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Finding of Holy Cross (May 3) - Matins texts

 Note: The Latin texts for the office can be found in the new Nocturnale Monasticum from page 998. For the chants, I’ve provided page numbers for the (Stanhofe) Nocturnale Romanum (NR), Liber Responsorialis (LR) and Processionale Monasticum (PM), but those chants common to the Roman Office can also be found on the relevant Nocturnale Romanum Project page.

Invitatory antiphon:

Christum Regem crucifíxum, * Veníte, adorémus, allelúia. (LR 437; NR 162*)

Christ crucified is our King. * O come, let us worship him, alleluia.

 

 

Hymn

Pange, lingua, gloriósi

Proélium certáminis,

Et super Crucis trophaéum

Dic triúmphum nóbilem:

Quáliter Redemptor orbis

Immolátus vícerit.

 

Sing, my tongue, the glorious battle

Sing the last, the dread affray;

O'er the cross, the victor's trophy,

Sound the high triumphal lay:

Tell how Christ, the world's Redeemer,

As a victim won the day.

De paréntis protoplásti

Fraude Factor cóndolens,

Quando pomi noxiális

Morsu in mortem córruit:

Ipse lignum tunc notávit,

Damna ligni ut sólveret.

 

God, his Maker, sorely grieving

That the first-made Adam fell,

When he ate the fruit of sorrow,

Whose reward was death and hell,

Noted then this wood, the ruin

Of the ancient wood to quell.

Hoc opus nostrae salútis

Ordo depopóscerat:

Multifórmis perditóris

Ars ut artem fálleret,

Et médelam ferret inde,

Hostis unde láeserat.

 

For the work of our salvation

Needs would have his order so,

And the multiform deceiver's

Art by art would overthrow,

And from thence would bring the med'cine

Whence the insult of the foe.

Quando venit ergo sacri

Plenitúdo témporis,

Missus est ab arce Patris

Natus orbis Cónditor ;

Atque ventre virgináli

Caro factus pródiit.

 

Wherefore, when the sacred fullness

Of the appointed time was come,

This world's Maker left his Father,

Sent the heav'nly mansion from,

And proceeded, God Incarnate,

Of the Virgin's holy womb.

Vagit infans inter arta

Cónditus praesépia:

Membra pannis involúta

Virgo mater álligat:

Et manus pedésque, et crura

Stricta pingit fáscia.

 

Weeps the infant in the manger

That in Bethlehem's stable stands;

And his limbs the Virgin Mother

Doth compose in swaddling bands,

Meetly thus in linen folding

Of her God the feet and hands.

Glória et honor Deo

Usquequáque altissímo,

Una Patri, Filióque;

Inclito Paráclito:

Cui laus est et potéstas

Per aeterna sáecula. Amen.

To the Trinity be glory

Everlasting, as is meet;

Equal to the Father, equal

To the Son, and Paraclete:

Trinal Unity, whose praises

All created things repeat. Amen.

LR 437; NR 162-4.

 

Nocturn I 

Antiphons and psalms

Ant: Invéntæ Crucis / festa recólimus, cuius præcónium univérsum per orbem micánti lúmine fulget, allelúia. (NR 165*)

 All the earth this day * is making glad memorial of the finding of the Cross, whose light is streaming over every land and people, alleluia.

 Psalm 1

Beátus vir, qui non ábiit in consílio impiórum, † et in via peccatórum non stetit, * et in cáthedra pestiléntiæ non sedit.

Blessed is the man that has not walked in the counsel of the ungodly, nor stood in the way of sinners, * and has not sat in the seat of the scornful.

Sed in lege Dómini volúntas eius, * et in lege eius meditábitur die ac nocte.

But his delight is in the law of the Lord; * and in his law will he exercise himself day and night.

Et erit tamquam lignum, quod plantátum est secus decúrsus aquárum, * quod fructum suum dabit in témpore suo:

And he shall be like a tree planted by the waterside, * that will bring forth his fruit in due season.

Et fólium eius non défluet: * et ómnia quæcúmque fáciet, prosperabúntur.

His leaf also shall not wither; * and look, whatsoever he does, it shall prosper.

Non sic ímpii, non sic: * sed tamquam pulvis, quem próiicit ventus a fácie terræ.

As for the ungodly, it is not so with them; * but they are like the chaff, which the wind scatters away from the face of the earth.

Ideo non resúrgent ímpii in iudício: * neque peccatóres in concílio iustórum.

Therefore the ungodly shall not be able to stand in the judgement; * neither the sinners in the congregation of the righteous.

Quóniam novit Dóminus viam iustórum: * et iter impiórum períbit.

But the Lord knows the way of the righteous; * and the way of the ungodly shall perish.

Glória Patri, et Fílio, * et Spirítui Sancto.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, * and to the Holy Ghost.

Sicut erat in princípio, et nunc, et semper, * et in sæcula sæculórum. Amen.

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

 

Psalm 2

Quare fremuérunt gentes: * et pópuli meditáti sunt inánia?

Why have the Gentiles raged, * and the people devised vain things?

Astitérunt reges terræ, et príncipes convenérunt in unum * advérsus Dóminum, et advérsus Christum eius.

The kings of the earth stood up, and the princes met together, * against the Lord,  and against his Christ.

Dirumpámus víncula eórum: * et proiiciámus a nobis iugum ipsórum.

Let us break their bonds asunder: * and let us cast away their yoke from us.

Qui hábitat in cælis, irridébit eos: * et Dóminus subsannábit eos.

He that dwells in heaven shall laugh at them: * and the Lord shall deride them.

Tunc loquétur ad eos in ira sua, * et in furóre suo conturbábit eos.

Then shall he speak to them in his anger, * and trouble them in his rage.

Ego autem constitútus sum Rex ab eo super Sion montem sanctum eius, * prædicans præcéptum eius.

But I am appointed king by him over Sion, his holy mountain, * preaching his commandment.

Dóminus dixit ad me: * Fílius meus es tu, ego hódie génui te.

The Lord has said to me: * You are my son, this day have I begotten you.

Póstula a me, et dabo tibi Gentes hereditátem tuam, * et possessiónem tuam términos terræ.

Ask of me, and I will give you the Gentiles for an inheritance, * and the utmost parts of the earth for your possession.

Reges eos in virga férrea, * et tamquam vas fíguli confrínges eos.

You shall rule them with a rod of iron, * and shall break them in pieces like a potter's vessel.

Et nunc, reges, intellígite: * erudímini, qui iudicátis terram.

And now, O you kings, understand: * receive instruction, you that judge the earth.

Servíte Dómino in timóre: * et exsultáte ei cum tremóre.

Serve the Lord with fear: * and rejoice unto him with trembling.

Apprehéndite disciplínam, nequándo irascátur Dóminus, * et pereátis de via iusta.

Embrace discipline, lest at any time the Lord be angry, * and you perish from the just way.

Cum exárserit in brevi ira eius: * beáti omnes qui confídunt in eo.

When his wrath shall be kindled in a short time, * blessed are all they that trust in him.

Glória Patri, et Fílio, * et Spirítui Sancto.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, * and to the Holy Ghost:

Sicut erat in princípio, et nunc, et semper, * et in sæcula sæculórum.  Amen.

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

 

Psalm 4

Cum invocárem exaudívit me Deus iustítiæ meæ: * in tribulatióne dilatásti mihi.

When I called upon him, the God of my justice heard me: * when I was in distress, you enlarged me.

