Commonly Called

Michaelmas Day

Double of I 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.   Stetit Angelus * juxta aram templi, habens thuríbulum áureum in manu sua.

Ant.  An Angel stood * at the altar of the temple, having a golden censer in his hand.

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.   Stetit Angelus juxta aram templi, habens thuríbulum áureum in manu sua.

Ant.  An Angel stood at the altar of the temple, having a golden censer in his hand.

Ant.   Dum præliarétur * Míchaël Archángelus cum dracóne, audíta est vox dicéntium : Salus Deo nostro, allelúja.

Ant.   Whilst Michael the Archangel * fought with the dragon, there was heard the voice of them which said : Salvation to our God, 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.   Dum præliarétur Míchaël Archángelus cum dracóne, audíta est vox dicéntium : Salus Deo nostro, allelúja.

Ant.   Whilst Michael the Archangel fought with the dragon, there was heard the voice of them which said : Salvation to our God, alleluia.

Ant.   Archángele Míchaël, * constítui te príncipem super omnes ánimas suscipiéndas.

Ant.   O Michael mine Archangel, * I have made thee prince, to be in charge of the ingathering of souls.

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.   Archángele Míchaël, constítui te príncipem super omnes ánimas suscipiéndas.

Ant.   O Michael mine Archangel, I have made thee prince, to be in charge of the ingathering of souls.

Ant.    O ye Angels of the Lord, * bless ye the Lord for ever.

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.    Angeli Dómini, Dóminum benedícite in ætérnum.

Ant.    O ye Angels of the Lord, bless ye the Lord for ever.

Ant.   Angeli, Archángeli, * Throni et Dominatiónes, Principátus et Potestátes, Virtútes cælórum, laudáte Dóminum de cælis, allelúja.

Ant.   O ye Angels and Archangels, * O ye Thrones and Dominions, O ye Principalities and Powers, O ye Mighty Ones of heaven, praise ye the Lord of heaven, 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.   Angeli, Archángeli, Throni et Dominatiónes, Principátus et Potestátes, Virtútes cælórum, laudáte Dóminum de cælis, allelúja.

Ant.   O ye Angels and Archangels, O ye Thrones and Dominions, O ye Principalities and Powers, O ye Mighty Ones of heaven, praise ye the Lord of heaven, alleluia.

STAND

Capitulum                      Apoc. 1. 1-2.
Significávit Deus, quæ opórtet fíeri cito, loquens per Angelum suum servo suo Joánni, qui testimónium perhíbuit verbo Dei, et testimónium Jesu Christi, quæcúmque vidit.
R.  Deo grátias.

The Little Chapter          Apoc. 1.1-2.
God signified the things which much shortly come to pass sending by his Angel unto his servant John : who bare record of the Word of God, and of the testimony of Jesus Christ , what things soever he hath seen.
R.  Thanks be to God.

Te, splendor et virtus Patris,
Te vita, Jesu, córdium,
Ab ore qui pendent tuo,
Laudámus inter Angelos.

Tibi mille densa míllium
Ducum coróna mílitat;
Sed éxplicat victor Crucem
Míchaël salútis sígnifer.

Dracónis hic dirum caput
In ima pellit tártara,
Ducémque cum rebéllibus
Cælésti ab arce fúlminat.

Contra ducem supérbiæ
Sequámur hunc nos príncipem,
Ut detur ex Agni throno
Nobis coróna glóriæ.

Sequens Conclusio numquam mutátur.
Deo Patri sit glória,
Qui, quos redémit Fílius,
Et Sanctus unxit Spíritus,
Per Angelos custódiat.  Amen.

Thee, O Christ, the Father's Splendour,
Life and virtue of the heart,
In the presence of the Angels
Sing we now with tuneful art;
Meetly in alternate chorus
Bearing our responsive part.

Thus we praise with veneration
All the armies of the sky;
Chiefly him, the warrior Primate
Of celestial chivalry,
Michael, who in princely virtue
Cast Abaddon from on high.

By whose watchful care repélling,
King of everlasting grace,
Every ghostly adversary,
All things evil, all things base,
Grant us of thine only goodness
In thy Paradise a place.

Doxology
Laud and honour to the Father;
Laud and honour to the Son;
Laud and honour to the Spirit;
Ever Three and ever One;
Consubstantial, Co-eternal,
While unending ages run.  Amen.

V.  Stetit Angelus juxta aram templi.
R.  Habens thuríbulum áureum in manu sua.

V.  An Angel stood at the altar of the temple.
R.  Having a golden censer in his hand.

Ad Magnif. Ant:  Dum sacrum mystérium * cérneret Joánnes, Archángelus Míchaël tuba cécinit : Ignósce, Dómine, Deus noster, qui áperis librum, et solvis signácula ejus, allelúja.

Ant. on Magnif:  John beheld the sacred mysteries, * and the Archangel Michael sounded his trumpet-call to judgment: O thou that openest the book, and loosest the seals thereof, do thou forgive us, O Lord our God, alleluia.

Oremus.
Deus, qui, miro órdine, Angelórum ministéria hominúmque dispénsas : concéde propítius ; ut, a quibus tibi ministrántibus in cælo semper assístitur, ab his in terra vita nostra muniátur.  Per Dóminum.

