Prayers for the first week
Litany of the Holy Ghost
Litany of the Blessed Virgin Mary
Ave Maris Stella.
The French text below is taken from Le Traité de La VRAIE Dévotion à la Sainte Vierge, by Saint Louis-Marie Grignion de Montfort (1673-1716). I have included an English translation.
DEUXIÈME PÉRIODE : Trois semaines consacrées à se remplir de Jésus-Christ par la Sainte Vierge
Second period: Three weeks consecrated to absorbing Jesus Christ through the Blessed VirginPremière semaine (Jours 13 à 19): Connaissance de soi
First week (days 13-19): Self-knowledgeDémarche : Prières, examens/réflexions, actes de renoncement à sa propre volonté, de repentir de ses fautes, de mépris de soi-même… le tout aux pieds de Marie. Car c’est d’elle que nous espérons la lumière dont nous avons besoins pour se connaître soi-même. Et c’est près d’elle que nous serons capable de mesurer l’abîme de nos misères sans désespérer (Et donc, non pas d’abord de me regarder, de me triturer, mais de me laisser regarder, de me mettre sous le regard aimant de Jésus et de Marie.).
Programme: Prayers, examinations, reflection, acts of renunciation of our own will, of contrition for our sins, of contempt of self... all performed at the feet of Mary, for it is from her that we hope for the light we need to know ourselves. It is close to her, that we shall be able to measure the abyss of our miseries without despairing. (And so, do not at the outset focus on yourself and rack yourself but allow Jesus and Mary to look upon you, place yourself under their loving gaze)
« Pendant la première semaine, dit saint L.-M. de Montfort, ils emploieront toutes leurs oraisons et actions de piété à demander la connaissance d’eux-mêmes, et la contrition de leurs péchés : et ils feront tout en esprit d’humilité ».
« Pendant la première semaine, dit saint L.-M. de Montfort, ils emploieront toutes leurs oraisons et actions de piété à demander la connaissance d’eux-mêmes, et la contrition de leurs péchés : et ils feront tout en esprit d’humilité ».
''During the first week,'' says saint L.-M. de Montfort, ''they will direct all their prayers and pious works towards seeking self-knowledge and sorrow for their sins; they will do all this in a spirit of humility.''
Durant cette semaine, nous regarderons moins l’opposition entre l’esprit de Jésus et le nôtre, que l’état misérable où le péché nous a réduit. D’autre part, la « Vraie dévotion » étant une voie facile, courte, sûre et parfaite pour arriver à l’union avec Notre-Seigneur, but de la vie chrétienne, nous devons savoir que nous n’entrerions pas sérieusement dans cette magnifique voie d’amour surnaturel, si nous n’étions fortement convaincus de notre misère et de notre impuissance. Or, comment y arriver sans la connaissance de nous-mêmes ?
Durant cette semaine, nous regarderons moins l’opposition entre l’esprit de Jésus et le nôtre, que l’état misérable où le péché nous a réduit. D’autre part, la « Vraie dévotion » étant une voie facile, courte, sûre et parfaite pour arriver à l’union avec Notre-Seigneur, but de la vie chrétienne, nous devons savoir que nous n’entrerions pas sérieusement dans cette magnifique voie d’amour surnaturel, si nous n’étions fortement convaincus de notre misère et de notre impuissance. Or, comment y arriver sans la connaissance de nous-mêmes ?
During this period, we shall consider not so much the opposition that exists between the spirit of Jesus and our own, as the miserable condition to which our sins have reduced us. Moreover, the ''True Devotion'' being an easy, short, sure and perfect way to arrive at union with Our Lord, the aim of Christian life, we should realize that we won't be able to enter seriously upon this wondrous path of supernatural love unless we are firmly persuaded of our own wretchedness and helplessness. But how can we attain this without a knowledge of ourselves?
[1] Et factum est : cum esset in quodam loco orans, ut cessavit, dixit unus ex discipulis ejus ad eum : Domine, doce nos orare, sicut docuit et Joannes discipulos suos.
And it came to pass, that as he was in a certain place praying, when he ceased, one of his disciples said to him: Lord, teach us to pray, as John also taught his disciples.
[2] Et ait illis : Cum oratis, dicite : Pater, sanctificetur nomen tuum. Adveniat regnum tuum.
And he said to them: When you pray, say: Father, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come.
[3] Panem nostrum quotidianum da nobis hodie.
Give us this day our daily bread.
[4] Et dimitte nobis peccata nostra, siquidem et ipsi dimittimus omni debenti nobis. Et ne nos inducas in tentationem.
And forgive us our sins, for we also forgive every one that is indebted to us. And lead us not into temptation.
[5] Et ait ad illos : Quis vestrum habebit amicum, et ibit ad illum media nocte, et dicet illi : Amice, commoda mihi tres panes,
And he said to them: Which of you shall have a friend, and shall go to him at midnight, and shall say to him: Friend, lend me three loaves,
[6] quoniam amicus meus venit de via ad me, et non habeo quod ponam ante illum,
Because a friend of mine is come off his journey to me, and I have not what to set before him.
[7] et ille de intus respondens dicat : Noli mihi molestus esse, jam ostrium clausum est, et pueri mei mecum sunt in cubili : non possum surgere, et dare tibi.
And he from within should answer, and say: Trouble me not, the door is now shut, and my children are with me in bed; I cannot rise and give thee.
[8] Et si ille perseveraverit pulsans : dico vobis, etsi non dabit illi surgens eo quod amicus ejus sit, propter improbitatem tamen ejus surget, et dabit illi quotquot habet necessarios.
Yet if he shall continue knocking, I say to you, although he will not rise and give him, because he is his friend; yet, because of his importunity, he will rise, and give him as many as he needeth.
[9] Et ego dico vobis : Petite, et dabitur vobis; quaerite, et invenietis; pulsate, et aperietur vobis.
And I say to you, Ask, and it shall be given you: seek, and you shall find: knock, and it shall be opened to you.