Miserére mei, * et exáudi oratiónem meam.

Have mercy on me: * and hear my prayer.

Fílii hóminum, úsquequo gravi corde? * ut quid dilígitis vanitátem et quæritis mendácium?

O you sons of men, how long will you be dull of heart? * why do you love vanity, and seek after lying?

Et scitóte quóniam mirificávit Dóminus sanctum suum: * Dóminus exáudiet me cum clamávero ad eum.

Know you also that the Lord has made his holy one wonderful: * the Lord will hear me when I shall cry unto him.

Irascímini, et nolíte peccáre: † quæ dícitis in córdibus vestris, in cubílibus vestris, * compungímini.

Be angry, and sin not: the things you say in your hearts, * be sorry for them upon your beds.

Sacrificáte sacrifícium iustítiæ, † et speráte in Dómino, * multi dicunt quis osténdit nobis bona?

Offer up the sacrifice of justice, and trust in the Lord: * many say, Who shows us good things?

Signátum est super nos lumen vultus tui, Dómine: * dedísti lætítiam in corde meo.

The light of your countenance, O Lord, is signed upon us: * you have given gladness in my heart.

A fructu fruménti, vini et ólei sui * multiplicáti sunt.

By the fruit of their corn, their wine, and oil, * they are multiplied.

In pace in idípsum * dórmiam et requiéscam.

In peace in the self-same * I will sleep, and I will rest:

Quóniam tu, Dómine, singuláriter in spe * constituísti me.

For you, O Lord, singularly * have settled me in hope.

Glória Patri, et Fílio, * et Spirítui Sancto.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, * and to the Holy Ghost:

Sicut erat in princípio, et nunc, et semper, * et in sæcula sæculórum. Amen.

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

 

Psalm 5

Verba mea áuribus pércipe, Dómine, * intéllege clamórem meum.

Give ear, O Lord, to my words, * understand my cry.

Inténde voci oratiónis meæ: * Rex meus et Deus meus.

Hearken to the voice of my prayer, * O my King and my God.

Quóniam ad te orábo: * Dómine, mane exáudies vocem meam.

For to you will I pray: * O Lord, in the morning you shall hear my voice.

Mane astábo tibi et vidébo: * quóniam non Deus volens iniquitátem tu es.

In the morning I will stand before you, and I will see: * because you are not a God that wills iniquity.

Neque habitábit iuxta te malígnus: * neque permanébunt iniústi ante óculos tuos.

Neither shall the wicked dwell near you: * nor shall the unjust abide before your eyes.

Odísti omnes, qui operántur iniquitátem: * perdes omnes, qui loquúntur mendácium.

You hate all the workers of iniquity: * you will destroy all that speak a lie.

Virum sánguinum et dolósum abominábitur Dóminus: * ego autem in multitúdine misericórdiæ tuæ.

The bloody and the deceitful man the Lord will abhor; * But as for me in the multitude of your mercy.

Introíbo in domum tuam: * adorábo ad templum sanctum tuum in timóre tuo.

I will come into your house: * I will worship towards your holy temple, in your fear.

Dómine, deduc me in iustítia tua: * propter inimícos meos dírige in conspéctu tuo viam meam.

Conduct me, O Lord, in your justice: * because of my enemies, direct my way in your sight.

Quóniam non est in ore eórum véritas: * cor eórum vanum est.

For there is no truth in their mouth: * their heart is vain.

Sepúlcrum patens est guttur eórum, † linguis suis dolóse agébant, * iúdica illos, Deus.

Their throat is an open sepulchre: they dealt deceitfully with their tongues: * judge them, O God.

Décidant a cogitatiónibus suis, † secúndum multitúdinem impietátum eórum expélle eos, * quóniam irritavérunt te, Dómine.

Let them fall from their devices: according to the multitude of their wickednesses cast them out: * for they have provoked you, O Lord.

Et læténtur omnes, qui sperant in te, * in ætérnum exsultábunt: et habitábis in eis.

But let all them be glad that hope in you: * they shall rejoice forever, and you shall dwell in them.

Et gloriabúntur in te omnes, qui díligunt nomen tuum: * quóniam tu benedíces iusto.

And all they that love your name shall glory in you: * for you will bless the just.

Dómine, ut scuto bonæ voluntátis tuæ * coronásti nos.

O Lord, you have crowned us, * as with a shield of your good will.

Glória Patri, et Fílio, * et Spirítui Sancto.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, * and to the Holy Ghost.

Sicut erat in princípio, et nunc, et semper, * et in sǽcula sæculórum. Amen.

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

 

Psalm 8

Dómine, Dóminus noster, * quam admirábile est nomen tuum in univérsa terra!

O Lord, our Lord, * how admirable is your name in the whole earth!

Quóniam eleváta est magnificéntia tua, * super cælos.

For your magnificence is elevated * above the heavens.

Ex ore infántium et lacténtium perfecísti laudem propter inimícos tuos, * ut déstruas inimícum et ultórem.

Out of the mouth of infants and of sucklings you have perfected praise, because of your enemies, * that you may destroy the enemy and the avenger.

Quóniam vidébo cælos tuos, ópera digitórum tuórum: * lunam et stellas, quæ tu fundásti.

For I will behold your heavens, the works of your fingers: * the moon and the stars which you have founded.

Quid est homo quod memor es eius? * aut fílius hóminis, quóniam vísitas eum?

What is man, that you are mindful of him? * or the son of man, that you visit him?

Minuísti eum paulo minus ab Angelis, † glória et honóre coronásti eum: * et constituísti eum super ópera mánuum tuárum.

You have made him a little less than the angels, you have crowned him with glory and honour: * and have set him over the works of your hands.

Omnia subiecísti sub pédibus eius, † oves et boves univérsas: * ínsuper et pécora campi.

You have subjected all things under his feet, all sheep and oxen: * moreover, the beasts also of the fields.

Vólucres cæli, et pisces maris, * qui perámbulant sémitas maris.

The birds of the air, and the fishes of the sea, * that pass through the paths of the sea.

Dómine, Dóminus noster, * quam admirábile est nomen tuum in univérsa terra!

O Lord, our Lord, * how admirable is your name in the whole earth!

Glória Patri, et Fílio, * et Spirítui Sancto.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, * and to the Holy Ghost.

Sicut erat in princípio, et nunc, et semper, * et in sæcula sæculórum. Amen.

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

 

Psalm 14

Dómine, quis habitábit in tabernáculo tuo? * aut quis requiéscet in monte sancto tuo?

Lord, who shall dwell in your tabernacle? * or who shall rest upon your holy hill?

Qui ingréditur sine mácula, * et operátur iustítiam

Even he that leads an uncorrupt life, * and does the right thing.

Qui lóquitur veritátem in corde suo, * qui non egit dolum in lingua sua.

He that speaks the truth in his heart, * and that has used no deceit in his tongue.

Nec fecit próximo suo malum, * et oppróbrium non accépit advérsus próximos suos.

Nor done evil to his neighbour, * and has not taken up slander against his neighbour.

Ad níhilum dedúctus est in conspéctu eius malígnus: * timéntes autem Dóminum gloríficat.

In his sight the malicious is brought to nought, * but he glorifies them that fear the Lord.

Qui iurat próximo suo, et non décipit, † qui pecúniam suam non dedit ad usúram; * et múnera super innocéntem non accépit.