Let us pray.
O everlasting God, who hast ordained and constituted the services of Angels and men in a wonderful order : mercifully grant that as thy holy Angels alway do thee service in heaven, so by thy appointment they may succour and defend us on earth.  Through.

COMMEMORATIONS, if there be any

CLOSING VERSICLES AND THAT WHICH FOLLOWETH

Sunday Compline

Matins

The first part of Matins is in the Ordinary

Invitatory and Hymn

First Nocturn

Second Nocturn

Third Nocturn

Invitatory and Hymn

Regem Archangelórum Dóminum, * Veníte, adorémus.

The Lord, the King of Archangels, * O come, let us worship.

Regem Archangelórum Dóminum, * Veníte, adorémus.

The Lord, the King of Archangels, * O come, let us worship.

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.

Regem Archangelórum Dóminum, * Veníte, adorémus.

The Lord, the King of Archangels, * O come, let us worship.

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.

O come, let us worship.

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.

Regem Archangelórum Dóminum, * Veníte, adorémus.

The Lord, the King of Archangels, * O come, let us worship.

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.

O come, let us worship.

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.

Regem Archangelórum Dóminum, * Veníte, adorémus.

The Lord, the King of Archangels, * O come, let us worship.

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.

O come, let us worship.

Regem Archangelórum Dóminum, * Veníte, adorémus.

The Lord, the King of Archangels, * O come, let us worship.

Te, splendor et virtus Patris,
Te vita, Jesu, córdium,
Ab ore qui pendent tuo,
Laudámus inter Angelos.

Tibi mille densa míllium
Ducum coróna mílitat;
Sed éxplicat victor Crucem
Míchaël salútis sígnifer.

Dracónis hic dirum caput
In ima pellit tártara,
Ducémque cum rebéllibus
Cælésti ab arce fúlminat.

Contra ducem supérbiæ
Sequámur hunc nos príncipem,
Ut detur ex Agni throno
Nobis coróna glóriæ.

Sequens Conclusio numquam mutátur.
Deo Patri sit glória,
Qui, quos redémit Fílius,
Et Sanctus unxit Spíritus,
Per Angelos custódiat.  Amen.

Thee, O Christ, the Father's Splendour,
Life and virtue of the heart,
In the presence of the Angels
Sing we now with tuneful art;
Meetly in alternate chorus
Bearing our responsive part.

Thus we praise with veneration
All the armies of the sky;
Chiefly him, the warrior Primate
Of celestial chivalry,
Michael, who in princely virtue
Cast Abaddon from on high.

By whose watchful care repélling,
King of everlasting grace,
Every ghostly adversary,
All things evil, all things base,
Grant us of thine only goodness
In thy Paradise a place.

Doxology
Laud and honour to the Father;
Laud and honour to the Son;
Laud and honour to the Spirit;
Ever Three and ever One;
Consubstantial, Co-eternal,
While unending ages run.  Amen.

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

First Nocturn

Ant.    Concússum est mare, * et contrémuit terra, ubi Archángelus Míchaël descendébat de cælo.

Ant.    The sea was moved, * and the earth trembled, when the Archangel Michael descended from heaven.

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.    Concússum est mare, et contrémuit terra, ubi Archángelus Míchaël descendébat de cælo.

Ant.    The sea was moved, and the earth trembled, when the Archangel Michael descended from heaven.

Ant.    Laudémus Dóminum, * quem laudant Angeli, quem Chérubim et Séraphim, sanctus, sanctus, sanctus proclámant.

Ant.    Let us praise the Lord, * whom the Angels do praise, unto whom Cherumbim and Séraphim continually do cry, Holy, Holy, Holy.

COMMENTARY

Psalmus 10.  In Domino confido

In Dómino confído : quómodo dícitis ánimæ meæ: * Tránsmigra in montem sicut passer?
2  Quóniam ecce peccatóres intendérunt arcum, paravérunt sagíttas suas in pháretra, * ut sagíttent in obscúro rectos corde.
3  Quóniam quæ perfecísti, destruxérunt: * justus autem quid fecit?
4  Dóminus in templo sancto suo, * Dóminus in cælo sedes ejus.
5  Oculi ejus in páuperem respíciunt: * pálpebræ ejus intérrogant fílios hóminum.
6  Dóminus intérrogat justum et ímpium: * qui autem díligit iniquitátem, odit ánimam suam.
7  Pluet super peccatóres láqueos: * ignis, et sulphur, et spíritus procellárum pars cálicis eórum.
8  Quóniam justus Dóminus, et justítias diléxit: * æquitátem vidit vultus ejus.

Psalm 10.  In Domino confido

In the Lord do I put my trust : how say ye then to my soul, * that she should flee as a bird unto the hill?
2  For lo, the ungodly bend their bow, and make ready their arrows within the quiver, * that they may shoot in the dark at them which are true of heart.
3  For they have destroyed the things which thou hast made : * and what hath the righteous done?
4  The Lord is in his holy temple; * the Lord's seat is in heaven.
5  His eyes consider the poor, * and his eyelids try the children of men.
6  The Lord trieth the righteous and the wicked : * but he that delighteth in wickedness, abhoreth his own soul.
7  Upon the ungodly he shall rain snares, * fire and brimstone, storm and tempest shall be their portion to drink.
8  For the Lord is righteous and loveth righteousness; * his countenance hath beholden the thing that is just.

