View source for Trent:The Psalter - Vespers, or Evensong

== Vespers, or Evensong. <ref>The proper hour for Vespers is sunset, reckoned to be about 6 p.m. In private recitation, they ought not usually to be begun before noon.</ref> ==

=== Sunday. ===

==== The Lord's Day. ====

''At the beginning of Vespers, the Lord's Prayer and the Angelic Salutation are said inaudibly.''

<span class="dropcap">O</span>UR 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 them that trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation ; but deliver us from evil.  Amen.

<span class="dropcap">H</span>AIL, Mary, full of grace; The Lord is with thee : blessed art thou among 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.

''Then is said aloud:'' 

''Verse.'' &#10016; Make haste, O God, to deliver me.

''Answer.'' Make haste to help me, O Lord.

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. 
Alleluia.

''From Septuagesima Sunday to Maundy Thursday instead of'' "Alleluia" ''is said:'' 

Ceaseless praise to Thee be given, <br/>
O Eternal King of heaven.<br/>

''Then follow the Psalms. They are said under Five Antiphons, except in Paschal time when there is only one, and when these are not specially given, those given here are used.''

''Antiphon.'' The Lord said.

''If this Antiphon be used the Psalm begins with the words'' "Unto my Lord." 

''Antiphon for Paschal time.'' Alleluia.

'''Psalm CIX.'''

[Intituled "A Psalm of David." The first verse was quoted by our Lord. — Matth.  xxii. 44; Mark xii. 36; Luke xx. 42.] 

<span class="dropcap">T</span>HE Lord said unto my Lord : * Sit Thou at My right hand, 

Until I make Thine enemies * Thy footstool.

The Lord shall send the rod of Thy strength out of Zion : * rule Thou in the midst of Thine enemies.

Thine shall be the dominion in the day of Thy power, amid the brightness of the saints : * from the womb, before the day-star have I begotten Thee.

The Lord hath sworn, and will not repent : * Thou art a Priest for ever after the order of Melchisedek.

The Lord at Thy right hand * shall strike through kings in the day of His wrath.

He shall judge among the heathen, He shall fill the places with dead bodies : * He shall wound the heads over many countries.

He shall drink of the brook in the way : * therefore shall he lift up his head.

''Antiphon.'' The Lord said unto my Lord : * Sit Thou at My right hand.


''Second Antiphon.'' All His commandments.

'''Psalm CX.'''

[The Hebrew prefixes "Alleluia," and begins, " I will praise the Lord." The Psalm is A B C Darian.] 

<span class="dropcap">I</span> WILL praise Thee, O Lord, with my whole heart : * in the assembly of the upright, and in the congregation.

The works of the Lord are great, * meet to serve for the doing of His will.

His work is honourable and glorious, * and His righteousness endureth for ever.

He hath made a memorial of His wonderful works : the Lord is gracious and full of compassion.  * He hath given meat unto them that fear Him : 

He will ever be mindful of His covenant. * He will show His people the power of His works, 

That He may give them the heritage of the heathen. * The works of His hands are verity and judgment : 

All His commandments are sure ; they stand fast for ever and ever, * being done in truth and uprightness.

He sent redemption unto His people : He hath commanded His covenant for ever : 

Holy and terrible is His Name. * The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom : 

A good understanding have all they that do His commandments : * His praise endureth for ever.

''Antiphon.'' <ref>Ps. cx. 8.</ref> All His commandments are sure ; they stand fast for ever and ever.


''Third Antiphon.'' In His commandments.

'''Psalm CXI.'''

[The Hebrew prefixes "Alleluia." The Vulgate adds 'to the superscription "on the return of Haggai and Zechariah [from the Captivity]." See Thursday, fifth week in November. The Psalm is A B C Darian.] 

<span class="dropcap">B</span>LESSED is the man that feareth the Lord : * that delighteth greatly in His commandments.

His seed shall be mighty upon earth ; * the generation of the upright shall be blessed.

Glory and riches shall be in his house : * and his righteousness endureth for ever.

Unto the upright there ariseth light in the darkness : * he is gracious, and full of compassion, and righteous.

Happy is the man that showeth favour and lendeth ; he will guide his words with discretion : * surely he shall not be moved for ever : 

The righteous shall be in everlasting remembrance. * He shall not be afraid of evil tidings : 

His heart is ready, trusting in the Lord. His heart is established, * he shall not be afraid until he see his desire upon his enemies.

He hath dispersed, he hath given to the poor : his righteousness endureth for ever : * his horn shall be exalted with honour.

The wicked shall see it, and be grieved ; he shall gnash his teeth, and melt away : * the desire of the wicked shall perish.

''Antiphon.'' In His commandments he delighteth greatly.


''Fourth Antiphon.'' Blessed be the Name.

'''Psalm CXII.'''

[The Hebrew prefixes "Alleluia."] 

<span class="dropcap">P</span>RAISE the Lord, O ye His servants, * praise the Name of the Lord.

Blessed be the Name of the Lord, * from this time forth, and for evermore ! 

From the rising of the sun unto the going down of the same, * the Lord's Name is to be praised.

The Lord is high above all nations, * and His glory above the heavens.

Who is like unto the Lord our God, Who dwelleth on high, * and beholdeth what is lowly in heaven, and in the earth ? 

He raiseth up the poor out of the dust, * and lifteth the needy out of the dung-hill ; 

That He may set him with princes, * even with the princes of His people.

He maketh the barren woman to keep house, * and to be a joyful mother of children.

[The Hebrew adds " Alleluia," which the Vulgate and the LXX. prefix to the next Psalm.] 

''Antiphon.'' Blessed be the Name of the Lord for evermore.


''Fifth Antiphon.'' We that live.

'''Psalm CXIII.'''

<span class="dropcap">W</span>HEN Israel went out of Egypt, * the house of Jacob from a people of strange language, 

Judah was His sanctuary, * Israel His dominion.

The sea saw it and fled : * Jordan was driven back.

The mountains skipped like rams, * and the little hills like lambs.

What ailed thee, O thou sea, that thou fleddest? * and thou Jordan, that thou wast driven back ? 

Ye mountains, that ye skipped like rams? * and ye little hills, like lambs? 

The earth trembled at the presence of the Lord, * at the presence of the God of Jacob : 

Who turned the rock into a standing water, * and the flint into a fountain of waters. <ref>In the Hebrew here ends Ps. cxiv. and the next words begin cxv.</ref> 

Not unto us, O Lord, not unto us : * but unto Thy Name give glory, 

For Thy mercy, and for Thy truth's sake. * Wherefore should  the heathen say : Where is now their God ?  

But our God is in the heavens : * He hath done whatsoever He hath pleased.

The idols of the heathen are silver and gold, * the work of men's hands.

They have mouths, but they speak not : * eyes have they, but they see not.

They have ears, but they hear not : * noses have they, but they smell not : 

They have hands, but they handle not : feet have they, but they walk not : * neither speak they through their throat.

May they that make them be like unto them : * even every one that trusteth in them.

The house of Israel trusteth in the Lord : * He is their help and their shield.

The house of Aaron trusteth in the Lord : * He is their help and their shield.

They that fear the Lord trust in the Lord : * He is their help and their shield.

The Lord hath been mindful of us, * and blessed us : 

He hath blessed the house of Israel : * He hath blessed the house of Aaron.

He hath blessed them that fear the Lord, * both small and great.

The Lord increase you more and more, * you and your children.

Ye are blessed of the Lord, * Who made heaven and earth.

The heaven of heavens is the Lord's : * but the earth hath He given to the children of men.

The dead shall not praise Thee, O Lord, * neither all they that go down into the grave.

But we that live bless the Lord, * from this time forth for evermore.

[The Hebrew adds "Alleluia."] 

''Antiphon.'' We that live bless the Lord.

''Antiphon for Paschal time.'' Alleluia, Alleluia, Alleluia.

''Here follows the Chapter. When a special one is not given, the following is used:'' 

''Chapter.'' (2 Cor. i. 3.) 

<span class="dropcap">B</span>LESSED be God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort, Who comforteth us in all our tribulation.

''Answer.'' Thanks be to God.

''This Answer is always made after the Chapter.''

''Then follows the Hymn. When a special one is not given, the following is used:'' 

'''Hymn.''' <ref>Hymn of the Ambrosian school, very slightly altered ; translation by the late Card. Newman.</ref> 

FATHER of Lights, by Whom each day <br/>
Is kindled out of night, <br/>
Who, when the heavens were made, didst lay <br/>
Their rudiments in light ; <br/>
Thou, Who didst bind and blend in one <br/>
The glistening morn and evening pale,<br/>
Hear Thou our plaint, when light is gone, <br/>
And lawlessness and strife prevail.<br/>

Hear, lest the whelming weight of crime <br/>
Wreck us with life in view ; <br/>
Lest thoughts and schemes of sense and time <br/>
Earn us a sinner's due.<br/>

So may we knock at Heaven's door, <br/>
And strive the immortal prize to win, <br/>
Continually and evermore <br/>
Guarded without and pure within.<br/>

Grant this, O Father, Only Son, <br/>
And Spirit, God of grace, <br/>
To Whom all worship shall be done <br/>
In every time and place.  Amen.<br/>

Then is said a Verse and Answer.

