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Friday, 26 May 2023 08:09

Morning Prayer

HYMN

I saw a man, sent by God,
shouting in the land of death:
“Come back to life! Open wide the doors
to the Gospel of Jesus Christ.”

“Come back to life, you are worth a treasure!
The Blood of Christ is your price!
In his name”, he says, “I break
the chains that enslave you.”

“Away with the weapons, away with hate.
May Love win in every dispute!
One sole Covenant, one Church
Jesus founded in his blood!”

“A thousand tongues I would like to possess,
a thousand lives to live and to sacrifice!
May I my blood, my suffering
Give back to the loving Lord!”

Let us joyfully acclaim your name:
Father, Son, Holy Spirit:
To you be glory forever, O Lord,
In your kingdom that has no end. Amen

Or another suitable hymn approved by ecclesiastic authority.

Ant. 1 Let us rekindle our intimacy with the Lord,
the only delight of our hearts.

PSALM 63: 2-9 A soul thirsting for God
The Church thirsts for her Savior, yearning to drink at the fount of living water that springs up for eternal life. (Cf Cassiodorus).

O God, you are my God, for you I long; *
for you my soul is thirsting.
My body pines for you *
like a dry, weary land without water.

So I gaze on you in the sanctuary *
to see your strength and your glory.
For your love is better than life, *
my lips will speak your praise.

So I will bless you all my life, *
in your name I will lift up my hands.
My soul shall be filled as with a banquet, *
my mouth shall praise you with joy.

On my bed I remember you. *
On you I muse through the night
for you have been my help; *
in the shadow of your wings I rejoice.

My soul clings to you; *
your right hand holds me fast.

Ant. 1 Let us rekindle our intimacy with the Lord,
the only delight of our hearts

Ant. 2 Let us give thanks to God
and let us bless him along with all the creatures.

CANTICLE Daniel 3: 57-88, 56 Let all creatures praise the Lord
Praise our God, all you his servants. (Rv 19:5)

Bless the Lord, all you works of the Lord, *
praise and exalt him above all forever.
Angels of the Lord, bless the Lord, *
you heavens, bless the Lord,

All you waters above the heavens, *
all you hosts of the Lord, bless the Lord;
sun and moon, bless the Lord; *
stars of heaven, bless the Lord;

every shower and dew, bless the Lord; *
all you winds, bless the Lord;
fire and heat, bless the Lord; *
cold and chill, bless the Lord;

dew and rain, bless the Lord; *
frost and chill, bless the Lord;
ice and snow, bless the Lord; *
nights and days, bless the Lord;

light and darkness, bless the Lord; *
lightning and clouds, bless the Lord;
let the earth bless the Lord, *
praise and exalt him above all forever.

Mountains and hills, bless the Lord; *
everything growing from the earth, bless the Lord;
you springs, bless the Lord; *
seas and rivers, bless the Lord;

you dolphins and all water creatures, bless the Lord; *
all you birds of the air, bless the Lord;
all you beasts, wild and tame, bless the Lord; *
you sons of men, bless the Lord;

O Israel, bless the Lord; *
praise and exalt him above all forever.
Priests of the Lord, bless the Lord; *
servants of the Lord, bless the Lord;
spirits and souls of the just, bless the Lord; *
holy men of humble heart, bless the Lord;
Hananiah, Azariah, Mishael, bless the Lord;*
praise and exalt him above all forever.

Let us bless the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit. *
Let us praise and exalt him above all forever.
Blessed are you in the firmament of heaven, *
praiseworthy and glorious forever.

At the end of the canticle the Glory be to the Father is not said.

Ant. 2 Let us give thanks to God
and let us bless him along with all the creatures

Ant. 3 Praise and thanksgiving be evermore to Jesus
who with his blood has saved us.

PSALM 149 The joy of God’s holy people
Let the sons of the Church, the children of the new people, rejoice in Christ, their King (Hesychius).

Sing a new song to the Lord, *
his praise in the assembly of the faithful.
Let Israel rejoice in its maker, *
let Zion’s sons exult in their king.

Let them praise his name with dancing *
and make music with timbrel and harp.
For the Lord takes delight in his people. *
He crowns the poor with salvation.

Let the faithful rejoice in their glory, *
shout for joy and take their rest.
Let the praise of God be on their lips *
and a two-edged sword in their hand,

to deal out vengeance to the nations *
and punishment on all the peoples;
to bind their kings in chains *
and their nobles in fetters of iron;

to carry out the sentence pre-ordained; *
this honor is for all his faithful.

Ant. 3 Praise and thanksgiving be evermore to Jesus
who with his blood has saved us.

READING Hebrews 12, 1-2

Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us rid ourselves of every burden and sin that clings to us and persevere in running the race that lies before us while keeping our eyes fixed on Jesus, the leader and perfecter of faith. For the sake of the joy that lay before him he endured the cross, despising its shame, and has taken his seat at the right of the throne of God.

RESPONSORY

R. Let us remain firm in the work undertaken, * keeping our gaze on Jesus.
-- Let us remain firm in the work undertaken, keeping our gaze on Jesus.
V. Being careful that no one disregards the grace of God,
-- and keeping our gaze on Jesus.
R. Glory be to the Father and to the Holy Spirit.
-- Let us remain firm in the work undertaken, keeping our gaze on Jesus.

Benedictus Ant. Let us serve the Lord with joy:
who in his kindness has visited and redeemed us.

Blessed be the Lord, the God of Israel; *
he has come to his people and set them free.

He has raised up for us a mighty savior, *
born of the house of his servant David.

Through his holy prophets he promised of old †
that he would save us from our enemies, *
from the hands of all who hate us.

He promised to show mercy to our fathers *
and to remember his holy covenant.

This was the oath he swore to our father Abraham: *
to set us free from the hands of our enemies,

free to worship him without fear, *
holy and righteous in his sight all the days of our life.

You, my child, shall be called the prophet of the Most High; *
for you will go before the Lord to prepare his way,

to give his people knowledge of salvation *
by the forgiveness of their sins.

In the tender compassion of our God *
the dawn from on high shall break upon us,

to shine on those who dwell in darkness and the shadow of death, *
and to guide our feet into the way of peace.

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

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

Benedictus Ant. Let us serve the Lord with joy:
who in his kindness has visited and redeemed us.

INTERCESSIONS

To Jesus, who loves us and freed us from our sins by his blood, in true faith let us ask:
Grant us, O Lord, the power of your Blood.

Lord Jesus, you chose to live a family life:
- by the intercession of Saint Gaspar, educated by saintly parents,
may every family, as a small domestic church, foster your peace and live in your grace.
Lord Jesus, you want to be acknowledged in the poor and in the marginalized:
- by the intercession of Saint Gaspar, raise authentic missionaries who will serve you in the needy, everywhere in the world.

Lord Jesus, your word offers hope to prisoners:
- by the intercession of Saint Gaspar, jailed and exiled, grant us the opportunity to lift up those who are denied a country and freedom, to be made worthy to share in the victory of the Lamb.

Lord Jesus, sent as missionary by the Father to announce the Word:
- by the intercession of Saint Gaspar, make all missionaries, catechists, collaborators, inflamed by your Spirit, witnesses of your future kingdom.

Lord Jesus, you endured our sins in your body:
- by the intercession of Saint Gaspar, give us strength in trials, patience in suffering, perseverance in witnessing to your mercy.

Our Father.

Prayer

Almighty and merciful God, who gave us an ardent witness of love for your divinity and for our neighbour in Saint Gaspar del Bufalo, priest and dedicated missionary of the Precious Blood of Christ; through his intercession, listen to the voice of the blood of your Son which daily rises to you from the earth in the painful cry of suffering humanity. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever.

Published in October 21 - Saint Gaspar Del Bufalo

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Friday, 26 May 2023 07:50

Office of Readings

Invitatory

Ant. On the feast of Saint Gaspar, come everyone:
let us praise the Lord, our eternal salvation.

PSALM 95 Invitation to praise God
Encourage yourself daily while it is still “today” (Heb 3:13).

Come, let us sing to the Lord; *
and shout with joy to the Rock who saves us.
Let us approach him with praise and thanksgiving, *
and sing joyful songs to the Lord. (Ant.)

The Lord is God, the mighty God, *
the great king over all the gods.
He holds in his hands the depths of the earth *
and the highest mountains as well.
He made the sea; it belongs to him, *
the dry land, too, for it was formed by his hands. (Ant.)

Come, then, let us bow down and worship, *
bending the knee before the Lord, our maker.
For he is our God and we are his people, *
the flock he shepherds. (Ant.)

Today, listen to the voice of the Lord: Do not grow stubborn, *
as your fathers did in the wilderness, †
when at Meriba and Massah
they challenged me and provoked me, *
Although they had seen all of my works. (Ant.)

Forty years I endured that generation; †
I said: “They are a people whose hearts go astray *
and they do not know my ways.”
So I swore in my anger, *
“They shall not enter into my rest.” (Ant.)

