#alleluia praise the lord

[buggie-hagen]

The most characteristic form of the call to praise is the one that is found at the beginning of Psalm 113: the Hebrew praise hallu-yah, which literally translated means "Praise Yah(weh)!" (and thus is translated, "Praise the LORD!"). ~Rolf A. Jacobson and Karl N. Jacobson, Invitation to the Psalms: A Reader's Guide for Discovery and Engagement, 47.

[queerprayers]

heya! can u tell me more about liturgy? i want to participate im a nondenominational catholic but i want to be more active in my faith! is it too late to start?

Welcome, beloved!

"Liturgy" comes from Greek and means "public service," and Christians use it generally to mean the order of events/ritual in communal worship, although it can sometimes refer to personal worship, like the liturgy of the hours.. Different denominations range in their formality and structure, but there is a pretty standard order in at least Western churches with traditional liturgies and from what I can tell, Eastern rites have very similar ideas/sections. Encyclopedia Britannica has a pretty good basic history of Christian liturgy, and the Wikipedia page has some good sections/links.

There are liturgies for different times of day and events, but the most common/important Christian one is the service of Holy Communion, practiced every Sunday. This comes from two places I can think of. First, Judaism has the practice of keeping the Sabbath, and the first Christians, being from Jewish communities, already had the ritual of weekly worship, but, partially to differentiate themselves from Jewish law but also as an acknowledgement of the most important event in the Christian faith, the Resurrection, began to meet on Sundays. Second, Jesus at the Last Supper commanded us to "do this in remembrance of me," and Paul tells us that "whenever you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord's death until he comes." We eat and drink as Jesus taught us, and can see that even in the first generation of Christianity, the holy meal was central. 

We worship together because religion is interpersonal, and Jesus did not come simply for us personally, but for us all communally. My response to the missionary's question of "Do you have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ?" would be "No, I have an interpersonal one." (Unlikely my father, who said, "Yes, I eat him.") Obviously there is great diversity of situation/location, and joining a church is not in the cards for every person. But, nonetheless, we must live out our faith with others, whether that's church, family/friend gatherings, interfaith worship, or any kind of community gathering/serving. And I'll say it more later, but no, it's not too late to begin this or move in a new way.

Here is, very generally, the order/content of the liturgy of Holy Communion I know, which I think is almost identical to the Roman Rite:

Confession/absolution: We a general confession of sin, ask God to help us, and the pastor announces God's forgiveness. Private confession is not the norm in Protestant churches, so this where we bring our confessions to mind before God.

Procession/hymn: In my church, the pastor does the confession from the back of the room, and processes, with the assisting minister, acolyte(s), and crucifer, to the altar, while we sing an entrance song.

Kyrie/litany/hymn of praise: We sing petition and praise—the songs/chants change depending on the season.

Prayer of the day/collect: This prayer changes every week and gives the context for our gathering. It references whatever season we're celebrating and sometimes the Bible readings we'll hear.

Scripture readings/lessons: This is generally one reading from the Old Testament and one from the New Testament non-gospel books (Acts/letters/Revelation). The cycle of readings throughout the year follows the seasons and tells overarching stories/themes.

Psalm: The one book we read (or, sing) from every single week is the book of Psalms. In our church, we perform a call and response chant for that week's psalm in between the OT/NT readings.

Gospel verse/acclamation: As the Bible is being brought to the pastor, we usually sing "Alleluia, Lord, to whom shall we go?" including John 6:68-69, but during Lent we sing "Return to the Lord your God" from Joel 2:13. 

Gospel: A reading from Matthew, Mark, Luke, or John relating to the season/other readings.

Sermon/homily: The pastor preaches on the readings or season, usually providing further information about them and giving us a lesson to take with us for the week. 

Hymn of the day: We sing our second hymn here. This is usually the one most thematically relevant. 

Creed: Either the Apostles' or Nicene Creed is recited. This is a weekly affirmation of our shared beliefs, uniting us with every Christian across time and denomination who has said these words.

Prayers of the church: Multiple intercessory prayers are read relating to the season, current events, members of the church, etc. These conclude with a remembrance of the dead, naming those who have recently died and making space for people to call out their own loved ones.

The Peace: Historically, this ritual greeting was the "kiss of peace," but all churches that I've been to have gone for handshakes or hugs instead. I think Catholics do the Peace after Communion, which honestly makes more sense, but this is where it is for us. I have appreciated it recently, as I'm often crying after the remembrance of the dead. 

The Offering: The offering plate is passed around while singing, and people are welcome to make donations. These funds go toward paying the pastor and organist, worship supplies, upkeep of the church building/grounds, members in need of support, and donations to charity. After collection, we pray that we will use the money in service of God and our neighbor. 

Preface/Eucharistic prayer/Great Thanksgiving: The pastor begins holy communion with a recitation of Jesus's words at the Last Supper, and calls the Spirit to be present in our meal. 

The Lord's Prayer: The prayer Jesus himself gave us to pray! Everything we need to say, right there. Maybe we should save time and just do this?

The Communion/Eucharist: We all come forward and receive communion. Churches have varying levels of real bread and wine—we get real wine but little wafers, some places go for grape juice. This is the central act of gathering—we can read the Bible on our own, we can pray on our own, but we cannot share a meal by ourselves. Breaking bread together is the fundamental Christian ritual, however that materially/theologically shows up in our communities. 

Songs of thanksgiving/prayers: We give thanks for the meal, and pray that it will sustain us. 

Closing hymn: Catholics don't stay for all the verses of this, it seems. I've been the last one singing before—as a visitor. This is my main (loving) critique of y'all's liturgy. 

Benediction: (See, we're not allowed to leave because we have to wait for the blessing, however many verses of the hymn there are.) The pastor recites the priestly blessing from Numbers: "The Lord bless you and keep you. The Lord make his face to shine upon you and be gracious to you. The Lord look upon you with favor and give you peace." The assisting minister then sends us with these words: "Go in peace, serve the Lord. Thanks be to God."

I find liturgy really valuable for lots of reasons. Just on a base level, I crave rhythm and ritual. I've said the words my whole life, which means I don't have to know what to say or do, I don't have to get anything right or perform. I meet every week with a group of people who want to say the same words while coming from so many different kinds of lives. We want to tell stories and sing songs together, the same as Christians have since the very beginning, the same as humans have since creation. Every week, I am reminded of what this is all for. It's a kind of reset, and I keep needing it. 

It's also a foundation for our community--the church is our gathering space, where we share meals, where we mourn our dead, where we organize, where our children play. The liturgy grounds us in common stories/music, and we take this with us to everything else. Many people who have left the church have said that there's not really an societal equivalent, and I mourn the fact that the church has not been a space for everyone, and that there aren't similar secular spaces. Especially in the sharing of money and time, I've learned really valuable lessons about community from the church.

It is never too late to need this, to join in, to attend a church, to start praying, to get baptized—these things are not age-dependent, and they come to us all differently. The disciples were old and young, the saints have come to God at all different times, and our lives do not all follow the same pattern. There's that joke about how Jesus didn't start his ministry till age 30—but even if you're way past 30, you only need a day in which to live seeking God, and God willing you have many days ahead of you. 

Maybe this has been on your mind for a while, and it feels like you've missed your chance—you haven't. Each day we recommit ourselves to life, which means each day we have the opportunity to change it. I have never been to a church that would look down on someone beginning their church participation at any age—even the most annoying conservative churches I can think of love when people start coming. 

I don't know what the church options are where you live, but I'd encourage you to visit some! Attending is not a promise to join or keep attending, just a participation in a liturgy. There may be restrictions for taking communion depending on your baptism/membership, but there are no restrictions on coming and listening and singing. And even if just once, you'll have participated in the unfolding story of Christian communal worship, and made it better by being yourself and coming with love.

There are churches who have completely different liturgies/practices—Quaker meetings are a great example. As I mentioned, there are personal liturgies that, while not a replacement for community, can introduce ritual into our homes and keep us faithful us as we seek community (I'm currently practicing Phyllis Trible's Divine Hours). Tradition sustains us, and is continuously being created. Wherever you find your home, whatever songs you sing, may God go with you, and may you never feel it is too late to start absolutely anything.

<3 Johanna

[idylls-of-the-divine-romance]

Christ is born! Glorify Him! Christ is come from heaven! Go and meet Him! Christ is on earth! Arise to Him! Sing to the Lord, all you inhabitants of earth, and all you peoples, praise Him, and with merriment extol Him who is glorified!

