Common-Meter Offertories for the Liturgical Year [2023 Revised and Expanded Edition]
  • [Complete 2023 collection available in paperback]

    Filling a need for my particular situation, I have created paraphrases of the Offertoriale texts for the church year (Sundays, Solemnities, and Feasts that may replace a Sunday), using the Gregorian Missal for Sundays, Offertoriale 1935, BCEW Processional, and Psalms in Metre for Christian Worship as primary references.

    All paraphrases are in Common Meter; while a few are six verses long, most are three verses—short enough to cover all but the most perfunctory Sunday altar preparations. In most cases, the paraphrase of the antiphon or its conclusion (indicated in bold) may be repeated after all verses have been sung; in a few cases, it ought to be repeated.

    Because many have been taught to select music based on the readings, I also have added one passage from the day's readings that the Offertories amplify/contrast.

    Advent



    Christmas Time



    Lent



    Easter Time



    Ordinary Time



    Solemnities of the Lord in Ordinary Time



    Solemnities and Feasts that replace a Sunday



    Although intended for the Ordinary Form of the Roman Rite, conceivably these could be used at Traditional Latin Low Masses with music or at Ordinariate Masses.
  • Sicut in holocausto (Dn 3:40)

    Thirteenth Week in Ordinary Time [OF]

    • "'Whoever loves father or mother more than me is not worthy of me, and whoever loves son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me; and whoever does not take up his cross and follow after me is not worthy of me.'"
      —Mt 10:37–38 [OF:A]

    • "Seeing Jesus, Jairus fell at his feet and pleaded earnestly with him, saying, 'My daughter is at the point of death. Please, come lay your hands on her that she may get well and live.'"
      —Mk 5:22b–23 [OF:B]

    • "'No one who sets a hand to the plow and looks to what was left behind is fit for the kingdom of God.'"
      —Lk 9:62 [OF:C]

    Seventh Sunday after Pentecost [EF]

    • "'Not everyone who says to Me, "Lord, Lord," shall enter the kingdom of heaven; but he who does the will of My Father in heaven shall enter the kingdom of heaven.'"
      —Mt 7:21 [EF]



    1. As offerings of rams and bulls
      And countless fatted lambs,
      So let our sacrifice this day
      Fulfill your just command.

    2. May our oblation giv’n to you
      Be pleasing in your sight;
      For shame shall never come to those
      Who trust in you aright.


    3. We follow you wholeheartedly,
      And rev’rently we plead:
      Do not put us to shame, O Lord;
      Take pity on our need.

    (Copyright © 2016 Aristotle A. Esguerra. May be freely used for non-commercial purposes.)

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  • Populum humilem (Ps 17(18):28, 32; 48b–49a)

    Fourteenth Week in Ordinary Time [OF]

    • "'Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am meek and humble of heart; and you will find rest for yourselves. For my yoke is easy, and my burden light.'"
      —Mt 11:29–30 [OF:A]

    • "Jesus was not able to perform any mighty deed there, apart from curing a few sick people by laying his hands on them. He was amazed at their lack of faith."
      —Mk 6:5–6 [OF:B]

    • "'Go on your way; behold, I am sending you like lambs among wolves.'"
      —Lk 10:3 [OF:C]

    Eighth Sunday after Pentecost [EF]

    • "'Make friends for yourselves with the mammon of wickedness, so that when it fails they may receive you into the everlasting dwellings.'"
      —Lk 16:9 [EF]



    1. You save a humble people, Lord,
      And haughty eyes confound.
      For who is God except the Lord,
      Almighty and renowned?


    2. When I, beset with pain and grief,
      Implored the Lord for grace,
      
My supplication reached his ears
      In his most holy place.

    3. From violent foes you rescued me,
      And set me over those
      Who fostered animosity [2016 version]
      Who found in me an enemy [2023 revision]
      And up against me rose.

    (Copyright © 2016, 2023 Aristotle A. Esguerra. May be freely used for non-commercial purposes.)

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  • Ad te, Domine, levavi (Ps 24(25):1–3; 5, 16a, 20)

    First Sunday of Advent [OF, EF]

    • "'Stay awake! For you do not know on which day your Lord will come.'"
      —Mt 24:42 [OF:A]

    • "'Be watchful! Be alert! You do not know when the time will come.'"
      —Mk 13:33 [OF:B]

    • "'When these signs begin to happen, stand erect and raise your heads because your redemption is at hand.'"
      —Lk 21:18 [OF:C, EF]

    Fifteenth Week in Ordinary Time [OF]

    • "'Whoever has ears ought to hear.'"
      —Mt 13:9 [OF:A]

    • "He summoned the Twelve and began to send them out two by two and gave them authority over unclean spirits."
      —Mk 6:7 [OF:B]

    • "'You shall love the Lord, your God, with all your heart, with all your being, with all your strength, and with all your mind, and your neighbor as yourself.'"
      —Lk 10:27 [OF:C]

    Tenth Sunday after Pentecost [EF]

    • "'But the publican, standing afar off, would not so much as lift up his eyes to heaven, but kept striking his breast, saying, "O God, be merciful to me a sinner!"'"
      —Lk 18:13 [EF]



    1. I lift my heart and soul to you, [2016 version]
      To you do I lift up my soul, [2023 revision]
      My Lord and God most just.
      O let me not be put to shame;
      In you I put my trust.

    2. [2016 version]
      Let not my enemies rejoice
      Or over me prevail,

      For no one shall be put to shame
      Who trusts you without fail.


      [2023 revision]
      Let not my enemies erupt
      In laughter over me,
      For no one shall be put to shame
      Who trusts you faithfully.


    3. Direct me in your holy truth,
      Instruct me in your ways,

      For you are God my saving help;
      I wait for you always.

    4. In mercy turn to me, O Lord,
      Your life in me renew;
      And I will not be put to shame,
      For I have called on you.

    (Copyright © 2016, 2023 Aristotle A. Esguerra. May be freely used for non-commercial purposes.)

