou madest him lower than the Angels, thou hast crowned him with glory and worship : * thou makest him to have dominion over the works of thy hands.
7  Thou hast put all things in subjection under his feet : * all sheep and oxen, yea, and the beasts of the field;
8  The fowls of the air, and the fishes of the sea; * and whatsoever walketh through the paths of the seas.
9  O Lord our Governour, * how excellent is thy Name in all the world!

Ant.    Felix ille triúmphus fit salus ægris, vitæ lignum, mortis remédium, allelúja.

Ant.    That happy triumph hath become a healing to the sick, the tree of life, the remedy of death, alleluia.

STAND

Absolutio: Ipsíus píetas et misericórdia nos ádjuvet, qui cum Patre et Spíritu Sancto vivit et regnat in sæcula sæculórum.
R.  Amen.

Absolution:  May his loving-kindness and mercy assist us.  Who, with the Father, and the Holy Ghost, liveth and reigneth, for ever and ever.
R.  Amen.

V.  Jube domne, (Dómine) benedícere.

V.  Vouchsafe, Reverend Father (O Lord), thy blessing.

Benedíctio 4: Deus Pater omnípotens sit nobis propítius et clemens.
R.  Amen.

Benediction 4:  May God the Father Almighty shew us his mercy and pity.
R.  Amen.

Post insígnem victóriam, quam Constantínus imperátor, divinítus accépto signo Domínicæ Crucis, ex Maxéntio reportávit, Hélena Constantíni mater, in somnis admónita, conquiréndæ Crucis stúdio Jerosólymam venit ; ubi marmóream Véneris státuam, in Crucis loco a Géntibus collocátam ad tolléndam Christi Dómini passiónis memóriam, post centum círciter octogínta annos, everténdam curávit.  Quod item fecit ad præsépe Salvatóris et in loco resurrectiónis, inde Adónidis hinc Jovis subláto simulácro.

After that famous victory which the Emperor Constantine gained over Maxentius, on the eve of which the banner of the Cross of the Lord had been given to him from heaven, Helena, the mother of Constantine, being warned in a dream, came to Jerusalem, to seek for the Cross.  There it was her care to cause to be overthrown the marble statue of Venus, which had stood on Calvary for about one hundred and eighty years, and which had originally been put there to desecrate and destroy the memorial of the sufferings of the Lord Christ.  The like work Helena did by cleansing from an image of Adonis the stable where the Saviour was born, and from an idol of Jupiter, the place where he had arisen from the dead.

V.  Tu autem, Dómine, miserére nobis.
R.  Deo grátias.

V.  But thou, O Lord, have mercy upon us.
R.  Thanks be to God.

R.  Nos autem gloriári opórtet in Cruce Dómini nostri Jesu Christi, in quo est salus, vita, et resurréctio nostra : * Per quem salváti et liberáti sumus, allelúja.
V.  Tuam Crucem adorámus, Dómine, et recólimus tuam gloriósam passiónem.
R.  Per quem salváti et liberáti sumus, allelúja.

R.  But as for us, it behoveth us to glory in the Cross of our Lord Jesus Christ ; in whom is our salvation, our life and resurrection : * By whom we were saved and obtained our freedom, alleluia.
V.  O Lord, we venerate thy holy Cross, and celebrate the memorial of thy glorious Passion.
R.  By whom we were saved and obtained our freedom, alleluia.

V.  Jube domne, (Dómine) benedícere.

V.  Vouchsafe, Reverend Father (O Lord), thy blessing.

Benedíctio 5: Christus perpétuæ det nobis gáudia vitæ.
R.  Amen.

Benediction 5: May Christ bestow upon us the joys of life eternal.
R.  Amen.

Itaque loco Crucis purgáto, alte defóssæ tres cruces érutæ sunt, repertúsque seórsum ab illis Crucis Domínicæ títulus : qui cum ex tribus cui affíxus fuísset, non apparéret, eam dubitatiónem sústulit miráculum.  Nam Macárius Jerosolymórum epíscopus, factis Deo précibus, síngulas cruces cuídam féminæ, gravi morbo laboránti, admóvit ; cui cum réliquæ nihil profuíssent, adhíbita tértia Crux statim eam sanávit.