First Hiermos of the First Ode of the Feast, Christmas Matins

(Cool trivia - the Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom has the refrain "Save us, Son of God risen from the dead. We sing to You: Alleluia". Today it's "Save us, Son of God born of a virgin. We sing to You: alleluia."

Yes! I love these hehehe. 

What I particularly like about this one is how much it feels like the angels who appeared to the shepherds. (Had to read those verses in church Sunday) I will refrain from obsessing over “glorify” again since I already did they lol but seriously this matin (which btw is sword I have never used in my life) really makes me feel like We today in the 21 century are in the same position as those shepherds in the first: lowly and servile who have been looked upon with the utmost favor that our God and King would become a baby for us. And so yes “all you inhabitants of earth, and all you peoples,” from eternity past into the unseen future — all of the cosmos must gather in one voice and praise him and bring him the utmost glory. 

(THE RESURRECTION AS A REBIRTH!!!!!!)

[apilgrimpassingby]

So, a while back I got really into Alaskan saints and so decided to write an Akathist to St. Peter the Aleut; if you don't know who he was, you'll learn from reading this Akathist. Tagging @idylls-of-the-divine-romance (my go-to guy for reviewing theological poetry) and @sapphosremains (because Anglo-Catholics are some of the few non-Orthodox who won't find this at least a little objectionable).

Kontakion 1: The gospel hath gone out unto the ends of the earth and disciples hath been made of every nation, o Lord; even in the ice-bound darkness of the North Thy church hath been established. For this we cry, with angels and all nations: alleluia!

Oikos 1: And in all places and at all times, o Christ God, Thou art wondrous in Thy saints. Hence we praise Saint Peter the Aleut, Protomartyr of America!

Rejoice, glory of the Arctic ice!

Rejoice, fame of Kodiak Island!

Rejoice, thou who burnest brighter than the Northern Lights!

Rejoice, thou who outshinest the sun upon snow!

Rejoice, for the New World is ennobled by thy blood!

Rejoice, for thy triumph is a blessing to America!

Rejoice, Saint Peter, Protomartyr of America!

Kontakion 2: Thou wast reared amidst pagan darkness, o holy Peter, the depth of which was not known in the Old World at that time, on a snow-bound lonely island. But when the call of the Shepherd was first heard on Kodiak Island, thou didst reply with the cry of: alleluia!

Oikos 2: The monks of Russia didst administer the light of Christ to a people burdened by avaricious colonists and the religion of demons alike; it opened thine eyes, o righteous one.

Rejoice, first-fruit of Alaska!

Rejoice, sheep of an island where sheep were not known!

Rejoice, for the light of Christ pierceth all darkness!

Rejoice, for by Its light we are enlightened!

Rejoice, pagan adopted as a son of God!

Rejoie, heathen who by grace partook of the glory of the Lord!

Rejoice, Saint Peter, Protomartyr of America!

Kontakion 3: When thou wert offered baptism, thou most eagerly accepted. The priest immersed thee in saving water in the name of the blessed Trinity, and upon thee was bestowed the name Peter, mystically linking thee to the glorious Apostle. A soul entered the Kingdom of God, and all the powers of Heaven exclaimed: alleluia!

Oikos 3: The mystery of baptism bestowed upon thee a new name and new life; henceforth, thou wouldst no more be named Cungagnaq, but Peter.

Rejoice, successor to the blessed Apostle!

Rejoice, thou who betrayed not Christ at any time!

Rejoice, son of snow reborn in the water!

Rejoice, child of ice regenerated in the font!

Rejoice, firstborn of a Christian nation!

Rejoice, guide of thy people to the Word!

Rejoice, Saint Peter, Protomartyr of America!

Kontakion 4: Not long after thou wast received into the Church, Spanish raiders abducted thee, carrying thee and nineteen others away to California. In spite of thy youth, the terror of the event and the great distance thou wast taken, thou feared not, but sang: alleluia!

Oikos 4: Though thou wast carried from the frozen shores of Alaska to the burning heat of California, the gold of thy soul was neither melted nor diluted, o longsuffering victor.

Rejoice, prize who sought the prize of life eternal!

Rejoice, captive of God and not of men!

Rejoice, thou who wast free in Christ while in chains!

Rejoice, thou who wore thy bonds as a string of pearls!

Rejoice, gold refined in the fire of the sun!

Rejoice, silver purified in the southern crucible!

Rejoice, Saint Peter, Protomartyr of America!

Kontakion 5: Thou wast confined to a gloomy dungeon with the other abducted Aleut, thy captors deigning to convert thee to the Church of Rome. But thou didst believe in the Father and in Christ, and so thine heart was not troubled and thou didst exclaim with the others in unison: alleluia!

Oikos 5: Although imprisoned in a foreign land by wicked men with evil designs, thou didst rejoice in the Lord who made thy feet like the deer’s.

Rejoice, servant of the lord who freeth captives!

Rejoice, freedman of Christ!

Rejoice, rampart of Orthodoxy!

Rejoice, one stalwart in the faith of the Apostles!

Rejoice, northern light in the Roman darkness!

Rejoice, torch of faith in foreign lands!

Rejoice, Saint Peter, Protomartyr of America!

Kontakion 6: Some monks of the Pope approached thee and thy fellow captives, availing to convert thee to the Roman church. But thou and thy fellow prisoners refused to renounce Holy Orthodoxy, in spite of their threats and abuse, singing: alleluia!

Oikos 6: Though unlearned and far from any learning, thou didst discourse with the educated in defence of the faith, rebuking their many accusations.

Rejoice, thou who succumbed not to falsehood!

Rejoice, thou who spoke the truth with boldness!

Rejoice, one stalwart in Orthodoxy!

Rejoice, opponent of the heterodox!

Rejoice, crown-bearer from a nation without kings!

Rejoice, soldier for Christ from a people without soldiers!

Rejoice, Saint Peter, Protomartyr of America!

Kontakion 7: The Franciscans began to threaten torture, their diabolical determination to break thy faith undeterred by thy steadfastness. But thou wast also undeterred, o Peter, refusing to renounce thine Orthodoxy, appealing instead to Christ and the Mother of God and crying: alleluia!

Oikos 7: Even as they presented the implements of thy torment, thou wast not swayed, instead being comforted by the Lord and readying thyself for thy cross.

Rejoice, confessor like the confessors of old!

Rejoice, hero walking the road of heroes!

Rejoice, ice not melted by the heat of terror!

Rejoice, cedar not bent by the persecutor’s rancour!

Rejoice, rock resistant to the hammer and axe!

Rejoice, jade uncut yet sparkling!

Rejoice, Saint Peter, Protomartyr of America!

Kontakion 8: The hard-hearted Franciscans then began to torture thee, cutting off a toe from each hand. When finished, they asked thee to convert, but thou remained faithful. After removing a finger from each hand, they asked thee again, but thou simply sang: alleluia!

Oikos 8: Burning with impotent rage, the monks then cut off thy hands and thy feet alike, but no mortal or bodiless tyrant could prise thee from the Lord.

Rejoice, for thy blood hath brought thee a crown!

Rejoice, for thy sufferings are recompensed in Heaven!

Rejoice, diamond cut to glittering brilliance!

Rejoice, gold refined in a fire of agony!

Rejoice, victor over thine and thy companion’s enemies!

Rejoice, athlete who hath run the holy race!

Rejoice, Saint Peter, Protomartyr of America!

Kontakion 9: The Franciscans were unable to subject thee to any further tortures, for the loss of blood proved fatal, and thou didst exit the earth and ascend to Christ with thy faith incorrupt. As a new saint entered the Father’s mansions, the chorus of apostles and prophets exclaimed: alleluia!

Oikos 9: The futile anger of the monks continued as thou rose to the bosom of the Lord, but all sorrows of the flesh were behind thee forever as thy soul reaped its reward.

Rejoice, conqueror of the world and the flesh!

Rejoice, triumphant hero of Alaska!

Rejoice, prisoner rewarded with undying freedom!

Rejoice, tortured one compensated with incorruptibility!

Rejoice, prince dressed in blood!

Rejoice, saint adorned with wounds!

Rejoice, Saint Peter, Protomartyr of America!

Kontakion 10: The wicked monks had planned to torture others, endeavouring to capture souls as they had laboured to capture thine, but they received orders to return the prisoners to their native land; the captives set free sang with one voice: alleluia!

Oikos 10: Thy body remained behind, o Peter; they returned it not, in a last gesture of spite towards the one swayed by none of their tortures.

Rejoice, for though thy body is captive thy soul is free!