Glory to the Father and to the Son *
and to the Holy Spirit.
As it was in the beginning,
is now, and ever will be. Amen (Ant.)

Alternative Invitatory Psalms: 100, 67, 24

HYMN

Your sons rejoice
on this holy day:
may they imitate you in works,
and exalt you in song.

Tenacious, brave apostle,
you were guide to Heaven:
may your followers radiate in the world
the light of the Gospel.

Faithful admirer
of the noble Xavier,
you became a missionary,
a herald of Love.

Wherever your blazing
words resounded,
the depraved and impenitent
to Christ returned.

May the Blood most precious,
That saved us from evil,
refresh our spirit
with immortal bliss.

We praise the Father on high,
The Redeemer Son,
And the Spirit Paraclete:
The one only God of Love. Amen.

Or another suitable hymn approved by ecclesiastic authority.

Ant.1 We place our life at the service of the Lord,
certain of his fidelity.

PSALM 21, 2-8. 14 In thanksgiving for the victory of the Messiah-King

Lord, the king finds joy in your power; *
in your victory how greatly he rejoices!
You have granted him his heart’s desire; *
you did not refuse the prayer of his lips.

For you welcomed him with goodly blessings; *
you placed on his head a crown of pure gold.
He asked life of you; you gave it to him, *
length of days forever.

Great is his glory in your victory; *
majesty and splendor you confer upon him.
You make him the pattern of blessings forever, *
you gladden him with the joy of your presence.

For the king trusts in the Lord, *
stands firm through the love of the Most High.
Arise, Lord, in your power! *
We will sing and chant the praise of your might.

Ant. 1 We place our life at the service of the Lord,
certain of his fidelity.

Ant. 2 Blessed are those who seek God with a sincere heart
and who love him for ever.

PSALM 92 Praise the creator Lord
I (1-9)

It is good to give thanks to the Lord, *
to sing praise to your name, Most High,

To proclaim your love in the morning, *
your faithfulness in the night,
With the ten-stringed harp, *
with melody upon the lyre.

For you make me jubilant, Lord, by your deeds; *
at the works of your hands I shout for joy.

How great are your works, Lord! *
How profound your purpose!
A senseless person cannot know this; *
a fool cannot comprehend.

Though the wicked flourish like grass *
and all sinners thrive,
They are destined for eternal destruction; *
for you, Lord, are forever on high.

Ant. 2 Blessed are those who seek God with a sincere heart
and who love him for ever.

Ant. 3 In the blood of Christ we will bring abundant fruits
for our God and Father.

II (10-16)

Indeed your enemies, Lord, †
indeed your enemies shall perish;
all sinners shall be scattered.

You have given me the strength of a wild bull; *
you have poured rich oil upon me.

My eyes look with glee on my wicked enemies; *
my ears delight in the fall of my foes.

The just shall flourish like the palm tree, *
shall grow like a cedar of Lebanon.
Planted in the house of the Lord, *
they shall flourish in the courts of our God.

They shall bear fruit even in old age, *
always vigorous and sturdy,
As they proclaim: “The Lord is just;*
our rock, in whom there is no wrong.”

Ant. 3 In the blood of Christ we will bring abundant fruits
for our God and Father.

V. The Lamb upon the throne will take care of them
R. And will lead them to the source of living waters.

FIRST READING

From the Book of Revelation of Saint John, the apostle. Revelation 5:1-14

The vision of the Lamb

I saw a scroll in the right hand of the one who sat on the throne. It had writing on both sides and was sealed with seven seals. Then I saw a mighty angel who proclaimed in a loud voice, “Who is worthy to open the scroll and break its seals?” But no one in heaven or on earth or under the earth was able to open the scroll or to examine it.
I shed many tears because no one was found worthy to open the scroll or to examine it. One of the elders said to me, “Do not weep. The lion of the tribe of Judah, the root of David, has triumphed, enabling him to open the scroll with its seven seals.
Then I saw standing in the midst of the throne and the four living creatures and the elders, a Lamb that seemed to have been slain. He had seven horns and seven eyes; these are the (seven) spirits of God sent out into the whole world. He came and received the scroll from the right hand of the one who sat on the throne. When he took it, the four living creatures and the twenty-four elders fell down before the Lamb. Each of the elders held a harp and gold bowls filled with incense, which are the prayers of the holy ones. They sang a new hymn: “Worthy are you to receive the scroll and to break open its seals, for you were slain and with your blood you purchased for God those from every tribe and tongue, people and nation. You made them a kingdom and priests for our God, and they will reign on earth.”
I looked again and heard the voices of many angels who surrounded the throne and the living creatures and the elders. They were countless in number, and they cried out in a loud voice: “Worthy is the Lamb that was slain to receive power and riches, wisdom and strength, honor and glory and blessing.”
Then I heard every creature in heaven and on earth and under the earth and in the sea, everything in the universe, cry out:
“To the one who sits on the throne and to the Lamb be blessing and honor, glory and might, forever and ever.”
Then I heard every creature in heaven and on earth and under the earth and in the sea, everything in the universe, cry out: “To the one who sits on the throne and to the Lamb be blessing and honor, glory and might, forever and ever.”
The four living creatures answered, “Amen,” and the elders fell down and worshiped.

RESPONSORY Revelation 4:8, 7:10

R. They cried out in a loud voice: * “Salvation comes from our God and from the Lamb.”
V. “Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God almighty.”
R. “Salvation comes from our God and from the Lamb.”

SECOND READING
From the writings of Saint Gaspar del Bufalo, priest

(Circular letter, Spiritual exercises of 1835)

Who is the Missionary of the Most Precious Blood?

What is a missionary? He is a man who, spiritually dead to everything which could hinder the purpose of the ministry and his holy vocation, lives in union with God and for his glory alone: For to me life is Christ. He is a man who nourishes himself with no other food than with the heavenly food to which the sacred text refers: My food is to do the will of the one who sent me. He thirsts after justice and sanctity: Blessed are they who hunger and thirst for righteousness. His heart, animated by the heavenly fire of the love of God, is pierced and moved when he sees that men do not love God: Who is weak, and I am not weak? Who is led to sin, and I am not indignant?
So, now, let us consider how we ought to examine ourselves in these days on the things that we have mentioned up to this point, so that we might renew within ourselves the fervor of that type of life which confirms what Jesus once said to his apostles: And you also testify. With great power the apostles bore witness to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus. By this self-examination, we will come to realize better how our Society provides us with these means through which we are to advance toward a more and more vigorous life of virtue - withdrawal from the world, recollection, silence, examination of conscience, and all the other means enumerated in our “Practices”. These means, indeed, do develop a strengthening of the Spirit and the progress to be made in reaching perfection! They that hope in the Lord will renew their strength, they will soar as with eagles’ wings; They will run and not grow weary.
This interior cultivation of the Spirit lays the foundation for the exterior life of the ministry. We are ordained to perform duties towards God, towards our Society, and towards our neighbor. In each one of us, the words of the Lord should be verified when he speaks of the just man who seeks always to advance and mature in holiness: Happy are those… whose hearts are set on pilgrim roads. As they pass through the Baca valley, they find spring water to drink.
May we diligently keep these few sentiments in our hearts and let them be deeply imprinted there. Let us imitate the Blessed Virgin Mary, who cherished the words of our blessed Savior, for she was the very mirror of sanctity who kept all these things, reflecting on them in her heart. After Jesus, may our good Mother be our guide and teacher, our prototype and model. In a spirit of deep humility, let us listen to and cherish those teachings of God which are given in the sacred passages quoted above. May our hearts be filled with those holy desires which bring about a most intimate union with the highest Good. May he always direct our tongue in announcing the eternal truths to the people: My heart is stirred by a noble theme ... Lord, open my lips. May our lips, then, be closed for this reason. I will listen for the word of God; surely the Lord will proclaim peace to his people. Notice! First, I myself must listen, so that I, then, may be listened to by the people. With the grace of God and in accordance with each one’s capacity, there will be realized both in me and in the others that very system of peace which establishes the kingdom of God firmly in our hearts: I will listen for the word of God.

RESPONSORY

R. The missionary lives only * for God and for his glory;
V. he gives himself totally to others,
R for God and for his glory.

HYMN Te Deum

We praise you, O God; *
we acclaim you Lord and Master.
Everlasting Father, *
all the world bows down before you.

All the angels sing your praise, *
the hosts of heaven and all the angelic powers;
All the cherubim and seraphim *
call out to you in unending chorus:

Holy, holy, holy *
is the Lord God of angel hosts!
The heavens and the earth are filled, Lord, *
with your majesty and glory.

Your praises are sung *
by the renowned Apostles;
By all the prophets, *
who themselves deserve our praise;

By that mighty white-robed army *
who shed their blood for Christ.
And to the ends of the earth, *
the holy Church proclaims her faith in you:

Father, *
whose majesty is boundless;
Your only Son, *
who is true God and who is to be adored;

The Holy Spirit, *
sent to be our Advocate.
O Christ, the King of glory! *
You alone are the Father’s eternal Son.