Ant.    Laudémus Dóminum, quem laudant Angeli, quem Chérubim et Séraphim, sanctus, sanctus, sanctus proclámant.

Ant.    Let us praise the Lord, whom the Angels do praise, unto whom Cherumbim and Séraphim continually do cry, Holy, Holy, Holy.

Ant.    Ascéndit * fumus arómatum in conspéctu Dómini de manu Angeli.

Ant.    The smoke of the incense * ascended up before God out of the Angel's hand.

COMMENTARY

Psalmus 14.  Domine, quis habitabit?

Dómine, quis habitábit in tabernáculo tuo? * aut quis requiéscet in monte sancto tuo?
2  Qui ingréditur sine mácula, * et operátur justítiam :
3  Qui lóquitur veritátem in corde suo, * qui non egit dolum in lingua sua :
4  Nec fecit próximo suo malum, * et oppróbrium non accépit advérsus próximos suos.
5  Ad níhilum dedúctus est in conspéctu ejus malígnus: * timéntes autem Dóminum gloríficat :
6  Qui jurat próximo suo, et non décipit, * qui pecúniam suam non dedit ad usúram, et múnera super innocéntem non accépit.
7  Qui facit hæc: * non movébitur in ætérnum.

Psalm 14.  Domine, quis habitabit?

Lord, who shall dwell in thy tabernacle? * or who shall rest upon thy holy hill?
2  Even he that leadeth an uncorrupt life, * and doeth the thing which is right.
3  He that speaketh the truth in his heart, * and that hath used no deceit in his tongue.
4  Nor done evil to his neighbour, * and hath not taken up slander against his neighbour.
5  In his sight the malicious is brought to nought, * but he glorifieth them that fear the Lord.
6  He that sweareth unto his neighbour, and disappointeth him not, * he that hath not given his money upon usury, nor taken reward against the innocent.
7  Whoso doeth these things * shall never fall.

Ant.    Ascéndit fumus arómatum in conspéctu Dómini de manu Angeli.

Ant.    The smoke of the incense ascended up before God out of the Angel's hand.

STAND

V.  Stetit Angelus juxta aram templi.
R.  Habens thuríbulum áureum in manu sua.

V.  An Angel stood at the altar of the temple.
R.  Having a golden censer in his hand.

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.

De Daniéle Prophéta

The Lesson is taken from the Book of Daniel the Prophet

Aspiciébam donec throni pósiti sunt, et antíquus diérum sedit.  Vestiméntum ejus cándidum quasi nix, et capílli cápitis ejus quasi lana munda, thronus ejus flammæ ignis, rotæ ejus ignis accénsus.  Flúvius ígneus rapidúsque egrediebátur a fácie ejus ; míllia míllium ministrábant ei, et décies míllies centéna míllia assistébant ei.  Judícium sedit, et libri apérti sunt.  Aspiciébam propter vocem sermónum grándium, quos cornu illud loquebátur ; et vidi quóniam interfécta esset béstia, et periísset corpus ejus, et tráditum esset ad comburéndum igni.

I beheld till the thrones were cast down, and the Ancient of days did sit, whose garment was white as snow, and the hair of his head like the pure wool: his throne was like the fiery flame, and his wheels as burning fire.  A fiery stream issued and came forth from before him: thousand thousands ministered unto him, and ten thousand times ten thousand stood before him: the judgment was set, and the books were opened.  I beheld then because of the voice of the great words which the horn spake: I beheld even till the beast was slain, and his body destroyed, and given to the burning flame.

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

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

R.  Factum est siléntio in cælo, dum commítteret bellum draco cum Michaéle Archángelo : * Audíta est vox míllia míllium dicéntium : Salus, honor et virtus omnipoténti Deo.
V.  Millia míllium ministrábant ei, et décies centéna míllia assistébant ei.
R.  Audíta est vox míllia míllium dicéntium : Salus, honor et virtus omnipoténti Deo.

R.  There was silence in heaven for a space, whenas Michael and his Angels made war against the dragon :  *  And after these things I heard a great voice of much people in heaven, saying, Salvation and glory, and honour and power, unto the Lord our God.
V.  Thousands of thousands did minister unto him, and ten thousand times ten thousand stood before him.
R.  And after these things I heard a great voice of much people in heaven, saying, Salvation and glory, and honour and power, unto the Lord our God.

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.

Die autem vigésima et quarta mensis primi, eram juxta flúvium magnum, qui est Tigris.  Et levávi óculos meos, et vidi : et ecce vir unus vestítus líneis, et renes ejus accíncti auro obrízo ; et corpus ejus quasi chrysólithus, et fácies ejus velut spécies fúlguris, et óculi ejus ut lampas ardens, et bráchia ejus, et quæ deórsum sunt usque ad pedes, quasi spécies æris candéntis ; et vox sermónum ejus ut vox multitúdinis.  Vidi autem ego Dániel solus visiónem ; porro viri qui erant mecum non vidérunt ; sed terror nímius írruit super eos, et fugérunt in abscónditum.  Ego autem, relíctus solus, vidi visiónem grandem hanc, et non remánsit in me fortitúdo, sed et spécies mea immutáta est in me, et emárcui nec hábui quidquam vírium.