''If a special one is not given, the following is used :'' 

''Verse.'' <ref>Ps. cxl. 2.</ref> Let my prayer, O Lord, be set forth.

''Answer.'' As incense before Thee.

''Then is said the following Canticle from the Gospel. It has an Antiphon which is always special, and which is either begun or said through the first time before it, according as the Office is Double or not.''

'''The Song of the Blessed Virgin Mary.''' (Luke i. 46.) 

<span class="dropcap">M</span>Y soul * doth magnify the Lord: 

And my spirit hath rejoiced * in God my Saviour.

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 done to me great things : * and holy is His name.

And His mercy is on them that fear Him, * from generation to generation.

He hath showed strength with His arm : * He hath scattered the proud in the imagination of their heart.

He hath put down the mighty from their seat, * and exalted them of low degree.

He hath filled the hungry with good things, * and the rich He hath sent empty away.

He hath holpen His servant Israel, * in remembrance of His mercy : 

As He spake to our fathers, * to Abraham, and to his seed for ever.

''The Hymn,'' "Glory be to the Father, &c," ''is said, and then the Antiphon repeated.''

Then is said: 

''Verse.'' Hear my prayer, O Lord.

''Answer.'' And let my cry come unto Thee.

Let us pray.

''Then follows the Prayer for the day, at the end of which is answered ;'' 

''Answer.'' Amen.

''Afterwards are made any Commemorations necessary, by the Antiphon for the Song of the Blessed Virgin, the Verse and Answer after the Hymn, and the Prayer, (preceded by'' "Let us pray,"'') from the superseded Office which is to be commemorated. After which the following Common Commemorations are made, if required, according to Chapter xxxv. of the General Rubrics.''

''When more than two Prayers are to be said, the last clause of each (beginning'' "Through our Lord, &c," ''or'' "Who livest, &c"'') is omitted in all except the first and the last, nor is'' "Amen " ''answered except after these two.''

''(Note that if these Commemorations, with the exception of those of St Joseph, and SS. Peter and Paul, be said upon a week-day, kept as such, out of Paschal time, they are preceded by the Commemoration of the Cross, given hereafter at the end of the Lauds of Monday.)'' 

''I. Commemoration of the Blessed Virgin Mary.''

''(This Commemoration is omitted if the Office of the day be of the Blessed Virgin, or if her Little Office is to be said.)'' 

''Antiphon.'' O Holy Mary, be thou an help to the helpless, a strength to the fearful, a comfort to the sorrowful; pray for the people, plead for the clergy, make intercession for all women vowed to God ; may all that keep thine holy remembrance, feel the might of thine assistance.

''Verse.'' Pray for us, O holy Mother of God.

''Answer.'' That we may be made worthy of the promises of Christ.

Let us pray.

<span class="dropcap">G</span>RANT, we beseech Thee, O Lord God, unto all Thy servants, that they may continually enjoy soundness both of mind and body, and by the glorious intercession of the Blessed Mary, always a Virgin, may be delivered from present sadness, and enter into the joy of Thine eternal gladness.

''From the Octave of the Epiphany to Candlemas, the Antiphon is the same, but the rest is as follows ;'' 

''Verse.'' After thy delivery thou still remainest a Virgin undefiled.

''Answer.'' Mother of God, pray for us.

Let us pray.

O<span class="dropcap">O</span> GOD, Who, by the fruitful virginity of the Blessed Mary, hast given unto mankind the rewards of everlasting life ; grant, we beseech Thee, that we may continually feel the might of her intercession, through whom we have worthily received the Author of our life, our Lord Jesus Christ Thy Son.

''II. Commemoration of St Joseph, Patron of the Universal Church.''

''(Omitted in the Votive Office of St Joseph.)'' 

''Antiphon.'' <ref>Matth. xxiv. 45.</ref> Behold a faithful and wise servant whom his Lord hath made ruler over His household.

''Verse.'' <ref>Ps. cxi, 3.</ref> Glory and riches shall be in his house.

''Answer.'' And his righteousness endureth for ever.

Let us pray.

<span class="dropcap">O</span> GOD, Who, in Thine unspeakable foreknowledge, didst choose Thy blessed servant Joseph to be the husband of Thine Own most holy Mother ; mercifully grant that now that he is in heaven with Thee, we who on earth do reverence him for our defender, may worthily be holpen by the succour of his prayers to Thee on our behalf.

''III. Commemoration of the Holy Apostles, Peter and Paul.''

''(Omitted in the Votive Office of the Apostles.)'' 

''Antiphon.'' Peter the Apostle, and Paul the Teacher of the Gentiles, have taught us Thy law, O Lord.

''Verse.'' <ref>Ps. xliv. 17, 18.</ref> Thou shalt make them princes over all the earth.

''Answer.'' They shall be mindful of Thy Name, O Lord.

Let us pray.  

<span class="dropcap">O</span> GOD, Whose Right Hand caught the Blessed Peter when he walked upon the water, and thrice delivered his fellow-Apostle Paul from the deep of the sea, when he suffered shipwreck; graciously hear us, and grant, for the sake of them  both, that we also may attain unto everlasting glory.


----


''Note:  In England, by a special rule in this case, is made Commemoration of St George, Patron of England.''

''Antiphon.'' The Saints through faith subdued kingdoms, wrought righteousness, obtained promises.

''Verse.'' O Lord, Thou hast compassed him.

''Answer.'' With Thy favour as with a shield.

Let us pray.

<span class="dropcap">O</span> GOD, Who dost gladden us through the worthy deeds and prayers of Thy blessed Martyr George; mercifully grant that all they which seek Thy favour through him, may effectually obtain the gift of Thy grace.

''(And thus it is said within the Octave.)'' 

''In the Diocese of Hexham St George is not commemorated, but instead the following commemoration is made of St Cuthbert :'' 

''Antiphon.'' Holy Cuthbert, our Protector, grace and glory of our fatherland, look down upon us from Heaven, and pray God for us, that He grant us everlasting joy.

''Verse.'' At the prayers of Blessed Cuthbert and for his sake, 

''Answer.'' Be merciful unto Thy people, O Lord.

Let us pray.

<span class="dropcap">O</span> GOD, Who, through the priceless gift of Thy grace, dost make Thine holy ones glorious, mercifully grant, that the prayers of Thy Blessed Confessor and Bishop Cuthbert may help us worthily there to attain, where are the spirits of just men made perfect.

''In the Diocese of Northampton the following commemoration of St Thomas of Canterbury is made before that of St George :'' 

''Antiphon.'' I am the Good Shepherd, and know My sheep, and am known of Mine, and I lay down My life for the sheep.

''Verse.'' In your patience 

''Answer.'' Possess ye your souls.

Let us pray.

<span class="dropcap">O</span> GOD, in defence of Whose Church the glorious Bishop Thomas fell by the swords of wicked men, grant, we beseech Thee, that all that ask his help may obtain wholesome fruit of their petition.

''In the Diocese of Plymouth the following commemoration of St Boniface of Maintz is made before that of St George'' : 

''Antiphon.'' Many nations, many thousands of men, did Blessed Boniface gain for Christ, and forasmuch as he made himself like unto an Apostle he hath purchased unto himself a great reward in Heaven along with the Apostles.

''Verse.'' Be strong in the Lord, be strong.

''Answer.'' That ye may live for ever with God.

Let us pray.

<span class="dropcap">O</span> GOD, Who wast pleased to make the zeal of Thy Blessed Martyr and Bishop Boniface the mean whereby Thou didst cause many peoples to know Thy Name, mercifully grant unto us who honour his memory to be feelingly holpen by the succour of his protection.

''(And so it is said within the Octave.)'' 

''In the Diocese of Portsmouth the following commemoration of St Edmund of Canterbury is made after that of St George :'' 

''Antiphon.'' He loved righteousness and hated iniquity, and therefore he died in exile.

''Verse.'' Cast out upon a world of woes, In exile here we roam.

''Answer.'' O Blessed Edmund, by thy prayers, Gain us the love of home.

Let us pray.

<span class="dropcap">O</span> GOD, Who in the abundance of Thy goodness toward Thy Church hast made her bright by the illustrious life of Thy blessed Confessor and Bishop Edmund, and gladdened her by his glorious and wondrous works, mercifully grant unto Thy servants that they may be bettered in following after his ensample, and shielded by his protection from all things that may rise up against them.


----


''For Peace.'' 

''Antiphon.'' Give peace in our time, O Lord, because there is none other that fighteth for us, but only Thou, O our God. 

''Verse.'' Peace be within thy walls, 

''Answer.'' And prosperity within thy palaces. 