Rejoice, for thy fellow captives hath been freed from torment!

Rejoice, for thou didst never waver from Christ!

Rejoice, for thou wert always allied with His Church!

Rejoice, unshakeable pillar of the Truth!

Rejoice, impenetrable wall of the Faith!

Rejoice, Saint Peter, Protomartyr of America!

Kontakion 11: The ship of thy fellows at last returned to Kodiak, whence all dismounted in the sight of Saint Herman, equal to the Apostles and evangelist of Alaska. Not finding thee, he enquired as to the cause of thine absence; thy story was related by a friend and witness, at which he cried: alleluia!

Oikos 11: Upon hearing of the many sufferings and the death in faith thou hadst suffered, he made the sign of the cross and exclaimed “holy new martyr Peter, pray to God for us!”

Rejoice, thou who standest at the gate of Paradise!

Rejoice, thou who hast passed through the doors of Heaven!

Rejoice, advocate for our souls before the Father!

Rejoice, intercessor before the Holy Trinity!

Rejoice, first-born saint of the Alutiiq!

Rejoice, glory of the tribes of Alaska!

Rejoice, Saint Peter, Protomartyr of America!

Kontakion 12: In this present age the light of Orthodoxy shineth brightly in Kodiak; there a Christian nation hath been established. All of them, and the rest of the Orthodox people, looketh to thee as a shining example in the past and an intercessor in the future, singing in perfect unity: alleluia!

Oikos 12: Thou, o Peter, attained sainthood by thy sufferings and trials, and by faith; thou didst synergise with the mind of Christ, attaining union with the energies of God.

Rejoice, bearer of a crown shining with the Northern Lights!

Rejoice, one dressed in robes of shimmering snows!

Rejoice, hero stronger than the ocean storms!

Rejoice, martyr mightier than the winter wind!

Rejoice, for mortal sufferings hath won thee immortal glory!

Rejoice, for thy trials were an adornment to the New World!

Rejoice, Saint Peter, Protomartyr of America!

[cosmo-rider]

At my college, we have an event each year which we call Interregnum, where student houses put on plays and submit works of art and writing under the year’s theme. The 2024-25 theme is “Before the Throne,” and this is the prose entry I submitted for my school house. It is a fantastical dialogue between Leviathan and an angel the night Jesus Christ was born.

✨⭐️✨

No man can push back the waves of the sea to observe what lies in its depths. Yet even at the bottom of the ancient sea, Leviathan felt a shudder within his kingdom that he had not felt in centuries. He raised his head from the rocky bottom. The oppressing ambience that would drive any normal creature mad seemed to brighten. Even in the silence, a haunting chorus filtered down to the ancient creature’s ears.

After years of stagnancy, Leviathan flared his nostrils and slowly ascended from his bed amongst his deep sea towers and aimed towards the surface. Every fish he passed dared not linger, fleeing with a violent swish of each of their tails. Even the mighty whales and squids steered clear of Leviathan’s jaws. Yet Leviathan did not give them a second thought. The beast that swallowed glory-seeking ships whole with one disgusting crunch could not think of food at the moment. His insides churned in fear— something he had not felt in many, many decades.

The creature breached the sea with a ruckus of crashing waves and a gargling hiss, inhaling a rare breath of air. The deep indigo sky indicated that night laid upon the world, yet he never saw it painted with such bright colors. Leviathan watched the heavens dance with hues of magenta and vibrant green. Yet he did not process the scene long before the sky cracked open and a great light burst forth. Leviathan let out a low roar and hid his face under the waves, but not even the depths of the seas could hide him. His fear mounted, realizing he swam straight into the reach of heaven’s glory.

When he dared to raise his eyes towards the split again, he was greeted by unearthly beings. These beings were each draped with six wings— two covering their face, two covering their feet, and with the remaining two they flew. Now that Leviathan strained to see the seraphim, he realized the heavenly song and praise originated from them. It was indescribable, yet the most beautiful melody to reach the beast’s ears.

Among the surreality came forth a being that looked nearly human. Its features were difficult to differentiate from the bright light, but it descended towards the water surface upon eagle wings. With a great voice, the angel cried out, “Fear not, for we bring good news of great joy! Born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.”

“Alleluia, alleluia,” sang the chorus of the seraphim. “Alleluia, Lord Most High!”

For any other mortal, this would melt away any resentment and fear, sparking joy in the chests of men. But Leviathan carried a hardened heart, leaving him to scoff. He declared in his own booming, gravelly voice, “Why does heaven declare this to me, of all creation? Has my maker not already raised his sword against me?”

Despite his accusations, the angel did not miss a beat. It drew closer to the massive beast, which remained menacingly covered by the waves.

“Leviathan, Dragon of the Sea,” the messenger addressed with no fear in his voice. “The news we proclaim is for all of creation to hear and rejoice in. Especially for the most envious and unrepentant.”

Leviathan’s jaws snapped open and released a low growl, but he recoiled as the sounds of the seraphim’s praise refused to be silenced.

“Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia, Lord Most High!”

Leviathan waded away from the angel, hissing, “Whatever good news you have brought was not designed for me. Take your proclamations to creatures whom it benefits.”

As Leviathan prepared to dive back into his watery kingdom, the angel glided beside him, trying to remain in the great beast’s vision.

“Leviathan, is your heart so hardened that you will not at least allow me to attempt persuasion? Come,”

The angel held out a hand towards the creature’s massive jaws as if extending a hand in welcome. “Unlike the Adversary, you are not so lost that you cannot be saved. Will you not take this one night to see the beauty of the gift that could be your salvation?”

Leviathan hesitated. Despite his coldness, there was something that stirred within his belly. It cannot be said what emotion prompted him, but Leviathan finally relented, “I shall humor you… for one night. I cannot promise you will be successful in persuasion.”

At his words, he realized the voices of the seraphim had grown louder, like a roar of wind.

“Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia, Lord Most High!”

The beast raised its head in confusion before an odd sensation overcame it. Something warm, yet the sensation of waves constant pushing against its thick skin seemed to disappear. He tried to thrash, but as he craned his neck and snapped his jaws, the realization fell on him that he was no longer in the safety of the sea. The angel caught sight of the fear in the great beast’s eyes, for it glided beside the creature and reassured, “Do not be afraid. The sea will not bind you tonight.”

The chorus of the seraphim became distant as the angel and beast together soared through the sky. It was just like swimming in the sea, but instead of darkness and schools of fish, the sky was a dark pink and purple, filled with robust clouds dotted with stars. The further they went, the more Leviathan realized his thick scales matched the sky, turning him from a giant monster of the deep into a breathing constellation. It was a world Leviathan never thought he could touch, filling him with a rare feeling of wonder.

The clouds parted, revealing a great light from the desert below. Many lights like stars specked the land, giving Leviathan his first full view of a human city. It was a breathtaking sight, but it was not one he could keep forever. The angel beckoned him to follow his lead. His mind raced as they glided just above the city streets, watching as stray men would occasionally rush through the streets. The creature was camouflaged to their eyes, allowing the pair to wander freely. It was as if he was no longer flesh, but only of air. Soon the angel stopped at one small building, quiet, except for the bleating of animals from inside

“Why have you brought me here?” Leviathan questioned his guide, drifting around the inn like a shark around prey. “I see nothing special about this place.”

The angel bowed his head and gestured to the side of the building where the stables were. Curiosity got the better of Leviathan, lowering himself to the ground and peaking inside the open doors. Although the stable was filled with the cries of animals, there was one distinct noise that rose above the rest. The distant cry of a baby filtered out of the stable. Pressing his eye to the door, he saw a woman lying beside a feeding trough filled with rags.

At the sight of the child in the manger, the distant sound of seraphim song trickled through the air like a warm breeze.

“Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia, Lord Most High!”

“Is this your champion?” Leviathan responded incredulously. “This is your savior? A baby unfit for the inn and instead laid to rest in the stables with the beasts?”

“He may not have royal advisors, nurses, or lavish blankets like earthly princes, but is that not the beauty of his coming?”

Sensing the creature’s confusion, the angel continued, “Our Lord has poured himself out, taking the form of a servant. By entering the world in the stables of an overcrowded inn, wrapped in humility, so shall he leave the world when he feels the sting of death. You preserve this as a shameful place to be born. You will not be the last to scorn him and pride yourself over him.”

The angel paused. “This baby will be despised and rejected by men. He will be well acquainted with grief. Despite his humanity, this baby will grow in wisdom and tenderness, preparing himself to bear all grief and sorrows. Then like a lamb, he will be crushed and slaughtered by the very people he comes to save.”