[10] Omnis enim qui petit, accipit : et qui quaerit, invenit : et pulsanti aperietur.
For every one that asketh, receiveth; and he that seeketh, findeth; and to him that knocketh, it shall be opened.
Note from author
Holman Hunt (1827-1910) painted three versions of 'The Light of the World', the last one being finished towards the end of his life as he was going blind.
< William Holman Hunt [Public domain]
The following words are displayed at the foot of the copy hanging in St Paul's Cathedral, London.
[20] Ecce sto ad ástium, et pulso : si quis audiérit vocem meam, et aperúerit mihi jánuam, intrábo ad illum, et coenábo cum illo, et ipse mecum.[20] Behold, I stand at the gate, and knock. If any man shall hear my voice, and open to me the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me. [Revelation 3, 20]
It is a striking thought: Christ has assured us, in the words recorded by St Luke, that we have only to ask, seek and knock; but St John's words in the Apocalypse reveal that we must also listen, so as to be able to open our soul when Christ, the Light of the World, comes knocking. When Adam and Eve sinned, they hid in fear. The Lord asked, calling out: Adam, where art thou? [Gen 3, 9]. He sought an explanation by knocking on the door of Adam's soul.
One of the sons of Adam, ''poor banished children of Eve,'' was also hiding in fear. He heard the words: 'Where art thou?' This son of Adam by nature dares to ask, seek and knock, praying that he may obtain the hope of sonship by grace and become once more an adopted son of God and co-heir with Christ. One of the poor, banished children of Eve prays that the second Eve, the Virgo Virginum et Mater Divinae Gratiae, may guide him towards the Way, the Truth and the Life.
Refugium peccatorum, ora pro nobis.
Litany of the Holy Ghost
Litany of the Blessed Virgin Mary
Ave Maris Stella
Kyrie, eleison
R. Kyrie, eleison.
Lord, have mercy
R. Lord, have mercy.
Christe, eleison
R. Christe, eleison.
Christ, have mercy
R. Christ, have mercy.
Kyrie, eleison
R. Kyrie, eleison.
Lord, have mercy
R. Lord, have mercy.
Spiritus sancte a Patre Filioque procedens,
R. Miserere nobis.
Holy Spirit proceeding from the Father and the Son,
R. Have mercy on us.
Spiritus Domini Deus Israel,
R. Miserere nobis.
Spirit of the Lord, the God of Israel,
R. Have mercy on us.
Dominator hominum,
R. Miserere nobis.
Lord of men,
R. Have mercy on us.
Replens orbem terrarum,
R. Miserere nobis.
Filling the whole earth,
R. Have mercy on us.
Habens omnem virtutem,
R. Miserere nobis.
Having every virtue,
R. Have mercy on us.
Omnia bona operans, et omnia prospiciens,
R. Miserere nobis.
Author of all good, watchman over all,
R. Have mercy on us.
Ornans cælos, stabilis, et securus,
R. Miserere nobis.
Adorning the heavens, stable and secure,
R. Have mercy on us.
Spiritus veritatis omnia suggerens, et distribuens,
R. Miserere nobis.
Spirit of truth, furnishing and distributing everything,
R. Have mercy on us.
Spiritus sapientiæ et intellectus,
R. Miserere nobis.
Spirit of wisdom and understanding,
R. Have mercy on us.
Spiritus consilii, fortitudinis, scientiæ, et pietatis,
R. Miserere nobis.
Spirit of counsel, fortitude, knowledge, and piety,
R. Have mercy on us.
Spiritus timoris Domini et prudentiæ,
R. Miserere nobis.
Spirit of fear of the Lord and prudence,
R. Have mercy on us.
Spiritus, quo inspirante locuti sunt sancti Dei homines,
R. Miserere nobis.
Spirit, through whose inspiration the holy men of God spoke,
R. Have mercy on us.
Quæ ventura annuntians,
R. Miserere nobis.
Who Announces the things to come,
R. Have mercy on us.
Donum et promissio Patris,
R. Miserere nobis.
Gift and promise of the Father,
R. Have mercy on us.
Spiritus sancte Paraclite arguens mundum,
R. Miserere nobis.
Holy Spirit, the Paraclete, accuser of the world,
R. Have mercy on us.
Spiritus, in quo dæmonia eiiciuntur,
R. Miserere nobis.
Spirit, by whom demons are expelled,
R. Have mercy on us.
Spiritus, ex quo renascimur,
R. Miserere nobis.
Spirit, through whom we are reborn,
R. Have mercy on us.
Spiritus, per quem caritas Dei diffusa est in cordibus nostris,
R. Miserere nobis.
Spirit, through whom the love of God is diffused into our hearts,
R. Have mercy on us.
Spiritus adoptionis filiorum Dei,
R. Miserere nobis.
Spirit of adoption of the sons of God,
R. Have mercy on us.
Spiritus gratiæ et misericordiæ,
R. Miserere nobis.
Spirit of grace and mercy,
R. Have mercy on us.
Spiritus adiuvans infirmitatem nostram et reddens testimonium spiritui nostro, quod simus filii Dei,
R. Miserere nobis.
Spirit helping our weaknesses and restoring witness to us, that we are sons of God,