Let us pray.

<span class="dropcap">O</span> GOD, from Whom all holy desires, all good counsels, and all just works do proceed ; give unto Thy servants that peace which the world cannot give, that both our hearts may be set to obey Thy commandments, and also that by Thee we being defended from the fear of our enemies, may pass our time in rest and quietness.  Through our Lord Jesus Christ, Thy Son, Who liveth and reigneth with Thee, in the unity of the Holy Ghost, one God, world without end.

''Answer.'' Amen.

''From the Monday after Low Sunday till Rogation Tuesday, instead of the preceding Commemorations, is said the following: ''

''Paschal Commemoration of the Cross.''

''(Omitted , in the Votive Offices of the Blessed Sacrament, and of the Passion.)'' 

''Antiphon.'' 

Jesus, our triumphant Head, <br/>
On the Cross's transom dread <br/>
The Hands of power and mercy spread <br/>
That brake the prison of the dead. Alleluia.<br/>

''Verse.'' Say among the heathen — Alleluia.

''Answer.'' That the Lord reigneth from the tree, <ref>Ps. xcv. 10, old version.</ref> Alleluia.

Let us pray.

<span class="dropcap">O</span> GOD, Who didst send Thy Son to suffer death for us upon the Cross, that Thou mightest deliver us from the power of the enemy ; grant unto us Thy servants to be made partakers of His Resurrection. Through the Same our Lord Jesus Christ Thy Son, Who liveth and reigneth with Thee in the unity of the Holy Ghost, one God, world without end.

''Answer.'' Amen.

''After the last Prayer is said:'' 

''Verse.'' Hear my prayer, O Lord.

''Answer.'' And let my cry come unto Thee.

''Verse.'' Bless we the Lord.

''Answer.'' Thanks be to God.

''Then is said in rather a low voice :'' 

May the souls of the Faithful, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.

''Answer.'' Amen.

''Then, unless Compline follow, the Lords Prayer inaudibly :'' 

<span class="dropcap">O</span>UR 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 them that trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation ; but deliver us from evil.  Amen.

''Note. When Office is said in Choir, the service is ended with the Antiphon of the Blessed Virgin Mary every time the Choir is left. Otherwise it is only said as given in this book, after Lauds, (or the aggregation of which Lauds forms a part) and Compline. Whenever it is said, except after Compline, it is preceded by:'' 

''Verse.'' &#10016; The Lord give us His peace.

''Answer.'' And life everlasting. Amen.

''If the Office of the Dead follow immediately, the above prayer for the Faithful departed, and the'' "Our Father," ''are omitted.''

''Feasts. The above Office, appointed for Sunday, is also, speaking in a general sense, used on all Feasts above the rank of Simples.''

=== Monday. ===

==== The Second Day of the Week.  ====

''All as on Sunday, except as otherwise given here.''

''The Psalms are as follows :'' 

''Antiphon.'' The Lord hath inclined.

''In Paschal time only one Antiphon is said,'' Alleluia.

'''Psalm CXIV.'''

[The Vulgate and the LXX. prefix "Alleluia."] 

<span class="dropcap">I</span> AM well pleased, because the Lord hath heard * the voice of my supplication : 

Because He hath inclined His ear unto me, * therefore will I call upon Him all my days.

The sorrows of death compassed me : * and the straits of hell found me : 

Sorrow and trouble did I find. * Then called I upon the name of the Lord : 

Lord, deliver my soul. * Gracious is the Lord, and righteous : yea, our God is merciful.

The Lord preserveth the simple : * I was brought low and He helped me.

Return unto thy rest, O my soul * for the Lord hath dealt bountifully with thee.

For He hath delivered my soul from death, * mine eyes from tears, and my feet from falling.

I will walk before the Lord * in the land of the living.
 
''Antiphon.'' <ref>Ps. cxiv. 2.</ref> The Lord hath inclined His ear unto me.


''Second Antiphon.'' I believed.

''If this Antiphon be used the Psalm begins with the words,'' " Therefore have I spoken." 

'''Psalm CXV.'''

[In the Hebrew this Psalm is a continuation of the last. The Vulgate and the LXX.  prefix "Alleluia."] 

<span class="dropcap">I</span> BELIEVED, therefore have I spoken : * but I was greatly afflicted.

I said in my haste : * All men are liars.

What shall I render unto the Lord * for all His benefits toward me? 

I will take the cup of salvation, * and call upon the name of the Lord.

I will pay my vows unto the Lord in the presence of all His people. * Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of His Saints.

Lord, truly I am Thy servant : * I am Thy servant, and the son of Thine handmaid : 

Thou hast loosed my bonds. * I will offer to Thee the sacrifice of thanksgiving, and will call upon the name of the Lord.

I will pay my vows unto the Lord, in the presence of all His people : * in the courts of the Lord's house, in the midst of thee, O Jerusalem ! 

[Here the Hebrew appends "Alleluia," which the Vulgate and the LXX.  prefix to the next Psalm.] 

''Antiphon.'' I believed, therefore have I spoken.


''Third Antiphon.'' O praise.

''If this Antiphon be used the Psalm begins with the words,'' "The Lord." 

'''Psalm CXVI.'''

O PRAISE the Lord, all ye nations : * praise Him, all ye people.

For His merciful kindness is great toward us : * and the truth of the Lord endureth for ever.

[Here the Hebrew appends " Alleluia," which the Vulgate and the LXX. prefix to the next Psalm.] 

''Antiphon.'' O praise the Lord, all ye nations.


''Fourth Antiphon.'' I cried.

'''Psalm CXIX.'''

[This is the first of the "Songs of Degrees," or "Gradual Psalms." See note to Ps. cxxix., p. 91.] 

<span class="dropcap">I</span>N my distress I cried unto the Lord, * and He heard me.

Deliver my soul, O Lord, from lying lips, * and from a deceitful tongue.

What shall be given unto thee, or what shall be done unto thee, * thou false tongue ? 

Sharp arrows of the mighty, * with hot burning coals.

Woe is me ! that my sojourn is long : I dwell with the dwellers of Kedar. <ref>Properly "Black-skin." This was the name of a son of Ishmael, and of an Arabian tribe sprung from him.</ref> * My soul hath long dwelt as an exile With them that hate peace. 

I was peaceable : * when I spoke unto them, they fought against me without a cause.

''Antiphon.'' <ref>Ps. cxix. 1.</ref> I cried, and He heard me.


''Fifth Antiphon.'' From whence cometh.

'''Psalm CXX.'''

[Also a Song of Degrees. ] 

<span class="dropcap">I</span> WILL lift up mine eyes unto the hills, * from whence cometh mine help.

Mine help cometh from the Lord, * Who made heaven and earth.

He will not suffer thy feet to be moved : * He That keepeth thee will not slumber.

Behold, He That keepeth Israel shall neither slumber nor sleep.  The Lord is thy keeper : the Lord is thy shade * upon thy right hand.

The sun shall not smite thee by day, * nor the moon by night.

The Lord shall keep thee from all evil : * the Lord shall keep thy soul.

The Lord shall keep thy coming in and thy going out, * from this time forth and for evermore.

''Antiphon.'' <ref>Ps. cxx. 1.</ref> From whence cometh mine help.

''Antiphon in Paschal time.'' Alleluia, Alleluia, Alleluia.

'''Hymn.''' <ref>Hymn of the Ambrosian school, almost unchanged ; translation by the late Card. Newman.</ref> 

LORD of unbounded space, <br/>
Who, lest the sky and main <br/>
Should mix, and heaven should lose its place, <br/>
Didst the rude waters chain ; <br/>

Parting the moist and rare, <br/>
That rills on earth might flow <br/>
To soothe the angry flame, whene'er <br/>
It ravens from below ; <br/>

Pour on us of Thy grace <br/>
The everlasting spring, <br/>
Lest our frail steps renew the trace <br/>
Of the ancient wandering.<br/>

May faith in lustre grow, <br/>
And rear her star in heaven, <br/>
Paling all sparks of earth below <br/>
Unquenched by damps of even.<br/>

Grant it, O Father, Son, <br/>
And Holy Spirit of grace, <br/>
To Whom be glory, Three in One, <br/>
In every time and place.  Amen.<br/>

''Antiphon for the Song of the Blessed Virgin.'' My soul doth magnify the Lord, * for God hath regarded my lowliness.

''After the repetition of the Antiphon after the Song of the Blessed Virgin, on the Week-days of Advent and Lent, the Ember Days, and all Vigils which are Fasts, except Christmas Eve and the Eve and Ember Days of Pentecost, all kneel down, and the following prayers, called the Preces, are said:'' 

Kyrie eleison.

''Answer.'' Christe eleison.

Kyrie eleison.

''Then the Lord's Prayer is said aloud.''

<span class="dropcap">O</span>UR 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 them that trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation.

''Answer.'' But deliver us from evil.