And in the four and twentieth day of the first month, as I was by the side of the great river, which is Hiddekel; then I lifted up mine eyes, and looked, and behold a certain man clothed in linen, whose loins were girded with fine gold of Uphaz: his body also was like the beryl, and his face as the appearance of lightning, and his eyes as lamps of fire, and his arms and his feet like in colour to polished brass, and the voice of his words like the voice of a multitude.  And I Daniel alone saw the vision: for the men that were with me saw not the vision; but a great quaking fell upon them, so that they fled to hide themselves.  Therefore I was left alone, and saw this great vision, and there remained no strength in me: for my comeliness was turned in me into corruption, and I retained no strength.

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

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

R.  Stetit Angelus juxta aram templi, habens thuríbulum áureum in manu sua, et data sunt ei incénsa multa : * Et ascéndit fumus arómatum de manu Angeli in conspéctu Dómini.
V.  In conspéctu Angelórum psallam tibi : adorábo ad templum sanctum tuum, et confitébor nómini tuo, Dómine.
R.  Et ascéndit fumus arómatum de manu Angeli in conspéctu Domini.

R.  An Angel stood at the altar of the temple, having a golden censer in his hand, and there was given unto him much incense ; *  And the smoke of the incense ascended up before God out of the Angel's hand.
V.  Even before the Angels that like as gods do minister in his presence will I sing praise unto thee.
R.  And the smoke of the incense ascended up before God out of the Angel's hand.

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.

Et audívi vocem sermónum ejus : et áudiens jacébam consternátus super fáciem meam, et vultus meus hærébat terræ.  Et ecce manus tétigit me, et eréxit me super génua mea et super artículos mánuum meárum.  Et dixit ad me : Dániel, vir desideriórum, intéllige verba quæ ego loquor ad te, et sta in gradu tuo ; nunc enim sum missus ad te.  Cumque dixísset mihi sermónem istum, steti tremens.  Et ait ad me : Noli metúere, Dániel ; quia, ex die primo quo posuísti cor tuum ad intelligéndum, ut te afflígeres in conspéctu Dei tui, exaudíta sunt verba tua, et ego veni propter sermónes tuos.  Princeps autem regni Persárum réstitit mihi vigínti et uno diébus ; et ecce Míchaël, unus de princípibus primis, venit in adjutórium meum, et ego remánsi ibi juxta regem Persárum.  Veni autem ut docérem te quæ ventúra sunt pópulo tuo in novíssimis diébus, quóniam adhuc vísio in dies.

Yet heard I the voice of his words: and when I heard the voice of his words, then was I in a deep sleep on my face, and my face toward the ground.  And, behold, an hand touched me, which set me upon my knees and upon the palms of my hands.  And he said unto me, O Daniel, a man greatly beloved, understand the words that I speak unto thee, and stand upright: for unto thee am I now sent. And when he had spoken this word unto me, I stood trembling.  Then said he unto me, Fear not, Daniel: for from the first day that thou didst set thine heart to understand, and to chasten thyself before thy God, thy words were heard, and I am come for thy words.  But the prince of the kingdom of Persia withstood me one and twenty days: but, lo, Michael, one of the chief princes, came to help me; and I remained there with the kings of Persia.  Now I am come to make thee understand what shall befall thy people in the latter days: for yet the vision is for many days.

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

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

R.  In conspéctu Angelórum psallam tibi, et adorábo ad templum sanctum tuum :  * Et confitébor nómini tuo, Dómine.
V.  Super misericórdia tua et veritáte tua : quóniam magnificásti super nos nomen sanctum tuum.
R.  Et confitébor nómini tuo, Dómine.
V.  Glória Patri, et Fílio, et Spirítui Sancto.
R.  Et confitébor nómini tuo, Dómine.

R.  Even before the Angels, will I sing praise unto thee : I will worship toward thy holy temple : * And I will praise thy Name, O Lord.
V.  Because of thy loving-kindness and truth : for thou hast magnified thy Name and thy holy Word above all things.
R.  And I will praise thy Name, O Lord.
V.  Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost.
R.  And I will praise thy Name, O Lord.

Second Nocturn

Ant.    Míchaël Archángele, * veni in adjutórium pópulo Dei.

Ant.    Archangel Michael, * come to the help of God's people.