R. Have mercy on us.
Spiritus suavis, benigne, super mel dulcis,
R. Miserere nobis.
Spirit of sweetness and kindness, sweeter than honey,
R. Have mercy on us.
Spiritus pignus hereditatis nostræ, deducens nos in terram rectam,
R. Miserere nobis.
Spirit, who art the pledge of our inheritance, leading us into righteous lands,
R. Have mercy on us.
Spiritus principalis, vivificans et confortans,
R. Miserere nobis.
Spirit of principal, life-giving and strengthening,
R. Have mercy on us.
Spiritus salutis, iudicii et gaudii,
R. Miserere nobis.
Spirit of salvation, judgment, and joy,
R. Have mercy on us.
Spiritus fidei, pacis, et ardoris,
R. Miserere nobis.
Spirit of faith, peace, and love,
R. Have mercy on us.
Spiritus humilitatis, caritatis, et castitatis,
R. Miserere nobis.
Spirit of humility, charity, and chastity,
R. Have mercy on us.
Spiritus benignitatis, bonitatis, longanimitatis, ac mansuetudinis,
R. Miserere nobis.
Spirit of kindness, goodness, patience, and gentleness,
R. Have mercy on us.
Spiritus lenitatis, veritatis, unitatis ac consolationis,
R. Miserere nobis.
Spirit of mildness, truth, unity, and consolation,
R. Have mercy on us.
Spiritus compunctionis, promissionis, renovationis, ac sanctificationis,
R. Miserere nobis.
Spirit of good conscience, promise, renewal, and sanctification,
R. Have mercy on us.
Spiritus vitae, patientiæ, continentiæ, ac modestiæ,
R. Miserere nobis.
Spirit of life, patience, continence, and modesty,
R. Have mercy on us.
Spiritus omnium gratiarum,
R. Miserere nobis.
Spirit of every grace,
R. Have mercy on us.
Propitius esto,
R. Parce nobis sancte Spiritus.
Be merciful,
R. Spare us, O Holy Spirit.
Propitius esto,
R. Exaudi nos sancte Spiritus.
Be merciful,
R. Hear us, O Holy Spirit.
A spiritu erroris,
R. Libera nos, Spiritus Dei vivi.
From the spirit of error,
R. Deliver us, Spirit of the Living God.
A spiritu immundo,
R. Libera nos, Spiritus Dei vivi.
From an unclean spirit,
R. Deliver us, Spirit of the Living God.
A spiritu blasphemiæ,
R. Libera nos, Spiritus Dei vivi.
From the spirit of blasphemy,
R. Deliver us, Spirit of the Living God.
Ab omni obstinatione et desperatione,
R. Libera nos, Spiritus Dei vivi.
From all stubbornness and despair,
R. Deliver us, Spirit of the Living God.
Ab omni præsumptione et veritatis contradictione,
R. Libera nos, Spiritus Dei vivi.
From every presumption and contradiction of the truth,
R. Deliver us, Spirit of the Living God.
Ab omni malitia, et prava consuetudine,
R. Libera nos, Spiritus Dei vivi.
From every malice and depraved habit,
R. Deliver us, Spirit of the Living God.
Ab invidia fraternæ caritatis,
R. Libera nos, Spiritus Dei vivi.
From the disdain of fraternal charity,
R. Deliver us, Spirit of the Living God.
A finali impænitentia,
R. Libera nos, Spiritus Dei vivi.
From final impenitence,
R. Deliver us, Spirit of the Living God.
Per æternam a Patre et Filio processionem tuam,
R. Libera nos, Spiritus Dei vivi.
Through Thy eternal procession from the Father and the Son,
R. Deliver us, Spirit of the Living God.
Per invisibilem unctionem tuam,
R. Libera nos, Spiritus Dei vivi.
Through Thy invisible anointing,
R. Deliver us, Spirit of the Living God.
Per omnem gratiarum plenitudinem, qua Virginem Mariam semper possedisti,
R. Libera nos, Spiritus Dei vivi.
Through every fullness of grace, in which Thou didst always possess the Virgin Mary,
R. Deliver us, Spirit of the Living God.
Per supereffluentem sanctitatis abyssum, qua conceptione Verbi Matrem Dei inundare fecisti,
R. Libera nos, Spiritus Dei vivi.
Through that overflowing abyss of sanctity, which Thou didst pour forth upon the Mother of God at the conception of the Word,
R. Deliver us, Spirit of the Living God.
Per sanctam in baptismo Christi apparitionem tuam,
R. Libera nos, Spiritus Dei vivi.
Through Thy holy apparition at Christ's baptism,
R. Deliver us, Spirit of the Living God.
Per salutarem super apostolos adventum tuum,
R. Libera nos, Spiritus Dei vivi.
Through Thy saving advent upon the apostles at Pentecost,
R. Deliver us, Spirit of the Living God.
Per ineffabilem bonitatem tuam, qua Ecclesiam gubernas, Concilias præsides, Martyres corroboras, Doctores illuminas, Religiones instituis,
R. Libera nos, Spiritus Dei vivi.
Through Thy limitless goodness, by which Thou dost govern the Church, advise leaders, strengthen martyrs, illumine
teachers, and establish religious institutes,
R. Deliver us, Spirit of the Living God.
Peccatores,
R. Te rogamus, audi nos.
We sinners,
R. We ask Thee, hear us.
Ut in spiritu ambulemus, et desideria carnis non adimpleamus,
R. Te rogamus, audi nos.
That we may walk in spirit, and not filled with earthly desires
R. We ask Thee, hear us.
Ut Te numquam contristemus,
R. Te rogamus, audi nos.
That we may never sadden Thee,
R. We ask Thee, hear us.
Ut omnes Ecclesiasticos Ordines in sancta religione, et vero spiritu conservare digneris,
R. Te rogamus, audi nos.
That Thou wouldst deign to preserve all in Holy Orders in holy religion and the spirit of truth,
R. We ask Thee, hear us.
Ut cuncto populo Christiano cor unum et animam unam donare digneris,
R. Te rogamus, audi nos.
That Thou wouldst deign to grant the whole Christian people one heart and one soul,