He that swears to his neighbour, and does not disappoint him, he that has not given his money upon usury, * nor accepted a reward for the innocent.

Qui facit hæc: * non movébitur in ætérnum.

Whoever does these things * shall never fall.

Glória Patri, et Fílio, * et Spirítui Sancto.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, * and to the Holy Ghost.

Sicut erat in princípio, et nunc, et semper, * et in sǽcula sæculórum. Amen.

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

 

Ant: Invéntæ Crucis festa recólimus, cuius præcónium univérsum per orbem micánti lúmine fulget, allelúia.

 All the earth this day * is making glad memorial of the finding of the Cross, whose light is streaming over every land and people, alleluia.

 

Versicle

℣. Hoc signum Crucis erit in cælo, alleluia.

℟. Cum Dóminus ad iudicándum véneri, alleluia.

℣. This sign of the Cross shall be in heaven, alleluia.

℟. When the Lord comes to judge, alleluia.

 

Lectio 1 (Galatians 3:10-14): Quicumque enim ex operibus legis sunt, sub maledicto sunt. Scriptum est enim: Maledictus omnis qui non permanserit in omnibus quæ scripta sunt in libro legis ut faciat ea. Quoniam autem in lege nemo iustificatur apud Deum, manifestum est: quia iustus ex fide vivit. Lex autem non est ex fide, sed: Qui fecerit ea, vivet in illis. Christus nos redemit de maledicto legis, factus pro nobis maledictum: quia scriptum est: Maledictus omnis qui pendet in ligno: ut in gentibus benedictio Abrahæ fieret in Christo Iesu, ut pollicitationem Spiritus accipiamus per fidem.

Reading 1: For as many as are of the works of the law, are under a curse. For it is written: Cursed is every one, that abides not in all things, which are written in the book of the law to do them. But that in the law no man is justified with God, it is manifest: because the just man lives by faith. But the law is not of faith: but, he that does those things, shall live in them. Christ has redeemed us from the curse of the law, being made a curse for us: for it is written: Cursed is every one that hangs on a tree: That the blessing of Abraham might come on the Gentiles through Christ Jesus: that we may receive the promise of the Spirit by faith.

 

℟. Gloriósum diem / sacra venerátur Ecclésia, dum triumphále reserátur lignum: * In quo Redémptor noster, mortis víncula rumpens, cállidum áspidem superávit, †alleluia, alleluia, alleluia. ℣. In ligno péndens nostræ salútis sémitam Verbum Patris invénit. ℟.In quo…

℟. Lo the Church, with solemn gladness, hails the day for ever glorious, when the opening earth reveals that dread tree of mystic triumph. On whose boughs her dying Saviour shattered death and crushed the serpent, alleluia, alleluia, alleluia.

℣. He the Word of God eternal, on those stately branches hanging, has for us a new way opened.

℟. On whose boughs…

NR 165-6*

 

Lectio 2 (Philippians 2:5-11): Hoc enim sentite in vobis, quod et in Christo Iesu: qui cum in forma Dei esset, non rapinam arbitratus est esse se æqualem Deo: sed semetipsum exinanivit, formam servi accipiens, in similitudinem hominum factus, et habitu inventus ut homo. Humiliavit semetipsum factus obediens usque ad mortem, mortem autem crucis. Propter quod et Deus exaltavit illum, et donavit illi nomen, quod est super omne nomen: ut in nomine Jesu omne genu flectatur cælestium, terrestrium et infernorum, et omnis lingua confiteatur, quia Dominus Iesus Christus in gloria est Dei Patris.

Reading 2: For let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: Who being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: But emptied himself, taking the form of a servant, being made in the likeness of

men, and in habit found as a man. He humbled himself, becoming obedient unto death, even to the death of the cross. For which cause God also has exalted him, and has given him a name which is above all names: that in the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of those that are in heaven, on earth, and under the earth: and that every tongue should confess that the Lord Jesus Christ is in the glory of God the Father.

 

℟. Crux fidélis, / inter omnes arbor una nóbilis, † nulla silva talem profert, fronde, flore, gérmine: * Dulce lignum, dulces clavos, dulce pondus sustínuit, alleluia. ℣. Super ómnia ligna cedrórum tu sola excélsior. ℟. Dulce…

℟. Faithful Cross, above all other, one and only noble tree. None in foliage, none in blossom, none in fruit your peers may be * Sweetest wood and sweetest iron, sweetest weight is hung on you, alleluia. ℣. You are higher than all cedars.

℟. Sweetest wood, and sweetest iron, sweetest weight is hung on you.

NR 166*; PM 152-3

 

Lectio 3 (Colossians 2:9-15): In Christo inhabitat omnis plenitudo divinitatis corporaliter: et estis in illo repleti, qui est caput omnis principatus et potestatis: in quo et circumcisi estis circumcisione non manu facta in expoliatione corporis carnis, sed in circumcisione Christi:consepulti ei in baptismo, in quo et resurrexistis per fidem operationis Dei, qui suscitavit illum a mortuis.

Reading 3: For in Christ dwells all the fulness of the Godhead corporeally; and you are filled in him, who is the head of all principality and power: in whom also you are circumcised with circumcision not made by hand, in despoiling of the body of the flesh, but in the circumcision of Christ: Buried with him in baptism, in whom also you are risen again by the faith of the operation of God, who has raised him up from the dead.

 

℟. Hæc est / arbor digníssima, in paradisi médio situata, * In qua salútis auctor propria morte mortem ómnium superávit, alleluia, alleluia.

℣. Crux præcellénti decore fulgida, † quam Helena Constantini mater concupiscénti animo requisivit. ℟. In qua...

℟. This is that noble tree, planted in the midst of the garden * Whereon the author of our salvation did by his own death openly triumph over the death of all men, alleluia, alleluia. ℣. Even the Cross, whereof the glory is so excellent, and which Helena mother of Constantine did so diligently search until she found it. ℟. On which…

NR 166*

 

Lectio 4: Et vos cum mortui essetis in delictis, et præputio carnis vestræ, convivificavit cum illo, donans vobis omnia delicta: delens quod adversus nos erat chirographum decreti, quod erat contrarium nobis, et ipsum tulit de medio, affigens illud cruci: et expolians principatus, et potestates traduxit confidenter, palam triumphans illos in semetipso.

Reading 4:  And you, when you were dead in your sins, and the uncircumcision of your flesh; he has quickened together with him, forgiving you all offences: blotting out the handwriting of the decree that was against us, which was contrary to us. And he has taken the same out of the way, fastening it to the cross: and despoiling the principalities and powers, he has exposed them confidently in open show, triumphing over them in himself.

 

℟. O Crux / benedícta, * Quae sola fuísti digna portáre Regem caelórum et Dóminum, alleluia.

℣. O Crux gloriósa et admirábilis o crux veneránda!

℟. Quae sola…℣. Glória Patri…℟. Quae sola...

℟. O blessed Cross, * Which alone was worthy to bear the Lord and King of the heaven, alleluia. ℣. O glorious and admirable cross, O Cross to be venerated. ℟. Which alone…℣. Glory be…

℟. Which alone…

Gregofacsimil (different verse).

 

Nocturn II

 

Antiphons and psalms

Ant: Felix ille triúmphus / fit salus ægris, vitæ lignum, mortis remédium, allelúia. (NR 167*)

Lo, the Cross's happy triumph, fraught with healing of diseases, tree whereon the true life dying trampled down the death of all men, alleluia.

