The St. Bede’s Breviary, v2.0

Evening Prayer for 7/18/2026

The Eve of Proper 11

Pre-Office Angelus [+][-]

V. The Angel of the Lord announced to Mary
R. And she conceived by the Holy Spirit.

Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with you. Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb, Jesus

Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of our death. Amen.

R.Behold the handmaid of the Lord
V. Be it unto me according to your word

Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with you. Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb, Jesus

Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners,
now and at the hour of our death. Amen.

V. And the Word was made flesh.
R. And dwelled among us.

Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with you. Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb, Jesus

Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of our death. Amen.

V. Pray for us, O holy Mother of God.
R. That we may be made worthy of the promises of Christ.

Let us pray:
Pour your grace into our hearts, O Lord, that we who have known the incarnation of your Son Jesus Christ, announced by an angel to the Virgin Mary, may by his cross and passion be brought to the glory of his resurrection; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

R. The angel of the Lord announced unto Mary;
V. And she conceived by the Holy Ghost.

Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee. Blessed art thou amongst women and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus.

Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners, now, and at the hour of our death. Amen.

R. Behold the handmaid of the Lord:
V. Be it unto me according to Thy word.

Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee. Blessed art thou amongst women and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus.

Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners, now, and at the hour of our death. Amen.

V. And the Word was made flesh:
R. And dwelt among us.

Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee. Blessed art thou amongst women and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus.

Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners, now, and at the hour of our death. Amen.

V. Pray for us, O Holy Mother of God.
R. That we may be made worthy of the promises of Christ.

Let us pray:
We beseech Thee, O Lord, pour thy grace into our hearts, that we who have known the incarnation of thy Son Jesus Christ, announced by an angel to the Virgin Mary, may by his cross and passion be brought to the glory of His resurrection, who liveth and reigneth with thee, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.

If I say, "Surely the darkness will cover me, and the light around me turn to night," darkness is not dark to thee, O Lord; the night is as bright as the day; darkness and light to thee are both alike. Psalm 139:10,11

If I say, "Surely the darkness will cover me, and the light around me turn to night," darkness is not dark to you, O Lord; the night is as bright as the day; darkness and light to you are both alike. Psalm 139:10,11

Confession of Sin [+][-]

Dear friends in Christ, here in the presence of Almighty God, let us kneel in silence, and with penitent and obedient hearts confess our sins, so that we may obtain forgiveness by his infinite goodness and mercy.

Silence may be kept.

Almighty and most merciful Father, we have erred and strayed from thy ways like lost sheep, we have followed too much the devices and desires of our own hearts, we have offended against thy holy laws, we have left undone those things which we ought to have done, and we have done those things which we ought not to have done. But thou, O Lord, have mercy upon us, spare thou those who confess their faults, restore thou those who are penitent, according to thy promises declared unto mankind in Christ Jesus our Lord; and grant, O most merciful Father, for his sake, that we may hereafter live a godly, righteous, and sober life, to the glory of thy holy Name. Amen.

The Almighty and merciful Lord grant us absolution and remission of all our sins, true repentance, amendment of life, and the grace and consolation of his Holy Spirit. Amen.

Dear friends in Christ, here in the presence of Almighty God, let us kneel in silence, and with penitent and obedient hearts confess our sins, that we may obtain forgiveness by his infinite goodness and mercy.

Silence may be kept.

Most merciful God, we confess that we have sinned against you in thought, word, and deed, by what we have done, and by what we have left undone. We have not loved you with our whole heart; we have not loved our neighbors as ourselves. We are truly sorry and we humbly repent. For the sake of your Son Jesus Christ, have mercy on us and forgive us; that we may delight in your will, and walk in your ways, to the glory of your Name. Amen.

Almighty God have mercy on us, forgive us all our sins through our Lord Jesus Christ, strengthen us in all goodness, and by the power of the Holy Spirit keep us in eternal life. Amen.

The Invitatory and Psalter

V. O God, make speed to save us.
R. O Lord, make haste to help us.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost: *
     As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.

V. O God, make speed to save us.
R. O Lord, make haste to help us.

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

Alleluia.

O Gracious Light Phos hilaron

O gracious Light,
pure brightness of the everliving Father in heaven,
O Jesus Christ, holy and blessed!

Now as we come to the setting of the sun,
and our eyes behold the vesper light,
we sing thy praises, O God: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.

Thou art worthy at all times to be praised by happy voices,
O Son of God, O Giver of life,
and to be glorified through all the worlds.

O Gracious Light Phos hilaron

O gracious light,
pure brightness of the everliving Father in heaven,
O Jesus Christ, holy and blessed!

Now as we come to the setting of the sun,
and our eyes behold the vesper light,
we sing your praises, O God: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.

You are worthy at all times to be praised by happy voices,
O Son of God, O Giver of life,
and to be glorified through all the worlds.

The Psalm or Psalms Appointed


Psalm 93 Dominus regnavit

Thy testimonies, O LORD, are very sure.

  THE LORD is King, and hath put on glorious apparel; *
      the LORD hath put on his apparel, and girded himself with strength.
   He hath made the round world so sure, *
      that it cannot be moved.
   Ever since the world began, hath thy seat been prepared: *
      thou art from everlasting.
   The floods are risen, O LORD, the floods have lift up their voice; *
      the floods lift up their waves.
   The waves of the sea are mighty, and rage horribly; *
      but yet the LORD, who dwelleth on high, is mightier.
   Thy testimonies, O LORD, are very sure: *
      holiness becometh thine house for ever.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost: *
     As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.

Thy testimonies, O LORD, are very sure.

Psalm 94 Deus ultionum

Thy mercy, O LORD, held me up.