Leviathan found such concepts hard to grasp. Perhaps it was because he, in all his might, had nothing to fear from mortal men nor the other beasts of the sea. Yet as his great eye laid on the baby in a manger, all he saw was fragility. Something so small that could easily be swallowed up by the monstrous world around him. It was not the show of might and power he expected of his executioner.

“You wish for me to place my fate in such a vulnerable creature?” Leviathan croaked testily.

“You must not mistake humility for frailty. The Lord declares ‘By his knowledge shall the righteous one, my servant, make many to be accounted righteous, and he shall bear their iniquities.’ Within his meekness shines his glory, and upon death there shall be peace. The bridge between the Most High and his creatures will be mended through Christ. Tonight, he sleeps in a manager under the watch of his mother and earthly father. The day will come when death will bite his ankle as he crushes its head. But after? He shall return to the heavens and take his rightful place on the throne. He shall reign henceforth, and peace and joy shall be beckoned and spread forth.”

The angel did not face Leviathan, but resumed, “Leviathan, the sword will come to strike all who reject the gift the Lord has given, but it spares all who lay down before the King in humility, just as he came to this earth. He will bear the sins of many, and make intercession for the transgressors. Now that you have seen and heard, is your heart still hardened?”

Leviathan's eye remained locked on the baby. After a pause, his gaze broke free, and he declared, “The stars move still, time runs, the sword will strike, the King will come, and the Dragon in the Sea must be damned. Your plea has been heard, but… My kingdom is great. It remains mine and mine alone. I cannot be parted from it, and my fate has long since been sealed.”

“It need not be so. Your nation is powerful and vast, but it is a fleeting pleasure compared to the Kingdom of the Most High. You need not join the Adversary below, but make haste and heed the warnings: ‘Sheol beneath is stirred up to meet you when you come; it rouses the shades to greet you and all who were leaders of the earth; it raises from their thrones all who were kings of the nations.’ If you continue forth, the day will come when the Lord shall hide his eyes from you. Is your kingship truly worth estrangement from the Most High, your creator who breathed life into your lungs on the sixth day?”

Leviathan thought for a moment. Yet despite the perfect, soft pictures the angel painted, they did not compare to the feeling of power that flowed through his veins as he ruled the sea. Was this something he was willing to disregard for such a small child?

“This child may become the comfort and joy of many. It will not be mine.”

It was like waking up from a dream. He was no longer in the sky or hovering above the land, but wading above the waves of the sea. There were no angels, no bright lights, no splashes of magenta and green across the night. It was as dark as death, leaving only the splashing of waves against Leviathan’s thick skin. He could not tell if it was his imagination or not, but as he descended back into his domain, he heard the distant, watery echo of the seraphim song.

Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia, Lord Most High.

[roman-catholic-mass-readings]

15th January >> Mass Readings (GB)

Wednesday, First Week in Ordinary Time 

(Liturgical Colour: Green. Year: C(I))

First Reading Hebrews 2:14-18 ‘He had to be made like his brothers, so that he might become merciful.’

Since the children share in flesh and blood, Jesus himself likewise partook of the same things, that through death he might destroy the one who has the power of death, that is, the devil, and deliver all those who through fear of death were subject to lifelong slavery. For surely it is not angels that he helps, but he helps the offspring of Abraham. Therefore he had to be made like his brothers in every respect, so that he might become a merciful and faithful high priest in the service of God, to make propitiation for the sins of the people. For because he himself has suffered when tempted, he is able to help those who are being tempted.

The Word of the Lord

R/ Thanks be to God.

Responsorial Psalm Psalm 105(104):1-2. 3-4. 6-7. 8-9. ℟3b

R/ The LORD remembers his covenant for ever. or:

R/ Alleluia.

Give thanks to the LORD; proclaim his name. Make known his deeds among the peoples. O sing to him, sing his praise; tell all his wonderful works!

R/ The LORD remembers his covenant for ever. or:

R/ Alleluia.

Glory in his holy name; let the hearts that seek the LORD rejoice. Turn to the LORD and his strength; constantly seek his face.

R/ The LORD remembers his covenant for ever. or:

R/ Alleluia.

O children of Abraham, his servant, O descendants of the Jacob he chose, he, the LORD, is our God; his judgements are in all the earth.

R/ The LORD remembers his covenant for ever. or:

R/ Alleluia.

He remembers his covenant for ever: the promise he ordained for a thousand generations, the covenant he made with Abraham, the oath he swore to Isaac.

R/ The LORD remembers his covenant for ever. or:

R/ Alleluia.

Gospel Acclamation John 10:27

Alleluia, alleluia. My sheep hear my voice, says the Lord, and I know them, and they follow me. Alleluia.

Gospel Mark 1:29-39 ‘He healed many who were sick with various diseases.’

At that time: Jesus left the synagogue and entered the house of Simon and Andrew, with James and John. Now Simon’s mother-in-law lay ill with a fever, and immediately they told him about her. And he came and took her by the hand and lifted her up, and the fever left her, and she began to serve them. That evening at sundown they brought to him all who were sick or oppressed by demons. And the whole city was gathered together at the door. And he healed many who were sick with various diseases, and cast out many demons. And he would not permit the demons to speak, because they knew him. And rising very early in the morning, while it was still dark, he departed and went out to a desolate place, and there he prayed. And Simon and those who were with him searched for him, and they found him and said to him, ‘Everyone is looking for you.’ And he said to them, ‘Let us go on to the next towns, that I may preach there also, for that is what I came for.’ And he went throughout all Galilee, preaching in their synagogues and casting out demons.

The Gospel of the Lord

R/ Praise to you, Lord Jesus Christ.

[ongolecharles]

DAILY SCRIPTURE READINGS (DSR) 📚 Group, Tue Jan 21st, 2025 ... Tuesday of The Second Week in Ordinary Time, Year C/Memorial of Saint Agnes, Virgin and Martyr

Reading 1

------------

Hebrews 6:10-20

Brothers and sisters:

God is not unjust so as to overlook your work

and the love you have demonstrated for his name

by having served and continuing to serve the holy ones.

We earnestly desire each of you to demonstrate the same eagerness

for the fulfillment of hope until the end,

so that you may not become sluggish, but imitators of those who,

through faith and patience, are inheriting the promises.

When God made the promise to Abraham,

since he had no one greater by whom to swear, he swore by himself,

and said, I will indeed bless you and multiply you.

And so, after patient waiting, Abraham obtained the promise.

Now, men swear by someone greater than themselves;

for them an oath serves as a guarantee

and puts an end to all argument.

So when God wanted to give the heirs of his promise

an even clearer demonstration of the immutability of his purpose,

he intervened with an oath,

so that by two immutable things,

in which it was impossible for God to lie,

we who have taken refuge might be strongly encouraged

to hold fast to the hope that lies before us.

This we have as an anchor of the soul,

sure and firm, which reaches into the interior behind the veil,

where Jesus has entered on our behalf as forerunner,

becoming high priest forever

according to the order of Melchizedek.

Responsorial Psalm

---------------

Psalm 111:1-2, 4-5, 9, 10c

R.    (5)  The Lord will remember his covenant for ever.

or:

R.    Alleluia.

I will give thanks to the LORD with all my heart

    in the company and assembly of the just.

Great are the works of the LORD,

    exquisite in all their delights.

R.    The Lord will remember his covenant for ever.

or:

R.    Alleluia.

He has won renown for his wondrous deeds;

    gracious and merciful is the LORD.

He has given food to those who fear him;

    he will forever be mindful of his covenant.

R.    The Lord will remember his covenant for ever.

or:

R.    Alleluia.

He has sent deliverance to his people;

    he has ratified his covenant forever;

    holy and awesome is his name.

    His praise endures forever.

R.    The Lord will remember his covenant for ever.

or:

R.    Alleluia.

Alleluia

------------

Ephesians 1:17-18

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

May the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ

enlighten the eyes of our hearts,

that we may know what is the hope

that belongs to our call.

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

Gospel

---------

Mark 2:23-28

As Jesus was passing through a field of grain on the sabbath,

his disciples began to make a path while picking the heads of grain.

At this the Pharisees said to him,

“Look, why are they doing what is unlawful on the sabbath?”

He said to them,

“Have you never read what David did

when he was in need and he and his companions were hungry?

How he went into the house of God when Abiathar was high priest

and ate the bread of offering that only the priests could lawfully eat,

and shared it with his companions?”

Then he said to them,

“The sabbath was made for man, not man for the sabbath.