When you were to become man so as to save humankind, *
you did not shrink back from the chaste Virgin’s womb.
When you triumphantly destroyed death’s sting, *
you opened up to believers the kingdom of haven.

You are now enthroned at God’s right hand, in the Father’s glory: *
We believe that you will come for judgment.
We therefore implore you to grant your servants grace and aid, *
for you shed your precious blood for their redemption.

Admit them all to the ranks of your saints *
in everlasting glory.
Be their Shepherd, Lord, *
uphold and exalt them forever and ever.

Day by day we praise you, *
daily we acclaim you.
We will confess and glorify your hold name, *
now and for all eternity.

In your great mercy, Lord, throughout this day *
keep us free from sin by your protection.
Have mercy on us, we humbly pray; *
Lord, have mercy on us.

May your mercy, Lord, your loving-kindness, always remain with us; *
for we have placed our confidence in you.
In you alone, Lord, I have hoped; *
may I not be disappointed.

Prayer

Almighty and merciful God, who gave us an ardent witness of love for your divinity and for our neighbour in Saint Gaspar del Bufalo, priest and dedicated missionary of the Precious Blood of Christ; through his intercession, listen to the voice of the blood of your Son which daily rises to you from the earth in the painful cry of suffering humanity. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever.

Published in October 21 - Saint Gaspar Del Bufalo

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Friday, 26 May 2023 07:38

Evening Prayer I

HYMN

In grateful jubilation, O Father, we praise you:
You are our light and guide to heaven;
Every follower, O blessed Gaspar,
In you confides.

You made the ardent soul spotless
In the divine blood of the Lamb.
From the meek, crucified Nazarene,
You drew strength.

The wicked and treacherous, Gaspar,
you brought to gentle tears.
You happily pointed the way to Christ,
the joy of our life.

Driven by infinite charity,
by the mystical bloodless sacrifice
you yearn to be fed, to imitate God
who became our food.

At your voice, how many vile, unworthy,
wicked and corrupt ones repented,
and from the Cross received
hidden bursts of love!

O glorious one, from your celestial honors,
fill your children from your bounty.
May they bring to an oppressed world
Living gifts of salvation.

O kind Father, Redeemer Son,
Holy Spirit, fount of all life,
to you be eternal praise, adoration,
and infinite glory. Amen

Ant.1 At all times and everywhere
may the Lord be blessed and loved.

PSALM 113 Give praise to the name of the Lord
He has thrown down the rulers from their thrones but lifted up the lowly (Luke1:52).

Praise, you servants of the Lord, *
praise the name of the Lord.
Blessed be the name of the Lord *
both now and forever.

From the rising of the sun to its setting *
let the name of the Lord be praised.
High above all nations is the Lord; *
above the heavens God’s glory.

Who is like the Lord, our God enthroned on high, *
looking down on heaven and earth?

The Lord raises the needy from the dust, *
lifts the poor from the ash heap,
Seats them with princes, *
the princes of the people,

Gives the childless wife a home, *
the joyful mother of children.

Ant.1 At all times and everywhere
may the Lord be blessed and loved.

Ant. 2 May our hearts be fixed on God,
our all.

PSALM 146 Blessed are they who hope in the Lord
Go and tell John what you hear and see: the blind regain their sight, the lame walk, lepers are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, and the poor have the good news proclaimed to them (Matthew 11:5).

Praise the Lord, my soul; *
I shall praise the Lord all my life, †
sing praise to my God while I live.

I put no trust in princes, *
in mere mortals powerless to save.
When they breathe their last, they return to the earth; *
that day all their planning comes to nothing.

Happy those whose help is Jacob’s God, *
whose hope is in the Lord, their God,
The maker of heaven and earth, *
the seas and all that is in them,

Who keeps faith forever, *
secures justice for the oppressed, †
gives food to the hungry.

The Lord sets prisoners free; *
the Lord gives sight to the blind.
The Lord raises up those who are bowed down; *
the Lord loves the righteous.

The Lord protects the stranger, †
sustains the orphan and the widow, *
but thwarts the way of the wicked.

The Lord shall reign forever, *
your God, Zion, through all generations!

Ant. 2 May our hearts be fixed on God,
our all.

Ant. 3 Redeemed by the blood of the Lamb,
we sing the praise of the Church to the Father.

CANTICLE cf. Ephesians 1, 3-10 God our Savior

Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, †
who has blessed us in Christ *
with every spiritual blessing in the heavens.

God chose us in him, †
before the foundation of the world, *
to be holy and without blemish before him.

In love he destined us †
for adoption to himself through Jesus Christ, *
in accord with the favor of his will,
for the praise of the glory of his grace *
that he granted us in the beloved.

In Christ we have redemption by his blood, *
the forgiveness of transgressions,
in accord with the riches of his grace *
that he lavished upon us.

In all wisdom and insight †
God has made known to us the mystery of his will *
in accord with his favor that he set forth in him,
as a plan for the fullness of times, *
to sum up all things in Christ, in heaven and on earth.

Ant. 3 Redeemed by the blood of the Lamb,
we sing the praise of the Church to the Father.

READING 2 Timothy 4:1-2, 5

I charge you in the presence of God and of Christ Jesus, who will judge the living and the dead, and by his appearing and his kingly power: proclaim the word; be persistent whether it is convenient or inconvenient; convince, reprimand, encourage through all patience and teaching. But you, be self-possessed in all circumstances; put up with hardship; perform the work of an evangelist; fulfill your ministry.

RESPONSORY 1 Corinthians 4:1

R. Thus should one regard us: as servants of Christ * and stewards of the mysteries of God.
-- Thus should one regard us: as servants of Christ and stewards of the mysteries of God.
V. We have become ministers of the gospel
-- and stewards of the mysteries of God.
Glory be to the Father….
-- Thus should one regard us: as servants of Christ and stewards of the mysteries of God.

Magnificat Ant. Let us exalt the Lamb of God with the saints:
He has prepared for us a kingdom from the foundation of the world.

My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord; *
my spirit rejoices in God my savior.

For he has looked upon his handmaid's lowliness; *
behold, from now on all ages will call me blessed.

The Mighty One has done great things for me, *
and holy is his name.

His mercy is from age to age *
to those who fear him.

He has shown might with his arm, *
dispersed the arrogant of mind and heart.

He has thrown down the rulers from their thrones*
but lifted up the lowly.

The hungry he has filled with good things; *
the rich he has sent away empty.

He has helped Israel his servant, *
remembering his mercy,

according to his promise to our fathers, *
to Abraham and to his descendants forever.

Magnificat Ant. Let us exalt the Lamb of God with the saints:
He has prepared for us a kingdom from the foundation of the world

INTERCESSIONS

God has reconciled us to himself through the blood of Christ. In the power of this blood and through the intercession of Saint Gaspar, let us present our prayers as we say:
Save your people, O Lord.

Lord Jesus, at the foot of the cross we raise the cry of the victims of injustice:
- by the power of your blood, give them courage.

Lord Jesus, at the foot of the cross we raise the cry of those in search of a country, a home and work:
- by the power of your blood, sustain them.

Lord Jesus, at the foot of the cross we raise the cry of prisoners, of refugees, of immigrants and of slaves everywhere:
- by the love of your blood, give them hope.

Lord Jesus, at the foot of the cross we raise the cry of the suffering, the sick, the lonely and misunderstood:
- by your restoring blood, heal their sufferings.

Lord Jesus, at the foot of the cross we raise the cry of all those who live in areas plagued by war, instability and poverty:
- by your peace-bearing blood, reconcile us to God and nation to nation.

Lord Jesus, at the foot of the cross we raise our prayer for all the departed:
- may they celebrate with you the banquet of life without end.

Our Father.

Prayer

Almighty and merciful God, who gave us an ardent witness of love for your divinity and for our neighbour in Saint Gaspar del Bufalo, priest and dedicated missionary of the Precious Blood of Christ; through his intercession, listen to the voice of the blood of your Son which daily rises to you from the earth in the painful cry of suffering humanity. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever.

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Friday, 26 May 2023 07:31

Evening Prayer II

HYMN

At the cross her station keeping,
Stood the mournful mother weeping,
Close to Jesus to the last.

Virgin of all virgins blest!
Listen to my fond request:
Let me share your grief divine.

Let me to my latest breath,
In my body bear the death
Of that dying Son of yours.

Wounded with his every wound,
Steep my soul till it has swooned
In his very blood away.

Be to me, O Virgin nigh,
Lest in flames I burn and die
In his awful judgment day.

Christ when you shall call me hence,
Be your mother my defense,
Be your cross my victory.

While my body here decays,
May my soul your goodness praise,
Safe in heaven eternally. Amen

Or another suitable hymn approved by ecclesiastical authority.

Ant. 1 In the blood of the Cross,
God has made you spouse and mother,
ever a virgin.