  O LORD God, to whom vengeance belongeth, *
      thou God, to whom vengeance belongeth, show thyself.
   Arise, thou Judge of the world, *
      and reward the proud after their deserving.
   LORD, how long shall the ungodly, *
      how long shall the ungodly triumph?
   How long shall all wicked doers speak so disdainfully, *
      and make such proud boasting?
   They smite down thy people, O LORD, *
      and trouble thine heritage.
   They murder the widow and the stranger, *
      and put the fatherless to death.
   And yet they say, Tush, the LORD shall not see, *
      neither shall the God of Jacob regard it.
   Take heed, ye unwise among the people: *
      O ye fools, when will ye understand?
   He that planted the ear, shall he not hear? *
      or he that made the eye, shall he not see?
10    Or he that instructeth the heathen, *
      it is he that teacheth man knowledge; shall not he punish?
11    The LORD knoweth the thoughts of man, *
      that they are but vain.
12    Blessed is the man whom thou chastenest, O LORD, *
      and teachest him in thy law;
13    That thou mayest give him patience in time of adversity, *
      until the pit be digged up for the ungodly.
14    For the LORD will not fail his people; *
      neither will he forsake his inheritance;
15    Until righteousness turn again unto judgment: *
      all such as are true in heart shall follow it.
16    Who will rise up with me against the wicked? *
      or who will take my part against the evil doers?
17    If the LORD had not helped me, *
      it had not failed, but my soul had been put to silence.
18    But when I said, My foot hath slipt; *
      thy mercy, O LORD, held me up.
19    In the multitude of the sorrows that I had in my heart, *
      thy comforts have refreshed my soul.
20    Wilt thou have any thing to do with the throne of wickedness, *
      which imagineth mischief as a law?
21    They gather them together against the soul of the righteous, *
      and condemn the innocent blood.
22    But the LORD is my refuge, *
      and my God is the strength of my confidence.
23    He shall recompense them their wickedness, and destroy them in their own malice; *
      yea, the LORD our God shall destroy them.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost: *
     As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.

Thy mercy, O LORD, held me up.

Psalm 93 Dominus regnavit

Thy testimonies, O LORD, are very sure.

Your testimonies are very sure.

  The LORD is King; he has put on splendid apparel; *
      the LORD has put on his apparel and girded himself with strength.
  He has made the whole world so sure *
      that it cannot be moved;
  Ever since the world began, your throne has been established; *
      you are from everlasting.
  The waters have lifted up, O LORD, the waters have lifted up their voice; *
      the waters have lifted up their pounding waves.
  Mightier than the sound of many waters, mightier than the breakers of the sea, *
      mightier is the LORD who dwells on high.
  Your testimonies are very sure, *
      and holiness adorns your house, O LORD, for ever and for evermore.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost: *
     As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.

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

Thy testimonies, O LORD, are very sure.

Your testimonies are very sure.

Psalm 94 Deus ultionum

Thy mercy, O LORD, held me up.

Your love, O LORD, upheld me.

  O LORD God of vengeance, *
      O God of vengeance, show yourself.
  Rise up, O Judge of the world; *
      give the arrogant their just deserts.
  How long shall the wicked, O LORD, *
      how long shall the wicked triumph?
  They bluster in their insolence; *
      all evildoers are full of boasting.
  They crush your people, O LORD, *
      and afflict your chosen nation.
  They murder the widow and the stranger *
      and put the orphans to death.
  Yet they say, "The LORD does not see, *
      the God of Jacob takes no notice."
  Consider well, you dullards among the people; *
      when will you fools understand?
  He that planted the ear, does he not hear? *
      he that formed the eye, does he not see?
10   He who admonishes the nations, will he not punish? *
      he who teaches all the world, has he no knowledge?
11   The LORD knows our human thoughts; *
      how like a puff of wind they are.
12   Happy are they whom you instruct, O Lord! *
      whom you teach out of your law;
13   To give them rest in evil days, *
      until a pit is dug for the wicked.
14   For the LORD will not abandon his people, *
      nor will he forsake his own.
15   For judgment will again be just, *
      and all the true of heart will follow it.
16   Who rose up for me against the wicked? *
      who took my part against the evildoers?
17   If the LORD had not come to my help, *
      I should soon have dwelt in the land of silence.
18   As often as I said, "My foot has slipped, " *
      your love, O LORD, upheld me.
19   When many cares fill my mind, *
      your consolations cheer my soul.
20   Can a corrupt tribunal have any part with you, *
      one which frames evil into law?
21   They conspire against the life of the just *
      and condemn the innocent to death.
22   But the LORD has become my stronghold, *
      and my God the rock of my trust.
23   He will turn their wickedness back upon them and destroy them in their own malice; *
      the LORD our God will destroy them.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost: *
     As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.

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

Thy mercy, O LORD, held me up.

Your love, O LORD, upheld me.

Psalm 42 Quemadmodum

Like as the hart desireth the water-brooks so longeth my soul after thee O God.

  LIKE as the hart desireth the water-brooks, *
      so longeth my soul after thee, O God.
   My soul is athirst for God, yea, even for the living God: *
      when shall I come to appear before the presence of God?
   My tears have been my meat day and night, *
      while they daily say unto me, Where is now thy God?
   Now when I think thereupon, I pour out my heart by myself; *
      for I went with the multitude, and brought them forth into the house of God;
   In the voice of praise and thanksgiving, *
      among such as keep holy-day.
   Why art thou so full of heaviness, O my soul? *
      and why art thou so disquieted within me?
   O put thy trust in God; *
      for I will yet thank him, which is the help of my countenance, and my God.
   My soul is vexed within me; *
      therefore will I remember thee from the land of Jordan, from Hermon and the little hill.
   One deep calleth another, because of the noise of thy water-floods; *
      all thy waves and storms are gone over me.
10    The LORD will grant his loving-kindness in the daytime; *
      and in the night season will I sing of him, and make my prayer unto the God of my life.
11    I will say unto the God of my strength, Why hast thou forgotten me? *
      why go I thus heavily, while the enemy oppresseth me?
12    My bones are smitten asunder as with a sword, *
      while mine enemies that trouble me cast me in the teeth;
13    Namely, while they say daily unto me, *
      Where is now thy God?
14    Why art thou so vexed, O my soul? *
      and why art thou so disquieted within me?
15    O put thy trust in God; *
      for I will yet thank him, which is the help of my countenance, and my God.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost: *
     As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.