R. We ask Thee, hear us.
Ut virtutem omnium complementum nobis donare digneris,
R. Te rogamus, audi nos.
That Thou wouldst deign to grant us every virtue,
R. We ask Thee, hear us.
Ut nos exaudire digneris,
R. Te rogamus, audi nos.
That Thou wouldst deign to hear us,
R. We ask Thee, hear us.
Spiritus Dei,
R. Te rogamus, audi nos.
Spirit of God,
R. We ask Thee, hear us.
Agnus Dei, qui tollis peccata mundi,
R. Effunde in nos Sanctum Spiritum.
Lamb of God, Thou who taketh away the sins of the world,
R. Pour forth the Holy Spirit in us.
Agnus Dei, qui tollis peccata mundi,
R. Emitte in nos promissum Patris Spiritum.
Lamb of God, Thou who taketh away the sins of the world,
R. Send forth the Spirit, the promise of the Father, to us.
Agnus Dei, qui tollis peccata mundi,
R. Da nobis spiritum bonum.
Lamb of God, Thou who taketh away the sins of the world,
R. Grant us the good spirit. (Lk 11:13).
V. Spiritus Domini replevit orbem terrarum:
R. Et hoc, quod continet omnia, scientiam habet vocis.
V. The Spirit of the Lord has filled the Earth:
R. It is all-embracing, and knows man's utterances.
Oremus:
Adsit nobis, quæsumus Domine, virtus Spiritus Sancti: quae et corda nostra clementer expurget, et ab omnibus tueatur adversis. Per Dominum nostrum Iesum Christum filium tuum, qui tecum vivit et regnat in unitate eiusdem Spiritus Sancti, Deus, per omnia sæcula sæculorum.
R. Amen.Let us pray:
Saint Luke - Chapter 11
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| Lord, teach us to pray... J-J Tissot. |
And it came to pass, that as he was in a certain place praying, when he ceased, one of his disciples said to him: Lord, teach us to pray, as John also taught his disciples.
[2] Et ait illis : Cum oratis, dicite : Pater, sanctificetur nomen tuum. Adveniat regnum tuum.
And he said to them: When you pray, say: Father, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come.
[3] Panem nostrum quotidianum da nobis hodie.
Give us this day our daily bread.
[4] Et dimitte nobis peccata nostra, siquidem et ipsi dimittimus omni debenti nobis. Et ne nos inducas in tentationem.
And forgive us our sins, for we also forgive every one that is indebted to us. And lead us not into temptation.
[5] Et ait ad illos : Quis vestrum habebit amicum, et ibit ad illum media nocte, et dicet illi : Amice, commoda mihi tres panes,
And he said to them: Which of you shall have a friend, and shall go to him at midnight, and shall say to him: Friend, lend me three loaves,
[6] quoniam amicus meus venit de via ad me, et non habeo quod ponam ante illum,
Because a friend of mine is come off his journey to me, and I have not what to set before him.
[7] et ille de intus respondens dicat : Noli mihi molestus esse, jam ostrium clausum est, et pueri mei mecum sunt in cubili : non possum surgere, et dare tibi.
And he from within should answer, and say: Trouble me not, the door is now shut, and my children are with me in bed; I cannot rise and give thee.
[8] Et si ille perseveraverit pulsans : dico vobis, etsi non dabit illi surgens eo quod amicus ejus sit, propter improbitatem tamen ejus surget, et dabit illi quotquot habet necessarios.
Yet if he shall continue knocking, I say to you, although he will not rise and give him, because he is his friend; yet, because of his importunity, he will rise, and give him as many as he needeth.
[9] Et ego dico vobis : Petite, et dabitur vobis; quaerite, et invenietis; pulsate, et aperietur vobis.
And I say to you, Ask, and it shall be given you: seek, and you shall find: knock, and it shall be opened to you.
[10] Omnis enim qui petit, accipit : et qui quaerit, invenit : et pulsanti aperietur.
For every one that asketh, receiveth; and he that seeketh, findeth; and to him that knocketh, it shall be opened.
Notes (from Cornelius A Lapide)
St Luke
[2] Et ait illis : Cum oratis, dicite : Pater, sanctificetur nomen tuum. Adveniat regnum tuum.
And he said to them: When you pray, say: Father, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come.
And he said to them: When you pray, say: Father, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come.
When ye pray, say, Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be Thy name. S. Matthew adds this prayer to the sermon on the mount, whilst S. Luke places it at a later period. Either, therefore, Christ taught His disciples this prayer on two separate occasions, or S. Matthew added it to the sermon on the mount, in order to make that sermon a complete summary of evangelical doctrine.
Here we may observe, that S. Matthew makes this prayer consist of seven petitions, but S. Luke of five. The latter evangelist unites two, because they are contained in the others. Hence, because S. Luke omits the last petition, “deliver us from evil,” the Pelagians argued that although we might pray against being led into temptation, we ought not to pray for deliverance from evil.
NB: For the full commentary from CAL on Matthew 9-13, see Day 2 of 33 here.
NB: For the full commentary from CAL on Matthew 9-13, see Day 2 of 33 here.
[5] Et ait ad illos : Quis vestrum habebit amicum, et ibit ad illum media nocte, et dicet illi : Amice, commoda mihi tres panes,
And he said to them: Which of you shall have a friend, and shall go to him at midnight, and shall say to him: Friend, lend me three loaves,
And he said to them: Which of you shall have a friend, and shall go to him at midnight, and shall say to him: Friend, lend me three loaves,
And He said unto them, Which of you shall have a friend, and shall go unto him at midnight.
At midnight, i.e. at a most inconvenient time.
Christ puts forth this parable to teach His disciples not to be disheartened, nor to cease to pray because their petitions are unanswered, but to persevere, for if they do this, God will listen to their prayers and grant them their requests.
[6] quoniam amicus meus venit de via ad me, et non habeo quod ponam ante illum,
Because a friend of mine is come off his journey to me, and I have not what to set before him.
Because a friend of mine is come off his journey to me, and I have not what to set before him.
For a friend of mine in his journey is come to me, and I have nothing to set before him. My friend, hungry and wearied with his journey, seeks refreshment, and I have nothing to set before him.
[7] et ille de intus respondens dicat : Noli mihi molestus esse, jam ostrium clausum est, et pueri mei mecum sunt in cubili : non possum surgere, et dare tibi.