COMMENTARY

Psalmus 18. Cæli enarrant

Cæli enárrant glóriam Dei: * et ópera mánuum ejus annúntiat firmaméntum.
2  Dies diéi erúctat verbum, * et nox nocti índicat sciéntiam.
3  Non sunt loquélæ, neque sermónes, * quorum non audiántur voces eórum.
4  In omnem terram exívit sonus eórum: * et in fines orbis terræ verba eórum.
5  In sole pósuit tabernáculum suum: * et ipse tamquam sponsus procédens de thálamo suo.
6  Exsultávit ut gigas ad curréndam viam, * a summo cæli egréssio ejus.
7  Et occúrsus ejus usque ad summum ejus: * nec est qui se abscóndat a calóre ejus.
8  Lex Dómini immaculáta, convértens ánimas: * testimónium Dómini fidéle, sapiéntiam præstans párvulis.
9  Justítiæ Dómini rectæ, lætificántes corda: * præcéptum Dómini lúcidum illúminans óculos.
10  Timor Dómini sanctus, pérmanens in sæculum sæculi: * judícia Dómini vera, justificáta in semetípsa.
11  Desiderabília super aurum et lápidem pretiósum multum: * et dulcióra super mel et favum.
12  Etenim servus tuus custódit ea, * in custodiéndis illis retribútio multa.
13  Delícta quis intélligit? ab occúltis meis munda me: * et ab aliénis parce servo tuo.
14  Si mei non fúerint domináti, tunc immaculátus ero: * et emundábor a delícto máximo.
15  Et erunt ut compláceant elóquia oris mei: * et meditátio cordis mei in conspéctu tuo semper.
16  Dómine, adjútor meus, * et redémptor meus.

Psalm 18. Cæli enarrant

The heavens declare the glory of God; * and the firmament sheweth his handy-work.
2  One day uttereth speech unto another; * and night sheweth knowledge unto night.
3  There is neither speech nor language; * where their voices are not heard.
4  Their sound is gone out unto all the lands; * and their words unto the ends of the earth.
5  In the sun hath he set his tabernacle; * and he, as a bridegroom coming out of his chamber,
6  Hath rejoiced as a giant to run his course, * his going forth is from the uttermost part of the heaven.
7  And his circuit even unto the end thereof; * and there is no one that can hide himself from his heat.
8  The law of the Lord is an undefiled law, converting the soul; * the testimony of the Lord is sure, and giveth wisdom unto the simple.
9  The statutes of the Lord are right, and rejoice the heart; * the commandment of the Lord is pure, and giveth light unto the eyes.
10  The fear of the Lord is holy, and endureth for ever; * the judgments of the Lord are true, justified in themselves.
11  More to be desired are they than gold, yea, than much precious stone; * sweeter also than honey, and the honeycomb.
12  For thy servant keepeth them; * and in keeping of them there is great reward.
13  Who can tell how oft he offendeth? O cleanse thou me from my secret faults : * save thy servant also from the sins of others.
14  If they get not the dominion over me, so shall I be undefiled, * and innocent from the great offence.
15  And the words of my mouth shall be such as may please, * and the meditation of my heart be alway in thy sight.
16  O Lord, my strength * and my redeemer.

Ant.    Míchaël Archángele, veni in adjutórium pópulo Dei.

Ant.    Archangel Michael, come to the help of God's people.

Ant.    Míchaël * præpósitus paradísi, quem honoríficant Angelórum cives.

Ant.    The Archangel Michael * is the Vice-Roy of Paradise, and the Angels that are the dwellers therein do hold him in worship.

COMMENTARY

Psalmus 23. Domini est terra

Dómini est terra, et plenitúdo ejus: * orbis terrárum, et univérsi qui hábitant in eo.
2  Quia ipse super mária fundávit eum: * et super flúmina præparávit eum.
3  Quis ascéndit in montem Dómini? * aut quis stabit in loco sancto ejus?
4  Innocens mánibus et mundo corde, * qui non accépit in vano ánimam suam, nec jurávit in dolo próximo suo.
5  Hic accípiet benedictiónem a Dómino: * et misericórdiam a Deo, salutári suo.
6  Hæc est generátio quæréntium eum, * quæréntium fáciem Dei Jacob.
7  Attóllite portas príncipes vestras, et elevámini portæ æternáles: * et introíbit Rex glóriæ.
8  Quis est iste Rex glóriæ? * Dóminus fortis et potens : Dóminus potens in prælio.
9  Attóllite portas príncipes vestras,  et elevámini portæ æternáles: * et introíbit Rex glóriæ.
10  Quis est iste Rex glóriæ? * Dóminus virtútum ipse est Rex glóriæ.

The earth is the Lord's, and all the fulness thereof; * the compass of the world, and they that dwell therein.
2  For he hath founded it upon the seas, * and stablished it upon the rivers.
3  Who shall ascend into the mountain of the Lord? * or who shall stand in his holy place?
4  Even he that hath clean hands, and a pure heart; * and that hath not lift up his soul unto vanity, nor deceitfully sworn to his neighbour.
5  He shall receive a blessing from the Lord, * and mercy from God his saviour.
6  This is the generation of them that seek him; * even of them that seek the face of the God of Jacob.
7  Lift up your gates, O ye princes; and be ye lift up, ye everlasting gates; * and the King of glory shall come in.
8  Who is this King of glory? * It is the Lord strong and mighty, even the Lord mighty in battle.
9  Lift up your gates, O ye princes; and be ye lift up, ye everlasting gates; * and the King of glory shall come in.
10  Who is this King of glory? * Even the Lord of hosts, he is the King of glory.

Ant.    Míchaël præpósitus paradísi, quem honoríficant Angelórum cives.

Ant.    The Archangel Michael is the Vice-Roy of Paradise, and the Angels that are the dwellers therein do hold him in worship.

Ant.    Gloriósus * appáruit in conspéctu Dómini : proptérea decórem índuit te Dóminus.

Ant.    Thou wast manifested * in thy glory in the presence of the Lord ; therefore the Lord hath clothed thee with majesty.