Like as the hart desireth the water-brooks so longeth my soul after thee O God.

Psalm 43 Judica me, Deus

For thou art the God of my strength, why hast thou put me from thee?

  GIVE sentence with me, O God, and defend my cause against the ungodly people; *
      O deliver me from the deceitful and wicked man.
   For thou art the God of my strength; why hast thou put me from thee? *
      and why go I so heavily, while the enemy oppresseth me?
   O send out thy light and thy truth, that they may lead me, *
      and bring me unto thy holy hill, and to thy dwelling;
   And that I may go unto the altar of God, even unto the God of my joy and gladness; *
      and upon the harp will I give thanks unto thee, O God, my God.
   Why art thou so heavy, O my soul? *
      and why art thou so disquieted within me?
   O put thy trust in God; *
      for I will yet give him thanks, which is the help of my countenance, and my God.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost: *
     As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.

For thou art the God of my strength, why hast thou put me from thee?

Psalm 42 Quemadmodum

As the deer longs for the water-brooks, so longs my soul for you, O God.

  As the deer longs for the water-brooks, *
      so longs my soul for you, O God.
  My soul is athirst for God, athirst for the living God; *
      when shall I come to appear before the presence of God?
  My tears have been my food day and night, *
      while all day long they say to me, "Where now is your God?"
  I pour out my soul when I think on these things; *
      how I went with the multitude and led them into the house of God,
  With the voice of praise and thanksgiving, *
      among those who keep holy-day.
  Why are you so full of heaviness, O my soul? *
      and why are you so disquieted within me?
  Put your trust in God; *
      for I will yet give thanks to him, who is the help of my countenance, and my God.
  My soul is heavy within me; *
      therefore I will remember you from the land of Jordan, and from the peak of Mizar among the heights of Hermon.
  One deep calls to another in the noise of your cataracts; *
      all your rapids and floods have gone over me.
10   The LORD grants his loving-kindness in the daytime; *
      in the night season his song is with me, a prayer to the God of my life.
11   I will say to the God of my strength, "Why have you forgotten me? *
      and why do I go so heavily while the enemy oppresses me?"
12   While my bones are being broken, *
      my enemies mock me to my face;
13   All day long they mock me *
      and say to me, "Where now is your God?"
14   Why are you so full of heaviness, O my soul? *
      and why are you so disquieted within me?
15   Put your trust in God; *
      for I will yet give thanks to him, who is the help of my countenance, and my God.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost: *
     As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.

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

As the deer longs for the water-brooks, so longs my soul for you, O God.

Psalm 43 Judica me, Deus

For you are the God of my strength; why have you put me from you?

  Give judgment for me, O God, and defend my cause against an ungodly people; *
      deliver me from the deceitful and the wicked.
  For you are the God of my strength; why have you put me from you? *
      and why do I go so heavily while the enemy oppresses me?
  Send out your light and your truth, that they may lead me, *
      and bring me to your holy hill and to your dwelling;
  That I may go to the altar of God, to the God of my joy and gladness; *
      and on the harp I will give thanks to you, O God my God.
  Why are you so full of heaviness, O my soul? *
      and why are you so disquieted within me?
  Put your trust in God; *
      for I will yet give thanks to him, who is the help of my countenance, and my God.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost: *
     As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.

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

For you are the God of my strength; why have you put me from you?

The Lessons

A Reading from 1 Samuel 22:1-23


David therefore departed thence, and escaped to the cave Adullam: and when his brethren and all his father's house heard it, they went down thither to him. And every one that was in distress, and every one that was in debt, and every one that was discontented, gathered themselves unto him; and he became a captain over them: and there were with him about four hundred men. And David went thence to Mizpeh of Moab: and he said unto the king of Moab, Let my father and my mother, I pray thee, come forth, and be with you, till I know what God will do for me. And he brought them before the king of Moab: and they dwelt with him all the while that David was in the hold. And the prophet Gad said unto David, Abide not in the hold; depart, and get thee into the land of Judah. Then David departed, and came into the forest of Hareth. When Saul heard that David was discovered, and the men that were with him, (now Saul abode in Gibeah under a tree in Ramah, having his spear in his hand, and all his servants were standing about him;) Then Saul said unto his servants that stood about him, Hear now, ye Benjamites; will the son of Jesse give every one of you fields and vineyards, and make you all captains of thousands, and captains of hundreds; That all of you have conspired against me, and there is none that showeth me that my son hath made a league with the son of Jesse, and there is none of you that is sorry for me, or showeth unto me that my son hath stirred up my servant against me, to lie in wait, as at this day? Then answered Doeg the Edomite, which was set over the servants of Saul, and said, I saw the son of Jesse coming to Nob, to Ahimelech the son of Ahitub. And he inquired of the LORD for him, and gave him victuals, and gave him the sword of Goliath the Philistine. Then the king sent to call Ahimelech the priest, the son of Ahitub, and all his father's house, the priests that were in Nob: and they came all of them to the king. And Saul said, Hear now, thou son of Ahitub. And he answered, Here I am, my lord. And Saul said unto him, Why have ye conspired against me, thou and the son of Jesse, in that thou hast given him bread, and a sword, and hast inquired of God for him, that he should rise against me, to lie in wait, as at this day? Then Ahimelech answered the king, and said, And who is so faithful among all thy servants as David, which is the king's son in law, and goeth at thy bidding, and is honorable in thine house? Did I then begin to inquire of God for him? be it far from me: let not the king impute any thing unto his servant, nor to all the house of my father: for thy servant knew nothing of all this, less or more. And the king said, Thou shalt surely die, Ahimelech, thou, and all thy father's house. And the king said unto the footmen that stood about him, Turn, and slay the priests of the LORD: because their hand also is with David, and because they knew when he fled, and did not show it to me. But the servants of the king would not put forth their hand to fall upon the priests of the LORD. And the king said to Doeg, Turn thou, and fall upon the priests. And Doeg the Edomite turned, and he fell upon the priests, and slew on that day fourscore and five persons that did wear a linen ephod. And Nob, the city of the priests, smote he with the edge of the sword, both men and women, children and sucklings, and oxen, and asses, and sheep, with the edge of the sword. And one of the sons of Ahimelech the son of Ahitub, named Abiathar, escaped, and fled after David. And Abiathar showed David that Saul had slain the LORD's priests. And David said unto Abiathar, I knew it that day, when Doeg the Edomite was there, that he would surely tell Saul: I have occasioned the death of all the persons of thy father's house. Abide thou with me, fear not: for he that seeketh my life seeketh thy life: but with me thou shalt be in safeguard.