''Verse.'' I said : Lord, be merciful unto me.

''Answer.'' Heal my soul, for I have sinned against Thee.

''Verse.'' Return, O Lord, how long? 

''Answer.'' And let it repent Thee concerning Thy servants.

''Verse.'' Let Thy mercy, O Lord, be upon us.

''Answer.'' According as we hope in Thee.

''Verse.'' Let Thy priests be clothed with righteousness.

''Answer.'' And let Thy Saints shout for joy.

''Verse.'' O Lord, save the King.

''Answer.'' And hear us in the day when we call upon Thee.

''Verse.'' O Lord, save Thy people, and bless Thine inheritance.

''Answer.'' And govern them, and lift them up for ever.

''Verse.'' Remember Thy congregation.

''Answer.'' Which Thou hast purchased of old.

''Verse.'' Peace be within thy walls.

''Answer.'' And prosperity within thy palaces.

''Verse.'' Let us pray for the Faithful departed.

''Answer.'' O Lord, grant them eternal rest, and let the everlasting light shine upon them.

''Verse.'' May they rest in peace.

''Answer.'' Amen.

''Verse.'' Let us pray for our absent brethren.

''Answer.'' O Thou, my God, save Thy servants that trust in Thee.

''Verse.'' Let us pray for the sorrowful and the captive.

''Answer.'' Redeem them, O God of Israel, out of all their troubles.

''Verse.'' O Lord, send them help from the sanctuary.

''Answer.'' And strengthen them out of Zion.

''Verse.'' Hear my prayer, O Lord.

''Answer.'' And let my cry come unto Thee.

'''Psalm L.'''

Have mercy upon me, O God, &c, (''p. 87'').

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.

''Verse.'' Turn us again, O Lord God of Hosts.

''Answer.'' And cause Thy face to shine, and we shall be saved.

''Verse.'' Arise, O Christ, and help us.

''Answer.'' And deliver us for Thy Name's sake.

''Verse.'' Hear my prayer, O Lord.

''Answer.'' And let my cry come unto Thee.

Let us pray.

''Here follows the Prayer of the Day.''

''All proceeds to the end of the service as on Sunday, except that when Suffrages are said, the following is said before the Commemoration of the Blessed Virgin Mary.''

''Commemoration of the Cross.''

''(Omitted in the Offices of the Blessed Sacrament, and of the Passion.)'' 

''Antiphon.'' Through Thy Cross's holy sign, Jesus, guard this soul of mine, from my ghostly enemy.

''Verse.'' Let all the earth worship Thee, and sing unto Thee.

''Answer.'' Let them sing praises to Thy name, O Lord.

Let us pray.

<span class="dropcap">O</span> LORD, we beseech Thee, keep us in continual peace, whom Thou hast vouchsafed to redeem by the tree of the Holy Cross.

''Simple Feasts. If the Vespers of a Simple Beast be kept on a Monday, the Office is of the Feast, from the Chapter inclusive.''

=== Tuesday. ===

==== The Third Day of the Week.  ====

''All as on Sunday, except as otherwise given here.''

''The Psalms are as follows :'' 

''Antiphon.'' Let us go.

''In Paschal time only one Antiphon is said,'' Alleluia.

'''Psalm CXXI.'''

[Intituled "A Song of Degrees, of David."] 

<span class="dropcap">I</span> WAS glad when they said unto me : * Let us go into the house of the Lord.

Our feet have been wont to stand * within thy gates, O Jerusalem ! 

Jerusalem is builded as a city * that is compact together : 

Whither the tribes go up, the tribes of the Lord, * the testimony of Israel, to give thanks unto the name of the Lord.

For there are set thrones for judgment, * the thrones for the house of David.

Pray for the peace of Jerusalem : * they shall prosper that love thee.

Peace be within thy walls, * and prosperity within thy palaces.

For my brethren and companions' sakes, * I will now say — Peace be within thee ! 

Because of the house of the Lord our God, * I will seek thy good.

''Antiphon.'' Let us go with gladness into the house of the Lord.


''Second Antiphon.'' O Thou That dwellest.

'''Psalm CXXII.'''

[Intituled "A Song of Degrees."] 


<span class="dropcap">U</span>NTO Thee lift I up mine eyes, * O Thou That dwellest in the heavens ! 

Behold, as the eyes of servants * look unto the hand of their masters, 

As the eyes of a maiden unto the hand of her mistress : * so our eyes look unto the Lord our God, until that He have mercy on us.

Have mercy upon us, O Lord, have mercy upon us : * for we are exceedingly filled with contempt.

Our soul is exceedingly filled * with the scorning of those that are at ease, and with the contempt of the proud.

''Antiphon.'' O Thou That dwellest in the heavens, have mercy upon us.


''Third Antiphon.'' Our help.

'''Psalm CXXIII.'''

[Intituled "A Song of Degrees," to which ;the Hebrew and the Targum add "of David," but this ascription of authorship does not occur in the Vulgate or the LXX.] 

<span class="dropcap">I</span>F it had not been the Lord  Who was on our side — now ;may Israel say—* if it had not been the Lord Who was on our side, 

When men rose up against us : * then they had swallowed us up quick, 

When their wrath was kindled against us : * then the waters had overwhelmed us, 

The stream had gone over our soul : * then the overwhelming waters had gone over our soul.

Blessed be the Lord, * Who hath not given us as a prey to their teeth.

Our soul is escaped as a bird * out of the snare of the fowlers : 

The snare is broken, * and we are escaped.

Our help is in the name of the Lord, * Who made heaven and earth.

''Antiphon.'' <ref>Ps. cxxiii. 8. </ref> Our help is in the name of the Lord.


''Fourth Antiphon.'' Do good, O Lord.

'''Psalm CXXIV.'''

[Intituled "A Song of Degrees."] 

<span class="dropcap">T</span>HEY that trust in the Lord shall be as Mount Zion : * he that dwelleth in Jerusalem shall never be moved.

The mountains are round about Jerusalem : * and the Lord is round about His people, from henceforth, and for ever.

For the Lord will not suffer the rod of the wicked to rest upon the lot of the righteous : * lest the righteous put forth their hands unto iniquity.

Do good, O Lord, to the good, * and to them that are upright in their hearts.

As for such as turn aside unto their crooked ways, the Lord shall lead them forth with the workers of iniquity : * peace be upon Israel ! 

''Antiphon.'' Do good, O Lord, to the good, and to them that are upright in their hearts.


''Fifth Antiphon.'' We were like.

'''Psalm CXXV.'''

[Intituled "A Song of Degrees."] 

<span class="dropcap">W</span>HEN the Lord turned again the captivity of Zion, * we were like them that come again from sickness.

Then was our mouth filled with laughter, * and our tongue with singing.

Then said they among the heathen : * The Lord hath done great things for them.

The Lord hath done great things for us : * whereof we are glad.

Turn again our captivity, O Lord, * as the streams in the south.

They that sow in tears * shall reap in joy.

They go forth weeping, * sowing their seed ; 

They shall doubtless come again with rejoicing, * bringing their sheaves with them.

''Antiphon.'' We were like them that come again from sickness.

''Antiphon in Paschal time.'' Alleluia, Alleluia, Alleluia.

'''Hymn.''' <ref>Hymn of the Ambrosian school, hardly altered ; translation by the late Card. Newman.</ref> 

ALL-BOUNTIFUL Creator, Who, <br/>
When Thou didst mould the world, didst drain <br/>
The waters from the mass, that so <br/>
Earth might immovable remain ; <br/>

That its dull clods it might transmute <br/>
To golden flowers in vale or wood, <br/>
To juice of thirst-allaying fruit, <br/>
And grateful herbage spread for food ; <br/>

Wash Thou our smarting wounds and hot, <br/>
In the cool freshness of Thy grace ; <br/>
Till tears start forth the past to blot, <br/>
And cleanse and calm Thy holy place, <br/>

Till we obey Thy full behest, <br/>
Shun the world's tainted touch and breath, <br/>
Joy in what highest is and best, <br/>
And gain a spell to baffle death.<br/>

Grant it, O Father, Only Son, <br/>
And Holy Spirit, God of grace, <br/>
To Whom all glory, Three in One, <br/>
Be given in every time and place.  Amen.<br/>

''Antiphon for the Song of the Blessed Virgin.'' Let my spirit rejoice * in God my Saviour.

''Commemoration of the Cross before the other general Commemorations, and Long Preces at certain times as on Monday.''

''Simple Feasts. If the Vespers of a Simple Feast be kept on a Tuesday, the Office is of the Feast from the Chapter inclusive.''

=== Wednesday ===

==== The Fourth Day of the Week.  ====

''All as on Sunday, except as otherwise given here.''

''The Psalms are as follows :'' 

''Antiphon.'' He shall not be ashamed.

''In Paschal time only one Antiphon is said,'' Alleluia.

'''Psalm CXXVI.'''