 

Psalm 22

Dóminus regit me, et nihil mihi déerit: * in loco páscuæ ibi me collocávit.

The Lord rules me: and I shall want nothing. He has set me in a place of pasture.

Super aquam refectiónis educávit me: * ánimam meam convértit.

He has brought me up, on the water of refreshment: He has converted my soul.

Dedúxit me super sémitas iustítiæ: * propter nomen suum.

He has led me on the paths of justice, for his own name's sake.

Nam, et si ambulávero in médio umbræ mortis, non timébo mala: * quóniam tu mecum es.

For though I should walk in the midst of the shadow of death, I will fear no evils, for you are with me.

Virga tua, et báculus tuus: * ipsa me consoláta sunt.

Your rod and your staff, they have comforted me.

Parásti in conspéctu meo mensam, * advérsus eos, qui tríbulant me.

You have prepared a table before me against them that afflict me.

Impinguásti in óleo caput meum: * et calix meus inébrians quam præclárus est!

You have anointed my head with oil; and my chalice which inebriates me, how goodly is it!

Et misericórdia tua subsequétur me * ómnibus diébus vitæ meæ.

And your mercy will follow me all the days of my life.

Et ut inhábitem in domo Dómini, * in longitúdinem diérum.

And that I may dwell in the house of the Lord unto length of days.

Glória Patri, et Fílio, * et Spirítui Sancto.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost.

Sicut erat in princípio, et nunc, et semper, * et in sǽcula sæculórum. Amen.

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

 

Psalm 26

Dóminus illuminátio mea, et salus mea, * quem timébo?

The Lord is my light and my salvation, * whom shall I fear?

Dóminus protéctor vitæ meæ, * a quo trepidábo?

The Lord is the protector of my life: * of whom shall I be afraid?

Dum apprópiant super me nocéntes, * ut edant carnes meas:

Whilst the wicked draw near against me, * to eat my flesh.

Qui tríbulant me inimíci mei, * ipsi infirmáti sunt et cecidérunt.

My enemies that trouble me, * have themselves been weakened, and have fallen.

Si consístant advérsum me castra, * non timébit cor meum.

If armies in camp should stand together against me, * my heart shall not fear.

Si exsúrgat advérsum me prælium, * in hoc ego sperábo.

If a battle should rise up against me, * in this will I be confident.

Unam pétii a Dómino, hanc requíram, * ut inhábitem in domo Dómini ómnibus diébus vitæ meæ:

One thing I have asked of the Lord, this will I seek after; * that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life.

Ut vídeam voluptátem Dómini, * et vísitem templum eius.

That I may see the delight of the Lord, * and may visit his temple.

Quóniam abscóndit me in tabernáculo suo: * in die malórum protéxit me in abscóndito tabernáculi sui.

For he has hidden me in his tabernacle; * in the day of evils, he has protected me in the secret place of his tabernacle.

In petra exaltávit me: * et nunc exaltávit caput meum super inimícos meos.

He has exalted me upon a rock: * and now he has lifted up my head above my enemies.

Circuívi et immolávi in tabernáculo eius hóstiam vociferatiónis: * cantábo et psalmum dicam Dómino.

I have gone round, and have offered up in his tabernacle a sacrifice of jubilation: * I will sing, and recite a psalm to the Lord.

Exáudi, Dómine, vocem meam, qua clamávi ad te: * miserére mei, et exáudi me.

Hear, O Lord, my voice, with which I have cried to you: * have mercy on me and hear me.

Tibi dixit cor meum, exquisívit te fácies mea: * fáciem tuam, Dómine, requíram.

My heart has said to you: My face has sought you: your face, * O Lord, will I still seek.

Ne avértas fáciem tuam a me, * ne declínes in ira a servo tuo.

Turn not away your face from me; * decline not in your wrath from your servant.

Adiútor meus esto: * ne derelínquas me, neque despícias me, Deus, salutáris meus.

Be my helper, forsake me not; * do not despise me, O God my Saviour.

Quóniam pater meus, et mater mea dereliquérunt me: * Dóminus autem assúmpsit me.

For my father and my mother have left me: * but the Lord has taken me up.

Legem pone mihi, Dómine, in via tua: * et dírige me in sémitam rectam propter inimícos meos.

Set me, O Lord, a law in your way, * and guide me in the right path, because of my enemies.

Ne tradíderis me in ánimas tribulántium me: † quóniam insurrexérunt in me testes iníqui, * et mentíta est iníquitas sibi.

Deliver me not over to the will of them that trouble me; for unjust witnesses have risen up against me; * and iniquity has lied to itself.

Credo vidére bona Dómini * in terra vivéntium.

I believe to see the good things of the Lord * in the land of the living.

Exspécta Dóminum, viríliter age: * et confortétur cor tuum, et sústine Dóminum.

Expect the Lord, do manfully, * and let your heart take courage, and wait for the Lord.

Glória Patri, et Fílio, * et Spirítui Sancto.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, * and to the Holy Ghost.

Sicut erat in princípio, et nunc, et semper, * et in sǽcula sæculórum. Amen.

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

 

Psalm 75

Notus in Iudæa Deus: * in Israël magnum nomen eius.

In Judea God is known: * his name is great in Israel.

Et factus est in pace locus eius: * et habitátio eius in Sion.

And his place is in peace: * and his abode in Sion:

Ibi confrégit poténtias árcuum: * scutum, gládium, et bellum.

There has he broken the powers of bows, * the shield, the sword, and the battle.

Illúminans tu mirabíliter a móntibus ætérnis: * turbáti sunt omnes insipiéntes corde.

You enlighten wonderfully from the everlasting hills. * All the foolish of heart were troubled.

Dormiérunt somnum suum: * et nihil invenérunt omnes viri divitiárum in mánibus suis.

They have slept their sleep; * and all the men of riches have found nothing in their hands.

Ab increpatióne tua, Deus Iacob, * dormitavérunt qui ascendérunt equos.

At your rebuke, O God of Jacob, * they have all slumbered that mounted on horseback

Tu terríbilis es, et quis resístet tibi? * ex tunc ira tua.

You are terrible, and who shall resist you? * From that time your wrath.

De cælo audítum fecísti iudícium: * terra trémuit et quiévit.

You have caused judgment to be heard from heaven: * the earth trembled and was still,

Cum exsúrgeret in iudícium Deus, * ut salvos fáceret omnes mansuétos terræ.

When God arose in judgment, * to save all the meek of the earth.

Quóniam cogitátio hóminis confitébitur tibi: * et relíquiæ cogitatiónis diem festum agent tibi.

For the thought of man shall give praise to you: * and the remainders of the thought shall keep holiday to you.

Vovéte, et réddite Dómino Deo vestro: * omnes, qui in circúitu eius affértis múnera.

Vow and pay to the Lord your God: * all you that are round about him bring presents.

Terríbili et ei qui aufert spíritum príncipum, * terríbili apud reges terræ.

To him that is terrible, even to him who takes away the spirit of princes: * to the terrible with the kings of the earth.

Glória Patri, et Fílio, * et Spirítui Sancto.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, * and to the Holy Ghost.

Sicut erat in princípio, et nunc, et semper, * et in sǽcula sæculórum. Amen.

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

 

Psalm 95

Cantáte Dómino cánticum novum: * cantáte Dómino, omnis terra.

Sing to the Lord a new canticle: * sing to the Lord, all the earth.