David departed from there and escaped to the cave of Adullam; and when his brothers and all his father's house heard it, they went down there to him. And every one who was in distress, and every one who was in debt, and every one who was discontented, gathered to him; and he became captain over them. And there were with him about four hundred men. And David went from there to Mizpeh of Moab; and he said to the king of Moab, "Pray let my father and my mother stay with you, till I know what God will do for me." And he left them with the king of Moab, and they stayed with him all the time that David was in the stronghold. Then the prophet Gad said to David, "Do not remain in the stronghold; depart, and go into the land of Judah." So David departed, and went into the forest of Hereth. Now Saul heard that David was discovered, and the men who were with him. Saul was sitting at Gib'e-ah, under the tamarisk tree on the height, with his spear in his hand, and all his servants were standing about him. And Saul said to his servants who stood about him, "Hear now, you Benjaminites; will the son of Jesse give every one of you fields and vineyards, will he make you all commanders of thousands and commanders of hundreds, that all of you have conspired against me? No one discloses to me when my son makes a league with the son of Jesse, none of you is sorry for me or discloses to me that my son has stirred up my servant against me, to lie in wait, as at this day." Then answered Do'eg the E'domite, who stood by the servants of Saul, "I saw the son of Jesse coming to Nob, to Ahim'elech the son of Ahi'tub, and he inquired of the LORD for him, and gave him provisions, and gave him the sword of Goliath the Philistine." Then the king sent to summon Ahim'elech the priest, the son of Ahi'tub, and all his father's house, the priests who were at Nob; and all of them came to the king. And Saul said, "Hear now, son of Ahi'tub." And he answered, "Here I am, my lord." And Saul said to him, "Why have you conspired against me, you and the son of Jesse, in that you have given him bread and a sword, and have inquired of God for him, so that he has risen against me, to lie in wait, as at this day?" Then Ahim'elech answered the king, "And who among all your servants is so faithful as David, who is the king's son-in-law, and captain over your bodyguard, and honored in your house? Is today the first time that I have inquired of God for him? No! Let not the king impute anything to his servant or to all the house of my father; for your servant has known nothing of all this, much or little." And the king said, "You shall surely die, Ahim'elech, you and all your father's house." And the king said to the guard who stood about him, "Turn and kill the priests of the LORD; because their hand also is with David, and they knew that he fled, and did not disclose it to me." But the servants of the king would not put forth their hand to fall upon the priests of the LORD. Then the king said to Do'eg, "You turn and fall upon the priests." And Do'eg the E'domite turned and fell upon the priests, and he killed on that day eighty-five persons who wore the linen ephod. And Nob, the city of the priests, he put to the sword; both men and women, children and sucklings, oxen, asses and sheep, he put to the sword. But one of the sons of Ahim'elech the son of Ahi'tub, named Abi'athar, escaped and fled after David. And Abi'athar told David that Saul had killed the priests of the LORD. And David said to Abi'athar, "I knew on that day, when Do'eg the E'domite was there, that he would surely tell Saul. I have occasioned the death of all the persons of your father's house. Stay with me, fear not; for he that seeks my life seeks your life; with me you shall be in safekeeping."