PSALM 122 Greeting to the Holy City of Jerusalem
You have approached Mount Zion and the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem (Hebrews 12:22).

I rejoiced when they said to me, *
“Let us go to the house of the Lord.”
And now our feet are standing *
within your gates, Jerusalem.

Jerusalem, built as a city,*
walled round about.

Here the tribes have come, the tribes of the Lord, †
as it was decreed for Israel, *
to give thanks to the name of the Lord.

Here are the thrones of justice, *
the thrones of the house of David.

For the peace of Jerusalem pray: *
“May those who love you prosper!
May peace be within your ramparts, *
prosperity within your towers.”

For family and friends *
I say, “May peace be yours.”
For the house of the Lord, our God,*
I pray, “May blessings be yours.”

Ant. 1 In the blood of the Cross,
God has made you spouse and mother,
ever a virgin.
Ant. 2 You were the chosen one of God,
O Virgin Mary;
all peoples will praise you forever.

PSALM 127 All toil is useless without the Lord
Therefore, neither the one who plants nor the one who waters is anything, but only God, who causes the growth. You are God's field, God's building. (1 Corinthians3:7,9)

Unless the Lord build the house, *
they labor in vain who build.
Unless the Lord guard the city, *
in vain does the guard keep watch.

It is vain for you to rise early *
and put off your rest at night,
To eat bread earned by hard toil-- *
all this God gives to his beloved in sleep.

Children too are a gift from the Lord,*
the fruit of the womb, a reward.
Like arrows in the hand of a warrior *
are the children born in one's youth.

Blessed are they *
whose quivers are full.
They will never be shamed *
contending with foes at the gate.

Ant. 2 You were the chosen one of God,
O Virgin Mary;
all peoples will praise you forever.

Ant. 3 The beauty of your Son Jesus
has made you resplendent.

CANTICLE cf Ephesians 1:3-10 God our Savior
In the Virgin Mother, Christ has revealed to us the mystery of the Father.

Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, †
who has blessed us in Christ *
with every spiritual blessing in the heavens.

God chose us in him, †
before the foundation of the world, *
to be holy and without blemish before him.

In love he destined us †
for adoption to himself through Jesus Christ, *
in accord with the favor of his will,
for the praise of the glory of his grace *
that he granted us in the beloved.

In Christ we have redemption by his blood, *
the forgiveness of transgressions,
in accord with the riches of his grace *
that he lavished upon us.

In all wisdom and insight †
God has made known to us the mystery of his will *
in accord with his favor that he set forth in him,
as a plan for the fullness of times, *
to sum up all things in Christ, in heaven and on earth.

Ant. 3 The beauty of your Son Jesus
has made you resplendent.

READING 2 Timothy 2:10-12a

I bear with everything for the sake of those who are chosen, so that they too may obtain the salvation that is in Christ Jesus, together with eternal glory. This saying is trustworthy: If we have died with him we shall also live with him; if we persevere we shall also reign with him.

RESPONSORY
R. Mary was standing * near the cross of her Son.
-- Mary was standing near the cross of her Son.
V. She faced the martyrdom of her heart with strength,
-- near the cross of her Son.
Glory to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit.
-- Mary was standing near the cross of her Son.

Magnificat Ant. We rejoice with you, Woman of the New Covenant;
through the Cross of your Son, death has been defeated.

My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord; *
my spirit rejoices in God my savior.

For he has looked upon his handmaid's lowliness; *
behold, from now on all ages will call me blessed.

The Mighty One has done great things for me, *
and holy is his name.

His mercy is from age to age *
to those who fear him.

He has shown might with his arm, *
dispersed the arrogant of mind and heart.

He has thrown down the rulers from their thrones*
but lifted up the lowly.

The hungry he has filled with good things; *
the rich he has sent away empty.

He has helped Israel his servant, *
remembering his mercy,

according to his promise to our fathers, *
to Abraham and to his descendants forever.

Magnificat Ant. We rejoice with you, Woman of the New Covenant;
through the Cross of your Son, death has been defeated.

INTERCESSIONS

With Our Lady of Sorrows, let us look lovingly at the crucified Christ and pray to our heavenly Father saying:
Reveal to us, Father, the mysterious glory of the Cross.

God of love, in the blood of your Son, poured out on the Cross, you ratified the eternal covenant with your people,
- grant that we may live it as Mary did, faithful to your loving plan and in solidarity with all our sisters and brothers.

God of compassion, in view of Christ’s Paschal Mystery, you preserved the Virgin Mary undefiled,
- keep us free from sin.

God of life, you strengthened Mary at the foot of the Cross and filled her with joy at the resurrection of her Son,
- support us amid the trials of life and strengthen us in hope.

God of peace, in the blood of your Son you reconciled humanity to yourself and restored harmony in creation,
- make us builders of peace, generous in service and solicitous in love.

God of kindness, through your Son, the sole Mediator, who died and rose for us,
- grant to our deceased brothers and sisters a share in the wedding feast of the Lamb.

Our Father.

Prayer

Father most holy, who willed to associate Our Lady of Sorrows, Woman of the New Covenant, to the sacrifice of your Son; through the merits of his precious blood, grant, we pray, that your Church, born of Christ’s pierced side, may always celebrate the memorial of his work of redemption with the love of our Mother Mary showed. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever.

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Friday, 26 May 2023 07:28

Daytime Prayer

Complementary psalmody. However, if the solemnity is celebrated on Sunday, the psalms are taken from Sunday, Week I.

Mid-morning

Ant. In holiness God created me;
He took me by my hand,
and redeemed me.

READING Genesis 3:14a–15

The Lord said to the serpent: “I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your offspring and hers; he will strike at your head, while you strike at his heel.”

V. The Virgin Mary, as a rose from thorns, is born from Eve.
R. So that the power of God might wipe out sin; and his grace, our guilt.

Midday

Ant. When they reached the summit of Calvary,
Jesus was crucified.

READING Hebrews 5:7-9

In the days when he was in the flesh, he offered prayers and supplications with loud cries and tears to the one who was able to save him from death, and he was heard because of his reverence. Son though he was, he learned obedience from what he suffered; and when he was made perfect, he became the source of eternal salvation for all who obey him.

V. Mother of Christ-God, a sword pierced your most holy soul
R. when you saw your Son and God voluntarily ascend the Cross.

Mid-afternoon

Ant. The Lord says to his mother:
Woman, behold your son!
And to the disciple: Behold your mother!

READING Genesis 9:17

God said: This is the sign of the covenant I have established between me and all mortal creatures that are on the earth.

V. At the foot of the Cross, you appointed the Virgin Mary, Woman of the New Covenant,
R. reconciler of sinners.

Prayer

Father most holy, who willed to associate Our Lady of Sorrows, Woman of the New Covenant, to the sacrifice of your Son; through the merits of his precious blood, grant, we pray, that your Church, born of Christ’s pierced side, may always celebrate the memorial of his work of redemption with the love of our Mother Mary showed. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever.

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Friday, 26 May 2023 07:16

Morning Prayer

HYMN

At the cross her station keeping,
Stood the mournful Mother weeping,
Close to Jesus to the last.

O sweet Mother! Font of love,
Touch my spirit from above,
Make my heart with yours accord.

Make me feel as you have felt;
Make my soul to glow and melt
With the love of Christ, my Lord.

Holy Mother, pierce me through,
In my heart each wound renew
Of my Savior crucified.

Let me share with you his pain,
Who for all our sins was slain.
Who for me in torments died.

Let me mingle tears with you,
Mourning him who mourned for me,
All the days that I may live.

By the cross with you to stay,
There with you to weep and pray,
Is all I ask of you to give.

While my body here decays,
May my soul your goodness praise,
Safe in heaven eternally. Amen.

Or:

Clap your hands, all you peoples, *
Sing unto God with a voice of jubilation.

For the Lord high and mighty *
Has shown to us his mercy,

For he has not spared his own Son *
But has delivered him up in our behalf,

That we might be redeemed by his blood *
And freed from our sins;

That justified in his blood *
We might be saved from his wrath;

That we who were separated from him *
Might be reconciled through the blood of his Son.

O Lord, my God, what can I render unto you *
For all the good you have bestowed upon me?

I will take the chalice of salvation *
And I will call upon the power of this blood.

Sing to Jesus, all you saints, *
And make known the memory of his holiness.

For he has loved us and has washed us in his blood *
And he has become our helper and our redeemer.

Blessed forever be the blood of Christ *
Which has wrought such wonders in us.

Blessed be Jesus for all eternity, *
And may the heavens and the earth be filled with the glory of his blood.

Come, let us adore Christ the Son of God *
Who has redeemed us with his blood. Amen

Or another suitable hymn approved by ecclesiastic authority.

Ant. 1 On Calvary, Our Lady of Sorrows ushers us
into the nuptial feast of the New Covenant.

PSALM 63: 2-9 A soul thirsting for God
The Church thirsts for her Savior, yearning to drink at the fount of living water that springs up for eternal life. (Cf Cassiodorus).