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  • Iustitiae Domini (Ps 18(19):9a, 11b, 12a; 9b–10, 15a)

    Third Sunday of Lent [OF]; Third Sunday in Lent [EF]

    • "'God is Spirit, and those who worship him must worship in Spirit and truth.'"
      —Jn 4:24 [OF:A]

    • "He made a whip out of cords and drove them all out of the temple area, with the sheep and oxen, and spilled the coins of the money-changers and overturned their tables, and to those who sold doves he said, 'Take these out of here, and stop making my Father’s house a marketplace.'"
      —Jn 2:15–16 [OF:B]

    • "'I tell you, if you do not repent, you will all perish as they did!'"
      —Lk 13:3, 5 [OF:C]

    • "'Blessed are they who hear the word of God and keep it.'"
      —Lk 11:28 [EF]

    Sixteenth Week in Ordinary Time [OF]

    • "You taught your people, by these deeds, that those who are righteous must be kind; And you gave your children reason to hope that you would allow them to repent for their sins."
      —Wis 12:19 [OF:A]

    • "When he disembarked and saw the vast crowd, his heart was moved with pity for them, for they were like sheep without a shepherd; and he began to teach them many things."
      —Mk 6:34 [OF:B]

    • "'Mary has chosen the better part and it will not be taken from her.'"
      —Lk 10:42 [OF:C]

    Ninth Sunday after Pentecost [EF]

    • "'If you had known, in this your day, even you, the things that are for your peace! But now they are hidden from your eyes.'"
      —Lk 19:42 [EF]



    1. The precepts of the Lord are right,
      Enlivening the heart,
      And sweeter than the honey comb;
      To keep them is my part.


    2. The Lord’s command is luminous,
      Enlightening the eyes;
      The holy fear of God remains
      For ever with the wise.

    3. The judgments of the Lord are true,
      In them the just delight;
      Then may my words and thoughts, O Lord, [2016 version]
      May my own words and thoughts, O Lord, [2023 revision]
      Be pleasing in your sight.

    (Copyright © 2016, 2023 Aristotle A. Esguerra. May be freely used for non-commercial purposes.)

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  • melofluentmelofluent
    Posts: 4,160
    Tres kewl, Aristotle, thanks.
    Thanked by 1Aristotle Esguerra
  • dhalkjdhalkj
    Posts: 61
    The last one (Lent 3, Week 16) will be perfect at a nursing home mass I have to do on Tuesday of Week 19 (Yr 2) (Aug 9, 2016) because it matches the sweeter than honey imagery of the first reading and psalm that day
  • Kathy
    Posts: 5,499
    Excellent. Really well done!
    Thanked by 1Aristotle Esguerra
  • Gloria et honore (Ps 8:2, 5)

    June 24: Nativity of St. John the Baptist - At the Vigil Mass [OF, EF]

    • "'He will be filled with the Holy Spirit even from his mother’s womb.'"
      —Jn 1:15b [OF, EF]

    August 6: Transfiguration of the Lord [OF, EF]

    • "'We did not follow cleverly devised myths when we made known to you the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but we had been eyewitnesses of his majesty. For he received honor and glory from God the Father when that unique declaration came to him from the majestic glory, "This is my Son, my beloved, with whom I am well pleased."'"
      —2 Pt 1:16–17 [OF, EF]



    1. With glory and with honor, Lord,
      You crowned him from above,
      And set him over all the works
      That you prepared with love.


    2. O Lord, our Lord, how wonderful
      Your name in all the earth;
      For your divine magnificence
      Is infinite in worth.

    3. To you, Lord, what indeed is man,
      That you keep him in mind?
      The son of mortal man, that you
      Should toward him be so kind?

    (Copyright © 2016 Aristotle A. Esguerra. May be freely used for non-commercial purposes.)

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  • Iustus ut palma (Ps 91(92):13; 2–3, 14)

    June 24: Nativity of St. John the Baptist - At the Mass during the Day [OF, EF]

    • "'What, then, will this child be?' For surely the hand of the Lord was with him."
      —Lk 1:66 [OF, EF]



    1. Just as the palm tree flourishes,
      So shall the righteous one;
      He shall grow as the cedar tree
      That stands in Lebanon.


    2. It truly is both right and just
      To thank the sov’reign Lord,
      And to your name, Almighty God,
      To sing with one accord;

    3. To joyfully announce your love
      While breaks the morning light;
      And solemnly proclaim your truth
      Amid the dark of night.

    4. He who is planted in the house
      Of God the Lord Most High,
      Shall flourish most majestically,
      Increase and multiply.

    (Copyright © 2016 Aristotle A. Esguerra. May be freely used for non-commercial purposes.)

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  • Mihi autem (Cf. Ps 138(139):16b–17a, 1–5)

    June 29: Ss. Peter & Paul, Apostles - At the Vigil Mass [OF, EF]

    • "He said to him the third time, 'Simon, son of John, do you love me?' Peter was distressed that he had said to him a third time, 'Do you love me?' and he said to him, 'Lord, you know everything; you know that I love you.' [Jesus] said to him, 'Feed my sheep.'"
      —Jn 21:17 [OF, EF]



    1. To me, O God, how glorious is
      The honor of your friends;
      The mighty pow’r they wield goes out
      To earth’s remotest ends!


    2. You have examined and have known [2016 version]
      Lord, you examine and you know [2023 revision]
      The workings of my soul;
      My resting and my rising, Lord, [2016 version]
      My lying down and rising up [2023 revision]
      Completely you behold.

    3. [2016 version]
      My inmost thoughts you have perceived,
      When I was far away;
      You noticed when I’ve followed you
      And when from you I’ve strayed.


      [2023 revision]
      My inmost thoughts do you perceive
      When I am far away;
      You notice when I walk your paths
      And when from them I stray.

    4. Behold, O Lord, you know all things,
      The newest and the old; [2016 version]
      Those new and those of old; [2023 revision]
      You formed me and imposed on me
      Your hand of pow’r untold.

    (Copyright © 2016, 2023 Aristotle A. Esguerra. May be freely used for non-commercial purposes.)

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  • Constitues eos (Cf. Ps 44(45):17b–18a, 1–2, 16–17)

    June 29: Ss. Peter & Paul, Apostles - At the Mass during the Day [OF, EF]

    • "'You are Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church, and the gates of the netherworld shall not prevail against it. I will give you the keys to the kingdom of heaven. Whatever you bind on earth shall be bound in heaven; and whatever you loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.'"
      —Mt 16:18–19 [OF, EF]



    1. Great princes you shall make of them
      O’er all the earth to lead,
      To keep the mem’ry of your name,
      And spread your heav’nly creed.