And he from within should answer, and say: Trouble me not, the door is now shut, and my children are with me in bed; I cannot rise and give thee.
And he from within should answer, and say: Trouble me not, the door is now shut, and my children are with me in bed; I cannot rise and give thee.
And he from within shall answer and say, Trouble me not. He makes excuse that he cannot wake his children from their sleep and disturb his household.
[8] Et si ille perseveraverit pulsans : dico vobis, etsi non dabit illi surgens eo quod amicus ejus sit, propter improbitatem tamen ejus surget, et dabit illi quotquot habet necessarios.
Yet if he shall continue knocking, I say to you, although he will not rise and give him, because he is his friend; yet, because of his importunity, he will rise, and give him as many as he needeth.
Yet if he shall continue knocking, I say to you, although he will not rise and give him, because he is his friend; yet, because of his importunity, he will rise, and give him as many as he needeth.
I say unto you, Though he will not rise and give him, because he is his friend, yet because of his importunity he will rise and give him as many as he needeth.
Importunity—ἀναίδειαν, i.e., impudence, used as the Latin word impudens—e.g., labor impudens (i.e. unceasing labour) omnia vincit.
[The quality or fact of being persistent or pressing in making requests, demands, or offers OED]
[The quality or fact of being persistent or pressing in making requests, demands, or offers OED]
Here S. Augustine asks, “Why because of his importunity? Because he continued to knock and did not go away because his request was denied him. He who was unwilling to give what his friend had need of, gave at last because the other continued his demands. Much more then will God who in His goodness bids us make known our requests to Him, and is displeased with those who seek Him not, grant our requests.”
God wills that we should continue instant in prayer, and is pleased with our “importunity,” for persistent prayer is “violence pleasing to God.” Tertullian.
[9] Et ego dico vobis : Petite, et dabitur vobis; quaerite, et invenietis; pulsate, et aperietur vobis.
And I say to you, Ask, and it shall be given you: seek, and you shall find: knock, and it shall be opened to you.
And I say to you, Ask, and it shall be given you: seek, and you shall find: knock, and it shall be opened to you.
And I say unto you, ask and it shall be given you. (See S. Matt. 7:7.)
CHRYS. Now by asking, He means prayer, but by seeking, zeal and anxiety, as He adds, Seek, and you shall find. For those things which are sought require great care. And this is particularly the case with God. For there are many things which block up our senses. As then we search for lost gold, so let us anxiously seek after God. He shows also, that though He does not forthwith open the gates, we must yet wait. Hence he adds, Knock, and it shall be opened to you; for if you continue seeking, you shall surely receive. For this reason, and as the door shut makes you knock, therefore he did not at once consent that you might entreat.
Note from author
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| Light of the World. |
< William Holman Hunt [Public domain]
The following words are displayed at the foot of the copy hanging in St Paul's Cathedral, London.
[20] Ecce sto ad ástium, et pulso : si quis audiérit vocem meam, et aperúerit mihi jánuam, intrábo ad illum, et coenábo cum illo, et ipse mecum.[20] Behold, I stand at the gate, and knock. If any man shall hear my voice, and open to me the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me. [Revelation 3, 20]
It is a striking thought: Christ has assured us, in the words recorded by St Luke, that we have only to ask, seek and knock; but St John's words in the Apocalypse reveal that we must also listen, so as to be able to open our soul when Christ, the Light of the World, comes knocking. When Adam and Eve sinned, they hid in fear. The Lord asked, calling out: Adam, where art thou? [Gen 3, 9]. He sought an explanation by knocking on the door of Adam's soul.
One of the sons of Adam, ''poor banished children of Eve,'' was also hiding in fear. He heard the words: 'Where art thou?' This son of Adam by nature dares to ask, seek and knock, praying that he may obtain the hope of sonship by grace and become once more an adopted son of God and co-heir with Christ. One of the poor, banished children of Eve prays that the second Eve, the Virgo Virginum et Mater Divinae Gratiae, may guide him towards the Way, the Truth and the Life.
Refugium peccatorum, ora pro nobis.