Cantáte Dómino, et benedícite nómini eius: * annuntiáte de die in diem salutáre eius.

Sing to the Lord and bless his name: * show forth his salvation from day to day.

Annuntiáte inter gentes glóriam eius, * in ómnibus pópulis mirabília eius.

Declare his glory among the gentiles: * his wonders among all people.

Quóniam magnus Dóminus, et laudábilis nimis: * terríbilis est super omnes deos.

For the Lord is great, and exceedingly to be praised: * he is to be feared above all gods.

Quóniam omnes dii Géntium dæmónia: * Dóminus autem cælos fecit.

For all the gods of the Gentiles are devils: * but the Lord made the heavens.

Conféssio, et pulchritúdo in conspéctu eius: * sanctimónia et magnificéntia in sanctificatióne eius.

Praise and beauty are before him: * holiness and majesty in his sanctuary.

Afférte Dómino, pátriæ géntium, † afférte Dómino glóriam et honórem: * afférte Dómino glóriam nómini eius.

Bring to the Lord, O you kindreds of the Gentiles, bring to the Lord glory and honour: * bring to the Lord glory unto his name.

Tóllite hóstias, et introíte in átria eius: * adoráte Dóminum in átrio sancto eius.

Bring up sacrifices, and come into his courts: * adore the Lord in his holy court.

Commoveátur a fácie eius univérsa terra: * dícite in géntibus quia Dóminus regnávit.

Let all the earth be moved at his presence: * say among the gentiles, the Lord has reigned.

Etenim corréxit orbem terræ qui non commovébitur: * iudicábit pópulos in æquitáte.

For he has corrected the world, which shall not be moved: * he will judge the people with justice.

Læténtur cæli, et exsúltet terra: † commoveátur mare et plenitúdo eius: * gaudébunt campi, et ómnia quæ in eis sunt.

Let the heavens rejoice, and let the earth be glad, let the sea be moved, and the fullness thereof: * the fields and all things that are in them shall be joyful.

Tunc exsultábunt ómnia ligna silvárum a fácie Dómini, quia venit: * quóniam venit iudicáre terram.

Then shall all the trees of the woods rejoice before the face of the Lord, because he comes: * because he comes to judge the earth.

Iudicábit orbem terræ in æquitáte, * et pópulos in veritáte sua.

He shall judge the world with justice, * and the people with his truth.

Glória Patri, et Fílio, * et Spirítui Sancto.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, * and to the Holy Ghost.

Sicut erat in princípio, et nunc, et semper, * et in sǽcula sæculórum. Amen.

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

 

Psalm 96

Dóminus regnávit exsúltet terra: * læténtur ínsulæ multæ.

The Lord has reigned, let the earth rejoice: * let many islands be glad.

Nubes, et calígo in circúitu eius: * iustítia, et iudícium corréctio sedis eius.

Clouds and darkness are round about him: * justice and judgment are the establishment of his throne.

Ignis ante ipsum præcédet: * et inflammábit in circúitu inimícos eius.

A fire shall go before him, * and shall burn his enemies round about.

Illuxérunt fúlgura eius orbi terræ: * vidit et commóta est terra.

His lightnings have shone forth to the world: * the earth saw and trembled.

Montes, sicut cera fluxérunt a fácie Domini: * a fácie Dómini omnis terra.

The mountains melted like wax, at the presence of the Lord: * at the presence of the Lord of all the earth.

Annuntiavérunt cæli iustítiam eius: * et vidérunt omnes pópuli glóriam eius.

The heavens declared his justice: * and all people saw his glory.

Confundántur omnes, qui adórant sculptília: * et qui gloriántur in simulácris suis.

Let them be all confounded that adore graven things, * and that glory in their idols.

Adoráte eum, omnes Angeli eius: * audívit, et lætáta est Sion.

Adore him, all you his angels: * Sion heard, and was glad.

Et exsultavérunt fíliæ Iudæ: * propter iudícia tua, Dómine:

And the daughters of Juda rejoiced, * because of your judgments, O Lord.

Quóniam tu Dóminus Altíssimus super omnem terram: * nimis exaltátus es super omnes deos.

For you are the most high Lord over all the earth: * you are exalted exceedingly above all gods.

Qui dilígitis Dóminum, odite malum: † custódit Dóminus ánimas sanctórum suórum, * de manu peccatóris liberábit eos.

You that love the Lord, hate evil: the Lord preserves the souls of his saints, * he will deliver them out of the hand of the sinner.

Lux orta est iusto, * et rectis corde lætítia.

Light is risen to the just, * and joy to the right of heart.

Lætámini, iusti in Dómino: * et confitémini memóriæ sanctificatiónis eius.

Rejoice, you just, in the Lord: * and give praise to the remembrance of his holiness.

Glória Patri, et Fílio, * et Spirítui Sancto.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, * and to the Holy Ghost.

Sicut erat in princípio, et nunc, et semper, * et in sǽcula sæculórum. Amen.

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

 

Psalm 97

Cantáte Dómino cánticum novum: * quia mirabília fecit!

Sing to the Lord a new canticle: * because he has done wonderful things.

Salvávit sibi déxtera eius: * et bráchium sanctum eius.

His right hand has wrought for him salvation, * and his arm is holy.

Notum fecit Dóminus salutáre suum: * in conspéctu Géntium revelávit iustítiam suam.

The Lord has made known his salvation: * he has revealed his justice in the sight of the Gentiles.

Recordátus est misericórdiæ suæ, * et veritátis suæ dómui Israël.

He has remembered his mercy, * and his truth toward the house of Israel.

Vidérunt omnes términi terræ * salutáre Dei nostri.

All the ends of the earth have seen * the salvation of our God.

Iubiláte Deo, omnis terra: * cantáte, et exsultáte, et psállite!

Sing joyfully to God, all the earth; * make melody, rejoice and sing!

Psállite Dómino in cíthara, in cíthara et voce psalmi: * in tubis ductílibus, et voce tubæ córneæ.

Sing praise to the Lord on the harp, on the harp, and with the voice of a psalm: * with long trumpets, and sound of cornet.

Iubiláte in conspéctu regis Dómini! † Moveátur mare, et plenitúdo eius: * orbis terrárum, et qui hábitant in eo.

Make a joyful noise before the Lord our king: Let the sea be moved and the fullness thereof: * the world and they that dwell therein.

Flúmina plaudent manu, † simul montes exsultábunt a conspéctu Dómini: * quóniam venit iudicáre terram.

The rivers shall clap their hands, the mountains shall rejoice together at the presence of the Lord: * because he comes to judge the earth.

Iudicábit orbem terrárum in iustítia, * et pópulos in æquitáte.

He shall judge the world with justice, * and the people with equity.

Glória Patri, et Fílio, * et Spirítui Sancto.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, * and to the Holy Ghost.

Sicut erat in princípio, et nunc, et semper, * et in sǽcula sæculórum. Amen.

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

 

Ant:. Felix ille triúmphus fit salus ægris, vitæ lignum, mortis remédium, allelúia.

Lo, the Cross's happy triumph, fraught with healing of diseases, tree whereon the true life dying trampled down the death of all men, alleluia.

 

Versicle

℣. Adorámus te, Christe, et benedícimus tibi, alleluia.

℟. Quia per Crucem tuam redemísti mundum, alleluia.

℣. We adore you, O Christ, and we bless you, alleluia.

℟. Because that through your Cross you have redeemed the world, alleluia.