    2. My heart o’erflows with noble words
      Of praises to the King;
      My tongue, as a composer’s pen,
      Pours out its offering.

    3. Surpassing all the sons of men
      In beauty you are formed;
      The grace of God the Lord Most High
      Upon your lips is poured.

    4. For evermore, O mighty one,
      By God have you been blest;
      So gird your sword upon your thigh,
      And in his truth progress.

    (Copyright © 2016 Aristotle A. Esguerra. May be freely used for non-commercial purposes.)

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  • Kathy
    Posts: 5,499
    I don't know if you want to say grace in the last verse above. Maybe "truth." The primary referrent in a Catholic reading is Jesus. You might even want to say "majesty" (for splendor, state, and triumph).

    Maybe: Triumphantly progress.
  • @Kathy — Thanks for this; I've replaced "grace" with "truth" in v.4 to keep things simple. (Let the homilist who preaches on the Offertory [do those exist?] expound on the splendor of truth!)

    The primary referrent in a Catholic reading is Jesus.

    Cannot be repeated enough.
    Thanked by 2Kathy CHGiffen
  • Kathy
    Posts: 5,499
    The primary referrent in a Catholic reading is Jesus.
  • fcbfcb
    Posts: 331
    What is the problem with "grace" in reference to Jesus? His sacred humanity was certainly the recipient of grace--indeed, the highest grace of all: the hypostatic union (sorry for the theological tangent; professional hazard).
  • chonakchonak
    Posts: 9,157
    It's a puzzling expression; for example, because we usually think of _persons_ rather than their _natures_ receiving grace. Perhaps that habit is wrong: I've never studied the theology of grace, so there's plenty I don't know.
  • Liam
    Posts: 4,939
    Whereas the Byzantine tradition seems to refer to God the Father much more, and the Trinity generally much more. There's an old saw that, roughly, says the historical temptation in Western Christianity (at least before the advent of Pentecostalism) is to reduce the Trinity to a monotheism of the Second Person, while the historical temptation in Eastern Christianity is veers towards what can look like tritheism to the uninformed.
  • Kathy
    Posts: 5,499
    Deacon Fritz is on good Thomistic ground here (ST III q. 7- 15). Thanks for giving something to think about :)

    Regarding the Lord as the primary referrent, a popular Christmas Psalm in the old Office, for example, is the one that says "open- handed he gives to the poor," which I take as having NT parallels in Phil 2:7 and 2 Cor 8:9.

    Another example is the Easter morning Psalm 138: "You know my resting and my rising."
  • Exaltabo te (Ps 29(30):2, 3; 4, 7–8a)

    Ash Wednesday [OF, EF]

    • "Then the Lord was stirred to concern for his land and took pity on his people."
      —Jl 2:18 [OF, EF]

    Seventeenth Week in Ordinary Time [OF]

    • "We know that all things work for good for those who love God, who are called according to his purpose."
      —Rom 8:28 [OF:A]

    • "'There is a boy here who has five barley loaves and two fish; but what good are these for so many?'"
      —Jn 6:9 [OF:B]

    • "'Ask and you will receive; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks, receives; and the one who seeks, finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened.'"
      —Lk 11:9–10 [OF:C]

    Eleventh Sunday after Pentecost [EF]

    • "And his ears were at once opened, and the bond of his tongue was loosed, and he began to speak correctly."
      —Mk 7:35 [EF]



    1. To you will I extend, O Lord,
      My praise and gratitude.
      You have not let my foes rejoice;
      My strength you have renewed.


    2. From deepest depths to you I cried,
      In agony and woe;
      From those who fall into the pit,
      O Lord, you saved my soul.

    3. Then in my fortune I declared
      That moved I ne’er shall be.
      Lord, by your will you have bestowed
      Your saving pow’r on me.

    (Copyright © 2016 Aristotle A. Esguerra. May be freely used for non-commercial purposes.)

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  • Sanctificavit (Ex 24:4, 5; 34:2, 5, 8–9; 33:13, 20–23)

    The Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ [OF:Option 2]

    • "'This is the bread that came down from heaven. Unlike your ancestors who ate and still died, whoever eats this bread will live forever.'"
      —Jn 6:58 [OF:A]

    • "If the blood of goats and bulls and the sprinkling of a heifer’s ashes can sanctify those who are defiled so that their flesh is cleansed, how much more will the blood of Christ, who through the eternal spirit offered himself unblemished to God, cleanse our consciences from dead works to worship the living God."
      —Heb 9:13–14 [OF:B]

    • "You are a priest for ever, in the line of Melchizedek."
      —Ps 109(110):4b [OF:C]

    Twenty-Fourth Week in Ordinary Time [OF]

    • "'The servant fell down, did him homage, and said, "Be patient with me, and I will pay you back in full." Moved with compassion the master of that servant let him go and forgave him the loan.'"
      —Mt 18:26–27 [OF:A]

    • "'Whoever wishes to come after me must deny himself, take up his cross, and follow me. For whoever wishes to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake and that of the gospel will save it.'"
      —Mk 8:34–35 [OF:B]

    Eighteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time [OF:C]

    • "'God said to him, "You fool, this night your life will be demanded of you; and the things you have prepared, to whom will they belong?" Thus will it be for all who store up treasure for themselves but are not rich in what matters to God.'"
      —Lk 12:20–21 [OF:C]

    Eighteenth Sunday after Pentecost [EF]

    • "'Which is easier, to say, "Your sins are forgiven you," or to say, "Arise, and walk"? But that you may know that the Son of Man has power on earth to forgive sins,' - then He said to the paralytic - 'Arise, take up your pallet and go to your house.' And he arose, and went away to his house."
      —Mt 9:5–7 [EF]



    1. Unto the Lord did Moses build
      An altar sanctified;
      Upon it did he offer God
      Oblations dignified.

    2. And in the evening Moses made
      Before all Israel’s sons
      
A fragrant incense sacrifice
      To God for every one.


    3. The Lord told Moses, “Come to me
      And wait on Sinai’s height.”
      When Moses reached the mountaintop,
      In cloud did God alight.

    4. There Moses worshiped and implored,
      “Forgive your people’s sin.”
      God answered, “Your request I grant,
      For faithful you have been.”