Prayers for the first week
Litany of the Holy Ghost
Litany of the Blessed Virgin Mary
Ave Maris Stella
Litaniae de Sancto Spiritu
Litany of the Holy SpiritKyrie, eleison
R. Kyrie, eleison.
Lord, have mercy
R. Lord, have mercy.
Christe, eleison
R. Christe, eleison.
Christ, have mercy
R. Christ, have mercy.
Kyrie, eleison
R. Kyrie, eleison.
Lord, have mercy
R. Lord, have mercy.
Spiritus sancte a Patre Filioque procedens,
R. Miserere nobis.
Holy Spirit proceeding from the Father and the Son,
R. Have mercy on us.
Spiritus Domini Deus Israel,
R. Miserere nobis.
Spirit of the Lord, the God of Israel,
R. Have mercy on us.
Dominator hominum,
R. Miserere nobis.
Lord of men,
R. Have mercy on us.
Replens orbem terrarum,
R. Miserere nobis.
Filling the whole earth,
R. Have mercy on us.
Habens omnem virtutem,
R. Miserere nobis.
Having every virtue,
R. Have mercy on us.
Omnia bona operans, et omnia prospiciens,
R. Miserere nobis.
Author of all good, watchman over all,
R. Have mercy on us.
Ornans cælos, stabilis, et securus,
R. Miserere nobis.
Adorning the heavens, stable and secure,
R. Have mercy on us.
Spiritus veritatis omnia suggerens, et distribuens,
R. Miserere nobis.
Spirit of truth, furnishing and distributing everything,
R. Have mercy on us.
Spiritus sapientiæ et intellectus,
R. Miserere nobis.
Spirit of wisdom and understanding,
R. Have mercy on us.
Spiritus consilii, fortitudinis, scientiæ, et pietatis,
R. Miserere nobis.
Spirit of counsel, fortitude, knowledge, and piety,
R. Have mercy on us.
Spiritus timoris Domini et prudentiæ,
R. Miserere nobis.
Spirit of fear of the Lord and prudence,
R. Have mercy on us.
Spiritus, quo inspirante locuti sunt sancti Dei homines,
R. Miserere nobis.
Spirit, through whose inspiration the holy men of God spoke,
R. Have mercy on us.
Quæ ventura annuntians,
R. Miserere nobis.
Who Announces the things to come,
R. Have mercy on us.
Donum et promissio Patris,
R. Miserere nobis.
Gift and promise of the Father,
R. Have mercy on us.
Spiritus sancte Paraclite arguens mundum,
R. Miserere nobis.
Holy Spirit, the Paraclete, accuser of the world,
R. Have mercy on us.
Spiritus, in quo dæmonia eiiciuntur,
R. Miserere nobis.
Spirit, by whom demons are expelled,
R. Have mercy on us.
Spiritus, ex quo renascimur,
R. Miserere nobis.
Spirit, through whom we are reborn,
R. Have mercy on us.
Spiritus, per quem caritas Dei diffusa est in cordibus nostris,
R. Miserere nobis.
Spirit, through whom the love of God is diffused into our hearts,
R. Have mercy on us.
Spiritus adoptionis filiorum Dei,
R. Miserere nobis.
Spirit of adoption of the sons of God,
R. Have mercy on us.
Spiritus gratiæ et misericordiæ,
R. Miserere nobis.
Spirit of grace and mercy,
R. Have mercy on us.
Spiritus adiuvans infirmitatem nostram et reddens testimonium spiritui nostro, quod simus filii Dei,
R. Miserere nobis.
Spirit helping our weaknesses and restoring witness to us, that we are sons of God,
R. Have mercy on us.
Spiritus suavis, benigne, super mel dulcis,
R. Miserere nobis.
Spirit of sweetness and kindness, sweeter than honey,
R. Have mercy on us.
Spiritus pignus hereditatis nostræ, deducens nos in terram rectam,
R. Miserere nobis.
Spirit, who art the pledge of our inheritance, leading us into righteous lands,
R. Have mercy on us.
Spiritus principalis, vivificans et confortans,
R. Miserere nobis.
Spirit of principal, life-giving and strengthening,
R. Have mercy on us.
Spiritus salutis, iudicii et gaudii,
R. Miserere nobis.
Spirit of salvation, judgment, and joy,
R. Have mercy on us.
Spiritus fidei, pacis, et ardoris,
R. Miserere nobis.
Spirit of faith, peace, and love,
R. Have mercy on us.
Spiritus humilitatis, caritatis, et castitatis,
R. Miserere nobis.
Spirit of humility, charity, and chastity,
R. Have mercy on us.
Spiritus benignitatis, bonitatis, longanimitatis, ac mansuetudinis,
R. Miserere nobis.
Spirit of kindness, goodness, patience, and gentleness,
R. Have mercy on us.
Spiritus lenitatis, veritatis, unitatis ac consolationis,
R. Miserere nobis.
Spirit of mildness, truth, unity, and consolation,
R. Have mercy on us.
Spiritus compunctionis, promissionis, renovationis, ac sanctificationis,
R. Miserere nobis.
Spirit of good conscience, promise, renewal, and sanctification,
R. Have mercy on us.
Spiritus vitae, patientiæ, continentiæ, ac modestiæ,
R. Miserere nobis.
Spirit of life, patience, continence, and modesty,
R. Have mercy on us.
Spiritus omnium gratiarum,
R. Miserere nobis.
Spirit of every grace,
R. Have mercy on us.
Propitius esto,
R. Parce nobis sancte Spiritus.
Be merciful,
R. Spare us, O Holy Spirit.
Propitius esto,
R. Exaudi nos sancte Spiritus.
Be merciful,
R. Hear us, O Holy Spirit.
A spiritu erroris,
R. Libera nos, Spiritus Dei vivi.
From the spirit of error,
R. Deliver us, Spirit of the Living God.
A spiritu immundo,
R. Libera nos, Spiritus Dei vivi.
From an unclean spirit,
R. Deliver us, Spirit of the Living God.
A spiritu blasphemiæ,
R. Libera nos, Spiritus Dei vivi.
From the spirit of blasphemy,
R. Deliver us, Spirit of the Living God.
Ab omni obstinatione et desperatione,
R. Libera nos, Spiritus Dei vivi.
From all stubbornness and despair,
R. Deliver us, Spirit of the Living God.
Ab omni præsumptione et veritatis contradictione,
R. Libera nos, Spiritus Dei vivi.
From every presumption and contradiction of the truth,
R. Deliver us, Spirit of the Living God.
Ab omni malitia, et prava consuetudine,
R. Libera nos, Spiritus Dei vivi.
From every malice and depraved habit,
R. Deliver us, Spirit of the Living God.
Ab invidia fraternæ caritatis,
R. Libera nos, Spiritus Dei vivi.
From the disdain of fraternal charity,
R. Deliver us, Spirit of the Living God.
A finali impænitentia,
R. Libera nos, Spiritus Dei vivi.
From final impenitence,
R. Deliver us, Spirit of the Living God.
Per æternam a Patre et Filio processionem tuam,
R. Libera nos, Spiritus Dei vivi.
Through Thy eternal procession from the Father and the Son,
R. Deliver us, Spirit of the Living God.
Per invisibilem unctionem tuam,
R. Libera nos, Spiritus Dei vivi.
Through Thy invisible anointing,
R. Deliver us, Spirit of the Living God.
Per omnem gratiarum plenitudinem, qua Virginem Mariam semper possedisti,
R. Libera nos, Spiritus Dei vivi.
Through every fullness of grace, in which Thou didst always possess the Virgin Mary,
R. Deliver us, Spirit of the Living God.
Per supereffluentem sanctitatis abyssum, qua conceptione Verbi Matrem Dei inundare fecisti,