When she had thus cleansed the place where the Cross had stood, Helena caused deep excavations to be made, which resulted in the discovery of three crosses, and, apart from them, the writing which had been nailed on that of the Lord.  But which of the crosses had been his was unknown, and was only manifested by a miracle.  Macarius, Bishop of Jerusalem, after offering solemn prayers to God, touched with each of the three crosses a woman who was afflicted with a grievous disease.  The two first had not effect, but at the touch of the third Cross she was immediately healed.

V.  Tu autem, Dómine, miserére nobis.
R.  Deo grátias.

V.  But thou, O Lord, have mercy upon us.
R.  Thanks be to God.

R.  Dum sacrum pignus cælitus exaltátur, Christi fides roborátur : * Adsunt prodígia divína in virga Móysi prímitus figuráta, allelúja, allelúja.
V.  Ad Crucis contáctum resúrgunt mórtui, et Dei magnália reserántur.
R.  Adsunt prodígia divína in virga Móysi prímitus figuráta, allelúja, allelúja.

R.  The Relick true from heaven revealed hath mankind's faith in Christ now sealed. * Like the serpent Moses lifted was the Cross with virtue gifted, alleluia, alleluia.
V.  When the dead touch the Cross they arise, and the wonderful works of God are made manifest.
R.  Like the serpent Moses lifted was the Cross with virtue gifted, alleluia, alleluia.

V.  Jube domne, (Dómine) benedícere.

V.  Vouchsafe, Reverend Father (O Lord), thy blessing.

Benedíctio 6: Ignem sui amóris accéndat Deus in córdibus nostris.
R.  Amen.

Benediction 6: May God enkindle in our hearts the fire of his holy love.
R.  Amen.

Hélena, salutári Cruce invénta, magnificentíssimam ibi exstrúxit ecclésiam, in qua partem Crucis relíquit thecis argénteis inclúsam, partem Constantíno fílio détulit ; quæ Romæ repósita fuit in ecclésia sanctæ Crucis in Jerúsalem, ædificáta in ædibus Sessoriánis.  Clavos étiam áttulit fílio, quibus sanctíssimum Jesu Christi corpus fixum fúerat.  Quo ex témpore Constantínus legem sancívit, ne crux ad supplícium cuíquam adhiberétur.  Ita res, quæ ántea homínibus probro ac ludíbrio fúerat, veneratióni et glóriæ esse cœpit.

Helena, after she had found the life-giving Cross, built over the site of the Passion a Church of extraordinary splendour, wherein she deposited part of the Cross, shut up in a silver case.  Another part which she gave to her son, Constantine, was laid up in the Church of the Holy Cross of Jerusalem, which he built at Rome on the site of the Sessorian Palace.  She also gave to her son the nails with which the Most Holy Body of Jesus Christ had been pierced.  Constantine established a law abolishing the punishment of crucifixion for all time coming : and thenceforth what had hitherto been a hissing and a curse among men, began to be esteemed worshipful and glorious.

V.  Tu autem, Dómine, miserére nobis.
R.  Deo grátias.

V.  But thou, O Lord, have mercy upon us.
R.  Thanks be to God.

Relic of the True Cross at the Church of the Holy Cross of Jerusalem, Rome

R.  Hoc signum Crucis erit in cælo, cum Dóminus ad judicándum vénerit : * Tunc manifésta erunt abscóndita cordis nostri, allelúja, allelúja.
V.  Cum séderit Fílius hóminis in sede majestátis suæ, et cœperit judicáre sæculum per ignem, allelúja, allelúja.
R.  Tunc manifésta erunt abscóndita cordis nostri, allelúja, allelúja.
V.  Glória Patri, et Fílio, et Spirítui Sancto.
R.  Tunc manifésta erunt abscóndita cordis nostri, allelúja, allelúja.

R.  This sign of the Cross shall appear in heaven when the Lord shall come to judgment. * Then shall the secrets of our hearts be made manifest, alleluia, alleluia.
V.  When the Son of Man shall sit in the throne of his glory, and shall begin to judge the world by fire.
R.  Then shall the secrets of our hearts be made manifest, alleluia, alleluia.
V.  Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost.
R.  Then shall the secrets of our hearts be made manifest, alleluia, alleluia.