David left there and escaped to the cave of Adullam; when his brothers and all his father's house heard of it, they went down there to him. Everyone who was in distress, and everyone who was in debt, and everyone who was discontented gathered to him; and he became captain over them. Those who were with him numbered about four hundred. David went from there to Mizpeh of Moab. He said to the king of Moab, "Please let my father and mother come to you, until I know what God will do for me." He left them with the king of Moab, and they stayed with him all the time that David was in the stronghold. Then the prophet Gad said to David, "Do not remain in the stronghold; leave, and go into the land of Judah." So David left, and went into the forest of Hereth. Saul heard that David and those who were with him had been located. Saul was sitting at Gibeah, under the tamarisk tree on the height, with his spear in his hand, and all his servants were standing around him. Saul said to his servants who stood around him, "Hear now, you Benjaminites; will the son of Jesse give every one of you fields and vineyards, will he make you all commanders of thousands and commanders of hundreds? Is that why all of you have conspired against me? No one discloses to me when my son makes a league with the son of Jesse, none of you is sorry for me or discloses to me that my son has stirred up my servant against me, to lie in wait, as he is doing today." Doeg the Edomite, who was in charge of Saul's servants, answered, "I saw the son of Jesse coming to Nob, to Ahimelech son of Ahitub; he inquired of the LORD for him, gave him provisions, and gave him the sword of Goliath the Philistine." The king sent for the priest Ahimelech son of Ahitub and for all his father's house, the priests who were at Nob; and all of them came to the king. Saul said, "Listen now, son of Ahitub." He answered, "Here I am, my lord." Saul said to him, "Why have you conspired against me, you and the son of Jesse, by giving him bread and a sword, and by inquiring of God for him, so that he has risen against me, to lie in wait, as he is doing today?" Then Ahimelech answered the king, "Who among all your servants is so faithful as David? He is the king's son-in-law, and is quick to do your bidding, and is honored in your house. Is today the first time that I have inquired of God for him? By no means! Do not let the king impute anything to his servant or to any member of my father's house; for your servant has known nothing of all this, much or little." The king said, "You shall surely die, Ahimelech, you and all your father's house." The king said to the guard who stood around him, "Turn and kill the priests of the LORD, because their hand also is with David; they knew that he fled, and did not disclose it to me." But the servants of the king would not raise their hand to attack the priests of the LORD. Then the king said to Doeg, "You, Doeg, turn and attack the priests." Doeg the Edomite turned and attacked the priests; on that day he killed eighty-five who wore the linen ephod. Nob, the city of the priests, he put to the sword; men and women, children and infants, oxen, donkeys, and sheep, he put to the sword. But one of the sons of Ahimelech son of Ahitub, named Abiathar, escaped and fled after David. Abiathar told David that Saul had killed the priests of the LORD. David said to Abiathar, "I knew on that day, when Doeg the Edomite was there, that he would surely tell Saul. I am responsible for the lives of all your father's house. Stay with me, and do not be afraid; for the one who seeks my life seeks your life; you will be safe with me."

Here ends the Reading.


Martha welcomed Jesus into her home; Mary sat at his feet and listened to his words.

The First Song of Isaiah Ecce, Deus
Isaiah 12:2-6

Behold, God is my salvation; *
I will trust and not be afraid:
For the Lord God is my strength and my song; *
he also is become my salvation.
Therefore with joy shall ye draw water *
out of the wells of salvation.
And in that day shall ye say, *
Praise the Lord, call upon his Name;
Declare his doings among the people; *
make mention that his Name is exalted.
Sing unto the Lord, for he hath done excellent things, *
this is known in all the earth.
Cry out and shout, thou inhabitant of Zion; *
for great is the Holy One of Israel in the midst of thee.

Martha welcomed Jesus into her home; Mary sat at his feet and listened to his words.

Martha welcomed Jesus into her home; Mary sat at his feet and listened to his words.

The First Song of Isaiah Ecce, Deus
Isaiah 12:2-6

Surely, it is God who saves me; *
I will trust in him and not be afraid.
For the Lord is my stronghold and my sure defense, *
and he will be my Savior.
Therefore you shall draw water with rejoicing *
from the springs of salvation.
And on that day you shall say, *
Give thanks to the Lord and call upon his Name;
Make his deeds known among the peoples; *
see that they remember that his Name is exalted.
Sing praises of the Lord, for he has done great things, *
and this is known in all the world.
Cry aloud, inhabitants of Zion, ring out your joy, *
for the great one in the midst of you is the Holy One of Israel.

Martha welcomed Jesus into her home; Mary sat at his feet and listened to his words.

Martha welcomed Jesus into her home; Mary sat at his feet and listened to his words.

The Song of Mary Magnificat
Luke 1:46-55

My soul doth magnify the Lord, *
and my spirit hath rejoiced in God my Savior.
For he hath regarded *
the lowliness of his handmaiden.
For behold from henceforth *
all generations shall call me blessed.
For he that is mighty hath magnified me, *
and holy is his Name.
And his mercy is on them that fear him *
throughout all generations.
He hath showed strength with his arm; *
he hath scattered the proud in the imagination of their hearts.
He hath put down the mighty from their seat, *
and hath exalted the humble and meek.
He hath filled the hungry with good things, *
and the rich he hath sent empty away.
He remembering his mercy hath holpen his servant Israel, *
as he promised to our forefathers,
Abraham and his seed for ever.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost: *
     As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.

Martha welcomed Jesus into her home; Mary sat at his feet and listened to his words.

Martha welcomed Jesus into her home; Mary sat at his feet and listened to his words.

The Song of Mary Magnificat
Luke 1:46-55

My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord,
my spirit rejoices in God my Savior; *
for he has looked with favor on his lowly servant.
From this day all generations will call me blessed: *
the Almighty has done great things for me,
and holy is his Name.
He has mercy on those who fear him *
in every generation.
He has shown the strength of his arm, *
he has scattered the proud in their conceit.
He has cast down the mighty from their thrones, *
and has lifted up the lowly.
He has filled the hungry with good things, *
and the rich he has sent away empty.
He has come to the help of his servant Israel, *
for he has remembered his promise of mercy,
The promise he made to our fathers, *
to Abraham and his children for ever.

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

Martha welcomed Jesus into her home; Mary sat at his feet and listened to his words.


A Reading from Matthew 26:26-35

And as they were eating, Jesus took bread, and blessed it, and brake it, and gave it to the disciples, and said, Take, eat; this is my body. And he took the cup, and gave thanks, and gave it to them, saying, Drink ye all of it; For this is my blood of the new testament, which is shed for many for the remission of sins. But I say unto you, I will not drink henceforth of this fruit of the vine, until that day when I drink it new with you in my Father's kingdom. And when they had sung an hymn, they went out into the mount of Olives. Then saith Jesus unto them, All ye shall be offended because of me this night: for it is written, I will smite the shepherd, and the sheep of the flock shall be scattered abroad. But after I am risen again, I will go before you into Galilee. Peter answered and said unto him, Though all men shall be offended because of thee, yet will I never be offended. Jesus said unto him, Verily I say unto thee, That this night, before the cock crow, thou shalt deny me thrice. Peter said unto him, Though I should die with thee, yet will I not deny thee. Likewise also said all the disciples.