    5. Then Moses prayed, “O Lord my God,
      If I am in your grace,
      Reveal yourself before my eyes,
      That I may see your face.”

    6. The Lord replied, “No man can see
      My holy face and live,
      But of my glorious majesty
      A glimpse to you I give.”

    (Copyright © 2016 Aristotle A. Esguerra. May be freely used for non-commercial purposes.)

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  • BruceL
    Posts: 1,072
    There are people doing the Lord's work...

    ...but this is the next level. Bravo, Aristotle!
  • In te speravi (Ps 30(31):15, 16a; 17–18a, 20)

    The Holy Family of Jesus, Mary & Joseph [OF]

    • “The angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream and said, ‘Rise, take the child and his mother, flee to Egypt, and stay there until I tell you. Herod is going to search for the child to destroy him.’”
      —Mt 2:13 [OF:A]

    • “It had been revealed to Simeon by the Holy Spirit that he should not see death before he had seen the Messiah of the Lord.”
      —Lk 2:26 [OF:B]

    • “Those who keep his commandments remain in him, and he in them, and the way we know that he remains in us is from the Spirit he gave us.”
      —1 Jn 3:24 [OF:C]

    Nineteenth Week in Ordinary Time [OF]

    • “Peter said to him in reply, ‘Lord, if it is you, command me to come to you on the water. He said, ‘Come.’ Peter got out of the boat and began to walk on the water toward Jesus. But when he saw how [strong] the wind was he became frightened; and, beginning to sink, he cried out, ‘Lord, save me!’ Immediately Jesus stretched out his hand and caught him, and said to him, ‘O you of little faith, why did you doubt?’”
      —Mt 14:28–31 [OF:A]

    • “‘It is written in the prophets: “They shall all be taught by God.” Everyone who listens to my Father and learns from him comes to me.’”
      —Jn 6:45 [OF:B]

    • “‘You also must be prepared, for at an hour you do not expect, the Son of Man will come.’”
      —Lk 12:40 [OF:C]

    Thirteenth Sunday after Pentecost [EF]

    • “And as he entered into a certain town, there met him ten men that were lepers, who stood afar off; And lifted up their voice, saying: Jesus, master, have mercy on us.”
      —Lk 17:12–13 [EF]



    1. In you, O Lord, I put my trust.
      “You are my God,” I say,
      “My destiny is in your hands;
      Direct me in your way.


    2. “Upon your servant shine your face;
      Your life in me renew.
      And I will not be shamed, O Lord,
      For I have called on you.”

    3. [2016 version]
      Abundant is your grace for those
      Who fear you, Lord, aright:
      Your deeds for those who hope in you
      Before all peoples’ sight.


      [2023 revision]
      How great your goodness, kept for those
      Who fear you, Lord, aright:
      Perfecting all who hope in you
      In all the peoples’ sight.

    (Copyright © 2016, 2023 Aristotle A. Esguerra. May be freely used for non-commercial purposes.)

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  • Beata es, Virgo Maria (Offertoriale; [Ps 44(45):11–12, 17–18])

    August 15: The Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary - At the Vigil Mass [OF, EF]

    • “‘Blessed is the womb that carried you and the breasts at which you nursed.’”
      —Lk 11:27b [OF, EF]



    1. O Virgin Mary, you are blest;
      Your maker you have borne.
      You birthed him who created all,
      O Virgin e’er adorned.


    2. Give ear, O daughter: leave behind
      Your father and your kin.
      The king desires your loveliness;
      Pay homage, then, to him.

    3. Your sons, as rulers of the earth,
      Their fathers shall succeed;
      And by your e’er-remembered name
      Exalted shall you be.

    (Copyright © 2016 Aristotle A. Esguerra. May be freely used for non-commercial purposes.)

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  • Assumpta est (Offertoriale; [Ps 44(45):11–12, 17–18])

    August 15: The Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary - At the Mass during the Day [OF, EF]

    • “‘Blessed are you who believed that what was spoken to you by the Lord would be fulfilled.’”
      —Lk 1:45 [OF, EF]



    1. Today is Mary taken up
      Into the heav’nly height;
      The angel choirs give praise to God,
      Rejoicing with delight.


    2. The gate of paradise was closed
      By Eve’s unhappy fall,
      But by the Virgin Mary blest
      Was opened up for all.

    3. Give ear, O daughter: leave behind
      Your father and your kin.
      The king desires your loveliness;
      Pay homage, then, to him.

    4. Your sons, as rulers of the earth,
      Their fathers shall succeed;
      And by your e’er-remembered name
      Exalted shall you be.

    (Copyright © 2016 Aristotle A. Esguerra. May be freely used for non-commercial purposes.)

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    Thanked by 2CHGiffen Kathy
  • Immittet Angelus (Ps 33(34):8, 9; 2, 3–4, 6–7)

    Twentieth Week in Ordinary Time [OF]

    • “Jesus said to her in reply, ‘O woman, great is your faith! Let it be done for you as you wish.’ And her daughter was healed from that hour.”
      —Mt 15:28 [OF:A]

    • “‘Whoever eats my flesh and drinks my blood remains in me and I in him.’”
      —Jn 6:56 [OF:B]

    • “Consider how he endured such opposition from sinners, in order that you may not grow weary and lose heart.”
      —Heb 12:3 [OF:C]

    Fourteenth Sunday after Pentecost [EF]

    • “‘Therefore do not be anxious, saying, “What shall we eat?” or, “What shall we drink?” or, “What are we to put on?” – for after all these things the Gentiles seek; – for your Father knows that you need all these things. But seek first the Kingdom of God and His justice, and all these things shall be given you besides.’”
      —Mt 6:31–33 [EF]



    1. God’s holy Angel shall protect
      All those who fear the Lord;
      O taste and see how good he is,
      And trust his holy word.


    2. At all times I shall bless the Lord,
      His praise my tongue employ.
      In him my soul shall find its praise;
      The meek shall hear with joy.

    3. O magnify the Lord with me;
      Let us extol his name;
      Approach him and enlightened be,
      Your faces free from shame.

    4. This poor man cried out to the Lord;
      His pleading reached his ear.
      In mercy God delivered him
      From all his grief and fear.

    (Copyright © 2016 Aristotle A. Esguerra. May be freely used for non-commercial purposes.)