That is why the Son of Man is lord even of the sabbath.”

***

FOCUS AND LITURGY OF THE WORD

In the passage from his letter to the Hebrews, Paul encourages believers to remain diligent and faithful in their relationship with God, and to imitate those who have inherited God's promises. These days when hope can sometimes feel fragile or uncertain, I feel that Paul’s message invites me to reflect on both the communal and personal dimensions of faith with an emphasis on God's promises, my responsibility to live out my calling, and the transformative power of hope in the midst of a world characterized by uncertainty and struggle.

In today’s Gospel, Jesus disciples pick grain while walking through a field on the Sabbath. Jesus is confronted by a group of Pharisees who interpret these actions as a willful disregard for the law of God. Jesus responds by arguing that the Sabbath was made for people, not the other way around. If I imagine myself as an onlooker to this Gospel event, I see Jesus as inviting me to reconsider the nature of religious observance. I hear Jesus teaching that God’s laws were not made as impediments, but rather they exist for the betterment of humanity. In this contemplation, I experience a call to better embody the deeper values of my faith: mercy, justice, inclusion, and compassion. In contrast to the legalistic, rule-bound faith of my childhood, I find myself drawn to live out a faith that is centered on the humanity of those around me, particularly the poor, the marginalized, and the oppressed. I am moved to believe that this is the true “sabbatical” rest God desires for us, a rest that restores us to one another and to the heart of God’s loving purpose for the world.

On the day of her memorial, I find myself praying for the intercession of Saint Agnes.

Agnes of Rome, young woman of faith,

You inspire me to live with courage, to speak with integrity, and to love without limitation.

Stand with me as I ask the Lord’s assistance to follow the path of peace, and to remain unwavering in the pursuit of justice, that the Kingdom of God may grow stronger, even in a time of conflict where divisions may seem insurmountable.

Pray with me as I seek the strength to oppose hatred and fear, to stand firm in my convictions without turning against those who disagree, to speak the truth even when it comes with costs, and to act with kindness, as you did when faced with unimaginable trial.

***

SAINT OF THE DAY

Saint Agnes

(d. c. 258)

Saint Agnes’ Story

Almost nothing is known of this saint except that she was very young—12 or 13—when she was martyred in the last half of the third century. Various modes of death have been suggested—beheading, burning, strangling.

Legend has it that Agnes was a beautiful girl whom many young men wanted to marry. Among those she refused, one reported her to the authorities for being a Christian. She was arrested and confined to a house of prostitution. The legend continues that a man who looked upon her lustfully lost his sight and had it restored by her prayer. Agnes was condemned, executed, and buried near Rome in a catacomb that eventually was named after her. The daughter of Constantine built a basilica in her honor.

Reflection

----‐-----

Like that of Maria Goretti in the 20th century, the martyrdom of a virginal young girl made a deep impression on a society enslaved to a materialistic outlook. Also like Agatha, who died in similar circumstances, Agnes is a symbol that holiness does not depend on length of years, experience, or human effort. It is a gift God offers to all.

Saint Agnes is the Patron Saint of:

Girls

Girl Scouts

***

【Build your Faith in Christ Jesus on #dailyscripturereadingsgroup 📚: +256 751 540 524 .. Whatsapp】

[fandomsproductions]

John 20 Bible Study (SOAP method)

Scripture: John 20:29 - " ...Blessed are those who have not seen yet believed. "

Observation:

-Thomas had doubted Jesus was alive

-Jesus is alive and He appeared to Thomas, showing His hands (John 20:25)

-Thomas exclaimed " My Lord and My God! "

-Jesus said this.

-Jesus had to show and prove to Thomas that he was alive even after Thomas witnessed everything that Jesus had done.

-What is impossible for us is possible for God

-God is always there for us and working for us, even if ti doesn't seem like it.

-Jesus is Alive!!!

Application:

We should believe in Jesus and the good promises that He gives to us even if our lives or the situation that we're in makes it seem impossible. God has already overcame it and solved it, We just have to be patient in prayer, unceasing in faith. When we walk by faith and not by sight, God will make everything possible for us.

Prayer:

Dear God,

Thank you Lord! I give all my praise to you, for my worries and concerns have already been heard and solved by you. My fears are not needed, for You have already overcame them and defeated them. Thank you Lord, we are already saved and safe.

Lord, in all situations, let me put my trust in You. Bless me O Lord to believe in you no matter what circumstances I'm in right now for though life is unfair, You are fair Lord. Give me the patience to wait for Your answers and blessings, for they are greater than I can ever imagine Lord. Thank you, Alleluia!

In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, Amen.

Hihi Hello everyone and Merry late Christmas! I've been doing personal bible studies and I thought I'd share them here lololol. I'm almost done with the book of John and I'm planing to go through the entire Bible next year using a Youversion plan, and I will hopefully post them on here. This Christmas has been very special to me because it's the first Christmas in a long time that I actually celebrate for Jesus. This year in general has been a large Rollercoaster ride for me ever since converting back to Christianity, but it has been the best, and I know that nobody but God alone has taken me this far. I give all my thanks to Him. Sooner or later I'll have my very long testimony posted here, and I hope that God will use it to help someone. I know I'm mostly known for my TPOM art, which I won't stop anytime soon, but I truly do wanna use my platform to spread the Word of God and positivity and joy. Thank you all for following me on my very very chaotic, yet joyful, journey with Jesus and I pray that you may join us. God bless you all and Merry Christmas!

[to-the-fishies]

For all the saints who from their labors rest, who Thee by faith before the world confessed; Thy name, O Jesus, be forever blest. Alleluia, Alleluia!

Thou wast their Rock, their Fortress and their Might; Thou, Lord, their Captain in the well-fought fight; Thou, in the darkness drear, their one true Light. Alleluia, Alleluia!

O blest communion, fellowship divine! We feebly struggle, they in glory shine; yet all are one in Thee, for all are Thine. Alleluia, Alleluia!

And when the strife is fierce, the warfare long, steals on the ear the distant triumph song, and hearts are brave again, and arms are strong. Alleluia, Alleluia!

But then there breaks a still more glorious day: the saints triumphant rise in bright array; the King of glory passes on His way. Alleluia, Alleluia!

From earth's wide bounds, from ocean's farthest coast, through gates of pearl streams in the countless host, in praise of Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. Alleluia, Alleluia!

[orthodoxadventure]

Akathist to the Theotokos - Softener of Evil Hearts (Prayers for Enemies and against Sorrow)

Apolytikion

Soften our evil hearts, O Theotokos, and quench the attacks of those who hate us and loose all straitness of our soul. For looking on thy holy icon we are filled with compunction by thy suffering and loving-kindness for us, and we kiss thy wounds; we are filled with horror for the darts with which we wound thee. Let us not, O Mother of Compassion, according to the cruelty of our hearts, perish from the cruelty of heart of those near us, for thou art in truth the Softener of Evil Hearts.

Kontakion I

We cry out with heartfelt emotion to the chosen Virgin Mary, far nobler than all the daughters of the earth, Mother of the Son of God, who gave Salvation to the world: Look at our life, which is filled with every sorrow, and remember the sorrow and pain which thou didst suffer as one born on earth with us, and do with us according to thy merciful heart, that we may cry unto thee: Rejoice, much-sorrowing Mother of God, turn our sorrows into joy and soften the hearts of evil men!

Ikos I

An angel announced the birth of the Saviour of the world to the shepherds in Bethlehem and with the multitude of the heavenly hosts praised God, singing: “Glory to God in the highest and on earth peace, good will among men!” But thou, O Mother of God, having nowhere to lay thine head, since there was no room in the inn, gave birth to thy first-born Son in a cave and, wrapping Him in swaddling clothes, laid Him in a manger. Knowing the pain in thy heart, we cry out to thee:

Rejoice, for thou wast warmed by the breath of thine own beloved Son! Rejoice, for thou didst wrap the eternal Child in swaddling clothes! Rejoice, for thou didst nourish with thy milk the One who sustaineth the universe! Rejoice, for thou didst turn a cave into a heaven! Rejoice, for thou didst make thy throne upon the Cherubim! Rejoice, for thou didst remain a virgin both in giving birth and after birth! Rejoice, much-sorrowing Mother of God, turn our sorrows into joy and soften the hearts of evil men!

Kontakion II

Seeing the Eternal Child swaddled and lying in a manger, the shepherds of Bethlehem came to worship Him and to relay that which the Angels told them about the Child. But Mary kept all these things in her heart. And after eight days had passed, Jesus was circumcised, according to the law of Israel, as a man. Hymning thy humility and patience, O Theotokos, we sing to the Good God Eternal: Alleluia!