Now as they were eating, Jesus took bread, and blessed, and broke it, and gave it to the disciples and said, "Take, eat; this is my body." And he took a cup, and when he had given thanks he gave it to them, saying, "Drink of it, all of you; for this is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins. I tell you I shall not drink again of this fruit of the vine until that day when I drink it new with you in my Father's kingdom." And when they had sung a hymn, they went out to the Mount of Olives. Then Jesus said to them, "You will all fall away because of me this night; for it is written, `I will strike the shepherd, and the sheep of the flock will be scattered.' But after I am raised up, I will go before you to Galilee." Peter declared to him, "Though they all fall away because of you, I will never fall away." Jesus said to him, "Truly, I say to you, this very night, before the cock crows, you will deny me three times." Peter said to him, "Even if I must die with you, I will not deny you." And so said all the disciples.

While they were eating, Jesus took a loaf of bread, and after blessing it he broke it, gave it to the disciples, and said, "Take, eat; this is my body." Then he took a cup, and after giving thanks he gave it to them, saying, "Drink from it, all of you; for this is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins. I tell you, I will never again drink of this fruit of the vine until that day when I drink it new with you in my Father's kingdom." When they had sung the hymn, they went out to the Mount of Olives. Then Jesus said to them, "You will all become deserters because of me this night; for it is written, 'I will strike the shepherd, and the sheep of the flock will be scattered.' But after I am raised up, I will go ahead of you to Galilee." Peter said to him, "Though all become deserters because of you, I will never desert you." Jesus said to him, "Truly I tell you, this very night, before the cock crows, you will deny me three times." Peter said to him, "Even though I must die with you, I will not deny you." And so said all the disciples.

Here ends the Reading.

The Song of Mary Magnificat
Luke 1:46-55

My soul doth magnify the Lord, *
and my spirit hath rejoiced in God my Savior.
For he hath regarded *
the lowliness of his handmaiden.
For behold from henceforth *
all generations shall call me blessed.
For he that is mighty hath magnified me, *
and holy is his Name.
And his mercy is on them that fear him *
throughout all generations.
He hath showed strength with his arm; *
he hath scattered the proud in the imagination of their hearts.
He hath put down the mighty from their seat, *
and hath exalted the humble and meek.
He hath filled the hungry with good things, *
and the rich he hath sent empty away.
He remembering his mercy hath holpen his servant Israel, *
as he promised to our forefathers,
Abraham and his seed for ever.

The Song of Mary Magnificat
Luke 1:46-55

My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord,
my spirit rejoices in God my Savior; *
for he has looked with favor on his lowly servant.
From this day all generations will call me blessed: *
the Almighty has done great things for me,
and holy is his Name.
He has mercy on those who fear him *
in every generation.
He has shown the strength of his arm, *
he has scattered the proud in their conceit.
He has cast down the mighty from their thrones, *
and has lifted up the lowly.
He has filled the hungry with good things, *
and the rich he has sent away empty.
He has come to the help of his servant Israel, *
for he has remembered his promise of mercy,
The promise he made to our fathers, *
to Abraham and his children for ever.

The Song of Simeon Nunc dimittis
Luke 2:29-32

Lord, now lettest thou thy servant depart in peace, *
according to thy word;
For mine eyes have seen thy salvation, *
which thou hast prepared before the face of all people,
To be a light to lighten the Gentiles, *
and to be the glory of thy people Israel.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost: *
     As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.

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

The Song of Mary Magnificat
Luke 1:46-55

My soul doth magnify the Lord, *
and my spirit hath rejoiced in God my Savior.
For he hath regarded *
the lowliness of his handmaiden.
For behold from henceforth *
all generations shall call me blessed.
For he that is mighty hath magnified me, *
and holy is his Name.
And his mercy is on them that fear him *
throughout all generations.
He hath showed strength with his arm; *
he hath scattered the proud in the imagination of their hearts.
He hath put down the mighty from their seat, *
and hath exalted the humble and meek.
He hath filled the hungry with good things, *
and the rich he hath sent empty away.
He remembering his mercy hath holpen his servant Israel, *
as he promised to our forefathers,
Abraham and his seed for ever.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost: *
     As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.

The Song of Mary Magnificat
Luke 1:46-55

My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord,
my spirit rejoices in God my Savior; *
for he has looked with favor on his lowly servant.
From this day all generations will call me blessed: *
the Almighty has done great things for me,
and holy is his Name.
He has mercy on those who fear him *
in every generation.
He has shown the strength of his arm, *
he has scattered the proud in their conceit.
He has cast down the mighty from their thrones, *
and has lifted up the lowly.
He has filled the hungry with good things, *
and the rich he has sent away empty.
He has come to the help of his servant Israel, *
for he has remembered his promise of mercy,
The promise he made to our fathers, *
to Abraham and his children for ever.

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

The Apostles' Creed

I believe in God, the Father almighty,
    creator of heaven and earth.
I believe in Jesus Christ, his only son, our Lord.
    He was conceived by the power of the Holy Spirit
       and born of the Virgin Mary.
    He suffered under Pontius Pilate,
       was crucified, died, and was buried.
    He descended to the dead.
    On the third day he rose again.
    He ascended into heaven,
       and is seated at the right hand of the Father.
    He will come again to judge the living and the dead.
I believe in the Holy Spirit,
    the holy catholic Church,
    the communion of saints,
    the forgiveness of sins,
    the resurrection of the body,
    and the life everlasting. Amen.