Third Nocturn

Ant.    Adorámus te, Christe, * et benedícimus tibi, quia per Crucem tuam redemísti mundum, allelúja.

Ant.    We adore thee, O Christ, * and we bless thee, because by thy holy Cross thou hast redeemed the world, alleluia.

COMMENTARY

Psalmus 95.  Cantate Domino

Cantáte Dómino cánticum novum: * cantáte Dómino, omnis terra.
2  Cantáte Dómino, et benedícite nómini ejus: * annuntiáte de die in diem salutáre ejus.
3  Annuntiáte inter gentes glóriam ejus, * in ómnibus pópulis mirabília ejus.
4  Quóniam magnus Dóminus, et laudábilis nimis: * terríbilis est super omnes deos.
5  Quóniam omnes dii Géntium dæmónia: * Dóminus autem cælos fecit.
6  Conféssio, et pulchritúdo in conspéctu ejus: * sanctimónia et magnificéntia in sanctificatióne ejus.
7  Afférte Dómino, pátriæ Géntium, afférte Dómino glóriam et honórem: * afférte Dómino glóriam nómini ejus.
8  Tóllite hóstias, et introíte in átria ejus: * adoráte Dóminum in átrio sancto ejus.
9  Commoveátur a fácie ejus univérsa terra: * dícite in Géntibus quia Dóminus regnávit.
10  Etenim corréxit orbem terræ qui non commovébitur: * judicábit pópulos in æquitáte.
11  Læténtur cæli, et exsúltet terra: commoveátur mare et plenitúdo ejus: * gaudébunt campi, et ómnia quæ in eis sunt.
12  Tunc exsultábunt ómnia ligna silvárum a fácie Dómini, quia venit: * quóniam venit judicáre terram.
13  Judicábit orbem terræ in æquitáte, * et pópulos in veritáte sua.

O sing unto the Lord a new song; * sing unto the Lord, all the whole earth.
2  Sing unto the Lord, and bless ye his Name; * be telling of his salvation from day to day.
3  Declare his glory among the heathen, * and his wonders among all peoples.
4  For the Lord is great, and exceeding worthy to be praised; * he is to be feared above all gods.
5  For all the gods of the heathen, they are but devils; * but it is the Lord that made the heavens.
6  Praise and beauty are before him; * holiness and majesty are in his sanctuary.
7  Bring ye to the Lord, O ye kindreds of the nations, bring ye to the Lord glory and honour : * bring ye to the Lord the honour due unto his Name.
8  Bring ye sacrifices, and come into his courts : * O worship the Lord in his holy court.
9  Let the whole earth be moved at his presence : * tell it out among the heathen, that the Lord is King.
10  For he hath corrected the round world, which shall not be moved; * he shall judge the peoples with justice.
11  Let the heavens rejoice, and let the earth be glad, let the sea be moved and all the fulness thereof : * the fields shall be joyful, and all that is in them.
12  Then shall all the trees of the wood rejoice before the Lord, for he cometh : * yea, he cometh to judge the earth..
13  He shall judge the world with justice, * and the peoples with his truth.

COMMENTARY

Psalmus 96.  Dominus regnavit

Dóminus regnávit exsúltet terra: * læténtur ínsulæ multæ.
2  Nubes, et calígo in circúitu ejus: * justítia, et judícium corréctio sedis ejus.
3  Ignis ante ipsum præcédet: * et inflammábit in circúitu inimícos ejus.
4  Illuxérunt fúlgura ejus orbi terræ: * vidit et commóta est terra.
5  Montes, sicut cera fluxérunt a fácie Dómini: * a fácie Dómini omnis terra.
6  Annuntiavérunt cæli justítiam ejus: * et vidérunt omnes pópuli glóriam ejus.
7  Confundántur omnes, qui adórant sculptília: * et qui gloriántur in simulácris suis.
8  Adoráte eum, omnes Angeli ejus: * audívit, et lætáta est Sion.
9  Et exsultavérunt fíliæ Judæ: * propter judícia tua, Dómine:
10  Quóniam tu Dóminus Altíssimus super omnem terram: * nimis exaltátus es super omnes deos.
11  Qui dilígitis Dóminum, odíte malum: * custódit Dóminus ánimas sanctórum suórum, de manu peccatóris liberábit eos.
12  Lux orta est justo, * et rectis corde lætítia.
13  Lætámini, justi in Dómino: * et confitémini memóriæ sanctificatiónis ejus.