 

Lectio 5: Post insígnem victóriam, quam Constantínus imperátor, divínitus accépto signo Domínicæ Crucis, ex Maxéntio reportávit, Hélena Constantíni mater, in somnis admónita, conquiréndæ Crucis stúdio Ierosólymam venit; ubi marmóream Véneris státuam, in Crucis loco a Géntibus collocátam ad tolléndam Christi Dómini passiónis memóriam, post centum círciter octogínta annos, everténdam curávit. Quod item fecit ad præsépe Salvatóris et in loco resurrectiónis, inde Adónidis hinc Iovis subláto simulácro.

After that famous victory which the Emperor Constantine gained over Maxentius, in the year 312, on the eve of which the banner of the Cross of the Lord had been given to him from heaven, Helen, the mother of Constantine, being warned in a dream, came to Jerusalem, in 326, to seek for the Cross. There it was her care to cause to be overthrown the marble statue of Venus, which had stood on Calvary for about one hundred and eighty years, and which had originally been put there to desecrate and destroy the memorial of the sufferings of the Lord Christ. The like work Helen did at Bethlehem, by cleansing from an image of Adonis the stable where the Saviour was born, and from an idol of Jupiter, the place where he had arisen from the dead.

 

℟. Nos autem / gloriári opórtet in Cruce Dómini nostri Iesu Christi, † in quo est salus, vita, et resurréctio nostra: * Per quem salváti et liberáti sumus, alleluia. ℣. Tuam Crucem adorámus, Dómine, et recólimus tuam gloriósam passiónem.

℟. Per quem...

℟. But we ought glory in the Cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, in whom is our salvation, life, and resurrection * Who has saved us and redeemed us, alleluia. ℣. O Lord, we worship your Cross, and make memorial of your glorious passion. ℟. Who has saved us...

NR 168*

 

Lectio vi: Itaque loco Crucis purgáto, alte defóssæ tres cruces érutæ sunt, repertúsque seórsum ab illis Crucis Domínicæ títulus: qui cum ex tribus cui affíxus fuísset, non apparéret, eam dubitatiónem sústulit miráculum. Nam Macárius Ierosolymórum epíscopus, factis Deo précibus, síngulas cruces cuídam féminæ, gravi morbo laboránti, admóvit; cui cum réliquæ nihil profuíssent, adhíbita tértia Crux statim eam sanávit.

Reading 6: When she had thus cleansed the place where the Cross had stood, Helen caused deep excavations to be made, which resulted in the discovery of three crosses, and, apart from them, the writing which had been nailed on that of the Lord. But which of the crosses had been His was unknown, and was only manifested by a miracle. Macarius, Bishop of Jerusalem, after offering solemn prayers to God, touched with each of the three a woman who was afflicted with a grievous disease. The two first had no effect, but at the touch of the third she was immediately healed.

 

℟. Dum sacrum pignus / cǽlitus exaltátur, Christi fides roborátur: * Adsunt prodígia divína in virga Móysi prímitus figuráta, alleluia, alleluia. ℣. Ad Crucis contáctum resúrgunt mórtui, et Dei magnália reserántur.℟. Adsunt....

℟. The relic true from heaven revealed, has now the Gospel's figure sealed * As by the serpent Moses reared, so by the Cross the sick are healed, alleluia, alleluia. ℣. When the dead touch the cross they arise, and the wonderful works of God are made manifest. ℟. As by the serpent…

NR 169*

 

Lectio vii: Hélena, salutári Cruce invénta, magnificentíssimam ibi exstrúxit ecclésiam, in qua partem Crucis relíquit thecis argénteis inclúsam, partem Constantíno fílio détulit; quæ Romæ repósita fuit in ecclésia sanctæ Crucis in Ierúsalem, ædificáta in ædibus Sessoriánis.

Reading 7: Helen, after she had found the life-giving Cross, built over the site of the Passion a Church of extraordinary splendour, wherein she deposited part of the Cross, shut up in a silver case. Another part which she gave to her son, Constantine, was laid up in the Church of the Holy Cross of Jerusalem, which he built at Rome on the site of the Sessorian Palace.

 

 

℟. Hoc signum Crucis / erit in cælo, cum Dóminus ad iudicándum vénerit: * Tunc manifésta erunt abscóndita cordis nostril, alleluia, alleluia. ℣. Cum séderit Fílius hóminis in sede maiestátis suæ, † et cœ́perit iudicáre sǽculum per ignem. ℟. Tunc...

℟. This Sign of the Cross shall be in heaven, when the Lord comes to judgment: * Then shall the secrets of our hearts be made manifest, alleluia, alleluia. ℣. When the Son of Man shall sit in the throne of his glory, and shall begin to judge the world by fire. ℟. Then shall the secrets of our hearts be made manifest.

NR 169*

 

Lectio viii: Clavos étiam áttulit fílio, quibus sanctíssimum Iesu Christi corpus fixum fúerat. Quo ex témpore Constantínus legem sancívit, ne crux ad supplícium cuíquam adhiberétur. Ita res, quæ ántea homínibus probro ac ludíbrio fúerat, veneratióni et glóriæ esse cœpit.

Reading 8: She also gave to her son the nails with which the Most Holy Body of Jesus Christ had been pierced. Constantine established a law abolishing the punishment of crucifixion for all time coming and thenceforth what had hitherto been a hissing and a curse among men, began to be esteemed worshipful and glorious.

 

℟. Per signum Crucis / de inimícis nostris, alleluia * Líbera nos, Deus noster, alleluia, alleluia. ℣. Salva nos, Christe Salvátor, per virtútem crucis. ℟. Líbera nos…℣. Glória Patri...℟. Líbera nos...

℟. By the sign of the Cross, alleluia deliver us from our enemies, O our God, alleluia, alleluia. ℣. Save us, O Christ our Saviour, through the power of your Cross. ℣. Deliver us from our enemies, O our God. ℟. Glory be… ℣. Deliver us…

Cantus database

 

Nocturn III

 

Ant. Adorámus te, / Christe, et benedícimus tibi, quia per Crucem tuam redemísti mundum, allelúia. (NR 170*)

We adore you, O Christ, and we bless you, because that through your Cross you have redeemed the world, alleluia.

 

Habacuc 3:1-6

Dómine, audívi auditiónem tuam: * et tímui.

O Lord, I have heard your hearing, and was afraid.

Dómine, opus tuum, * in médio annórum vivífica illud.

O Lord, your work, in the midst of the years bring it to life

In médio annórum notum fácies: * cum irátus fúeris, misericórdiæ recordáberis.

In the midst of the years you shall make it known: when you are angry, you will remember mercy.

Deus ab Austro véniet: * et sanctus de monte Pharan.

God will come from the south, and the holy one from mount Pharan:

Opéruit cælos glória eius: * et laudis eius plena est terra.

His glory covered the heavens, and the earth is full of his praise.

Splendor eius ut lux erit: * córnua in mánibus eius:

His brightness shall be as the light: horns are in his hands:

Ibi abscóndita est fortitúdo eius: * ante fáciem eius íbit mors.

There is his strength hid: Death shall go before his face.

Et egrediétur diábolus ante pedes eius. * Stetit, et mensus est terram.

And the devil shall go forth before his feet. He stood and measured the earth.

Aspéxit, et dissólvit Gentes : * et contríti sunt montes sæculi.

He beheld, and melted the nations: and the ancient mountains were crushed to pieces.