Ikos II

Having their understanding based on God and keeping the Law of the Lord, on the fortieth day when the days of purification were complete, Jesus' parents took Him to Jerusalem so that they could present Him before the Lord and offer sacrifice for Him, according to the decree in the Law of the Lord. But we sing out to thee, O Theotokos, thus:

Rejoice, for thou didst take the Creator of the universe to the Temple in Jerusalem to fulfill the Law! Rejoice, for thou didst there meet the Elder Simeon with joy! Rejoice, thou only Pure and blessed one among women! Rejoice, for with humility Thou didst carry thy cross adorned with sorrows! Rejoice, for thou didst never disobey the will of God! Rejoice, for thou didst reveal thyself as a model of patience and humility! Rejoice, much-sorrowing Mother of God, turn our sorrows into joy and soften the hearts of evil men!

Kontakion III

Thou wast strengthened with power from on high, O Mother of God, when thou didst hear the words of the Elder Simeon, when he said to thee: “Behold, this Child is destined to be the rise and fall of many in Israel. This is a sign which will be spoken against, and a sword will pierce thy very soul so that the thoughts of many may be revealed.” And great sorrow entered the heart of the Theotokos, and with grief she cried out to God: Alleluia!

Ikos III

Hastening to destroy the Child, Herod ordered the killing of all children in Bethlehem and its environs from two years of age and under, according to the time that he determined from the Magi. And behold, according to the command of God, the Elder Joseph was informed by an angel in a dream to flee with the Holy Family to Egypt and to remain there until the death of Herod. Therefore with compunction, we cry out to thee, O Theotokos:

Rejoice for thou didst bear the entire turmoil of exile! Rejoice for all the idols fell in the land of Egypt not being able to endure the power of thy Son! Rejoice for thou didst remain for seven years among the dishonorable pagans! Rejoice, for thou didst arrive in Nazareth with thy first-born Youth and with thy betrothed! Rejoice, for thou didst live with the Elder Joseph the carpenter in poverty! Rejoice, for thou didst spend all thy time in hard labors! Rejoice, much-sorrowing Mother of God, turn our sorrows into joy and soften the hearts of evil men!

Kontakion IV

A storm of sorrows whirled about the most pure Mother when they returned from Jerusalem, not finding the young man Jesus in the caravan. For this reason they returned to look for Him, and after three days they found Him in the Temple, sitting among the teachers listening to them and asking them questions. And His Mother asked Him: “Child, why hast Thou done this to us? Behold, Thy father and I suffered greatly looking for Thee.” And Jesus answered them: ” Why were ye looking for Me? Do ye not know about those things which My Father has entrusted unto Me?” And Thou, O Most Pure One, kept all these sayings in Thy heart, crying out to God: Alleluia!

Ikos IV

The Mother of God heard that Jesus traveled through all of Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, preaching the Gospel of the Kingdom and healing all kinds of illness and infirmity among the people. And His reputation spread through all of Syria and they brought Him every kind of illness and the suffering and those tormented by demons and the paralyzed and He healed them. But thou, O Mother of God, knowing the prophecy, sorrowed in thy heart, knowing that very soon the time would come when Thy Son would present Himself as a sacrifice for the sins of the world. For this reason we bless thee, much-sorrowing Mother of God, crying out:

Rejoice, for thou didst give thy Son to the service of the Jewish people! Rejoice, for thou didst sorrow in thy heart but didst submit to the will of God! Rejoice, for thou didst save the world from the deluge of sin! Rejoice for thou didst crush the head of the ancient serpent! Rejoice, for thou didst offer thyself as a living sacrifice to God! Rejoice, O blessed one, the Lord is with Thee! Rejoice, much-sorrowing Mother of God, turn our sorrows into joy and soften the hearts of evil men!

Kontakion V

Preaching the Kingdom of God on earth, Jesus exposed the arrogance of the Pharisees, who imagined themselves to be righteous. So when they heard His parables, they understood it was about them that He was speaking, and they sought to arrest Him, but they feared the people who considered Him to be a prophet. Seeing all of this, the Mother of God sorrowed for her beloved Son and feared that they would kill Him, in affliction crying out: Alleluia!

Ikos V

Some of the Jews, seeing the resurrection of Lazarus, went to the Pharisees and told them what Jesus had done. And Caiaphas, who was the high priest that year, said: “It will be better for us that one man die for the people, so that the whole nation would not perish.” From that day on they took counsel about how they would kill Him. But we cry out to thee, O Most Pure One:

Rejoice, thou who gavest birth to the Saviour of the world! Rejoice, source of our salvation! Rejoice, for thou wast chosen from birth to be the Mother of our Saviour! Rejoice, Mother of God, destined for suffering! Rejoice, O blessed one, who dost preside as Queen of Heaven! Rejoice, O blessed one, who always prays for us! Rejoice, much-sorrowing Mother of God, turn our sorrows into joy and soften the hearts of evil men!

Kontakion VI

Once a preacher of the Word of God and now a traitor, Judas Iscariot, one of the twelve apostles, went to the high priest to betray his Teacher. They listened to him, were exceedingly pleased, and promised to give him thirty pieces of silver. But thou, O Mother of God, didst sorrow for thy beloved Son, and didst cry out in grief to God: Alleluia!

Ikos VI

Taking part in the Last Supper with the disciples, at which the Teacher washed their feet, thereby revealing an example of humility, Christ said to them: “One of you will betray Me.” But we, suffering with the Mother of God, cry out to Her:

Rejoice, Mother of God, languishing with the torture of thy heart! Rejoice, Thou who didst suffer all in this most sorrowful vale! Rejoice, Thou who didst find comfort in prayer! Rejoice, joy of all who sorrow! Rejoice, Thou who dost save us from the mire of sin! Rejoice, vessel filled with the grace of the Holy Spirit! Rejoice, much-sorrowing Mother of God, turn our sorrows into joy and soften the hearts of evil men!

Kontakion VII

Desiring to show His love for the human race, the Lord Jesus Christ at the Mystical Supper blessed and broke bread and gave it to His disciples and apostles, saying: “Take, eat, this is My Body.” And taking the chalice and giving praise gave it to them said: “All of you drink of this, this is My Blood of the New Covenant which is shed for many for the remission of sins.” Thanking the compassionate God for His ineffable mercy to us, we sing to Him: Alleluia!

Ikos VII

The Lord revealed a new sign of His mercy to His disciples when He promised to send them the Comforter, the Spirit of Truth, Who would descend from the Father and would witness concerning Him. But to thee, O Mother of God, sanctified again on the day of Pentecost by the Holy Spirit, we cry:

Rejoice, mansion of the Holy Spirit! Rejoice, brilliantly-illuminated bridal chamber! Rejoice, spacious dwelling place of God the Word! Rejoice, thou who didst open for us the gates of paradise by Thy giving of birth! Rejoice, thou who didst reveal the sign of divine mercy Himself to us! Rejoice, much-sorrowing Mother of God, turn our sorrows into joy and soften the hearts of evil men!

Kontakion VIII

It is at once very strange and sorrowful for us to hear how Judas Iscariot betrayed his Teacher and Lord with a kiss. Then the crowd and the commander and the servants of the Jews arrested Jesus and bound Him and led Him first to the chief priest, Ananias, and then to the high priest, Caiaphas. But thou, O Mother of God, expecting the death sentence for thy beloved Son, cried out to God: Alleluia!

Ikos VIII

All of the Jews led Jesus from Caiaphas to the Praetorium to Pilate, saying that He was a criminal. But Pilate, after questioning Him, told them that he could not find any fault at all in Him. But we cry out to thee with compunction, O Mother of God, who saw the slander of Thy Son:

Rejoice, thou whose heart was broken by woe! Rejoice, for thou didst shed tears for thy Son! Rejoice, thou who didst see thy beloved Child given over to trial! Rejoice, for thou didst suffer everything without complaint like a true handmaiden of the Lord! Rejoice, despite thy weeping and lamentation! Rejoice, O Queen of Heaven and earth, who dost accept the prayers of thy servants! Rejoice, much-sorrowing Mother of God, turn our sorrows into joy and soften the hearts of evil men!

Kontakion IX

All generations bless thee, who art more honorable than the Cherubim and beyond compare more glorious than the Seraphim, our Lady and the Mother of our Redeemer, for thy birth-giving has brought joy to the whole world. But thou didst suffer the final great sorrow when thou sawest thy beloved Son insulted, whipped, and sentenced to death. For this reason we present our heartfelt hymn to thee, O Most Pure One, singing to God Almighty: Alleluia!