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  • Exspectans (Ps 39(40):2, 3, 4; 3b, 6a & 10a, 11a & 18b)

    Twenty-First Week in Ordinary Time [OF]

    • “‘Blessed are you, Simon son of Jonah. For flesh and blood has not revealed this to you, but my heavenly Father. And so I say to you, you are Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church, and the gates of the netherworld shall not prevail against it.’”
      —Mt 16:17–18 [OF:A]

    • “Simon Peter answered Jesus, ‘Master, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life. We have come to believe and are convinced that you are the Holy One of God.’”
      —Jn 6:68–69 [OF:B]

    • “‘And people will come from the east and the west and from the north and the south and will recline at table in the kingdom of God.’”
      —Lk 13:29 [OF:C]

    Fifteenth Sunday after Pentecost [EF]

    • “And he who was dead, sat up, and began to speak. And Jesus gave him to his mother.”
      —Lk 7:15 [EF]



    1. With hope I waited for the Lord
      And for his holy word;
      He mercif'lly stooped down to me
      And my petition heard.

    2. He set my feet upon a rock,
      And led me in his ways;
      He gave my mouth a canticle,
      A hymn of heav’nly praise.


    3. O Lord my God, how countless are
      The wonders you have done;
      No creature can compare to you,
      O Uncreated One.

    4. You know my justice, Lord my God;
      Your truth I did not hide,
      But your salvation I proclaimed,
      Announcing far and wide.

    (Copyright © 2016 Aristotle A. Esguerra. May be freely used for non-commercial purposes.)

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  • Domine in auxilium (Ps 39(40):14, 15; 15b, 2–3a)

    Twenty-Second Week in Ordinary Time [OF]

    • “Jesus began to show his disciples that he must go to Jerusalem and suffer greatly from the elders, the chief priests, and the scribes, and be killed and on the third day be raised.”
      —Mt 16:21 [OF:A]

    • “‘From within people, from their hearts, come evil thoughts, unchastity, theft, murder, adultery, greed, malice, deceit, licentiousness, envy, blasphemy, arrogance, folly. All these evils come from within and they defile.’”
      —Mk 7:21–23 [OF:B]

    • “You have approached Mount Zion and the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem, and countless angels in festal gathering, and the assembly of the firstborn enrolled in heaven, and God the judge of all, and the spirits of the just made perfect, and Jesus, the mediator of a new covenant, and the sprinkled blood that speaks more eloquently than that of Abel.”
      —Heb 12:22–24 [OF:C]

    Sixteenth Sunday after Pentecost [EF]

    • “At that time, when Jesus entered the house of one of the rulers of the Pharisees on the Sabbath to take food, they watched Him. And behold, there was a certain man before Him who had the dropsy. And Jesus asked the lawyers and Pharisees, saying, ‘Is it lawful to cure on the Sabbath?’”
      —Lk 14:1–4 [EF]



    1. Become my saving help, O Lord;
      Come quickly to my aid.
      In this my hour of pressing need,
      To you, my God, I pray.

    2. Let those who ponder ill of me
      And seek my soul to kill,
      Instead themselves be put to shame,
      Confounded by your will.


    3. With hope did I await the Lord, [2016 version]
      With hope I waited for the Lord [2023 revision]
      And on his holy word;
      He mercif’lly stooped down to me,
      And my petition heard.

    (Copyright © 2016, 2023 Aristotle A. Esguerra. May be freely used for non-commercial purposes.)

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  • Oravi Deum (Dn 9:4, 17, 19; 20; 10:9, 11, 13)

    Twenty-Third Week in Ordinary Time [OF]

    • “‘Amen, I say to you, whatever you bind on earth shall be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.’”
      —Mt 18:18 [OF:A]

    • “People brought to him a deaf man who had a speech impediment and begged him to lay his hand on him.”
      —Mk 7:32 [OF:B]

    • “I did not want to do anything without your consent, so that the good you do might not be forced but voluntary.”
      —Philem 1:14 [OF:C]

    Seventeenth Sunday after Pentecost [EF]

    • “I therefore, a prisoner in the Lord, beseech you that you walk worthy of the vocation in which you are called, With all humility and mildness, with patience, supporting one another in charity.”
      —Eph 4:1–2 [EF]



    1. I, Daniel, said, “O Lord my God,
      Attend to my request;
      And cause your face to shine upon
      Your sanctuary blest.

    2. “With loving kindness, Lord, behold
      This people you have claimed;
      Forgive the sins of us who have
      Invoked your holy name.”


    3. And as to God I spoke, and prayed,
      And Israel’s sins confessed,
      A voice from heav’n replied to me;
      This message he expressed:

    4. “Now understand the words I say:
      The Lord has sent me here;
      And Michael comes to help the one
      Who offers prayer sincere.”

    (Copyright © 2016 Aristotle A. Esguerra. May be freely used for non-commercial purposes.)

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  • Steve CollinsSteve Collins
    Posts: 1,021
    Thank you so very much, Aristotle.

    Wouldst thou consider as appropriate the following alternative for the Assumption of BVM? (Except maybe the 3rd line of the 1st verse - another word or phrase for "birthed"?)

    O Virgin Mary, thou art blest;
    Thy maker thou hast borne.
    Thou birthed him who created all,
    O Virgin e’er adorned.

    Give ear, O daughter: leave behind
    Thy father and thy kin.
    The king desires thy loveliness;
    Pay homage, then, to him.

    Thy sons, as rulers of the earth,
    Their fathers shall succeed;
    And by thine e’er-remembered name
    Exalted thou shalt be.

    (Copyright © 2016 Aristotle A. Esguerra. May be freely used for non-commercial purposes.) ?

    Thanks for your consideration.
  • Steve, you are welcome.

    I have lightly hieraticized versions of all of the above, and your proposal for the Annunciation happens to coincide with the one I have on file (minus capitalizations).

    As far as the 3rd line of the 1st verse goes,

    "Thou brought(’st) forth him who brought(’st) forth all"

    may or may not work, but it's the best I can do for now.