COMMENTARY

Psalmus 33.  Benedicam Dominum

Benedícam Dóminum in omni témpore : * semper laus ejus in ore meo.
2  In Dómino laudábitur ánima mea : * áudiant mansuéti, et læténtur.
3  Magnificáte Dóminum mecum : * et exaltémus nomen ejus in idípsum.
4  Exquisívi Dóminum, et exaudívit me : * et ex ómnibus tribulatiónibus meis erípuit me.
5  Accédite ad eum, et illuminámini : * et fácies vestræ non confundéntur.
6  Iste pauper clamávit, et Dóminus exaudívit eum : * et de ómnibus tribulatiónibus ejus salvávit eum.
7  Immíttet Angelus Dómini in circúitu timéntium eum : * et erípiet eos.
8  Gustáte, et vidéte quóniam suávis est Dóminus : * beátus vir, qui sperat in eo.
9  Timéte Dóminum, omnes sancti ejus : * quóniam non est inópia timéntibus eum.
10  Dívites eguérunt et esuriérunt : * inquiréntes autem Dóminum non minuéntur omni bono.
11  Veníte, fílii, audíte me : * timórem Dómini docébo vos.
12  Quis est homo qui vult vitam : * díligit dies vidére bonos?
13  Próhibe linguam tuam a malo : * et lábia tua ne loquántur dolum.
14  Divérte a malo, et fac bonum : * inquire pacem, et perséquere eam.
15  Oculi Dómini super justos : * et aures ejus in preces eórum.
16  Vultus autem Dómini super faciéntes mala : * ut perdat de terra memóriam eórum.
17  Clamavérunt justi, et Dóminus exaudívit eos : * et ex ómnibus tribulatiónibus eórum liberávit eos.
18  Juxta est Dóminus iis, qui tribuláto sunt corde : * et húmiles spíritu salvábit.
19  Multæ tribulatiónes justórum : * et de ómnibus his liberávit eos Dóminus.
20  Custódit Dóminus ómnia ossa eórum : * unum ex his non conterétur.
21  Mors peccatórum péssima : * et qui odérunt justum, delínquent.
22  Redimet Dóminus ánimas servórum suórum : * et non delínquent omnes qui sperant in eo.

Psalm 33.  Benedicam Dominum

I will bless the Lord alway; * his praise shall ever be in my mouth.
2  My soul shall make her boast in the Lord; * the humble shall hear thereof, and be glad.
3  O praise the Lord with me, * and let us magnify his Name together.
4  I sought the Lord, and he heard me; * yea, he delivered me out of all my troubles.
5  Come ye unto him, and be enlightened; * and your faces shall not be ashamed.
6  Lo, the poor hath cried out, and the Lord heard him; * yea, and hath saved him out of all his troubles.
7  The angel of the Lord shall tarry round about them that fear him, * and he shall deliver them.
8  O taste, and see that the Lord is gracious: * blessed is the man that trusteth in him.
9  O fear the Lord, ye that are his saints; * for they that fear him lack nothing.
10  The rich have wanted, and have suffered hunger; * but they who seek the Lord shall want no manner of thing that is good.
11  Come, ye children, and hearken unto me; * I will teach you the fear of the Lord.
12  What man is he that lusteth to live, * and would fain see good days?
13  Keep thy tongue from evil, * and thy lips, that they speak no guile.
14  Eschew evil, and do good; * seek peace, and ensue it.
15  The eyes of the Lord are over the righteous, * and his ears are open unto their prayers.
16  The countenance of the Lord is against them that do evil, * to root out the remembrance of them from the earth.
17  The righteous have cried out, and the Lord heard them, * and hath delivered them out of all their troubles.
18  The Lord is nigh unto them that are of a contrite heart, * and will save such as be of an humble spirit.
19  Great are the troubles of the righteous; * but the Lord delivereth him out of all.
20  He keepeth all his bones, * so that not one of them is broken.
21  But the death of the ungodly is most evil; * and they that hate the righteous shall be desolate.
22  The Lord shall redeem the souls of his servants; * and all they that put their trust in him shall not be destitute.

Ant.    Gloriósus appáruit in conspéctu Dómini : proptérea decórem índuit te Dóminus.

Ant.    Thou wast manifested in thy glory in the presence of the Lord ; therefore the Lord hath clothed thee with majesty.

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.

Novem Angelórum órdines dícimus, quia vidélicet esse, testánte sacro elóquio scimus : Angelos, Archángelos, Virtútes, Potestátes, Principátus, Dominatiónes, Thronos, Chérubim atque Séraphim.  Esse namque Angelos et Archángelos pene omnes sacri elóquii páginæ testántur.  Chérubim vero atque Séraphim sæpe, ut notum est, libri prophetárum loquúntur.  Quátuor quoque órdinum nómina Paulus Apóstolus ad Ephésios enúmerat, dicens : Supra omnem Principátum, et Potestátem, et Virtútem, et Dominatiónem.  Qui rursus ad Colossénses scribens, ait : Sive Throni, sive Potestátes, sive Principátus, sive Dominatiónes.  Dum ergo illis quátuor, quæ ad Ephésios dixit, conjungúntur Throni, quinque sunt órdines ; quibus dum Angeli et Archángeli, Chérubim atque Séraphim adjúncta sunt, procul dúbio novem esse Angelórum órdines inveniúntur.