O God, you are my God, for you I long; *
for you my soul is thirsting.
My body pines for you *
like a dry, weary land without water.

So I gaze on you in the sanctuary *
to see your strength and your glory.
For your love is better than life, *
my lips will speak your praise.

So I will bless you all my life, *
in your name I will lift up my hands.
My soul shall be filled as with a banquet, *
my mouth shall praise you with joy.

On my bed I remember you. *
On you I muse through the night
for you have been my help; *
in the shadow of your wings I rejoice.

My soul clings to you; *
your right hand holds me fast.

Ant. 1 On Calvary, Our Lady of Sorrows ushers us
into the nuptial feast of the New Covenant.

Ant. 2 With the Virgin Mary,
may all creatures of heaven and earth,
bless the Lord Jesus for the gift of redemption.

CANTICLE Daniel 3: 57-88, 56 Let all creatures praise the Lord
Praise our God, all you his servants. (Rv 19:5)

Bless the Lord, all you works of the Lord, *
praise and exalt him above all forever.
Angels of the Lord, bless the Lord, *
you heavens, bless the Lord,

All you waters above the heavens, *
all you hosts of the Lord, bless the Lord;
sun and moon, bless the Lord; *
stars of heaven, bless the Lord;

every shower and dew, bless the Lord; *
all you winds, bless the Lord;
fire and heat, bless the Lord; *
cold and chill, bless the Lord;

dew and rain, bless the Lord; *
frost and chill, bless the Lord;
ice and snow, bless the Lord; *
nights and days, bless the Lord;

light and darkness, bless the Lord; *
lightning and clouds, bless the Lord;
let the earth bless the Lord, *
praise and exalt him above all forever.

Mountains and hills, bless the Lord; *
everything growing from the earth, bless the Lord;
you springs, bless the Lord; *
seas and rivers, bless the Lord;

you dolphins and all water creatures, bless the Lord; *
all you birds of the air, bless the Lord;
all you beasts, wild and tame, bless the Lord; *
you sons of men, bless the Lord;

O Israel, bless the Lord; *
praise and exalt him above all forever.
Priests of the Lord, bless the Lord; *
servants of the Lord, bless the Lord;
spirits and souls of the just, bless the Lord; *
holy men of humble heart, bless the Lord;
Hananiah, Azariah, Mishael, bless the Lord;*
praise and exalt him above all forever.

Let us bless the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit. *
Let us praise and exalt him above all forever.
Blessed are you in the firmament of heaven, *
praiseworthy and glorious forever.

At the end of the canticle the Glory be to the Father is not said.

Ant. 2 With the Virgin Mary,
may all creatures of heaven and earth,
bless the Lord Jesus for the gift of redemption.

Ant. 3 With Mary, Woman of the New Covenant,
the Church raises hymns of praise to the Lord.

PSALM 149 The joy of God’s holy people
Let the sons of the Church, the children of the new people, rejoice in Christ, their King (Hesychius).

Sing a new song to the Lord, *
his praise in the assembly of the faithful.
Let Israel rejoice in its maker, *
let Zion’s sons exult in their king.

Let them praise his name with dancing *
and make music with timbrel and harp.
For the Lord takes delight in his people. *
He crowns the poor with salvation.

Let the faithful rejoice in their glory, *
shout for joy and take their rest.
Let the praise of God be on their lips *
and a two-edged sword in their hand,

to deal out vengeance to the nations *
and punishment on all the peoples;
to bind their kings in chains *
and their nobles in fetters of iron;

to carry out the sentence pre-ordained; *
this honor is for all his faithful.

Ant. 3 With Mary, Woman of the New Covenant,
the Church raises hymns of praise to the Lord.

READING 2 Corinthians 5:17-21

So whoever is in Christ is a new creation: the old things have passed away; behold, new things have come. And all this is from God, who has reconciled us to himself through Christ and given us the ministry of reconciliation; namely, God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ, not counting their trespasses against them and entrusting to us the message of reconciliation. So we are ambassadors for Christ, as if God were appealing through us. We implore you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God. For our sake he made him to be sin who did not know sin, so that we might become the righteousness of God in him.

RESPONSORY
R The Cross of Christ * is the sign of reconciliation.
-- The Cross of Christ is the sign of reconciliation.
V. In the blood of the new covenant,
-- is the sign of reconciliation.
Glory to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit
-- The Cross of Christ is the sign of reconciliation.

Benedictus Ant. Blessed are you, Virgin Mary,
because you believed in Christ Jesus who visited and redeemed us.

Blessed be the Lord, the God of Israel; *
he has come to his people and set them free.

He has raised up for us a mighty savior, *
born of the house of his servant David.

Through his holy prophets he promised of old †
that he would save us from our enemies, *
from the hands of all who hate us.

He promised to show mercy to our fathers *
and to remember his holy covenant.

This was the oath he swore to our father Abraham: *
to set us free from the hands of our enemies,

free to worship him without fear, *
holy and righteous in his sight all the days of our life.

You, my child, shall be called the prophet of the Most High; *
for you will go before the Lord to prepare his way,

to give his people knowledge of salvation *
by the forgiveness of their sins.

In the tender compassion of our God *
the dawn from on high shall break upon us,

to shine on those who dwell in darkness and the shadow of death, *
and to guide our feet into the way of peace.

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

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

Benedictus Ant. Blessed are you, Virgin Mary,
because you believed in Christ Jesus who visited and redeemed us.

INTERCESSIONS

In union with Our Lady of Sorrows, Woman of the New Covenant, let us raise our prayers to the Lord Jesus, and ask:
Make us companions and witnesses of your life, Lord Jesus.

Lord Jesus, you call blessed those who listen to your word and observe it;
- grant that we, too, may savor it and keep it as a source of blessedness.

Lord Jesus, in your love you have called women and men to your discipleship;
- may the example of the Virgin Mary encourage many young people to follow you and share your saving mission.

Lord Jesus, by the deep sorrow that pierced your beloved Mother,
- with your presence, console all those burdened by suffering.

Lord Jesus, who joined your holy Mother to yourself in life and in glory,
- by her intercession, remember to your heavenly Father all those whom you have redeemed with your blood.

Our Father.

Prayer

Father most holy, who willed to associate Our Lady of Sorrows, Woman of the New Covenant, to the sacrifice of your Son; through the merits of his precious blood, grant, we pray, that your Church, born of Christ’s pierced side, may always celebrate the memorial of his work of redemption with the love of our Mother Mary showed. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever.

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Friday, 26 May 2023 07:08

Office of Readings

INVITATORY

Ant. In memory of Mary
united with her Son in his passion,
let us adore Christ our Lord.

PSALM 95 Invitation to praise God
Encourage yourself daily while it is still “today” (Heb 3:13).

Come, let us sing to the Lord; *
and shout with joy to the Rock who saves us.
Let us approach him with praise and thanksgiving, *
and sing joyful songs to the Lord. (Ant.)

The Lord is God, the mighty God, *
the great king over all the gods.
He holds in his hands the depths of the earth *
and the highest mountains as well.
He made the sea; it belongs to him, *
the dry land, too, for it was formed by his hands. (Ant.)

Come, then, let us bow down and worship, *
bending the knee before the Lord, our maker.
For he is our God and we are his people, *
the flock he shepherds. (Ant.)

Today, listen to the voice of the Lord: Do not grow stubborn, *
as your fathers did in the wilderness, †
when at Meriba and Massah
they challenged me and provoked me, *
Although they had seen all of my works. (Ant.)

Forty years I endured that generation; †
I said: “They are a people whose hearts go astray *
and they do not know my ways.”
So I swore in my anger, *
“They shall not enter into my rest.” (Ant.)

Glory to the Father and to the Son *
and to the Holy Spirit.
As it was in the beginning,
is now, and ever will be. Amen (Ant.)

Alternative Invitatory Psalms: 100, 67, 24

HYMN

At the cross her station keeping,
stood the mournful mother weeping,
close to Jesus to the last.

Through her heart, his sorrow sharing,
all his bitter anguish bearing,
now at length the sword had passed.

Oh, how sad and sore distressed
was that Mother highly blessed
of the sole-begotten One!

Christ above in torment hangs,
she beneath beholds the pangs
of her dying glorious Son.

Is there one who would not weep,
‘whelmed in miseries so deep,
Christ’s dear Mother to behold?

Can the human heart refrain
from partaking in her pain,
in that Mother’s pain untold?

For the sins of his own nation
saw him hang in desolation
till his spirit forth he sent.

O sweet Mother! Font of love,
touch my spirit from above,
make my heart with yours accord.

Christ, when you shall call me hence,
be your Mother my defense,
be your cross my victory. Amen.

Or another suitable hymn approved by ecclesiastical authority.

Ant. 1 Mary, you are blessed by the Lord;
the God of salvation has made you holy.

PSALM 24

The earth is the Lord’s and all it holds, *
the world and those who live there.
For God founded it on the seas, *
established it over the rivers.