    (The 2nd and 3rd lines of verse 1 approximate "quae ómnium portásti Creatórem: genuísti qui te fecit", which the BCEW Processional translation has as "you have borne the creator of everything. You gave birth to him who made you".)
    Thanked by 1Steve Collins
  • Precatus est (Ex 32:11, 15, 13, 14; 33:17)

    Eighteenth Week in Ordinary Time [OF]

    • “His heart was moved with pity for them, and he cured their sick.”
      —Mt 14:14 [OF:A]

    • “‘Amen, amen, I say to you, it was not Moses who gave the bread from heaven; my Father gives you the true bread from heaven. For the bread of God is that which comes down from heaven and gives life to the world.’”
      —Jn 6:32–33

    Twenty-Fourth Sunday in Ordinary Time [OF:C]

    • “‘I tell you, there will be rejoicing among the angels of God over one sinner who repents.’”
      —Lk 15:10 [OF:C]

    Twelfth Sunday after Pentecost [EF]

    • “Which of these three, in thy opinion, was neighbour to him that fell among the robbers? But he said: He that shewed mercy to him. And Jesus said to him: Go, and do thou in like manner.”
      —Lk 10:36-37 [EF]



    1. With God the Lord did Moses plead,
      “Why are you filled with ire?
      Although your people gravely sinned,
      Condemn them not to fire.

    2. “Recall your vow to Abraham,
      Isaac, and Israël:
      The land with milk and honey filled,
      Where you would have them dwell.”

    3. The Lord relented from his wrath,
      His jealous eyes he closed;
      He spared them from the punishment
      He threatened to impose.


    4. The Lord to Moses then declared,
      “You are within my grace.
      I know you more than other souls;
      Come then before my face.”

    5. And Moses fell before the Lord
      And said, adoring him,
      “Your countless mercies take away
      Iniquity and sin.”

    6. Then Moses said with Aaron to
      The sons of Israël,
      “Come close to God in glorious cloud,
      Who hears your murmurs well.”

    (Copyright © 2016 Aristotle A. Esguerra. May be freely used for non-commercial purposes.)

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  • Protege (Graduale Romanum; Offertoriale)

    September 14: Exaltation of the Holy Cross [OF, EF]

    • “‘Just as Moses lifted up the serpent in the desert, so must the Son of Man be lifted up, so that everyone who believes in him may have eternal life.’”
      —Jn 3:14–15 [OF]

      • “‘Now is the judgment of the world: now shall the prince of this world be cast out. And I, if I be lifted up from the earth, will draw all things to myself.’ (Now this he said, signifying what death he should die.)”
        —Jn 12:31–33 [EF]



      1. May your most holy Cross, O Lord,
        Protect us from our foes;
        May you accept our sacrifice
        That we to you bestow.


      2. We humbly beg your mighty pow’r,
        O Cross of Christ our Lord:
        Make firm our hearts, defend our souls,
        And cleanse our thoughts and words.

      3. O Victim, hung upon the Cross
        For our salvation’s sake:
        Protect all those who bear your sign;
        In mercy keep them safe.

      4. O save us, Savior of the world,
        Grant us the help we need:
        Repel all evil from our lives;
        Our refuge ever be.

      (Copyright © 2016 Aristotle A. Esguerra. May be freely used for non-commercial purposes.)

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    • Si ambulavero (Ps 137(138):7; 3, 2)

      Twenty-Fifth Week in Ordinary Time [OF]

      • “Christ will be magnified in my body, whether by life or by death.”
        —Phil 1:20c [OF:A]

      • “‘Let us condemn him to a shameful death; for according to his own words, God will take care of him.’”
        —Wis 2:20 [OF:B]

      • “The LORD has sworn by the pride of Jacob: Never will I forget a thing they have done!”
        —Amos 8:7 [OF:C]

      Nineteenth Sunday after Pentecost [EF]

      • “Be renewed in the spirit of your mind, and put on the new man, which has been created according to God in justice and holiness of truth.”
        —Eph 4:23–24 [EF]



      1. Though I should walk through bitter strife
        And unrelenting woes,
        Your right hand, Lord, shall drive away
        The malice of my foes.


      2. Attend to me, O Lord, whene’er
        Upon you I should call;
        For you shall multiply your strength
        In my afflicted soul.

      3. Within your temple I adore
        And praise your holy name;
        Your loving kindness and your truth
        For ever I acclaim.

      (Copyright © 2016 Aristotle A. Esguerra. May be freely used for non-commercial purposes.)

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    • Super flumina (Ps 136(137):1; 2–4, 5–6, 7a)

      Twenty-Sixth Week in Ordinary Time [OF]

      • “Amen, I say to you, tax collectors and prostitutes are entering the kingdom of God before you. When John came to you in the way of righteousness, you did not believe him; but tax collectors and prostitutes did. Yet even when you saw that, you did not later change your minds and believe him.”
        —Mt 21:31b–32 [OF:A]

      • “Come now, you rich, weep and wail over your impending miseries.”
        —Jas 5:1 [OF:B]

      • “Woe to the complacent in Zion! … now they shall be the first to go into exile.”
        —Am 6:1a, 7a [OF:C]

      Twentieth Sunday after Pentecost [EF]

      • “Brethren: See to it that you walk with care: not as unwise but as wise, making the most of your time, because the days are evil.”
        —Eph 5:15–16 [EF]



      1. By Bab’lon’s streams we sat and wept,
        Rememb’ring Sion dear;
        And sorrowing, we hung our harps
        Upon the willows there.


      2. The songs of Sion from our lips
        Our captors dared demand.
        But how are we to sing God’s song
        Within an alien land?

      3. Should I forget Jerusalem,
        Let my right hand decay!
        And let my tongue be ever tied
        If my remembrance stray!

      4. Against the sons of Edom, Lord,
        Remember very well
        How they destroyed Jerusalem
        That day when Sion fell.

      (Copyright © 2016 Aristotle A. Esguerra. May be freely used for non-commercial purposes.)

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    • Vir erat (Job 1; 6:2, 11–12; 7:7b)

      Twenty-Seventh Week in Ordinary Time [OF]

      • “‘Finally, he sent his son to them, thinking, “They will respect my son.” But when the tenants saw the son, they said to one another, “This is the heir. Come, let us kill him and acquire his inheritance.” They seized him, threw him out of the vineyard, and killed him.’”
        —Mt 21:37–39 [OF:A]

      • “For it was fitting that he, for whom and through whom all things exist, in bringing many children to glory, should make the leader to their salvation perfect through suffering.”
        —Heb 2:10 [OF:B]

      • “Why do you let me see ruin; why must I look at misery?”
        —Hab 1:3a [OF:C]

      Twenty-First Sunday after Pentecost [EF]

      • “Our wrestling is not against flesh and blood, but against the Principalities and the Powers, against the world rulers of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness on high.”
        —Eph 6:12 [EF]



      1. There was a man whose name was Job,
        A blameless, rev’rent soul,
        Whom God the Lord let Satan tempt
        In keeping with his role.
        [2016 version]
        When Satan sought to tempt this man,
        God let him take control.
        [2023 revision]

      2. [2016 version]
        So Satan sorely tempted Job,
        Destroyed his goods and kin,
        And in malicious mockery
        Put sores all o’er his skin.