Incurváti sunt colles mundi, * ab itinéribus æternitátis eius.

The hills of the world were bowed down by the journeys of his eternity.

Glória Patri, et Fílio, * et Spirítui Sancto.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, * and to the Holy Ghost.

Sicut erat in princípio, et nunc, et semper, * et in sǽcula sæculórum. Amen.

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

 

Habacuc 3: 7-12

Pro iniquitáte vidi tentória Æthiópiæ: * turbabúntur pelles terræ Mádian.

I saw the tents of Ethiopia for their iniquity, the curtains of the land of Madian shall be troubled.

Numquid in flumínibus irátus es, Dómine? † aut in flumínibus furor tuus? * vel in mari indignátio tua?

Were you angry, O Lord, with the rivers? Or was your wrath upon the rivers? Or your indignation in the sea?

Qui ascéndes super equos tuos: * et quadrígæ tuæ salvátio.

Who will ride upon your horses: and your chariots are salvation.

Súscitans suscitábis arcum tuum: * iuraménta tríbubus quæ locútus es.

You will surely take up your bow: according to the oaths which you have spoken to the tribes.

Flúvios scindes terræ: † vidérunt te, et doluérunt montes: * gurges aquárum tránsiit.

You will divide the rivers of the earth. The mountains saw you, and were grieved: the great body of waters passed away.

Dedit abyssus vocem suam: * altitúdo manus suas levávit.

The deep put forth its voice: the deep lifted up its hands.

Sol, et luna stetérunt in habitáculo suo, † in luce sagittárum tuárum, íbunt in splendóre fulgurántis hastæ tuæ.

The sun and the moon stood still in their habitation, in the light of your arrows, they shall go in the brightness of your glittering spear.

In frémitu conculcábis terram: * et in furóre obstupefácies Gentes.

In your anger you will tread the earth under foot: in your wrath you will astonish the nations.

Glória Patri, et Fílio, * et Spirítui Sancto.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, * and to the Holy Ghost.

Sicut erat in princípio, et nunc, et semper, * et in sǽcula sæculórum. Amen.

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

 

Habacuc 3:13-19

Egréssus es in salútem pópuli tui: * in salútem cum Christo tuo.

You went forth for the salvation of your people: for salvation with your Christ.

Percussísti caput de domo ímpii: * denudásti fundaméntum eius usque ad collum.

You struck the head of the house of the wicked: you have laid bare his foundation even to the neck.

Maledixísti sceptris eius, † cápiti bellatórum eius, * veniéntibus ut turbo ad dispergéndum me.

You have cursed his sceptres, the head of his warriors, them that came out as a whirlwind to scatter me.

Exsultátio eórum, * sicut eius, qui dévorat páuperem in abscóndito.

Their joy was like that of him that devours the poor man in secret.

Viam fecísti in mari equis tuis, * in luto aquárum multárum.

You made a way in the sea for your horses, in the mud of many waters.

Audívi, et conturbátus est venter meus: * a voce contremuérunt lábia mea.

I have heard and my bowels were troubled: my lips trembled at the voice.

Ingrediátur putrédo in óssibus meis, * et subter me scáteat.

Let rottenness enter into my bones, and swarm under me.

Ut requiéscam in die tribulatiónis: * ut ascéndam ad pópulum accínctum nostrum.

That I may rest in the day of tribulation: that I may go up to our people that are girded.

Ficus enim non florébit: * et non erit germen in víneis.

For the fig tree shall not blossom: and there shall be no spring in the vines.

Mentiétur opus olívae: * et arva non áfferent cibum.

The labour of the olive tree shall fail: and the fields shall yield no food:

Abscindétur de ovíli pecus: * et non erit arméntum in præsépibus.

the flock shall be cut off from the fold, and there shall be no herd in the stalls.

Ego autem in Dómino gaudébo: * et exsultábo in Deo Iesu meo.

But I will rejoice in the Lord: and I will joy. In God my Jesus.

Deus Dóminus fortitúdo mea: * et ponet pedes meos quasi cervórum.

The Lord God is my strength: and he will make my feet like the feet of harts:

Et super excélsa mea dedúcet me victor * in psalmis canéntem.

And he the conqueror will lead me upon my high places singing psalms.

Glória Patri, et Fílio, * et Spirítui Sancto.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, * and to the Holy Ghost.

Sicut erat in princípio, et nunc, et semper, * et in sǽcula sæculórum. Amen.

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

 

Ant. Adorámus te, Christe, et benedícimus tibi, quia per Crucem tuam redemísti mundum, allelúia.

We adore you, O Christ, and we bless you, because that through your Cross you have redeemed the world, alleluia.

 

Versicle

℣. Omnis terra adóret te, et psallat tibi, alleluia.

℟. Psalmum dicat nómini tuo, Dómine, alleluia.

℣. Let all the earth worship you, and sing to you, alleluia.

℟. Let them sing to your name, O Lord, alleluia!

 

Lectio 9: Léctio sancti Evangélii secúndum Ioánnem: In illo témpore: Erat homo ex pharisǽis, Nicodémus nómine, princeps Iudæórum. Hic venit ad Iesum nocte, et dixit ei: Rabbi, scimus quia a Deo venísti magíster. Et réliqua.

 

Homilía sancti Augustíni Epíscopi (Tract. 11 in Ioann., n3)

 

Nicodémus ex his erat, qui credíderant in nómine Iesu, vidéntes signa et prodígia quæ faciébat. Supérius enim hoc dixit: Cum autem esset Ierosólymis in Pascha in die festo, multi credidérunt in nómine eius. Quare credidérunt in nómine eius? Séquitur, et dicit: Vidéntes signa eius, quæ faciébat.

 

Reading 9: From the Holy Gospel according to John: At that time there was a man of the Pharisees named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews. This man came to Jesus by night, and said to him, Rabbi, we know that you are a teacher sent from God. And so on.

 

Homily by St. Augustine, Bishop of Hippo

(11th Tract on John.)

Nicodemus was one of them which believed in the name of Jesus, when they saw the signs and wonders which he did. So John has given us to understand a few words before our text: "Now when he was in Jerusalem at the Passover, in the feast-day, many believed in his name" Why did they believe in his name? John tells us immediately: "When they saw the miracles which he did."

 

℟. Dulce lignum, dulces clavos, dulce pondus sustínuit:* Quæ sola digna fuit portáre prétium huius sǽculi, allelúia. ℣. Hoc signum Crucis erit in cælo cum Dóminus ad iudicándum vénerit.

℟. Quæ sola…

℟. Sweetest wood and sweetest iron, sweetest weight is hung on you* You alone were counted worthy this world's ransom to uphold, alleluia. ℣. The sign of the Cross shall be in heaven when the Lord comes to judge the world. ℟. You alone…

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NR 171*

 

Lectio 10: Et de Nicodémo quid dicit? Erat princeps Iudæórum, nómine Nicodémus. Hic venit ad eum nocte, et ait illi: Rabbi, scimus quia a Deo venísti magíster. Et iste ergo credíderat in nómine eius. Et ipse unde credíderat? Séquitur: Nemo enim potest hæc signa fácere, quæ tu facis, nisi fúerit Deus cum eo.

Reading 10: And now, what does he say about Nicodemus? "There was a man of the Pharisees, named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews. He came to Jesus by night, and said to him, Rabbi, we know that you are a teacher sent by God." Nicodemus therefore believed in his name. And for what reason did he believe?  He said: "For no man can do these miracles that you do, unless God is with him."