Who may go up the mountain of the Lord? *
Who can stand in his holy place?

“The clean of hand and pure of heart, †
who are not devoted to idols, *
who have not sworn falsely.

They will receive blessings from the Lord,*
and justice from their saving God.
Such are the people that love the Lord, *
that seek the face of the God of Jacob.

Lift up your heads, O gates; †
rise up, you ancient portals, *
that the king of glory may enter.

Who is this king of glory? †
The Lord, a mighty warrior, *
the Lord, mighty in battle.

Lift up your heads, O gates; †
rise up, you ancient portals,
that the king of glory may enter.

Who is this king of glory? *
The Lord of hosts is the king of glory.

Ant. 1. Mary, you are blessed by the Lord,
the God of salvation has made you holy.

Ant. 2. The Most High has sanctified his dwelling-place.

PSALM 46

God is our refuge and our strength, *
an ever-present help in distress.

Thus we do not fear, though earth be shaken *
and mountains quake to the depths of the sea,
Though its waters rage and foam *
and mountains totter at its surging.

The Lord of hosts is with us; *
our stronghold is the God of Jacob.
Streams of the river gladden the city of God,*
the holy dwelling of the Most High.

God is in its midst; it shall not be shaken; *
God will help it at break of day.
Though nations rage and kingdoms totter, *
God's voice thunders and the earth trembles.

The Lord of hosts is with us; *
our stronghold is the God of Jacob.

Come and see the works of the Lord, *
who has done fearsome deeds on earth;

Who stops wars to the ends of the earth, †
breaks the bow, splinters the spear, *
and burns the shields with fire;

Who says: “Be still and confess that I am God! *
I am exalted among the nations, exalted on the earth.”

The Lord of hosts is with us;*
our stronghold is the God of Jacob.

Ant. 2 The Most High has sanctified his dwelling-place.

Ant. 3 Marvelous things are said of you,
O Virgin Mary!

PSALM 87

The Lord loves the city founded on holy mountains, †
loves the gates of Zion *
more than any dwelling in Jacob.

Glorious things are said of you,*
O city of God!

From Babylon and Egypt I count those who acknowledge the Lord. †
Philistia, Ethiopia, Tyre, *
of them it can be said: “This one was born there.”

But of Zion it must be said: “They all were born here. *
The Most High confirms this.”

The Lord notes in the register of the peoples: *
“This one was born here.”
So all sing in their festive dance:*
“Within you is my true home.”

Ant. 3 Marvelous things are said of you,
O Virgin Mary!

V. In the fullness of time, God sent his Son, born of a woman,
R. to redeem us and to make us his children by adoption.

FIRST READING
From the first letter of Saint Paul the apostle to the Corinthians 1:17-30
Wisdom of the world and Christian wisdom

For Christ did not send me to baptize but to preach the gospel, and not with the wisdom of human eloquence, so that the cross of Christ might not be emptied of its meaning.
The message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God. For it is written: “I will destroy the wisdom of the wise, and the learning of the learned I will set aside.”
Where is the wise one? Where is the scribe? Where is the debater of this age? Has not God made the wisdom of the world foolish?
For since in the wisdom of God the world did not come to know God through wisdom, it was the will of God through the foolishness of the proclamation to save those who have faith. For Jews demand signs and Greeks look for wisdom, but we proclaim Christ crucified, a stumbling block to Jews and foolishness to Gentiles, but to those who are called, Jews and Greeks alike, Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God. For the foolishness of God is wiser than human wisdom, and the weakness of God is stronger than human strength.
Consider your own calling, brothers. Not many of you were wise by human standards, not many were powerful, not many were of noble birth. Rather, God chose the foolish of the world to shame the wise, and God chose the weak of the world to shame the strong; and God chose the lowly and despised of the world, those who count for nothing, to reduce to nothing those who are something, so that no human being might boast before God. It is due to him that you are in Christ Jesus, who became for us wisdom from God, as well as righteousness, sanctification, and redemption.

RESPONSORY

R. Blessed are you among women; you changed the curse of Eve into blessing;
* thanks to you, the blessing of the Father has shone upon all men and women.
V. Through you, your ancestors found salvation;
R. thanks to you, the blessing of the Father has shone upon all men and women.

SECOND READING
From the writings of Saint Maria De Mattias, virgin.

(Letters of Saint Maria De Mattias nn. 498, 471: Vol. II, ed. 1947)

The condescension of God toward us

Dearest daughter in Jesus, remember to be very, very devoted to Mary Most Holy; be persevering in often invoking her with confidence. Tell her to set you totally afire with love for Jesus. Let your thoughts dwell on the most holy Passion of her Son and his bitter sufferings. Often speak of God’s infinite charity in having given us his most Holy Son; speak also of the great beauty of Jesus and Mary. Let us love all with tender affection: they cost Jesus his blood and caused bitter sorrows to his Virgin Mother. Our hearts should be filled with zeal for their salvation, and we should offer our prayers for the salvation of souls.
Let us offer the blood of Jesus at the throne of Divine Mercy for the fulfillment of our desires, which are the gift of his goodness and which he wishes us to foster because they are his, not ours. Let us thank him.
Let us not become dismayed at the hardships and the fatigue to be borne. Let us reflect that a God endured the hard death of the cross to save souls. With infinite condescension he calls on us to help him.
Let us humble ourselves to the depths, and even lower, because of our sins. Let us place all our confidence in God and in the blood of Jesus Christ. Over and over let us abandon ourselves into the arms of the divine mercy, protesting that we should be happy to die for the salvation of souls. In this way we shall give joy to Jesus and Mary. My daughter, meditate on the great condescension of a God toward us.
I lose myself; I do not know how to express what I feel. We, work for Jesus? We, suffer for Jesus? …(I cannot understand). We, die for Jesus?…We? Who are we?
O great condescension of a God! O great condescension of Jesus! Let us consider, dearly loved daughter, that the law given us, to walk the way of sorrow and suffering, is not due to any hardness on the part of our most beloved God, because there cannot be such in that holiest and sweetest Heart. Rather, it is the effect of a most tender and unlimited love toward us, so that we can atone for our sins and make ourselves worthy of him. With profound respect and true attachment, let us adore the admirable mystery of the Cross…
They tell me I am always speaking about the Cross. My daughter, believe me, that is not just for form’s sake, but for the true love of my heart and the high esteem I have for that adorable Standard. And we can say in all truth that anyone who shares the sufferings of Jesus Christ is immensely honored.
As for myself (I admit the truth), I do not suffer anything; I feel ashamed and humiliated to appear before my Crucified Jesus. I shrink from every little inconvenience. Pray for me so that the Lord may make me worthy of his disappointments.
Let us lovingly embrace hardships for Jesus, and carry his most holy Cross in triumph.

RESPONSORY
R. Let us place all our trust in Mary Most Holy * and live hidden in the Cross.
V. In any need whatsoever, let us turn to Our Lady of Sorrows,
R. and live hidden in the Cross.

Or
From the writings of Saint Gaspar del Bufalo, priest
(“Sorrows of Mary Most Holy”, 3,1: Spiritual Writings, I, Rome 1995, 6 –12, selections)

The Passion of Jesus in Mary

Turn your eyes to the mountain of myrrh and the hill of incense, to lovers’ mountain, oh faithful people. Look at the tender Mother to whom it was once prophesied that a sword would pierce her soul. Truly, O Mother, your sorrow is as big as the sea. The heart of Mary is afflicted and in anguish by a twofold love: the love of her Son, innocent and crucified, causes her an ineffable martyrdom; the love for the redeemed sinner inflicts upon her unparalleled pain. Just like a ship battered by opposing winds, she is tossed back and forth, and at the end stands still.
After following the trace of Jesus’ blood from a distance, her mind overwhelmed by sorrow at the thought of his pain, Mary makes her way out of the crowd and places herself facing him; she became both a viewer and a performer of the cruel event.
And now she ponders Jesus’ pains, contemplates the gashes, and reflects on the killing. A bundle of thorns pierces Mary’s mind.
Where the world’s ruin began from Eve, there, the reparation began by Christ, who, after tasting the bitterness of the wood of the cross, passed it to his Mother to taste.
She stood there as a Priestess, more than as a Mother, contributing by her pain to the sacrifice for us human beings.
Mary’s sufferings were increased by the fact that she could not be of any solace to Jesus. She suffered most when she saw Jesus’ final agony, after he had suffered for several hours.
Oh Mother! My sin is the sword that Simeon foretold. I pierce through two hearts when I sin: your soul and that of your Son.
You, angels of peace, were weeping while she stood firm at the sight of her Son: her eyes were pitiful, but full of great dignity; they were in pain, but without tears. When, in compassion for Jesus the Redeemer, the tears, as tiny drops heralding suffering, would appear on her pupils, her love for redeemed humanity would stop their flow down the cheeks. While Jesus’ love touched her heart, her love for us human beings held back her tears.
The eternal Father gave us his Son out of his excessive love for us; Mary gave her own Son to us out of tender benevolence.