Ikos IX

Loquacious orators are not able to describe all of the suffering which Thou hast endured, our Saviour, such as when the soldiers placed a crown woven out of thorns on Thine head and dressed Thee in a purple robe, saying, “Hail, King of the Jews!” and slapped Thee across the face. But we, O Mother of God, recognizing thy suffering, cry out to thee:

Rejoice, thou who didst behold thy Son slain for our sake! Rejoice, seeing Him dressed in purple and wearing a crown of thorns! Rejoice, seeing Him tortured, whom thou didst nourish with thy milk! Rejoice, thou who didst suffer His Passion together with Him! Rejoice, thou who didst watch all His disciples forsake Him! Rejoice, thou who didst see Him condemned by the judgment of the unrighteous! Rejoice, much-sorrowing Mother of God, turn our sorrows into joy and soften the hearts of evil men!

Kontakion X

Wanting to save Jesus, Pilate said to the Jews, “We have a custom to release a prisoner on the feast of Passover. Do you want me to give you the King of the Jews?” All of them shouted, saying, “Not Him, but Barabbas!” We praise the great mercy of the Heavenly Father, Who so loved the world, that He gave His only-begotten Son to death on the Cross in order to redeem us from eternal death, as we cry out to Him: Alleluia!

Ikos X

Be a wall and a fortification, O Lady, unto us who are overburdened by sorrows and suffering. For thou thyself didst suffer, hearing the Jews shouting, “Crucify, crucify Him!” Now hear us crying out unto thee:

Rejoice, Mother of mercy, who wipest away every tear from those who suffer cruelly! Rejoice, thou who grantest us tears of heartfelt compunction! Rejoice, thou who savest lost sinners! Rejoice, Protection of Christians that cannot be put to shame! Rejoice, thou who savest us from our passions! Rejoice, thou who grantest comfort to broken hearts! Rejoice, much-sorrowing Mother of God, turn our sorrows into joy and soften the hearts of evil men!

Kontakion XI

We offer a hymn of heartfelt sorrow to the Saviour of the world for His voluntary Passion and carrying His Cross to Golgotha to be crucified. Standing at Jesus’ Cross are His Mother, Mary Cleopas, and Mary Magdalene. But Jesus, seeing His Mother and His disciple whom He loved standing there, said to His disciple, “Behold thy mother!” And from that time the disciple took her into his family. But thou, O Mother of God, seeing Thy Son and Lord on the Cross wast devastated and cried out to God on high: Alleluia!

Ikos XI

“O my Son and Pre-Eternal God, Fashioner of all Creation! O Lord, how canst Thou endure the suffering on the Cross?” the Pure Virgin cried, saying: “By Thine awesome birth, O my Son, I have been exalted above all mothers, but woe is me! Now when I see Thee, my womb burns within me.” But we shed tears, remembering thee, and cry out to thee:

Rejoice, thou who wast deprived of joy and merriment! Rejoice, thou who didst see the voluntary passion of thy Son on the Cross! Rejoice, thou who didst see thy beloved Son sore wounded! Rejoice, thou ewe lamb, seeing thy Son as a lamb being led to slaughter! Rejoice, thou who didst see the Deliverer of the wounds of soul and body covered with wounds! Rejoice, thou who didst see thy Son rise from the dead! Rejoice, much-sorrowing Mother of God, turn our sorrows into joy and soften the hearts of evil men!

Kontakion XII

O All-Merciful Saviour, grant us mercy, breathing out Thy Spirit on the Cross and tearing up the handwriting of our sins. “Behold, my good Light, my God, is extinguished on the Cross!” the Virgin in great anguish exclaimed: “O Joseph, hasten to Pilate, approach him and ask him to take thy Teacher down from the Cross.” “Seeing Thy wounded Body, naked and without glory, on the Cross, O my Child, a sword has pierced my soul according to the prophecy of the Elder Simeon,” said the Mother of God, singing: Alleluia!

Ikos XII

Hymning Thy mercifulness, O Lover of mankind, we bow down to Thy generous mercy, O Master. The Most Pure one said, “Wishing to save Thy creature, thou hast given Thyself over to death.” But by Thy resurrection, O Saviour, have mercy on all of us, while we address Thy most pure Mother:

Rejoice, thou who didst see the most good Lord dead and without breath! Rejoice, thou who didst kiss the body of thy beloved Son! Rejoice, thou who didst see thy Light as a naked and wounded corpse! Rejoice, thou who didst place the Light of the world in a tomb! Rejoice, thou who didst wrap His body in a new shroud! Rejoice, thou who beheld His Resurrection from the dead! Rejoice, much-sorrowing Mother of God, turn our sorrows into joy and soften the hearts of evil men!

Kontakion XIII 3 times

O All-hymned Mother, crushed by thy sorrow at the Cross of thy Son and God, accept our tears and expressions of sorrow, and save from every sorrow, affliction, and eternal death all those who hope in thine ineffable kindheartedness and cry out to God: Alleluia!

Ikos I

An angel announced the birth of the Saviour of the world to the shepherds in Bethlehem and with the multitude of the heavenly hosts praised God, singing: “Glory to God in the highest and on earth peace, good will among men!” But thou, O Mother of God, having nowhere to lay thine head, since there was no room in the inn, gave birth to thy first-born Son in a cave and, wrapping Him in swaddling clothes, laid Him in a manger. Knowing the pain in thy heart, we cry out to thee:

Rejoice, for thou wast warmed by the breath of thine own beloved Son! Rejoice, for thou didst wrap the eternal Child in swaddling clothes! Rejoice, for thou didst nourish with thy milk the One who sustaineth the universe! Rejoice, for thou didst turn a cave into a heaven! Rejoice, for thou didst make thy throne upon the Cherubim! Rejoice, for thou didst remain a virgin both in giving birth and after birth! Rejoice, much-sorrowing Mother of God, turn our sorrows into joy and soften the hearts of evil men!

Kontakion I

We cry out with heartfelt emotion to the chosen Virgin Mary, far nobler than all the daughters of the earth, Mother of the Son of God, who gave Salvation to the world: Look at our life, which is filled with every sorrow, and remember the sorrow and pain which thou didst suffer as one born on earth with us, and do with us according to thy merciful heart, that we may cry unto thee: Rejoice, much-sorrowing Mother of God, turn our sorrows into joy and soften the hearts of evil men!

Prayer

O much sorrowing Mother of God, more highly exalted than all other maidens, according to thy purity and the multitude of thy suffering endured on earth: Hearken to our sighs, and soften the hearts of evil men, and protect us under the shelter of thy mercy. For we know no other refuge or ardent intercessor apart from thee, but as thou hast great boldness before the One Who was born of thee, help and save us by thy prayers, that without offence we may attain the Heavenly Kingdom, where, with all the saints, we will sing the thrice-holy hymn to One God Almighty in Trinity, always now and ever and unto ages of ages. Amen.

Troparion in Tone V

Soften our evil hearts, O Mother of God, extinguish the afflictions of those who hate us, and loosen all the rigidity our souls. Gazing upon thy holy image, we are moved by thy suffering and mercy toward us. We kiss thy wounds and are horrified that our arrows torment you. O merciful mother, do not let us perish in our own hardheartedness, nor from that of our neighbors, for thou art truly the Softener of evil hearts.

[biblically-accurate-butch]

Prayer: My Anxiety

This is a personalized prayer; I know I typically write ones that are universal [with specific people in mind] but for this prayer I ask that you not just pray with me but for me also. Thank you :)

Lord Have Mercy Lord Have Mercy Lord Have Mercy

O God cleanse me a sinner and have mercy on me. O God cleanse me a sinner and have mercy on me. O God cleanse me a sinner and have mercy on me.

For you alone are the God most high, For you alone are the Lord. For you I pray to you the Lord my God, so that you may have mercy on me

Amen.

O God, Come to My Assistance, Make Haste to Help Me.

For I worry about all that I cannot control. I worry for the people I cannot save, the hearts I did not break, the world I cannot fix. I see the suffering of the people and in my heart I deeply feel for them. In their struggles I sympathize. I do what I can to help but I worry about the things I cannot. I fear that what I do is not enough. I pray to be more active in the help I wish to bring. I pray you help them in all the things that I cannot do and to those who are out of my reach: Lord I pray you do protect them. My fears come from the fact that I know that cannot aid much in all that I wish to for I am small, powerless and weak but I know that you as Lord can do all things:

Protect the People O Lord

O God Come to My Assistance, Make Haste to Help Me.