[Intituled "A Song of Degrees, of Solomon." The LXX. omits the ascription to Solomon.] 

<span class="dropcap">E</span>XCEPT the Lord build the house, * they labour in vain that build it : 

Except the Lord keep the city, * the watchman waketh but in vain.

It is vain for you to rise up early, * rise up when ye are rested, ye that eat the bread of sorrow : For He giveth His beloved sleep.

Lo, children are an heritage of the Lord, * the fruit of the womb is His reward.

As arrows are in the hand of a mighty man, * so are the children of the out-cast.

Happy is the man that hath his desire satisfied with them : * he shall not be ashamed when he speaketh with his enemies in the gate.

''Antiphon.'' He shall not be ashamed when he speaketh with his enemies in the gate.


''Second Antiphon.'' Blessed.

''If this Antiphon be used the Psalm commences with the words,'' "Is every one." 

'''Psalm CXXVII.'''

[Intituled "A Song of Degrees."] 

<span class="dropcap">B</span>LESSED is every one that feareth the Lord, * that walketh in His ways.

For thou shalt eat the labour of thine hands : * happy shalt thou be and it shall be well with thee.

Thy wife shall be as a fruitful vine * on the sides of thine house : 

Thy children like olive plants * round about thy table.

Behold, that thus shall the man be blessed * that feareth the Lord.

The Lord bless thee out of Zion : * and mayest thou see the good of Jerusalem all the days of thy life.

Yea, mayest thou see thy children's children, * and peace upon Israel.

''Antiphon.'' Blessed is every one that feareth the Lord.


''Third Antiphon.'' Many a time.

''If this Antiphon be used, the Psalm begins with the words,'' "Have they afflicted me." 

'''Psalm CXXVIII.'''

[Intituled "A Song of Degrees."] 

<span class="dropcap">M</span>ANY a time have they warred against me from my youth — * may Israel now say : — 

Many a time have they warred against me from my youth : * yet they have not prevailed against me.

<ref>''I.e.'', "They furrowed my back with stripes as the ground is furrowed with the plough." — Gesenius.</ref> The ploughers ploughed upon my back : * they made long their furrows.

The Lord is righteous, He hath broken the necks of the wicked. * Let them all be confounded and turned back that hate Zion.

Let them be as the grass upon the house-tops, * which withereth before it is plucked up : 

Wherewith the mower filleth not his hand, * nor he that bindeth sheaves his bosom.

Neither do they that go by say : The blessing of the Lord be upon you ! * we bless you in the name of the Lord ! 

''Antiphon.'' Many a time have they afflicted me from my youth up.

''Fourth Antiphon.''  Out of the depths.

''If this Antiphon be used, the Psalm begins with the words,'' "Have I cried unto Thee." 

'''Psalm CXXIX.'''

[Intituled &quot;A Song of Degrees.&quot; The meaning of this title is not certain. The Psalms so called may perhaps, like the &quot; Graduals &quot; of the Roman Liturgy, be &quot;step-songs,&quot; intended to be sung during processions, Liturgical or of pilgrims.]

<span class="dropcap">O</span>UT of the depths have I cried unto Thee, O Lord ! * Lord, hear my voice.

Let Thine ears be attentive * to the voice of my supplication.

If Thou, Lord, shouldest mark iniquities, * O Lord, who shall stand ? 

But there is forgiveness with Thee : * because of Thy law, I wait for Thee, O Lord! 

My soul doth wait on His word : * my soul hopeth in the Lord.

From the morning watch even until night * let Israel hope in the Lord : 

For with the Lord there is mercy, * and with Him is plenteous redemption.

And He shall redeem Israel, * from all his iniquities.

''Antiphon.'' Out of the depths have I cried unto Thee, O Lord.


''Fifth Antiphon.'' Let Israel hope.

'''Psalm CXXX.'''

[Intituled "A Song of Degrees," to which the Hebrew and the Vulgate, but not the Targum or the LXX., add "of David."] 

<span class="dropcap">L</span>ORD, mine heart is not haughty, * nor mine eyes lofty : 

Neither do I exercise myself in great matters, * or in wonderful things that are above me.

If I have not thought lowly of myself — * (but lifted up my soul) — 

Even as a child that is weaned from his mother : * so be my soul rewarded.

Let Israel hope in the Lord, * from henceforth and for ever.

''Antiphon.'' Let Israel hope in the Lord.

''Antiphon in Paschal time.'' Alleluia, Alleluia, Alleluia.

'''Hymn.''' <ref>Hymn of the Ambrosian school, somewhat altered ; translation by the late Card.  Newman.</ref> 

O LORD, Who throned in the holy height, <br/>
Through plains of ether didst diffuse <br/>
The dazzling beams of light, <br/>
In soft transparent hues ; <br/>

Who didst, on the fourth day, in heaven, <br/>
Light the fierce cresset of the sun, <br/>
And the meek moon at even, <br/>
And stars that wildly run ; <br/>

That they might mark and arbitrate <br/>
'Twixt alternating night and day, <br/>
And tend the train sedate <br/>
Of months upon their way ; <br/>

Clear, Lord, the brooding night within, <br/>
And clean these hearts for Thy abode, <br/>
Unlock the spell of sin, <br/>
Crumble its giant load.<br/>

Grant it, O Father, Only Son, <br/>
And Holy Spirit, God of grace, <br/>
To Whom all praise be done <br/>
In every time and place.  Amen.<br/>

''Antiphon at the Song of the Blessed Virgin.''  The Lord hath regarded * my lowliness, and He That is mighty hath done in me great things.

''Commemoration of the Cross before the other general Commemorations, and Long Preces in Advent and Lent, and on Fast-days, as on Monday.''

''Simple Feasts. If the Vespers of a Simple Feast be kept on a Wednesday, the Office is of the Feast from the Chapter inclusive.''

=== Thursday. ===

==== The Fifth Day of the Week.  ====

''All as on Sunday, except as otherwise given here.''

''The Psalms are as follows :'' 

''Antiphon.'' And all.

''In Paschal time only one Antiphon is said,'' Alleluia.

'''Psalm CXXXI.'''

[Intituled "A Song of Degrees." It reads like a Processional for some translation of the Sacred Ark, perhaps that described in 3 (1) Kings vii. (Saturday before 8th Sunday after Pentecost.)] 


<span class="dropcap">L</span>ORD, remember David, * and all his meekness : 

How he sware unto the Lord : * he vowed a vow unto the God of Jacob ; — 

Surely I will not come into the tabernacle of mine house, * nor go up into my bed ; 

I will not give sleep to mine eyes, * or slumber to mine eyelids ; 

I will not give the temples of mine head any rest, until I find out a place for the Lord, * an habitation for the God of Jacob.

<ref>This verse relates to the fetching of the ark from Kirjath-jearim, (literally "The town-of-the-woods,") which stood at the borders of the territory of Ephraim, here called Ephratah. See 2 Kings (Sam.) vi. (Thursday, 5th week after Pentecost.) </ref> Lo, we heard of it at Ephratah : * we found it in the fields of "the Wood." 

We will go into His tabernacle : * we will worship in His footprints.

Arise, O Lord, into Thy rest, * Thou and the ark of Thine holiness.

Let Thy priests be clothed with righteousness, * and let Thy Saints shout for joy.

For Thy servant David's sake, * turn not away the face of Thine Anointed.

The Lord hath sworn in truth unto David, and He will not turn from it : * Of the fruit of thy body will I set upon thy throne.

If thy children will keep My covenant, * and My testimony that I shall teach them, 

Then their children for ever * shall sit upon thy throne.

For the Lord hath chosen Zion : * He hath chosen it for His habitation.

This is My rest for ever : * here will I dwell, for I have chosen it.

I will abundantly bless her widows : * I will satisfy her poor with bread.

I will clothe her Priests with salvation : * and her Saints shall shout aloud for joy.

There will I make the horn of David to bud : * I have ordained a lamp for Mine Anointed.

His enemies will I clothe with shame : * but upon him shall My sanctification flourish.

''Antiphon.'' And all his meekness.


''Second Antiphon.'' Behold.

''If this Antiphon be used, the Psalm begins with the words,'' "How good and how pleasant." 

'''Psalm CXXXII.'''

[Intituled " A Song of Degrees," to which the Hebrew and the Vulgate, but not the Targum or the LXX., add "of David."] 

<span class="dropcap">B</span>EHOLD, how good and how pleasant it is * for brethren to dwell together in unity.

<ref>The reference is to the unction of Aaron with holy chrism at his consecration, described in Lev. viii. 12.</ref> It is like the precious ointment upon the head, * that ran down upon the beard, even Aaron's beard, 

That went down to the skirts of his garments. * As the dew of Hermon, that descendeth upon the mountains of Zion ; <ref>Probably not the mountain at Jerusalem, but one of the chain of Hermon, which is once mentioned elsewhere. Deut. iv. 48.</ref> 

For there the Lord commanded the blessing, * even life for evermore.