RESPONSORY cf. Lk 23:33; Jn 19:25; Lk 2:35
R. When they reached Calvary’s summit, they crucified him. * Near the cross of Jesus stood his mother.
V. The sword of sorrow pierced her soul.
R. Near the cross of Jesus stood his mother.

HYMN Te Deum

We praise you, O God; *
we acclaim you Lord and Master.
Everlasting Father, *
all the world bows down before you.

All the angels sing your praise, *
the hosts of heaven and all the angelic powers;
All the cherubim and seraphim *
call out to you in unending chorus:

Holy, holy, holy *
is the Lord God of angel hosts!
The heavens and the earth are filled, Lord, *
with your majesty and glory.

Your praises are sung *
by the renowned Apostles;
By all the prophets, *
who themselves deserve our praise;

By that mighty white-robed army *
who shed their blood for Christ.
And to the ends of the earth, *
the holy Church proclaims her faith in you:

Father, *
whose majesty is boundless;
Your only Son, *
who is true God and who is to be adored;

The Holy Spirit, *
sent to be our Advocate.
O Christ, the King of glory! *
You alone are the Father’s eternal Son.

When you were to become man so as to save humankind, *
you did not shrink back from the chaste Virgin’s womb.
When you triumphantly destroyed death’s sting, *
you opened up to believers the kingdom of haven.

You are now enthroned at God’s right hand, in the Father’s glory: *
We believe that you will come for judgment.
We therefore implore you to grant your servants grace and aid, *
for you shed your precious blood for their redemption.

Admit them all to the ranks of your saints *
in everlasting glory.
Be their Shepherd, Lord, *
uphold and exalt them forever and ever.

Day by day we praise you, *
daily we acclaim you.
We will confess and glorify your hold name, *
now and for all eternity.

In your great mercy, Lord, throughout this day *
keep us free from sin by your protection.
Have mercy on us, we humbly pray; *
Lord, have mercy on us.

May your mercy, Lord, your loving-kindness, always remain with us; *
for we have placed our confidence in you.
In you alone, Lord, I have hoped; *
may I not be disappointed.

Prayer

Father most holy, who willed to associate Our Lady of Sorrows, Woman of the New Covenant, to the sacrifice of your Son; through the merits of his precious blood, grant, we pray, that your Church, born of Christ’s pierced side, may always celebrate the memorial of his work of redemption with the love of our Mother Mary showed. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever.

Published in September 15 - Our Lady of Sorrows, "Woman of the New Covenant"

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Friday, 26 May 2023 07:01

Evening Prayer I

HYMN

At the cross her station keeping,
Stood the mournful Mother weeping,
Close to Jesus to the last.

Virgin of all virgins blest!
Listen to my fond request:
Let me share your grief divine.

Let me to my latest breath,
In my body bear the death
Of that dying Son of yours.

Wounded with his every wound,
Steep my soul till it has swooned
In his very blood away.

Be to me, O Virgin nigh,
Lest in flames I burn and die,
In his awful judgement day.

Christ, when you shall call me hence,
Be your Mother my defense,
Be your cross my victory.

While my body here decays,
May my soul your goodness praise,
Safe in heaven eternally. Amen.

Or another suitable hymn approved by ecclesiastic authority.

Ant. 1 For you we praise the Father,
O sorrowful Virgin;
in the blood of your Son Jesus,
we have the fullness of life.

PSALM 113 Praise the name of the Lord
He has thrown down the powerful from their thrones but lifted up the lowly. (Luke 1:52)

Praise, you servants of the Lord,*
praise the name of the Lord.
Blessed be the name of the Lord*
both now and forever.

From the rising of the sun to its setting*
let the name of the Lord be praised.
High above all nations is the Lord; *
above the heavens God's glory.

Who is like the Lord, our God enthroned on high, *
looking down on heaven and earth?

The Lord raises the needy from the dust,*
lifts the poor from the ash heap,
Seats them with princes,*
the princes of the people,

Gives the childless wife a home, *
the joyful mother of children.

Ant. 1 For you we praise the Father,
O sorrowful Virgin;
in the blood of your Son Jesus,
we have the fullness of life.

Ant. 2 Woman of the New Covenant, standing beside the cross,
your divine Son
named you Mother of his disciples.

PSALM 147 (12-20) God’s word restores Jerusalem
Come, I will show you the bride, the spouse of the lamb. (Revelation 21:9)

Glorify the Lord, Jerusalem; *
Zion, offer praise to your God,
Who has strengthened the bars of your gates, *
blessed your children within you.

He has brought peace to your borders, *
and filled you with finest wheat.
The Lord sends a command to earth;*
his word runs swiftly!

Thus snow is spread like wool, *
frost is scattered like ash,
Hail is dispersed like crumbs;*
before such cold the waters freeze.

Again he sends his word and they melt; *
the wind is unleashed and the waters flow.
The Lord also proclaims his word to Jacob, *
decrees and laws to Israel.

God has not done this for other nations; *
of such laws they know nothing.

Ant. 2 Woman of the New Covenant, standing beside the cross,
your divine Son
named you Mother of his disciples.

Ant. 3 Rejoice, full of grace,
and dance, O joyful Mother;
the blood of your Son Jesus
has reconciled heaven and earth.

CANTICLE cf Ephesians 1:3-10 God our Savior
In the Virgin Mother, Christ has revealed to us the mystery of the Father.

Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, †
who has blessed us in Christ *
with every spiritual blessing in the heavens.

God chose us in him, †
before the foundation of the world, *
to be holy and without blemish before him.

In love he destined us †
for adoption to himself through Jesus Christ, *
in accord with the favor of his will,
for the praise of the glory of his grace *
that he granted us in the beloved.

In Christ we have redemption by his blood, *
the forgiveness of transgressions,
in accord with the riches of his grace *
that he lavished upon us.

In all wisdom and insight †
God has made known to us the mystery of his will *
in accord with his favor that he set forth in him,
as a plan for the fullness of times, *
to sum up all things in Christ, in heaven and on earth.

Ant. 3 Rejoice, full of grace,
and dance, O joyful Mother;
the blood of your Son Jesus
has reconciled heaven and earth.

READING Colossians 1:24-25

Now I rejoice in my sufferings for your sake; and in my flesh I am filling up what is lacking in the afflictions of Christ on behalf of his body, which is the church, of which I am a minister in accordance with God's stewardship given to me, to bring to completion for you the word of God.

RESPONSORY

R. Obtain salvation for us, * O Virgin Mary.
-- Obtain salvation for us, O Virgin Mary.
V. Through the passion of Christ your Son,
-- O Virgin Mary
Glory to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit.
-- Obtain salvation for us, O Virgin Mary.

Magnificat Ant. Jesus says to his mother: “Woman behold your son!”
And to the disciple whom he loved: “Behold your mother!”

My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord; *
my spirit rejoices in God my savior.

For he has looked upon his handmaid's lowliness; *
behold, from now on all ages will call me blessed.

The Mighty One has done great things for me, *
and holy is his name.

His mercy is from age to age *
to those who fear him.

He has shown might with his arm, *
dispersed the arrogant of mind and heart.

He has thrown down the rulers from their thrones*
but lifted up the lowly.

The hungry he has filled with good things; *
the rich he has sent away empty.

He has helped Israel his servant, *
remembering his mercy,

according to his promise to our fathers, *
to Abraham and to his descendants forever.

Magnificat Ant. Jesus says to his mother: “Woman behold your son!”
And to the disciple whom he loved: “Behold your mother!”

INTERCESSIONS

With Our Lady of Sorrows, let us look lovingly at the crucified Christ and pray to our heavenly Father saying:
Reveal to us, Father, the mysterious glory of the Cross.

God of love, in the blood of your Son, poured out on the Cross, you ratified the eternal covenant with your people,
- grant that we may live it as Mary did, faithful to your loving plan and in solidarity with all our sisters and brothers.

God of compassion, in view of Christ’s Paschal Mystery, you preserved the Virgin Mary undefiled,
- keep us free from sin.

God of life, you strengthened Mary at the foot of the Cross and filled her with joy at the resurrection of her Son,
- support us amid the trials of life and strengthen us in hope.

God of peace, in the blood of your Son you reconciled humanity to yourself and restored harmony in creation,
- make us builders of peace, generous in service and solicitous in love.

God of kindness, through your Son, the sole Mediator, who died and rose for us,
- grant to our deceased brothers and sisters a share in the wedding feast of the Lamb.

Our Father

Prayer

Father most holy, who willed to associate Our Lady of Sorrows, Woman of the New Covenant, to the sacrifice of your Son; through the merits of his precious blood, grant, we pray, that your Church, born of Christ’s pierced side, may always celebrate the memorial of his work of redemption with the love of our Mother Mary showed. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever.

Published in September 15 - Our Lady of Sorrows, "Woman of the New Covenant"

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Friday, 26 May 2023 06:49

Evening Prayer II

HYMN

Redeemed by the blood of the Lamb,
our garments cleansed in him,
saved and made new by Love,
we sing praise to you, Lord Christ.