R. Libera nos, Spiritus Dei vivi.
Through that overflowing abyss of sanctity, which Thou didst pour forth upon the Mother of God at the conception of the Word,
R. Deliver us, Spirit of the Living God.
Per sanctam in baptismo Christi apparitionem tuam,
R. Libera nos, Spiritus Dei vivi.
Through Thy holy apparition at Christ's baptism,
R. Deliver us, Spirit of the Living God.
Per salutarem super apostolos adventum tuum,
R. Libera nos, Spiritus Dei vivi.
Through Thy saving advent upon the apostles at Pentecost,
R. Deliver us, Spirit of the Living God.
Per ineffabilem bonitatem tuam, qua Ecclesiam gubernas, Concilias præsides, Martyres corroboras, Doctores illuminas, Religiones instituis,
R. Libera nos, Spiritus Dei vivi.
Through Thy limitless goodness, by which Thou dost govern the Church, advise leaders, strengthen martyrs, illumine
teachers, and establish religious institutes,
R. Deliver us, Spirit of the Living God.
Peccatores,
R. Te rogamus, audi nos.
We sinners,
R. We ask Thee, hear us.
Ut in spiritu ambulemus, et desideria carnis non adimpleamus,
R. Te rogamus, audi nos.
That we may walk in spirit, and not filled with earthly desires
R. We ask Thee, hear us.
Ut Te numquam contristemus,
R. Te rogamus, audi nos.
That we may never sadden Thee,
R. We ask Thee, hear us.
Ut omnes Ecclesiasticos Ordines in sancta religione, et vero spiritu conservare digneris,
R. Te rogamus, audi nos.
That Thou wouldst deign to preserve all in Holy Orders in holy religion and the spirit of truth,
R. We ask Thee, hear us.
Ut cuncto populo Christiano cor unum et animam unam donare digneris,
R. Te rogamus, audi nos.
That Thou wouldst deign to grant the whole Christian people one heart and one soul,
R. We ask Thee, hear us.
Ut virtutem omnium complementum nobis donare digneris,
R. Te rogamus, audi nos.
That Thou wouldst deign to grant us every virtue,
R. We ask Thee, hear us.
Ut nos exaudire digneris,
R. Te rogamus, audi nos.
That Thou wouldst deign to hear us,
R. We ask Thee, hear us.
Spiritus Dei,
R. Te rogamus, audi nos.
Spirit of God,
R. We ask Thee, hear us.
Agnus Dei, qui tollis peccata mundi,
R. Effunde in nos Sanctum Spiritum.
Lamb of God, Thou who taketh away the sins of the world,
R. Pour forth the Holy Spirit in us.
Agnus Dei, qui tollis peccata mundi,
R. Emitte in nos promissum Patris Spiritum.
Lamb of God, Thou who taketh away the sins of the world,
R. Send forth the Spirit, the promise of the Father, to us.
Agnus Dei, qui tollis peccata mundi,
R. Da nobis spiritum bonum.
Lamb of God, Thou who taketh away the sins of the world,
R. Grant us the good spirit. (Lk 11:13).
V. Spiritus Domini replevit orbem terrarum:
R. Et hoc, quod continet omnia, scientiam habet vocis.
V. The Spirit of the Lord has filled the Earth:
R. It is all-embracing, and knows man's utterances.
Oremus:
Adsit nobis, quæsumus Domine, virtus Spiritus Sancti: quae et corda nostra clementer expurget, et ab omnibus tueatur adversis. Per Dominum nostrum Iesum Christum filium tuum, qui tecum vivit et regnat in unitate eiusdem Spiritus Sancti, Deus, per omnia sæcula sæculorum.
R. Amen.Let us pray:
We beseech Thee, O Lord, that the strength of the Holy Spirit who mercifully cleanses our hearts and protects us from all adversity be with us. Through our Lord Jesus Christ Thy Son, who liveth and reigneth with Thee in the unity of that selfsame Holy Spirit, God, forever and ever.
R. Amen.
From the Cœleste Palmetum, 1741 edition. Tr MWM. ©copyrighted by Michael Martin. See Michael's superb website here: Treasury of Latin Prayers
Litaniae Lauretanae
Litany of LoretoThe Litany contains many praises found in a Hymn which was first translated into Latin around the year 800. The other titles and praises are found in the writings of the early Church Fathers of the first six centuries. It is believed the Litany was composed in Paris towards the end of the 12th century. It gets its name from the Italian shrine at Loreto, where it was adopted in 1558. ©copyrighted by Michael Martin. See Michael's superb website here: Treasury of Latin Prayers
Kyrie, eleison.
R. Christe, eleison.
Kyrie, eleison.
Christe, audi nos.