''Antiphon.'' Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity.


''Third Antiphon.'' Whatsoever.

'''Psalm CXXXIV.'''

[To this Psalm is prefixed "Alleluia."] 

<span class="dropcap">P</span>RAISE ye the Name of the Lord, * praise Him, O ye servants of the Lord ! 

Ye that stand in the house of the Lord, * in the courts of the house of our God : 

Praise the Lord, for the Lord is good : * sing praises unto His Name, for it is pleasant.

For the Lord hath chosen Jacob unto Himself, * and Israel for His peculiar treasure.

For I know that the Lord is great, * and that our Lord is above all gods.

Whatsoever the Lord pleased, that did He in heaven and in earth, * in the seas, and all deep places : 

Causing the vapours to ascend from the ends of the earth : * He maketh lightnings for the rain ; 

He bringeth the wind out of His treasures. * He smote the first-born of Egypt, from man even unto beast.

He sent tokens and wonders into the midst of thee, O Egypt, * upon Pharaoh and upon all his servants.

He smote great nations, * and slew mighty kings.

<ref>Sihon, a king of the Amorites, reigning in Heshbon ; Og, a giant, king of Bashan.  They were both defeated and slain by the Israelites. Num. xxi.</ref> Sihon, king of the Amorites, and Og, king of Bashan, * and all the kingdoms of Canaan.

And gave their land for an heritage, * an heritage unto Israel His people.

Thy Name, O Lord, endureth for ever ! * Thy memorial, O Lord, throughout all generations ! 

For the Lord will judge His people, * and will repent Himself concerning His servants.

The idols of the heathen are silver and gold, * the work of men's hands.

A mouth have they, but they speak not : * eyes have they, but they see not.

Ears have they, but they hear not : * neither is there any breath in their mouths.

Let them that make them be made like unto them, * and every one that trusteth in them.

Bless the Lord, O house of Israel ! * bless the Lord, O house of Aaron !

Bless the Lord, O house of Levi ! * ye that fear the Lord, bless the Lord ! 

Blessed be the Lord out of Zion, * Which dwelleth at Jerusalem ! 

[The Hebrew adds "Alleluia," which the Vulgate places at the beginning of the next Psalm.] 

''Antiphon.'' Whatsoever the Lord pleased, that did He.


''Fourth Antiphon.'' For His mercy.

'''Psalm CXXXV.'''

[It is not improbable that this Psalm was sung at the Dedication of the Temple, for, in 2 Par. (Chron. ) vii. 3, it is said that when the congregation on that occasion saw the fire miraculously descending upon the sacrifice, " they bowed themselves with their faces to the ground upon the pavement, and worshipped, and praised ' the Lord, for He is good, for His mercy endureth for ever.' " It looks very like a continuation of the song given by David to certain singers, I Par. (Chron.) xvi. 7, especially as it is afterwards said that some of them were chosen "to give thanks to the Lord, because His mercy endureth for ever." Some consider that the latter verses refer to the return from the captivity, but these may be an addition.] 

<span class="dropcap">O</span> GIVE thanks unto the Lord, for He is good ! * for His mercy endureth for ever.

O give thanks unto the God of gods ! * for His mercy endureth for ever.

O give thanks to the Lord of lords ! * for His mercy endureth for ever.

To Him Who Alone doeth great wonders—* for His mercy endureth for ever.

To Him That by wisdom made the heavens — * for His mercy endureth for ever.

To Him That spread out the earth above the waters — * for His mercy endureth for ever.

To Him That made great lights — * for His mercy endureth for ever.

The sun to rule by day — * for His mercy endureth for ever.

The moon and stars to rule by night — * for His mercy endureth for ever.

To Him That smote Egypt in their first-born — * for His mercy endureth for ever.

To Him That brought out Israel from among them — * for His mercy endureth for ever.

With a strong hand and with a stretched out arm — * for His mercy endureth for ever.

To Him That divided the Red Sea into parts — * for His mercy endureth for ever.

And made Israel to pass through the midst of it — * for His mercy endureth for ever.

But overthrew Pharaoh and his host in the Red Sea — * for His mercy endureth for ever.

To Him That led His people through the wilderness — * for His mercy endureth for ever.

To Him That smote great kings — * for His mercy endureth for ever.

And slew mighty kings — * for His mercy endureth for ever.

Sihon, king of the Amorites — * for His mercy endureth for ever.

And Og, the king of Bashan — * for His mercy endureth for ever.

And gave their land for an heritage — * for His mercy endureth for ever.

Even an heritage unto Israel His servant — * for His mercy endureth for ever.

Who remembered us in our low estate — * for His mercy endureth for ever.

And hath redeemed us from our enemies — * for His mercy endureth for ever.

Who giveth food to all flesh — * for His mercy endureth for ever.

O give thanks unto the God of heaven ! * for His mercy endureth for ever.

O give thanks unto the Lord of lords ! * for His mercy endureth for ever.

''Antiphon.'' For His mercy endureth for ever.


''Fifth Antiphon.'' Sing us one of the songs.

'''Psalm CXXXVI.'''

[The Vulgate and the LXX. connect this Psalm with the name of Jeremiah. They also style it a Psalm of David, the apparent meaning of which would seem to be that it was composed in imitation of his poems.] 

<span class="dropcap">B</span>Y the rivers of Babylon, there we sat down, yea, we wept, * when we remembered Zion.

We hung our harps upon the willows * in the midst thereof.

For there they that carried us away captive required of us * a song; 

And they that had taken us said : * Sing us one of the songs of Zion.

How shall we sing the Lord's song * in a strange land ? 

If I forget thee, O Jerusalem, * let my right hand forget her cunning — 

Let my tongue cleave to the roof of my mouth, * if I do not remember thee, — 

If I prefer not Jerusalem * above my chief joy.

Remember, O Lord, the children of Edom, * in the day of Jerusalem : 

Who said : Rase it, rase it * even to the foundation thereof.

O daughter of Babylon, doomed to destruction, * happy shall he be that rewardeth thee, as thou hast served us ! 

Happy shall he be that taketh, * and dasheth thy little ones against the rock.

''Antiphon.'' Sing us one of the songs of Zion.

'''Antiphon in Paschal time.''' Alleluia, Alleluia, Alleluia.

'''Hymn.''' <ref>Hymn of the Ambrosian school, slightly altered ; translation by the late Card- Newman.</ref> 

O GOD, Who hast given <br/>
The sea and the sky, <br/>
To fish and to bird <br/>
For a dwelling to keep, <br/>
Both sons of the waters <br/>
One low and one high, <br/>
Ambitious of heaven, <br/>
Or sunk in the deep ; <br/>

Save, Lord, Thy servants, <br/>
Whom Thou hast new made <br/>
In a laver of blood <br/>
Lest they trespass and die ; <br/>
Lest pride should elate, <br/>
Or sin should degrade, <br/>
And they stumble on earth <br/>
Or be dizzied on high.<br/>

To the Father, and Son,<br/> 
And the Spirit be done, <br/>
Now and always, <br/>
Glorv and Praise. Amen.<br/>

''Antiphon at the Song of the Blessed Virgin.'' O God, * show strength with Thine arm : put down the mighty, and exalt them of low degree.

''Commemoration of the Cross before the other general Commemorations and Long Preces in Advent and Lent, and on Fast-days, as on Monday.''

=== Friday. ===

==== The Sixth Day of the Week.  ====

''All as on Sunday, except as otherwise given here.''

''The Psalms are as follows :'' 

''Antiphon.'' Behold the Angels.

''In Paschal time only one Antiphon is said,'' Alleluia.

'''Psalm CXXXVII.'''

[Intituled "Of David," to which the LXX. adds "of Haggai and Zechariah," the meaning apparently being that it was his composition, but that they made some special regulation as to its use.] 

<span class="dropcap">I</span> WILL praise Thee, O Lord, with my whole heart : * because Thou hast heard the words of my mouth.

Before the Angels will I sing praise unto Thee. * I will worship toward Thine holy temple, and praise Thy Name.

For Thy loving-kindness, and for Thy truth : * for Thou hast magnified Thine holy Name above every name.

In whatsoever day I call upon Thee, answer me : * Thou wilt strengthen my soul exceedingly.

Let all the kings of the earth praise Thee, O Lord, * for they have heard all the words of Thy mouth.

Yea, let them sing of the ways of the Lord : * that great is the glory of the Lord.

For the Lord is high, yet hath He respect unto the lowly : * but the proud He knoweth from afar.

Though I walk in the midst of trouble Thou wilt revive me : * Thou shalt stretch forth Thine hand - against the wrath of mine enemies, and Thy right hand shall save me.

The Lord will give recompense on my behalf: * Thy mercy, O Lord, endureth for ever : forsake not the works of Thine own hands.

''Antiphon.'' Before the Angels will I sing praise unto Thee, O my God.


''Second Antiphon.'' O Lord.