With you we are raised on the Cross,
with you, baptized into your death,
in you, O Christ, we are now risen,
and restored to life in the heart of the Father.

O Christ, your life is an immense font
of joy, springing up eternally;
unending splendor, in you is immersed
the human smallness of the redeemed.

Our day passes, declining;
Lord, remain with us this evening,
and may the certainty of our faith
light up the advancing night.

Grant that our death be absorbed
by the glorious light of the Resurrection
and, having died your own death,
may we live in you, who are our life.

O Father of kindness, we ask you this
through your Son who is risen,
and through the eternal Love who leads us
toward the sweet light of your face.
Amen.

Or another suitable hymn approved by ecclesiastical authority.

Ant 1 You are a priest forever
according to the order of Melchizedek.

PSALM 110:1-5, 7 The Messiah, king and priest
For he must reign until he has put all his enemies under his feet (1 Corinthians 15:25).

The Lord says to you, my lord: *
“Take your throne at my right hand,
while I make your enemies your footstool.”

The scepter of your sovereign might the Lord will extend from Zion. *
The Lord says: “Rule over your enemies!

Yours is princely power from the day of your birth.*
In holy splendor before the daystar,
like the dew I begot you.”

The Lord has sworn and will not waver:*
“Like Melchizedek you are a priest forever.”

At your right hand is the Lord, *
who crushes kings on the day of wrath,
who drinks from the brook by the wayside *
and thus holds high the head.

Ant. 1 You are a priest forever
according to the order of Melchizedek.

Ant. 2 Christ Jesus gave himself
as a ransom for all.

PSALM 116:1-13 Giving Thanks in the Temple
Through him (Christ) let us continually offer God a sacrifice of praise (Hebrews 13:15).

I love the Lord, who listened *
to my voice in supplication,
Who turned an ear to me *
on the day I called.

I was caught by the cords of death; *
the snares of Sheol had seized me;

I felt agony and dread. †
Then I called on the name of the Lord,*
“O Lord, save my life!”

Gracious is the Lord and just;*
yes, our God is merciful.
The Lord protects the simple; *
I was helpless, but God saved me.

Return, my soul, to your rest; *
the Lord has been good to you.

For my soul has been freed from death, †
my eyes from tears, *
my feet from stumbling.

I shall walk before the Lord *
in the land of the living.

I kept faith, even when I said, *
“I am greatly afflicted!”
I said in my alarm, *
“No one can be trusted!”

How can I repay the Lord *
for all the good done for me?
I will raise the cup of salvation *
and call on the name of the Lord

Ant. 2 Christ Jesus gave himself
as a ransom for all.

Ant. 3 To make us holy and spotless before the Father,
Jesus lovingly accepted the cross.

CANTICLE cf Ephesians 1:3-10 God our Savior
Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, †
who has blessed us in Christ *
with every spiritual blessing in the heavens.

God chose us in him, †
before the foundation of the world, *
to be holy and without blemish before him.

In love he destined us †
for adoption to himself through Jesus Christ, *
in accord with the favor of his will,
for the praise of the glory of his grace *
that he granted us in the beloved.

In Christ we have redemption by his blood, *
the forgiveness of transgressions,
in accord with the riches of his grace *
that he lavished upon us.

In all wisdom and insight †
God has made known to us the mystery of his will *
in accord with his favor that he set forth in him,
as a plan for the fullness of times, *
to sum up all things in Christ, in heaven and on earth.

Ant. 3 To make us holy and spotless before the Father,
Jesus lovingly accepted the cross.

READING 1 Peter 1:18-21

You realize that you were ransomed from your futile conduct, handed on by your ancestors, not with perishable things like silver or gold but with the precious blood of Christ as of a spotless unblemished lamb. He was known before the foundation of the world but revealed in the final time for you, who through him believe in God who raised him from the dead and gave him glory, so that your faith and hope are in God.

RESPONSORY
R. Let us gaze upon the blood of Christ,
* and we will understand how precious it is before the Father.
-- Let us gaze upon the blood of Christ, and we will understand how precious it is before the Father.
V. It was poured out for our salvation
-- and we will understand how precious it is before the Father.
Glory to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit.
-- Let us gaze upon the blood of Christ, and we will understand how precious it is before the Father.

Magnificat Ant. With Mary, Woman of the New Covenant,
let us glorify the Father who has redeemed us in his Son.

My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord; *
my spirit rejoices in God my savior.

For he has looked upon his handmaid's lowliness; *
behold, from now on all ages will call me blessed.

The Mighty One has done great things for me, *
and holy is his name.

His mercy is from age to age *
to those who fear him.

He has shown might with his arm, *
dispersed the arrogant of mind and heart.

He has thrown down the rulers from their thrones*
but lifted up the lowly.

The hungry he has filled with good things; *
the rich he has sent away empty.

He has helped Israel his servant, *
remembering his mercy,

according to his promise to our fathers, *
to Abraham and to his descendants forever.

Magnificat Ant. With Mary, Woman of the New Covenant,
let us glorify the Father who has redeemed us in his Son.

INTERCESSIONS

With faith and gratitude, let us beseech Christ who has reconciled humanity with God in his blood:
By your blood poured out for us, hear us, Lord Jesus!

Lord Jesus, you gave your life in a sacrifice of expiation at the close of day;
- we pray for the Church: make her an effective instrument of unity, communion and peace for the whole human race.

Lord Jesus, your blood poured out for us is an expression of your immense love;
- we pray for all peoples: guide and hear their desires for freedom, justice and truth.

Lord Jesus, with your precious blood you justified us before the Father;
- we pray for the poor, the suffering, and the marginalized: in their need, let them experience solidarity, help and support from all of us.

Lord Jesus, by the power of your blood you free us from the Evil One;
- we pray for all those who proclaim the Gospel: give them honesty in communication, integrity of life, and joy in sharing your victory over the powers of evil.

Lord Jesus, with your blood you purify and nourish your Church;
- we pray for this community: may the Eucharist, summit and source of life, be its daily food for mission.

Lord Jesus, crucified and risen for us, you granted pardon to the repentant thief;
- we pray for our dear deceased relatives and friends: grant them a share in the eternal nuptial banquet in the glory of the blessed.

Our Father.

Prayer

Father, who through the blood of Jesus your Son, the Lamb sacrificed on the cross, redeemed us, sanctified us, and made us your people; grant that all may accept this gift of your love, celebrate it joyfully in the Spirit, and drink of it in the Eucharistic chalice, the sign of your covenant and blessing. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever

Published in July 1 - The Most Precious Blood of Our Lord Jesus Christ

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Friday, 26 May 2023 06:45

Daytime Prayer

Complementary psalmody. However, if the solemnity is celebrated on Sunday, the psalms are taken from Sunday, Week I.

Mid-morning

Ant. The soldier’s lance opened the side of Jesus;
and blood and water came out.

READING 1 John 5: 6-9

This is the one who came through water and blood, Jesus Christ, not by water alone, but by water and blood. The Spirit is the one that testifies, and the Spirit is truth. So there are three that testify, the Spirit, the water, and the blood, and the three are of one accord. If we accept human testimony, the testimony of God is surely greater. Now the testimony of God is this: that he has testified on behalf of his Son.

V. The blood of Christ has made us clean
R. with the fire of the Holy Spirit.

Midday

Ant. The blood of Christ, crying out from the cross,
speaks of peace and reconciliation.

READING Colossians 1:19-22

In him all the fullness was pleased to dwell, and through him to reconcile all things for him, making peace by the blood of his cross through him, whether those on earth or those in heaven. You once were alienated and hostile in mind because of evil deeds. God has now reconciled you in his fleshly Body of Christ through his death, to present you holy, without blemish, and irreproachable before him.

V. Look, O God, our shield,
R. look at the face of your Christ.

Mid-afternoon

Ant. Christ, the Paschal Lamb,
was hung as a victim on a tree.

READING Revelation 21:3-6

I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Behold, God's dwelling is with the human race. He will dwell with them and they will be his people and God himself will always be with them as their God. He will wipe every tear from their eyes, and there shall be no more death or mourning, wailing or pain, for the old order has passed away.” The one who sat on the throne said, “Behold, I make all things new.” Then he said, “Write these words down, for they are trustworthy and true.” He said to me, “They are accomplished. I am the Alpha and the Omega, the beginning and the end. To the thirsty I will give a gift from the spring of life-giving water.

V. He was pierced for our faults;
R. and by his wounds we have been healed.

Prayer

Father, who through the blood of Jesus your Son, the Lamb sacrificed on the cross, redeemed us, sanctified us, and made us your people; grant that all may accept this gift of your love, celebrate it joyfully in the Spirit, and drink of it in the Eucharistic chalice, the sign of your covenant and blessing. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever.

Published in July 1 - The Most Precious Blood of Our Lord Jesus Christ

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