I believe in God, the Father almighty,
    maker of heaven and earth;
And in Jesus Christ his only Son our Lord;
    who was conceived by the Holy Ghost,
    born of the Virgin Mary,
    suffered under Pontius Pilate,
    was crucified, dead, and buried.
    He descended into hell.
    The third day he rose again from the dead.
    He ascended into heaven,
    and sitteth on the right hand of God the Father almighty.
    From thence he shall come to judge the quick and the dead.
I believe in the Holy Ghost,
    the holy catholic Church,
    the communion of saints,
    the forgiveness of sins,
    the resurrection of the body,
    and the life everlasting. Amen.

The Prayers

V. The Lord be with you.
R. And also with you.And with thy spirit.
Let us pray.

Our Father, who art in heaven,
    hallowed be thy Name,
    thy kingdom come,
    thy will be done,
       on earth as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread.
And forgive us our trespasses,
    as we forgive those who trespass against us.
And lead us not into temptation,
    but deliver us from evil.
For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory,
    for ever and ever. Amen.

Our Father in heaven,
    hallowed be your Name,
    your kingdom come,
    your will be done,
       on earth as in heaven.
Give us today our daily bread.
Forgive us our sins
    as we forgive those
       who sin against us.
Save us from the time of trial,
    and deliver us from evil.
For the kingdom, the power,
    and the glory are yours,
    now and for ever. Amen.


Suffrages A

V. Show us your mercy, O Lord;
R. And grant us your salvation.
V. Clothe your ministers with righteousness;
R. Let your people sing with joy.
V. Give peace, O Lord, in all the world;
R. For only in you can we live in safety.
V. Lord, keep this nation under your care;
R. And guide us in the way of justice and truth.
V. Let your way be known upon earth;
R. Your saving health among all nations.
V. Let not the needy, O Lord, be forgotten;
R. Nor the hope of the poor be taken away.
V. Create in us clean hearts, O God;
R. And sustain us with your Holy Spirit.

V. O Lord, show thy mercy upon us;
R. And grant us thy salvation.
V. Endue thy ministers with righteousness;
R. And make thy chosen people joyful.
V. Give peace, O Lord, in all the world;
R. For only in thee can we live in safety.
V. Lord, keep this nation under thy care;
R. And guide us in the way of justice and truth.
V. Let thy way be known upon earth;
R. Thy saving health among all nations.
V. Let not the needy, O Lord, be forgotten;
R. Nor the hope of the poor be taken away.
V. Create in us clean hearts, O God;
R. And sustain us with thy Holy Spirit.

Suffrages B

That this evening may be holy, good, and peaceful,
We entreat thee, O Lord.

That thy holy angels may lead us in paths of peace and goodwill,
We entreat thee, O Lord.

That we may be pardoned and forgiven for our sins and offenses,
We entreat thee, O Lord.

That there may be peace to thy Church and to the whole world,
We entreat thee, O Lord.

That we may depart this life in thy faith and fear, and
not be condemned before the great judgment seat of Christ,
We entreat thee, O Lord.

That we may be bound together by thy Holy Spirit in
the communion of [the glorious and ever-blessed Virgin
Mary, St. Michael the Defender, ___________ and] all thy saints,
entrusting one another and all our life to Christ,
We entreat thee, O Lord.

That this evening may be holy, good, and peaceful,
We entreat you, O Lord.

That your holy angels may lead us in paths of peace and goodwill,
We entreat you, O Lord.

That we may be pardoned and forgiven for our sins and offenses,
We entreat you, O Lord.

That there may be peace to your Church and to the whole world,
We entreat you, O Lord.

That we may depart this life in your faith and fear,
and not be condemned before the great judgment seat of Christ,
We entreat you, O Lord.

That we may be bound together by your Holy Spirit in
the communion of [the glorious and ever-blessed Virgin Mary,
St. Michael the Defender, ________ and] all your saints,
entrusting one another and all our life to Christ,
We entreat you, O Lord.

Collect of the Day

Almighty God, the fountain of all wisdom, who knowest our necessities before we ask and our ignorance in asking: Have compassion, we beseech thee, upon our infirmities, and those things which for our unworthiness we dare not, and for our blindness we cannot ask, mercifully give us for the worthiness of thy Son Jesus Christ our Lord, who liveth and reigneth with thee and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.

Almighty God, the fountain of all wisdom, you know our necessities before we ask and our ignorance in asking: Have compassion on our weakness, and mercifully give us those things which for our unworthiness we dare not, and for our blindness we cannot ask; through the worthiness of your Son Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.

A Collect for Saturdays

Almighty God, who after the creation of the world didst rest from all thy works and sanctify a day of rest for all thy creatures: Grant that we, putting away all earthly anxieties, may be duly prepared for the service of thy sanctuary, and that our rest here upon earth may be a preparation for the eternal rest promised to thy people in heaven; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Then, unless the Eucharist or a form of general intercession is to follow, one of these prayers for mission is added.

Prayer for Mission

O God, who dost manifest in thy servants the signs of thy presence: Send forth upon us the Spirit of love, that in companionship with one another thine abounding grace may increase among us; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

A Collect for Saturdays

O God, the source of eternal light: Shed forth your unending day upon us who watch for you, that our lips may praise you, our lives may bless you, and our worship on the morrow give you glory; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Then, unless the Eucharist or a form of general intercession is to follow, one of these prayers for mission is added.

Prayer for Mission

O God, you manifest in your servants the signs of your presence: Send forth upon us the spirit of love, that in companionship with one another your abounding grace may increase among us; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Here may be sung a hymn or anthem. [+][-]

Hymn: Aeterna Caeli Gloria

Meter: LM

Eternal Glory of the sky,
Blest Hope of frail humanity,
The Father's sole begotten One,
Yet born a spotless virgin's Son!