The Lord hath reigned, may the earth be glad thereof; * yea, the multitude of the isles shall be joyful.
2  Clouds and darkness are round about him: * righteousness and judgment are the habitation of his seat.
3  There shall go a fire before him, * and burn up his enemies on every side.
4  His lightnings gave shine unto the world: * the earth saw it, and trembled.
5  The hills melted like wax at the presence of the Lord; * the whole earth at the presence of the Lord.
6  The heavens have declared his righteousness, * and all the peoples have seen his glory.
7  Confounded be all they that worship carved images, * and that delight in their vain gods.
8  Worship him, all ye his Angels : * Sion heard of it, and rejoiced.
9  And the daughters of Judah were glad, * because of thy judgments, O Lord.
10  For thou art the most high Lord over all the earth: * thou art exalted far above all gods.
11  O ye that love the Lord, hate evil: * the Lord preserveth the souls of his saints; he shall deliver them from the hand of the ungodly.
12  There is sprung up a light for the righteous, * and joy for such as are true-hearted.
13  Rejoice in the Lord, ye righteous; * and give thanks for a remembrance of his holiness.

COMMENTARY

Psalmus 97.  Cantate Domino

Cantáte Dómino cánticum novum: * quia mirabília fecit.
2  Salvávit sibi déxtera ejus: * et bráchium sanctum ejus.
3  Notum fecit Dóminus salutáre suum: * in conspéctu Géntium revelávit justítiam suam.
4  Recordátus est misericórdiæ suæ, * et veritátis suæ dómui Israël.
5  Vidérunt omnes términi terræ * salutáre Dei nostri.
6  Jubiláte Deo, omnis terra: * cantáte, et exsultáte, et psállite.
7  Psállite Dómino in cíthara, in cíthara et voce psalmi: * in tubis ductílibus, et voce tubæ córneæ.
8  Jubiláte in conspéctu regis Dómini: * moveátur mare, et plenitúdo ejus: orbis terrárum, et qui hábitant in eo.
9  Flúmina plaudent manu, simul montes exsultábunt a conspéctu Dómini: * quóniam venit judicáre terram.
10  Judicábit orbem terrárum in justítia, * et pópulos in æquitáte.

O sing unto the Lord a new song; * for he hath done marvellous things.
2  His right hand hath wrought for him salvation : * and his arm is holy.
3  The Lord hath made known his salvation; * his righteousness hath he revealed in the sight of the heathen.
4  He hath remembered his mercy, * and his truth toward the house of Israel.
5  All the ends of the world have seen * the salvation of our God.
6  Be ye joyful unto God, all the earth : * make melody, rejoice, and sing.
7  Sing praise unto the Lord upon the harp, yea, upon the harp and with the voice of a psalm : * with long trumpets, and with the sound of the shawm.
8  O shew yourselves joyful before the Lord, the King : * let the sea be moved, and the fulness thereof: the round world, and they that dwell therein.
9  Let the floods clap their hands, and let the hills be joyful together before the Lord; * for he is come to judge the earth.
10  With righteousness shall he judge the world, * and the peoples with equity.

Ant.    Adorámus te, Christe, et benedícimus tibi, quia per Crucem tuam redemísti mundum, allelúja.

Ant.    We adore thee, O Christ, and we bless thee, because by thy holy Cross thou hast redeemed the world, alleluia.

STAND

Absolutio: A vínculis peccatórum nostrórum absólvat nos omnípotens et miséricors Dóminus.
R.  Amen.

Absolution:  May the Lord Almighty and merciful break the bonds of our sins and set us free.
R.  Amen.

V.  Jube domne, (Dómine) benedícere.

V.  Vouchsafe, Reverend Father (O Lord), thy blessing.

Benedíctio 7: Evangélica léctio sit nobis salus et protéctio.
R.  Amen.

Benediction 7:  May the Gospel's holy lection be our safeguard and protection.
R.  Amen.