''If this Antiphon be used the Psalm commences with the words,'' "Thou hast searched me." 

'''Psalm CXXXVIII.'''

[Intituled "A Psalm of David," with a musical (?) direction, the meaning of which is not now certain.] 

<span class="dropcap">O</span> LORD, Thou hast searched me, and known me : * Thou knowest my down-sitting and mine up-rising : 

Thou understandest my thoughts afar off. * Thou searchest my path, and my line, 

And art acquainted with all my ways : * before there is a word on my tongue.

Lo, O Lord, Thou knowest all things both new and old : * Thou hast made me, and laid Thine hand upon me.

Such knowledge is too wonderful for me : * it is high, and I cannot attain unto it.

Whither shall I go from Thy Spirit? * or whither shall I flee from Thy presence ? 

If I ascend up into heaven, Thou are there : * if I go down into hell, Thou art there.

If I take the wings of the morning, * and dwell in the uttermost parts of the sea; — 

Even there shall Thine hand lead me, * and Thy right hand shall hold me.

If I say : Surely the darkness shall cover me : * even the night shall be light about me in my pleasures.

For the darkness is not darkness to Thee : and the night shineth as the day : * the darkness and the light to Thee are both alike.

For Thou didst form my reins : * Thou hast upholden me from my mother's womb.

I will praise Thee, for Thy greatness is terrible : * marvellous are Thy works : and that my soul knoweth right well.

My bones were not hid from Thee, when Thou madest me in secret : * nor my substance in the lower parts of the earth.

Thine eyes beheld my substance yet being imperfect : and in Thy book all were written : * day by day were they to be fashioned, when as yet there was none of them.

But to me, O God, Thy friends are exceeding honourable : * their power is waxen right strong.

If I should count them, they are more in number than the sand : * I arose, and am still with Thee.

Surely Thou wilt slay the wicked, O God : * depart from me, ye bloody men.

For ye say in thought : * In vain shall Thy people take Thy cities.

Do not I hate them, O Lord, that hate Thee? * and am not I grieved at those that rise up against Thee ? 

I hate them with perfect hatred : * they are to me as enemies.

Search me, O God, and know mine heart : * try me and know my thoughts.

And see if there be any wicked way in me : * and lead me in the way everlasting.

''Antiphon.'' O Lord, Thou hast searched me and known me.


''Third Antiphon.'' Preserve me.

'''Psalm CXXXIX.'''

[Intituled " A Psalm of David," with the same musical (?) direction as before.] 

<span class="dropcap">D</span>ELIVER me, O Lord, from the evil man : * preserve me from the wicked man : 

Which imagine mischiefs in their heart : * continually are they gathered together for war.

They have sharpened their tongues like a serpent : * adders' poison is under their lips. <ref>SLH.</ref> 

Keep me, O Lord, from the hands of the wicked : * and preserve me from the evil man : 

Who purpose to overthrow my goings. * The proud have hid a snare for me : 

And spread a net with cords : * by the way-side have they set a trap for me. <ref>SLH.</ref>

I said unto the Lord : Thou art my God : * hear the voice of my supplication, O Lord ! 

Lord, my Lord, Thou Strength of my salvation, * Thou hast covered mine head in the day of battle ! 

Give me not up, O Lord, to the desires of the wicked : * they take counsel together against me : forsake me not, lest they exalt themselves. <ref>SLH.</ref> 

As for the head of those that compass me about, * let the mischief of their own lips cover them.

Let burning coals fall upon them ; let them be cast into the fire : * when they are in trouble they will not be able to stand.

An evil-speaker shall not prosper in the earth : * evil shall hunt the wicked man, to overthrow him.

I know that the Lord will maintain the cause of the afflicted, * and will revenge the poor.

Surely the righteous shall give thanks unto Thy Name ; * and the upright shall dwell in Thy presence.

''Antiphon.'' Preserve me, O Lord, from the wicked man.


''Fourth Antiphon.'' Lord.

''If this Antiphon be used, the Psalm begins with the words,'' "I cry unto Thee." 

'''Psalm CXL.'''

[Intituled "A Psalm of David."] 

<span class="dropcap">L</span>ORD, I cry unto Thee : hear me ! * give ear unto my voice when I cry unto Thee.

Let my prayer be set forth as incense before Thee : * the lifting-up of mine hands as the evening sacrifice.

Set a watch, O Lord, before my mouth : * keep the door of my lips.

Incline not mine heart to any evil word, * to excuse myself in my sins, 

With men that work wickedness ; * and let me not eat of their dainties.

Let the righteous smite me in kindness : and let him reprove me : * but the oil of the wicked shall not anoint mine head : 

For yet my prayer shall be against their lusts. * <ref>The Targum is, "They are torn away from the house of instruction by the strong hands of their judges." The Syriac, "And their judges are crushed by the strong hand." Messrs Jennings and Lowe render, "When their judges have been thrown down the sides of the rock, then they shall hear my words as welcome;" and continue, "When the usurping rulers have been deposed, and the disappointed rabble has executed its vengeance on them, it shall bethink it again of David's divinely constituted authority, and gladly recall him to the throne. This is the only rational interpretation of the verse.  For the mode of punishment mentioned, cf. 2 Chron. xxv. 12, Luke iv. 29.
</ref> Their judges shall be left [to their fate beside] in the hands of the rock : 

[And] they [that have wreaked their vengeance on them] shall hear my words, that they are mighty. * Like clods of earth broken by the ploughman, 

So are our bones scattered at the grave's mouth. * But mine eyes are unto Thee, O Lord, my Lord : in Thee is my trust, leave not my life to destruction.

Keep me from the snare which they have laid for me, * and the gins of the workers of iniquity.

The wicked shall fall into their own net ; * as for me, I dwell alone, until I depart hence.

''Antiphon.'' Lord, I cry unto Thee, hear me.


''Fifth Antiphon.'' O Lord, let my portion.

'''Psalm CXLI.'''

[Intituled " A didactic (?) Psalm of David.  A Prayer when he was in the cave," namely, on the same occasion as that on which he wrote Psalm lvi. See note on that Psalm, p. no.] 

<span class="dropcap">I</span> CRIED unto the Lord with my voice : * with my voice unto the Lord did I make supplication.

I pour out my complaint before Him : * before Him also I show my trouble.

When my spirit faileth from me, * then Thou knewest my path.

In the way wherein I walked * have they privily laid a snare for me.

I looked on the right hand, and beheld : * but there was no man that would know me : 

Refuge failed me : * and no man cared for my soul.

I cried unto Thee, O Lord ! * I said : Thou art my refuge, and my portion in the land of the living.

Attend unto my cry, * for I am brought very low : 

Deliver me from my persecutors : * for they are stronger than I.

Bring my soul out of prison, that I may praise Thy Name : * the righteous wait for me, till Thou deal bountifully with me.

''Antiphon.'' O Lord, let my portion be in the land of the living.

''Antiphon in Paschal time.'' Alleluia, Alleluia, Alleluia.

'''Hymn.''' <ref>Hymn of the Ambrosian school, considerably altered ; translation by the late Card. Newman.</ref> 

WHOM all obey, — <br/>
Maker of man ! Who from Thy height <br/>
Badest the dull earth bring to light <br/>
All creeping things, and the fierce might <br/>
Of beasts of prey ;— <br/>

And the huge make <br/>
Of wild or gentler animal.<br/>
Springing from nothing at Thy call, <br/>
To serve in their due time, and all <br/>
For sinners' sake ; <br/>

Shield us from ill ! <br/>
Come it by passion's sudden stress, <br/>
Lurk in our mind's habitual dress, <br/>
Or through our actions seek to press <br/>
Upon our will.<br/>

Vouchsafe the prize <br/>
Of sacred joy's perpetual mood, <br/>
And service-seeking gratitude, <br/>
And love to quell each strife or feud, <br/>
If it arise.<br/>

Grant it, O Lord ! <br/>
To Whom, the Father, Only Son, <br/>
And Holy Spirit, Three in One, <br/>
In heaven and earth all praise be done <br/>
With one accord.  Amen.<br/>

''Antiphon at the Song of the Blessed Virgin.''  He hath put down the mighty, * that persecute His Saints : and hath exalted them of low degree, that confess His Christ.

''Commemoration of the Cross before the other general Commemorations; and Long Preces in Advent and Lent, and on Fast-days, as on Monday.''

''Simple Feasts. If the Vespers of a Simple Feast be kept on a Friday, the service is of the Feast from the Chapter inclusive.''

=== Saturday. ===

==== The Sabbath.  ====

''All as on Sunday, except as otherwise given here.''

''The Psalms are as follows :'' 

''Antiphon.'' Blessed.

''If this Antiphon be used, the Psalm begins with the words,'' "Be the LORD my God." 

''In Paschal time only one Antiphon is said,'' Alleluia.

'''Psalm CXLIII.'''