        [2023 revision]
        So Satan, when he tempted Job,
        Destroyed his goods and kin;
        His flesh he ravaged horribly
        With sores upon his skin.


      3. In his affliction Job exclaimed,
        “Oh! that my sins were weighed,
        And that this wrath upon me now
        Would seem more fiercely laid!

      4. “For what is my stoutheartedness,
        That strong I should remain?
        Or what is my true destiny,
        That I should patience gain?

      5. “My strength, is it like solid stone?
        My flesh, is it like brass?
        And yet, of all good things my eyes
        Have surely seen the last.”

      (Copyright © 2016, 2023 Aristotle A. Esguerra. May be freely used for non-commercial purposes.)

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    • Recordare mei (Esth 14:12, 13; 13, 14; Jer 18:20)

      Twenty-Eighth Week in Ordinary Time [OF]

      • “‘When the king came in to meet the guests he saw a man there not dressed in a wedding garment. He said to him, “My friend, how is it that you came in here without a wedding garment?” But he was reduced to silence.’”
        —Mt 22:11–12 [OF:A]

      • “No creature is concealed from him, but everything is naked and exposed to the eyes of him to whom we must render an account.”
        —Heb 4:13 [OF:B]

      • “And one of them, realizing he had been healed, returned, glorifying God in a loud voice; and he fell at the feet of Jesus and thanked him. He was a Samaritan.”
        —Lk 17:15–16 [OF:C]

      Twenty-Second Sunday after Pentecost [EF]

      • “‘Render, therefore, to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s, and to God the things that are God’s.’”
        —Mt 22:21 [EF]



      1. Remember me, Most Sov’reign Lord,
        And set my soul at ease:
        Put in my mouth the proper words
        That shall the king appease.


      2. O God our God, convert his heart
        To hatred of our foes,
        And save us by your mighty hand;
        To us your mercy show.
        [2016 version]
        And save us by your hand from them
        And those whom you oppose. [2023 revision]

      3. Recall the words I spoke of them [2016 version]
        Recall that I spoke well of them [2023 revision]
        While standing in your sight,
        The blessings and the prayers to turn [2016 version]
        And how I prayed that you would turn [2023 revision]
        From them your wrathful might.

      (Copyright © 2016, 2023 Aristotle A. Esguerra. May be freely used for non-commercial purposes.)

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    • Meditabor (Ps 118(119):47, 48; 57–58a, 58b–59)

      Second Sunday of Lent [OF]

      • “From the shining cloud the Father’s voice is heard: This is my beloved Son, hear him.”
        —Cf. Mt 17:5 [OF:ABC]

      Twenty-Ninth Week in Ordinary Time [OF]

      • “‘Repay to Caesar what belongs to Caesar and to God what belongs to God.’”
        —Mt 22:21 [OF:A]

      • “‘Whoever wishes to be great among you will be your servant; whoever wishes to be first among you will be the slave of all.’”
        —Mk 10:43–44 [OF:B]

      • “‘Will not God then secure the rights of his chosen ones who call out to him day and night? Will he be slow to answer them? I tell you, he will see to it that justice is done for them speedily. But when the Son of Man comes, will he find faith on earth?’”
        —Lk 18:7–8 [OF:C]

      Second Sunday in Lent [EF]

      • “And as he was yet speaking, behold a bright cloud overshadowed them. And lo, a voice out of the cloud, saying: This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased: hear ye him.”
        —Mt 17:5b [EF]



      1. I meditate on your commands,
        Which I have greatly loved;
        And as I love them, so I lift
        My hands to you above.


      2. O God, to keep your holy law
        For ever is my part,
        And for your favor ever blest
        I pray with all my heart.

      3. According to your promise, Lord,
        Be merciful to me;
        Return me to your saving path,
        My feet to your decrees.

      (Copyright © 2016 Aristotle A. Esguerra. May be freely used for non-commercial purposes.)

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    • Domine, vivifica me (Ps 118(119):107, 125; 124a & 43a, 73b & 108a)

      Thirtieth Week in Ordinary Time [OF]

      • “‘You shall love the Lord, your God, with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind. This is the greatest and the first commandment. The second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself. The whole law and the prophets depend on these two commandments.’”
        —Mt 22:37–40 [OF:A]

      • “Jesus said to him in reply, ‘What do you want me to do for you?’ The blind man replied to him, ‘Master, I want to see.’”
        —Mk 10:51 [OF:B]

      • “‘The tax collector stood off at a distance and would not even raise his eyes to heaven but beat his breast and prayed, “O God, be merciful to me a sinner.”’”
        —Lk 18:13 [OF:C]



      1. According to your word, O Lord,
        Breathe life into my soul,
        So that your judgments and decrees
        I may completely know.


      2. O Lord, your lowly servant prays:
        On me your mercy shine,
        And from my lips take not away
        Your word of truth divine.

      3. Your understanding give to me,
        That I may learn your ways;
        And may you make acceptable
        My offerings of praise.

      (Copyright © 2016 Aristotle A. Esguerra. May be freely used for non-commercial purposes.)

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    • Iustorum animae (Wis 3:1–2a, 3b; 3:4–5)

      November 1: All Saints [OF, EF]

      • “‘Blessed are you when they insult you and persecute you and utter every kind of evil against you falsely because of me. Rejoice and be glad, for your reward will be great in heaven.’”
        —Mt 5:11–12a [OF, EF]



      1. The righteous souls are ever held
        In God’s preserving hand;
        Their torments and their enemies
        Shall flee at his command.

      2. Though foolish eyes perceived the death
        Of God’s belovèd sons,
        They are at peace in heaven’s realm
        As endless ages run.