 

℟. Sicut Móyses / exaltávit serpéntem in desérto, ita exaltári opórtet Fílium hóminis: * Ut omnis qui credit in ipsum, non péreat, † sed hábeat vitam ætérnam, alleluia. ℣. Non misit Deus Filium suum in mundum ut iúdicet mundum, † sed ut salvétur mundus per ipsum. ℟. Ut omnis...

℟. As Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of Man be lifted up * That whoever believes in him should not perish, but will have everlasting life, alleluia. ℣. God sent his son into the world not to condemn the world, but that the world through him might be saved. ℟. That…

NR 171-2*

 

Lectio 11: Si ergo Nicodémus de illis multis erat, qui credíderant in nómine ejus, iam in isto Nicodémo attendámus, quare Iesus non se credébat eis. Respóndit Iesus et dixit ei: Amen, amen dico tibi, nisi quis renátus fúerit dénuo, non potest vidére regnum Dei. Ipsis ergo se credit Iesus, qui nati fúerint dénuo. Ecce illi credíderant in eum, et Iesus non se credébat eis.

Reading 11: If, then, Nicodemus was one of the many who had believed in his name, let us seek to find in Nicodemus why "Jesus did not commit himself unto them" "Jesus answered and said to him Amen, Amen, I say to you except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God." Jesus therefore commits himself to such as be born again. Behold, Nicodemus and they that were with him believed in Jesus, but Jesus did not commit himself to them.

 

℟. Tuam Crucem / adorámus Dómine: † tuam gloriósam recólimus passiónem: * Miserére nostri, qui passus es pro nobis, alleluia. ℣. Adorámus te, Christe, et benedícimus tibi: † quia per Crucem tuam redemísti mundum. ℟. Miserére...

℟. We adore your Cross, we remember your glorious passion * Have mercy on us, O Lord, who suffered for us, alleluia. ℣. We adore you, O Christ, and we bless you, who by your Cross has redeemed the world. ℟. Have mercy...

La Trobe Medieval database

 

Lectio 12: Intendat et intelliat caritas vestra. Si dixérimus catechúmeno: Credis in Christum? respóndet, Credo, et signat se Cruce Christi: portat in fronte, et non erubéscit de Cruce Dómini sui. Ecce credit in nómine eius. Interrogémus eum: Mandúcas carnem Fílii hóminis, et bibis sánguinem Fílii hóminis? nescit quid dícimus, quia Iesus non se crédidit ei.

Now I trust you will be good enough to pay attention, and understand what I am going to say. If you ask a Catechumen “Do you believe in Christ " he says " I believe," and he signs himself with the sign of the Cross. The Cross of his Lord is marked upon his forehead, and he is not ashamed of it. Behold, he believes in the name of Christ. But let us ask him " Do you eat the flesh of the Son of Man " and he doesn’t know what we mean, for Jesus has not yet committed himself to him.

 

℟. Ecce Crucem Dómini, / fúgite partes advérsae, vicit Leo de tribu Iuda, * Radix David, allelúia, alleluia. ℣. Crux benedícta, in qua triumphávit Rex Angelórum. ℟. Radix…℣. Glória Patri…℟. Radix

℟. Behold the Cross of the Lord, begone all evil powers, the Lion of the tribe of Judah, * The root of David has conquered, alleluia, alleluia. . O Blessed Cross, on which the King of the Angels triumphed. ℟. The root of David…℣. Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost. ℟. The root of David...

Cantus 401104; LaTrobe Medieval Chant Database; St Antony of Padua.org

 

Gospel (John 3:1 -15)

Sequéntia sancti Evangélii secúndum Ioánnem.

℟. Gloria tibi, Domine

 

In illo tempore: Erat autem homo ex pharisæis, Nicodemus nomine, princeps Judæorum. Hic venit ad Jesum nocte, et dixit ei: Rabbi, scimus quia a Deo venisti magister, nemo enim potest hæc signa facere, quæ tu facis, nisi fuerit Deus cum eo. Respondit Jesus, et dixit ei: Amen, amen dico tibi, nisi quis renatus fuerit denuo, non potest videre regnum Dei. Dicit ad eum Nicodemus: Quomodo potest homo nasci, cum sit senex? numquid potest in ventrem matris suæ iterato introire et renasci? Respondit Jesus: Amen, amen dico tibi, nisi quis renatus fuerit ex aqua, et Spiritu Sancto, non potest introire in regnum Dei. Quod natum est ex carne, caro est: et quod natum est ex spiritu, spiritus est. Non mireris quia dixi tibi: oportet vos nasci denuo.  Spiritus ubi vult spirat, et vocem ejus audis, sed nescis unde veniat, aut quo vadat: sic est omnis qui natus est ex spiritu. Respondit Nicodemus, et dixit ei: Quomodo possunt hæc fieri? Respondit Jesus, et dixit ei: Tu es magister in Israël, et hæc ignoras? Amen, amen dico tibi, quia quod scimus loquimur, et quod vidimus testamur, et testimonium nostrum non accipitis. Si terrena dixi vobis, et non creditis: quomodo, si dixero vobis cælestia, credetis? Et nemo ascendit in cælum, nisi qui descendit de cælo, Filius hominis, qui est in cælo. Et sicut Moyses exaltavit serpentem in deserto, ita exaltari oportet Filium hominis: ut omnis qui credit in ipsum, non pereat, sed habeat vitam æternam. ℟. Amen.

Continuation of the Holy Gospel according to John.

℟. Glory be to You, O Lord.

 

At that time: There was a man of the Pharisees, named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews. This man came to Jesus by night, and said to him: Rabbi, we know that thou art come a teacher from God; for no man can do these signs which thou dost, unless God be with him.  Jesus answered, and said to him: Amen, amen I say to thee, unless a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God. Nicodemus saith to him: How can a man be born when he is old? can he enter a second time into his mother’s womb, and be born again? Jesus answered: Amen, amen I say to thee, unless a man be born again of water and the Holy Ghost, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God. That which is born of the flesh, is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit, is spirit. Wonder not, that I said to thee, you must be born again. The Spirit breatheth where he will; and thou hearest his voice, but thou knowest not whence he cometh, and whither he goeth: so is every one that is born of the Spirit. Nicodemus answered, and said to him: How can these things be done? Jesus answered, and said to him: Art thou a master in Israel, and knowest not these things? Amen, amen I say to thee, that we speak what we know, and we testify what we have seen, and you receive not our testimony. If I have spoken to you earthly things, and you believe not; how will you believe, if I shall speak to you heavenly things? And no man hath ascended into heaven, but he that descended from heaven, the Son of man who is in heaven. And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the desert, so must the Son of man be lifted up: That whosoever believeth in him, may not perish; but may have life everlasting. ℟. Amen.

 

Collect

Deus, qui in præclára salutíferæ Crucis inventióne, passiónis tuæ mirácula suscitásti: concéde; ut vitális ligni prétio, ætérnæ vitæ suffrágia consequámur:

Qui vivis et regnas cum Deo Patre, in unitáte Spíritus Sancti, Deus, per ómnia sǽcula sæculórum. ℟. Amen.

O God, who, in the glorious finding of the Cross of renewed the wonders of your passion, grant that by the ransom which you paid upon that tree of life we may attain eternal life. Who lives and reigns with God the Father in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God, world without end. ℟. Amen