For I worry about what is to become of me, and my life. For I worry about those who I love and if by tomorrow come I will see them again. I worry about my health and the health of those around me. I worry about my strength and the strength of those around me. O Lord hear my prayer, For I worry about it all, about who lives, who dies, what tomorrow brings and days, months and years to come. I pray to not be orphaned O Lord that you protect me from anymore loss. Praying for my grandma Lord and that I may not lose another in the coming year O Lord. My fears come from the fear of death and afraid of losing anymore Loved Ones but I know that the Lord provides and that those who go live on within us:

Protect My People O Lord

O God Come to My Assistance, Make Haste to Help Me.

For I carry the sin of doubt. For I worry about all that I do not know and all that is to come. For I have not accepted the unknown as your will and my worry is a result of my own anguish. My worry is a result of my own rejection, of my own lack of submission. For I am overwhelmed by what I have sought to do, not what you have sought me out to do and for that I repent and I pray you guide me to acceptance of circumstance. I know that even through the folly of man, I can still live a good life with you as my God. Even if I have undergo more change, even if I become a victim of systematic demise, I still have you as my Lord. Even if they drag me away from your house, even if they reject me from your dwelling, I know they could never take you away from my heart. From my soul and my spirit. I still worry about my future and all that has yet to come even though you have blessed me. Even in the days of this year despite all my despair, you have shown me mercy and good will. In all that I have worried, I know your will guided, and you have protected. I know that I must trust in the Lord for all that is good. You have shown me grace and mercy: for that I give you thanks and praise.

Alleluia. Alleluia. Alleluia.

Lord I pray to you that I find my way to you, holding onto my faith unwavering, and stronger than ever before.

Amen

[walkswithmyfather]

“Sweetest dreams friends, let's pray...

Father God...thank You for Your Grace... we fall, You are there to pick us up, dust us off... Help us to shine Jesus every where we go and to every one we encounter. We praise You for Your mighty works...and are so very grateful for Your perfect peace, provision, and forgiveness. Help us to be gracious and kind, helpful, and loving. We know that when our loved ones...and even strangers are acting and being unlovable..then is when they need our love, YOUR love the most. Help us to love the unlovely. Give us Your strength Lord when we feel weak...we know we can do all things through Christ Jesus who gives us this strength... Forgive us for our sins this day...and help us to be forgiving... Protect us and our loved ones...and by Your Spirit Lord we ask for wisdom concerning decisions...and changes coming up... We praise You...we surrender to You...we give You glory and honor...You are mighty to save ...alleluia !!

In Jesus Name we pray ~ Amen”

From: “This Little Light Of Mine”, FB

[church-history]

Medieval Latin Hymn Lauda Sion

"Lauda Sion" is a sequence prescribed for the Roman Catholic Mass for the feast of Corpus Christi. It was written by St. Thomas Aquinas around 1264, at the request of Pope Urban IV for the new Mass of this feast, along with Pange lingua, Sacris solemniis, and Verbum supernum prodiens, which are used in the Divine Office

Sion, lift up thy voice and sing praise thy Savior and thy King, Praise with hymns thy shepherd true.

All thou canst, do thou endeavour yet thy praise can equal never Such as merits thy great King.

See today before us laid the living and life-giving Bread, theme for praise and joy profound.

The same which at the sacred board was, by our incarnate Lord giv'n to His Apostles round.

Let the praise be loud and high sweet and tranquil be the joy felt today in every breast.

On this festival divine which records the origin of the glorious Eucharist.

On this table of the King our new Paschal offering brings to end the olden rite.

Here, for empty shadows fled is reality instead here, instead of darkness, light.

His own act, at supper seated Christ ordain'd to be repeated in His memory divine;

Wherefore now, with adoration we, the host of our salvation consecrate from bread and wine.

Hear, what holy Church maintaineth that the bread its substance changeth into Flesh, the wine to Blood.

Doth it pass thy comprehending? Faith, the law of sight transcending leaps to things not understood.

Here beneath these signs are hidden priceless things, to sense forbidden signs, not things, are all we see.

Flesh from bread, and Blood from wine yet is Christ in either sign all entire, confessed to be.

They, who of Him here partake sever not, nor rend, nor break but, entire, their Lord receive.

Whether one or thousands eat all receive the self-same meat nor the less for others leave.

Both the wicked and the good eat of this celestial Food but with ends how opposite!

Here tis life and there tis death the same, yet issuing to each in a difference infinite.

Nor a single doubt retain when they break the Host in twain but that in each part remains what was in the whole before.

Since the simple sign alone suffers change in state or form the signified remaining one and the same for evermore.

Behold the Bread of Angels for us pilgrims food, and token of the promise by Christ spoken children's meat, to dogs denied.

Shewn in Isaac's dedication in the manna's preparation in the Paschal immolation in old types pre-signified.

Jesu, shepherd of the sheep Thou thy flock in safety keep living bread, thy life supply strengthen us, or else we die fill us with celestial grace.

Thou, who feedest us below source of all we have or know grant that with Thy Saints above sitting at the feast of love we may see Thee face to face amen. Alleluia.

The Gregorian melody of the Lauda Sion is borrowed from the eleventh-century sequence Laetabundi iubilemus attributed to Adam of Saint Victor. The hymn tells of the institution of the Eucharist and clearly expresses the belief of the Roman Catholic Church in transubstantiation, that is, that the bread and wine truly become the Body and Blood of Christ when consecrated by a validly-ordained priest or bishop during the Mass. Lauda Sion is one of only four medieval sequences which were preserved in the Roman Missal published in 1570 following the Council of Trent (1545–1563).

[apenitentialprayer]

Left: The Man of Sorrows, by Michele Giambono, circa 1430. (x) Right: Pietà, by Benedetto Rusconi, oil on canvas, early 16th Century. (x)

Hands and feet and side reveal, alleluia! Wounds of love, high priesthood's seal! Alleluia!

Father James Quinn, S.J. (Praise Him As He Mounts the Skies)

Almighty God and Father, who ransomed the human race by the five wounds of Your Only Son, our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, help us to venerate these holy wounds and to praise and serve You for ever and ever. We make this prayer through Christ Jesus, our Lord. Amen.

(x)

[meltorights]

What are your favorite hymns?

i love hymnody so this is too hard.... i have to break it up by season and even then i feel like im leaving things out

ordinary time/general O God Beyond All Praising - just a perfect hymn... and whether our tomorrows be filled with good or ill / we'll triumph through our sorrows and rise to bless you still!!!!! this arrangement is a bit overdone imo but it still brings me to tears.

advent - tossup here! one of my favorite seasons for music so it's hard to pick only two.

People Look East - such a fun hymn.... this is what gives me the excitement of advent every year.

Lo! He Comes With Clouds Descending - INSANELY fun to sing. gives me chills.

christmas - another place where it's impossible to pick only 1 and painful to limit myself to two.

O Little Town of Bethlehem (Forest Green) - forest green is the correct tune. perfect piece of music. i sang the descant as a kid and it changed my life.

What Child Is This? - catholic hymnals Butcher this hymn by cutting the bits about nails and spears piercing him through. brings me to tears every time.

lent

Crux Fidelis / Sing My Tongue, The Glorious Battle - I can't find a recording of the english translations set to the tune PICCARDY which fits perfectly. but the chant tune is wonderful. venetius fortunatus went off when he personified the cross, saying, "and the king of earth and heaven / gently on your bosom tend"

Vexila Regis / The Royal Banners Forward Go - the cross of defeat is also a banner of triumph.......

easter

ad cenam angi providi / the lamb's high banquet we await - this is one of the few chant hymns that i think you should really speed through and none of the recordings get it right. really exciting hymn.

christ is alive! - perfect hymn. perfect summation of easter. "christ is alive, no longer bound / to distant years in palestine"

come ye faithful raise the strain - another perfect hymn

at the lambs high feast we sing - popular but worthy of it

ascension

crown him with many crowns - CROWN HIM THE LORD OF LOVE BEHOLD HIS HANDS AND SIDE RICH WOUNDS STILL VISIBLE ABOVE IN BEAUTY GLORIFIED

alleluia sing to jesus - not as orphans are we left in sorrow now...

hail the day that sees him rise - see he lifts his hands above. see he shows the prints of love.

pentecost

come down o live divine THE pentecost hymn.

not a season but eucharistic devotional hymns slap

jesus my lord my god my all