We say that there are nine orders or choirs of Angels, for, by the witness of the holy Word, we know that there be Angels, Archangels, Virtues, Powers, Principalities, Dominions, Thrones, Cherubim, and Seraphim.  Nearly every page of the holy Word witnesseth that there be Angels and Archangels.  The books of the Prophets, as is well known, do oftentimes make mention of Cherubim and Seraphim.  The Apostle Paul, writing to the Ephesians, counteth up the names of four orders, where he saith : Far above all Principality, and Power, and Virtue, and Dominion.  And the same, again, writing to the Colossians, saith : Whether they be Thrones, or Dominions, or Principalities, or Powers.  If, then, we add the Thrones to the four orders of which he spake unto the Ephesians, we have five orders ; and when we add unto them the Angels and the Archangels, the Cherubim and the Seraphim, we find that the orders of Angels are beyond all doubt nine.

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

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

R.  Hic est Míchaël Archángelus, princeps milítiæ Angelórum, * Cujus honor præstat benefícia populórum, et orátio perdúcit ad regna cælórum.
V.  Archángelus Míchaël præpósitus paradísi, quem honoríficant Angelórum cives.
R.  Cujus honor præstat benefícia populórum, et orátio perdúcit ad regna cælórum.

R.  This is Michael the Archangel, prince of the Angelic hosts : *  Whose privilege it is to grant favours to the people, and whose prayer leadeth them to the kingdom of heaven.
V.  The Archangel Michael is the Vice-Roy of Paradise, and the Angels that are the dwellers therein do hold him in worship.
R.  Whose privilege it is to grant favours to the people, and whose prayer leadeth them to the kingdom of heaven.

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.

Sciéndum vero quod Angelórum vocábulum nomen est offícii, non natúræ.  Nam sancti illi cæléstis pátriæ Spíritus, semper quidem sunt Spíritus, sed semper vocári Angeli nequáquam possunt ; quia tunc solum sunt Angeli, cum per eos áliqua nuntiántur.  Unde et per Psalmístam dícitur : Qui facit Angelos suos spíritus ; ac si paténter dicat : Qui eos, quos semper habet Spíritus, étiam, cum volúerit, Angelos facit.  Hi autem qui mínima núntiant, Angeli ; qui vero summa annúntiant, Archángeli vocántur.  Hinc est enim quod ad Maríam Vírginem non quílibet Angelus míttitur ; ad hoc quippe ministérium, summum Angelum veníre dignum fúerat, qui summum ómnium nuntiábat.  Qui idcírco étiam privátis nomínibus censéntur, ut signétur per vocábula, étiam in operatióne quid váleant.  Míchaël namque, Quis ut Deus? Gábriel autem, Fortitúdo Dei ; Ráphaël vero dícitur Medicína Dei.

But we must know that the word Angel is the designation, not of a nature, but of an office.  Those holy spirits in the heavenly fatherland are alway spirits, but they may nowise be alway called Angels.  For they are Angels only when they are sent as Messengers.  Hence also it is said by the Psalmist : Who makest spirits thine Angels! as if it were : Of them who are alway with him as spirits, he doth somewhiles make use as Messengers.  They who go on the lesser messages are called Angels : they who go on the greater Archangels.  Hence it is that unto the Virgin Mary was sent no common Angel, but the Archangel Gabriel.  For the delivery of this, the highest message, it was meet that there should be sent the highest Angel.  Their individual names also are so given as to signify the kind of ministry wherein each is powerful.  Michael signifieth Who is like unto God?  Gabriel, The Strength of God.  And Raphael, The Medicine of God.

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

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

R.  Venit Míchaël Archángelus cum multitúdine Angelórum, cui trádidit Deus ánimas Sanctórum, * Ut perdúcat eas in paradísum exsultatiónis.
V.  Emítte, Dómine, Spíritum sanctum tuum de cælis, spíritum sapiéntiæ et intelléctus.
R.  Ut perdúcat eas in paradísum exsultatiónis.

R.  The Archangel Michael, to whose care God had entrusted the souls of the blessed, came forth with a multitude of Angels, * To lead them to the joys of Paradise.
V.  O Lord, send forth thy Holy Spirit from heaven : the Spirit of wisdom and understanding.
R.  To lead them to the joys of Paradise.

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.

Et quóties miræ virtútis áliquid ágitur, Míchaël mitti perhibétur ; ut ex ipso actu et nómine detur intélligi quia nullus potest fácere, quod fácere prævalet Deus.  Unde et ille antíquus hostis, qui Deo esse per supérbiam símilis concupívit, dicens : In cælum conscéndam, super astra cæli exaltábo sólium meum, símilis ero Altíssimo ; dum in fine mundi in sua virtúte relinquétur extrémo supplício periméndus, cum Michaéle Archángelo præliatúrus esse perhibétur, sicut per Joánnem dícitur : Factum est prælium cum Michaéle Archángelo.  Ad Maríam quoque Gábriel míttitur, qui Dei Fortitúdo nominátur ; illum quippe nuntiáre veniébat, qui ad debellándas aéreas potestátes húmilis apparére dignátus est.  Ráphaël quoque interpretátur, ut díximus, Medicína Dei ; quia vidélicet, dum Tobíæ óculos quasi per offícium curatiónis tétigit, cæcitátis ejus ténebras tersit.