[Intituled " Of David. " The Vulgate and the LXX. add "against Goliath."] 

<span class="dropcap">B</span>LESSED be the Lord my God, Which teacheth mine hands to war, * and my fingers to fight.

My goodness, and my fortress : * my strength, and my Deliverer : 

My shield, and He in Whom I trust : * Who subdueth my people under me.

Lord, what is man, that Thou takest knowledge of him ? * or the son of man, that Thou makest account of him? 

Man is like to vanity : * his days are as a shadow that passeth away.

Bow Thy heavens, O Lord, and come down : * touch the mountains, and they shall smoke.

Cast forth the bright lightning, and scatter them : * send out Thine arrows, and make them to quake.

Send Thine hand from above : rid me, and deliver me out of great waters, * from the hand of strange children : 

Whose mouth speaketh vanity : * and their right hand is a right hand of falsehood.

I will sing a new song unto Thee, O God ; * upon a psaltery of ten strings will I sing praises unto Thee : 

Who hast given salvation unto kings : * Who deliveredst David Thy servant from the hurtful sword.

Rid me, And deliver me from the hand of strange children, whose mouth speaketh vanity : * and their right hand is a right hand of falsehood : 

Whose sons may be as saplings grown up * in their youth ; 

Their daughters decked out, * adorned after the similitude of the temple : 

Their garners full, * affording stores upon store : 

Their sheep fruitful in young, countless in their pastures : * their oxen fat : 

There is no breach in their walls, nor inroad : * nor wailing in their streets.

Happy is that people, that is in such a case : * happy is that people whose God is the Lord.

''Antiphon.'' Blessed be the Lord my God.


''Second Antiphon.'' Every day.

'''Psalm CXLIV.'''

[Intituled " David's song of praise." It is ABC Darian.] 

<span class="dropcap">I</span> WILL extol Thee, my God, O A King ! * and I will bless Thy name for ever and ever.

Every day will I bless Thee ; * and I will praise Thy name for ever and ever.

Great is the Lord, and greatly to be praised : * and His greatness is unsearchable.

One generation shall praise Thy works to another, * and shall declare Thy mighty acts.

They shall speak of the glorious honour of Thy Majesty, * and tell of Thy wondrous works.

And men shall speak of the might of Thy terrible acts, * and declare Thy greatness.

They shall abundantly utter the record of Thy great goodness, * and shall sing of Thy righteousness.

The Lord is gracious and full of compassion : * slow to anger and of great mercy.

The Lord is good to all, * and His tender mercies are over all His works.

May all Thy works praise Thee, O Lord ! * and let Thy saints bless Thee ! 

They shall speak of the glory of Thy kingdom, * and talk of Thy power ; 

To make known to the sons of men Thy mighty acts, * and the glorious majesty of Thy kingdom.

Thy kingdom is an everlasting kingdom, * and Thy dominion endureth throughout all generations ! 

The Lord is faithful in all His words, * and holy in all His works.

The Lord upholdeth all that fall, * and raiseth up all those that be bowed down.

The eyes of all wait upon Thee, O Lord ! * and Thou givest them their meat in due season.

Thou openest Thine hand, * and fillest all things living with plenteousness.

The Lord is righteous in all His ways, * and holy in all His works.

The Lord is nigh unto all them that call upon Him, * to all that call upon Him in truth.

He will fulfil the desire of them that fear Him : * He also will hear their cry and will save them.

The Lord preserveth all them that love Him, * but all the wicked will He destroy.

My mouth shall speak the praise of the Lord ; * and let all flesh bless His holy Name for ever and ever.

''Antiphon.'' Every day will I bless Thee, O Lord.


''Third Antiphon.'' While I live.

'''Psalm CXLV.'''

[To this Psalm is prefixed "Alleluia." The Vulgate and the LXX. connect it with the names of Haggai and Zechariah. ] 

<span class="dropcap">P</span>RAISE the Lord, O my soul; while I live will I praise the Lord : * I will sing praises unto my God while I have being.

Put not your trust in princes, * in the son of man, in whom is no help.

His breath goeth forth, and he returneth to his earth : * in that very day their thoughts perish.

Happy is he that hath the God of Jacob for his help, his hope is in the Lord his God : * Who made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that therein is : Who keepeth truth for ever.

Who executeth judgment for the oppressed : * Who giveth food to the hungry.

The Lord looseth the prisoners : * the Lord openeth the eyes of the blind : 

The Lord raiseth them that are bowed down : * the Lord loveth the righteous : 

The Lord preserveth the strangers ; He defendeth the fatherless and widow : * but the way of the wicked He will turn aside.

The Lord shall reign for ever ! even thy God, O Zion, * unto all generations ! 

[The Hebrew adds "Alleluia," which the Vulgate and the LXX. prefix to the next Psalm.] 

''Antiphon.'' While I live will I praise the Lord.


''Fourth Antiphon.'' Let the praise of our God.

'''Psalm CXLVI.'''

[The Vulgate and the LXX., as stated, prefix "Alleluia," and the LXX. adds "of Haggai and Zechariah."] 

<span class="dropcap">P</span>RAISE ye the Lord, for it is good to sing praises : * the praise of our God is pleasant and comely.

The Lord doth build up Jerusalem : * He gathereth together the outcasts of Israel.

He healeth the broken in heart, * and bindeth up their wounds.

He telleth the number of the stars ; * and calleth them all by their names.

Great is our Lord, and of great power : * and His understanding is infinite.

The Lord lifteth up the meek ; * but He casteth the wicked down to the ground.

Sing unto the Lord with thanksgiving : * sing praise upon the harp unto our God.

Who covereth the heaven with clouds : * and prepareth rain for the earth, 

Who maketh grass to grow upon the mountains, * and herbs for the service of men : 

He giveth to the beast his food, * and to the young ravens which cry unto Him.

He delighteth not in the strength of an horse ; * neither taketh He pleasure in the legs of a man.

The Lord taketh pleasure in them that fear Him, * and in those that hope in His mercy.

''Antiphon.'' Let the praise of our God be pleasant.


''Fifth Antiphon.'' Praise the Lord.

''If this Antiphon be used the Psalm begins with the words,'' "O Jerusalem." 

'''Psalm CXLVII.'''

[In the Hebrew this is the continuation of the preceding Psalm. The Vulgate and the LXX. prefix "Alleluia," and the LXX. adds "of Haggai and Zechariah."] 

<span class="dropcap">P</span>RAISE the Lord, O Jerusalem ! * praise thy God, O Zion ! 

For He hath strengthened the bars of thy gates : * He hath blessed thy children within thee : 

He maketh peace in thy borders : * and filleth thee with the finest of the wheat.

He sendeth forth His commandment upon earth : * His word runneth very swiftly.

He giveth snow like wool : * He scattereth the hoar-frost like ashes.

He casteth forth His ice like morsels : * who can stand before His cold? 

He sendeth out His word, and melteth them : * He causeth His wind to blow, and the waters flow.

He declareth His word unto Jacob, * His statutes and His judgments unto Israel.

He hath not dealt so with any nation : * neither hath He made known to them His judgments.

[The Hebrew adds "Alleluia," which the Vulgate and the LXX. prefix to the next Psalm.] 

''Antiphon.'' Praise the Lord, O Jerusalem.

''Antiphon in Paschal time.'' Alleluia, Alleluia, Alleluia.

''From Advent Sunday till the Octave of the Epiphany, and from Septuagesima Sunday till the Octave of Pentecost special Chapters are given.''

''At other times the following is said:'' 

''Chapter.'' (Rom. xi. 33.) 

<span class="dropcap">O</span> THE depth of the riches and wisdom and knowledge of God : how unsearchable are His judgments and His ways past finding out !   

''The following Hymn and Verse and Answer is used during the same seasons as the above Chapter, and likewise from Septuagesima to Lent.''

'''Hymn.''' <ref>Hymn of the Ambrosian school, altered almost beyond recognition ; translation by the late Card. Newman.</ref> 

THE red sun is gone, <br/>
Thou Light of the heart, <br/>
Blessed Three, Holy One,<br/> 
To Thy servants a sun <br/>
Everlasting impart.<br/>

There were Lauds in the morn, <br/>
Here are Vespers at even :<br/> 
Oh, may we adorn <br/>
Thy temple new born <br/>
With our voices in Heaven.<br/>

To the Father be praise, <br/>
And praise to the Son, <br/>
And the Spirit always, <br/>
While the infinite days <br/>
Of eternity run.  Amen.<br/>

''Verse.'' Let the evening prayer ascend unto Thee, O Lord.

''Answer.'' And let there descend upon us Thy mercy.

''The following Antiphon is said only from the Octave of the Epiphamy till Septuagesima.''

''Antiphon at the Song of the Blessed Virgin.''  God hath holpen His servant Israel : * as He spake to Abraham and to his seed, to exalt them of low degree for ever and ever.

''Prayer of the succeeding Sunday.''


'''Citations'''
<references/>