Uplift us with Thine arm of might,
And let our hearts rise pure and bright,
And, ardent in God's praises, pay
The thanks we owe him every day.

The day-star's rays are glittering clear,
And tell that day itself is near:
The shadows of the night depart;
Thou, holy Light, illume the heart!

Within our senses ever dwell,
And worldly darkness thence expel;
Long as the days of life endure,
Preserve our souls devout and pure.

The faith that first must be possessed,
Root deep within our inmost breast;
And joyous hope in second place,
Then charity, Thy greatest grace.

All laud to God the Father be,
All praise, eternal Son, to Thee;
All glory, as is ever meet,
To God the holy Paraclete.

V. Let my prayer, O Lord, be set forth.
R. In thy sight as incense.

Hymn: Aeterna Caeli Gloria

Meter: LM

Eternal Glory of the sky,
Blest Hope of frail humanity,
The Father's sole begotten One,
Yet born a spotless virgin's Son!

Uplift us with Thine arm of might,
And let our hearts rise pure and bright,
And, ardent in God's praises, pay
The thanks we owe him every day.

The day-star's rays are glittering clear,
And tell that day itself is near:
The shadows of the night depart;
Thou, holy Light, illume the heart!

Within our senses ever dwell,
And worldly darkness thence expel;
Long as the days of life endure,
Preserve our souls devout and pure.

The faith that first must be possessed,
Root deep within our inmost breast;
And joyous hope in second place,
Then charity, Thy greatest grace.

All laud to God the Father be,
All praise, eternal Son, to Thee;
All glory, as is ever meet,
To God the holy Paraclete.

V. Let my prayer, O Lord, be set forth.
R. In your sight as incense.

Authorized intercessions and thanksgivings may follow.

For All Sorts and Conditions [A form of general intercession] [+][-]

O God, the creator and preserver of all mankind, we humbly beseech thee for all sorts and conditions of men; that thou wouldest be pleased to make thy ways known unto them, thy saving health unto all nations. More especially we pray for thy holy Church universal; that it may be so guided and governed by thy good Spirit, that all who profess and call themselves Christians may be led into the way of truth, and hold the faith in unity of spirit, in the bond of peace, and in righteousness of life. Finally, we commend to thy fatherly goodness all those who are in any ways afflicted or distressed, in mind, body, or estate; [especially those for whom our prayers are desired]; that it may please thee to comfort and relieve them according to their several necessities, giving them patience under their sufferings, and a happy issue out of all their afflictions. And this we beg for Jesus Christ's sake. Amen.

O God, the creator and preserver of all humanity, we humbly beseech you on behalf of all sorts and conditions of people; that you would be pleased to make your ways known to them, your saving health to all nations. Especially, we pray for your holy Church across the world; that it may be guided and governed by your good Spirit, so that all who profess and call themselves Christians may be led into the way of truth, and hold the faith in unity of spirit, in the bond of peace, and in righteousness of life. Finally, we commend to your fatherly goodness all those who are in any ways afflicted or distressed, in mind, body, or estate; [especially those for whom our prayers are desired]; that it may please you to comfort and relieve them according to their various needs, giving them patience under their sufferings, and a happy issue out of all their afflictions. And this we ask for Jesus Christ's sake. Amen.

The General Thanksgiving [+][-]

Almighty God, Father of all mercies,
we thine unworthy servants
do give thee most humble and hearty thanks
for all thy goodness and loving kindness
to us and to all men.
We bless thee for our creation, preservation,
and all the blessings of this life;
but above all for thine inestimable love
in the redemption of the world by our Lord Jesus Christ,
for the means of grace, and for the hope of glory.

And, we beseech thee,
give us that due sense of all thy mercies,
that our hearts may be unfeignedly thankful;
and that we show forth thy praise,
not only with our lips, but in our lives,
by giving up our selves to thy service,
and by walking before thee
in holiness and righteousness all our days;
through Jesus Christ our Lord,
to whom, with thee and the Holy Ghost,
be all honor and glory, world without end. Amen.

Almighty God, Father of all mercies,
we your unworthy servants give you humble thanks
for all your goodness and loving-kindness
to us and to all whom you have made.
We bless you for our creation, preservation,
and all the blessings of this life;
but above all for your immeasurable love
in the redemption of the world by our Lord Jesus Christ;
for the means of grace, and for the hope of glory.

And, we pray, give us such an awareness of your mercies,
that with truly thankful hearts we may show forth your praise,
not only with our lips, but in our lives,
by giving up our selves to your service,
and by walking before you
in holiness and righteousness all our days;
through Jesus Christ our Lord,
to whom, with you and the Holy Spirit,
be honor and glory throughout all ages. Amen.

A Prayer of St. Chrysostom [+][-]

Almighty God, who hast given us grace at this time with one accord to make our common supplication unto thee, and hast promised through thy well beloved Son that when two or three are gathered together in his Name thou wilt be in the midst of them: Fulfill now, O Lord, the desires and petitions of thy servants as may be best for us; granting us in this world knowledge of thy truth, and in the world to come life everlasting. Amen.

Almighty God, you have given us grace at this time with one accord to make our common supplication to you; and you have promised through your well-beloved Son that when two or three are gathered together in his Name you will be in the midst of them: Fulfill now, O Lord, our desires and petitions as may be best for us; granting us in this world knowledge of your truth, and in the age to come life everlasting. Amen.

Let us bless the Lord.
Thanks be to God.

May the souls of the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.
Amen.

The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with us all evermore. Amen. 2 Corinthians 13:14

All Saints from the Hours of Anne de Bretagne (Paris, BN Latin 9474, f.209v)