R. Christe, exaudi nos.
Pater de caelis, Deus,
R. miserere nobis.
Fili, Redemptor mundi, Deus,
R. miserere nobis.
Spiritus Sancte Deus,
R. miserere nobis.
Sancta Trinitas, unus Deus,
R. miserere nobis.
Sancta Maria,
R. ora pro nobis.
Sancta Dei Genitrix,
R. ora pro nobis.
Sancta Virgo virginum,
R. ora pro nobis.
Mater Christi,
R. ora pro nobis.
Mater Ecclesiae,
R. ora pro nobis.
Mater Divinae gratiae,
R. ora pro nobis.
Mater purissima,
R. ora pro nobis.
Mater castissima,
R. ora pro nobis.
Mater inviolata,
R. ora pro nobis.
Mater intemerata,
R. ora pro nobis.
Mater amabilis,
R. ora pro nobis.
Mater admirabilis,
R. ora pro nobis.
Mater boni Consilii,
R. ora pro nobis.
Mater Creatoris,
R. ora pro nobis.
Mater Salvatoris,
R. ora pro nobis.
Virgo prudentissima,
R. ora pro nobis.
Virgo veneranda,
R. ora pro nobis.
Virgo praedicanda,
R. ora pro nobis.
Virgo potens,
R. ora pro nobis.
Virgo clemens,
R. ora pro nobis.
Virgo fidelis,
R. ora pro nobis.
Speculum iustitiae,
R. ora pro nobis.
Sedes sapientiae,
R. ora pro nobis.
Causa nostrae laetitiae,
R. ora pro nobis.
Vas spirituale,
R. ora pro nobis.
Vas honorabile,
R. ora pro nobis.
Vas insigne devotionis,
R. ora pro nobis.
Rosa mystica,
R. ora pro nobis.
Turris Davidica,
R. ora pro nobis.
Turris eburnea,
R. ora pro nobis.
Domus aurea,
R. ora pro nobis.
Foederis arca,
R. ora pro nobis.
Ianua caeli,
R. ora pro nobis.
Stella matutina,
R. ora pro nobis.
Salus infirmorum,
R. ora pro nobis.
Refugium peccatorum,
R. ora pro nobis.
Consolatrix afflictorum,
R. ora pro nobis.
Auxilium Christianorum,
R. ora pro nobis.
Regina Angelorum,
R. ora pro nobis.
Regina Patriarcharum,
R. ora pro nobis.
Regina Prophetarum,
R. ora pro nobis.
Regina Apostolorum,
R. ora pro nobis.
Regina Martyrum,
R. ora pro nobis.
Regina Confessorum,
R. ora pro nobis.
Regina Virginum,
R. ora pro nobis.
Regina Sanctorum omnium,
R. ora pro nobis.
Regina sine labe originali concepta,
R. ora pro nobis.
Regina in caelum assumpta,
R. ora pro nobis.
Regina Sacratissimi Rosarii,
R. ora pro nobis.
Regina familiae,
R. ora pro nobis.
Regina pacis,
R. ora pro nobis.
Agnus Dei, qui tollis peccata mundi,
R. parce nobis, Domine.
Agnus Dei, qui tollis peccata mundi,
R. exaudi nos, Domine.
Agnus Dei, qui tollis peccata mundi,
R. miserere nobis.
V. Ora pro nobis, Sancta Dei Genetrix,
R. Ut digni efficiamur promissionibus Christi.
Oremus
Concede nos famulos tuos, quaesumus, Domine Deus, perpetua mentis et corporis sanitate gaudere: et gloriosa beatae Mariae semper Virginis intercessione, a praesenti liberari tristitia, et aeterna perfrui laetitia. Per Christum Dominum nostrum.
R. Amen.
Tempore Adventus:
V. Angelus Domini nuntiavit Mariae,
R. Et concepit de Spiritu Sancto.
Oremus
Deus, qui de beatae Mariae Virginis utero Verbum tuum, Angelo nuntiante, carnem suscipere voluisti: praesta supplicibus tuis; ut, qui vere eam Genetricem Dei credimus, eius apud te intercessionibus adiuvemur. Per Christum Dominum nostrum.
R. Amen.Tempore Nativitatis:
V. Post partum, Virgo, inviolata permansisti,
R. Dei Genetrix, intercede pro nobis.
Oremus
Deus, qui salutis aeternae, beatae Mariae virginitate fecunda, humano generi praemia praestitisti: tribue, quaesumus; ut ipsam pro nobis intercedere sentiamus, per quam meruimus Filius tuum auctorem vitae suscipere. Qui tecum vivit et regnat in saecula saeculorum.
R. Amen.Tempore Paschali:
V. Gaude et laetare, Virgo Maria, alleluia.
R. Quia surrexit Dominus vere, alleluia.
Oremus
Deus, qui per resurrectionem Filii tui, Domini nostri Iesu Christi, mundum laetificare dignatus es: praesta, quaesumus: ut, per eius Genetricem Virginem Mariam, perpetuae capiamus gaudia vitae. Per eundem Christum Dominum nostrum.
R. Amen.
Litany of Loreto (English)
Lord, have mercy on us.
Christ, have mercy on us.
Lord, have mercy on us. Christ hear us.
Christ, graciously hear us.
God, the Father of heaven,
Have mercy on us.
God, the Son, Redeemer of the world:
Have mercy on us.
God, the Holy Ghost,
Have mercy on us.
Holy Trinity, One God,
Have mercy on us.
Holy Mary, pray for us. (repeat at end of each phrase.)
Holy Mother of God,
Holy Virgin of virgins,
Mother of Christ,
Mother of the Church
Mother of divine grace,
Mother most pure,
Mother most chaste,
Mother inviolate,
Mother undefiled,
Mother most amiable,
Mother most admirable,
Mother of good counsel,
Mother of our Creator,
Mother of our Savior,
Virgin most prudent,
Virgin most venerable,
Virgin most renowned,
Virgin most powerful,
Virgin most merciful,
Virgin most faithful,
Mirror of justice,
Seat of wisdom,
Cause of our joy,
Spiritual vessel,
Vessel of honor,
Singular vessel of devotion,
Mystical rose,
Tower of David,
Tower of ivory,
House of gold,
Ark of the covenant,
Gate of Heaven,
Morning star,
Health of the sick,
Refuge of sinners,
Comforter of the afflicted,
Help of Christians,
Queen of angels,
Queen of patriarchs,
Queen of prophets,
Queen of apostles,
Queen of martyrs,
Queen of confessors,
Queen of virgins,
Queen of all saints,
Queen conceived without original sin,
Queen assumed into heaven,
Queen of the most holy Rosary,
Queen of peace.
Lamb of God, who takest away the sins of the world,
Spare us, O Lord.
Lamb of God, who takest away the sins of the world,
Graciously hear us O Lord.
Lamb of God, who takest away the sins of the world,
Have mercy on us.
V. Pray for us, O holy Mother of God.
R. That we may be made worthy of the promises of Christ.
Let us pray:
Grant, O Lord God, we beseech Thee, that we Thy servants may rejoice in continual health of mind and body; and, through the glorious intercession of Blessed Mary ever Virgin, may be freed from present sorrow, and enjoy eternal gladness. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.