As often as anything very mighty is to be done, we see that Michael is sent, that by that very thing, and by his name, we may remember that none is able to do as God doeth.  Hence that old enemy whose pride hath puffed him up to be fain to be like unto God, even he who said : I will ascend unto heaven, I will exalt my throne above the stars of God... I will be like the Most High, this old enemy, when at the end of the world he is about to perish in the last death, having no strength but his own, is shewn unto us a-fighting with Michael the Archangel, even as saith John : There was a war in heaven : Michael and his Angels fought against the dragon ; and the dragon fought and his angels.  Unto Mary is sent Gabriel, whose name is interpreted The Strength of God, for he came to herald the appearing of him who was content to appear lowly that he might fight down the powers of the air.  Raphael, also, as we have said, signifieth The Medicine of God, and it is the name of him who touched as a physician the eyes of Tobias, and cleared away his blindness.

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

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

Tobias is cured of his blindness by the Archangel Raphael

R.  In témpore illo consúrget Míchaël, qui stat pro fíliis vestris : * Et véniet tempus, quale non fuit, ex quo gentes esse cœpérunt, usque ad illud.
V.  In témpore illo salvábitur pópulus tuus omnis, qui invéntus fúerit scriptus in libro vitæ.
R.  Et véniet tempus, quale non fuit, ex quo gentes esse cœpérunt, usque ad illud.
V.  Glória Patri, et Fílio, et Spirítui Sancto.
R.  Et véniet tempus, quale non fuit, ex quo gentes esse cœpérunt, usque ad illud.

R.  At that time shall Michael stand up, which standeth for your children : * And there shall be a time, such as never was since there was a nation even to that same time.
V.  At that time thy people shall be delivered, every one that shall be found written in the Book of Life.
R.  And there shall be a time, such as never was since there was a nation even to that same time.
V.  Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost.
R.  And there shall be a time, such as never was since there was a nation even to that same time.

Third Nocturn

Ant.    Angelus  Archángelus Míchaël, * Dei núntius pro animábus justis, allelúja, allelúja.

Ant.    The Angel Michael the Archangel, * he is the messenger whom God sendeth to all the souls of the righteous, alleluia, 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.

Ant.    Angelus  Archángelus Míchaël, Dei núntius pro animábus justis, allelúja, allelúja.

Ant.    The Angel Michael the Archangel, he is the messenger whom God sendeth to all the souls of the righteous, alleluia, alleluia.

Ant.    Data sunt ei * incénsa multa, ut adoléret ea ante altáre áureum, quod est ante óculos Dómini.

Ant.    There was given unto him * much incense, that he should offer it upon the golden altar which is before the eyes of the Lord.

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.

Ant.    Data sunt ei incénsa multa, ut adoléret ea ante altáre áureum, quod est ante óculos Dómini.

Ant.    There was given unto him much incense, that he should offer it upon the golden altar which is before the eyes of the Lord.

Ant.    Multa magnália * de Michaéle Archángelo, qui, fortis in prælio, fecit victóriam.

Ant.    Great things * are spoken of Michael the Archangel, who waxed valiant in fight, and won the victory.

COMMENTARY

Psalmus 102. Benedic, anima mea

Bénedic, ánima mea, Dómino : * et ómnia, quæ intra me sunt, nómini sancto ejus.
2  Bénedic, ánima mea, Dómino : * et noli oblivísci omnes retributiónes ejus.
3  Qui propitiátur ómnibus iniquitátibus tuis : * qui sanat omnes infirmitátes tuas.
4  Qui rédimit de intéritu vitam tuam : * qui corónat te in misericórdia et miseratiónibus.
5  Qui replet in bonis desidérium tuum : * renovábitur ut áquilæ juvéntus tua.
6  Fáciens misericórdias Dóminus : * et judícium ómnibus injúriam patiéntibus.
7  Notas fecit vias suas Móysi, * fíliis Israël voluntátes suas.
8  Miserátor, et miséricors Dóminus : * longánimis et multum miséricors.
9  Non in perpétuum irascétur :  * neque in ætérnum comminábitur.
10  Non secúndum peccáta nostra fecit nobis : * neque secúndum iniquitátes nostras retríbuit nobis.
11  Quóniam secúndum altitúdinem cæli a terra : * corroborávit misericórdiam suam super timéntes se.
12  Quantum distat ortus ab occidénte : * longe fecit a nobis iniquitátes nostras.
13  Quómodo miserétur pater filiórum, misértus est Dóminus timéntibus se : * quóniam ipse cognóvit figméntum nostrum.
14  Recordátus est quóniam pulvis sumus : * homo, sicut fœnum dies ejus, tamquam flos agri sic efflorébit.
15  Quóniam spíritus pertransíbit in illo, et non subsistet : * et non cognóscet ámplius locum suum.
16  Misericórdia autem Dómini ab ætérno, * et usque in ætérnum super timéntes eum.
17  Et justítia illius in fílios filiórum, * his qui servant testaméntum ejus.
18   Et mémores sunt mandatórum