      3. And if they suffered agonies
        Before the sight of men,
        Their hope of immortality
        They held unto the end.

      (Copyright © 2016 Aristotle A. Esguerra. May be freely used for non-commercial purposes.)

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    • I must say that there is some awfully nice and laudable poetry presented in this thread!
      Let it increase.
      Thanked by 2CHGiffen eft94530
    • Domine Iesu Christe

      November 2: All Souls [OF, EF]

      • “‘This is the will of my Father, that everyone who sees the Son and believes in him may have eternal life, and I shall raise him [on] the last day.’”
        —Jn 6:40 [OF]

      • “‘Amen, amen, I say to you, the hour is coming, and now is here, when the dead shall hear the voice of the Son of God, and those who hear shall live.’”
        —Jn 5:25 [EF]



      1. Lord Jesus Christ, most glorious King,
        Deliver mercif’lly
        All faithfully departed souls
        From hell’s deep agony.

      2. O save them from the lion’s mouth
        And never-ending spite,
        Lest hell engulf them and they fall
        Into an endless night.

      3. May holy Michael lead them to
        Your bright eternity,
        Which once you vowed to Abraham
        And his posterity.

      4. We offer, Lord, this sacrifice,
        Our lowly prayers and praise;
        Accept them for the souls we keep
        In memory this day.

      5. And let them pass from death into
        Your immortality,
        Which once you vowed to Abraham
        And his posterity.

      (Copyright © 2016 Aristotle A. Esguerra. May be freely used for non-commercial purposes.)

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    • Benedic... et renovabitur (Ps 102(103):2, 5; 3a & 4, 17b–19)

      Second Sunday after the Nativity [OF]

      • “To those who did accept him he gave power to become children of God, to those who believe in his name, who were born not by natural generation nor by human choice nor by a man’s decision but of God.”
        —Jn 1:12–13 [OF:ABC]

      Thirty-First Week in Ordinary Time [OF]

      • “And for this reason we too give thanks to God unceasingly, that, in receiving the word of God from hearing us, you received not a human word but, as it truly is, the word of God, which is now at work in you who believe.”
        —1 Thes 2:13 [OF:A]

      • “‘Well said, teacher. You are right in saying, “He is One and there is no other than he.” And “to love him with all your heart, with all your understanding, with all your strength, and to love your neighbor as yourself” is worth more than all burnt offerings and sacrifices.’”
        —Mk 12:32–33 [OF:B]

      • “‘Today salvation has come to this house because this man too is a descendant of Abraham. For the Son of Man has come to seek and to save what was lost.’”
        —Lk 19:9–10 [OF:C]



      1. For ever bless the Lord, my soul;
        Recall his gracious deeds.
        And as the eagle high aloft,
        Your youth renewed shall be.


      2. He pardons all your sins, that you
        To hell may not go down;
        His mercy and solicitude
        He grants you as a crown.

      3. To children who his cov’nant keep
        His justice shall be giv’n;
        The Lord, whose reign is over all,
        Has set his throne in heav’n.

      (Copyright © 2016 Aristotle A. Esguerra. May be freely used for non-commercial purposes.)

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    • Domine, Deus in simplicitate (Cf. 1 Chr 29:17b, 18b; cf. 2 Chr 7:8, 11, 12; 2, 3)

      November 9: Dedication of the Lateran Basilica [OF, EF]

      • “‘Stop making my Father’s house a marketplace.’”
        —Jn 2:16 [OF]

      • “‘This day is salvation come to this house, because he also is a son of Abraham. For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost.’”
        —Lk 19:9–10 [EF]



      1. 2016 version:
        “To you, Lord God, with simplest heart
        I offer everything;

        To see your people gathered here
        Great joy to me does bring.

        2023 revision:
        “Lord, in simplicity of heart
        I offer all to you;
        To see your people gathered here
        Delights me through and through.

      2. “O God of Israel, hear my prayer:
        Confirm us in your grace
        Until that blessèd day, Lord God,
        When all shall see your face.”

      3. When Solomon, that wisest king,
        A festival would hold,
        The Lord, the God of Israël,
        His vision would behold.

      4. The glory of the Lord had built
        The temple on its site;
        Upon it Israël would see [2016 version]
        Upon it Israel's children saw [2023 revision]
        God’s majesty alight.

      5. And they would worship him and pray, [2016 version]
        In praise and worship they would say, [2023 revision]
        “Confirm us in your grace
        Until that blessèd day, Lord God,
        When all shall see your face.”

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    • Gressus meos (Ps 118(119):133; 130, 75 & 133b)

      Thirty-Second Week in Ordinary Time [OF]

      • “‘Stay awake and be ready! For you do not know on what day your Lord will come.’”
        —Mt 24:42a, 44 [OF:A]

      • “‘Beware of the scribes, who like to go around in long robes and accept greetings in the marketplaces, seats of honor in synagogues, and places of honor at banquets. They devour the houses of widows and, as a pretext recite lengthy prayers. They will receive a very severe condemnation.’”
        —Mk 12:38–40 [OF:B]

      • “May the Lord direct your hearts to the love of God and to the endurance of Christ.”
        —2 Thes 3:5 [OF:C]



      1. Direct my footsteps, Lord my God,
        To follow your command,
        That sin may neither master me [2016 version]
        That sin may neither conquer me [2023 revision]
        Nor gain the upper hand.


      2. The declaration of your words
        Surrounds my soul with light, [2016 version]
        Immerses me in light, [2023 revision]
        And unto children’s minds conveys
        Your wisdom’s piercing sight.

      3. O Lord, your judgments and your laws
        Themselves are equity;
        And for the sake of truth, I know
        That you have humbled me.

      (Copyright © 2016, 2023 Aristotle A. Esguerra. May be freely used for non-commercial purposes.)

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    • De profundis (Ps 129(130):1–2; 3[–4, 5–6, 7–8])

      Thirty-Third Week in Ordinary Time [OF]

      • “‘Stay awake, for you know neither the day nor the hour.’”
        —Mt 25:13 [OF:A]

      • “You yourselves know very well that the day of the Lord will come like a thief at night.”
        —1 Thes 5:2 [OF:B]

      • “‘Stand erect and raise your heads because your redemption is at hand.’”
        —Lk 21:28 [OF:C]

      Twenty-Third Sunday after Pentecost [EF]

      • “‘Take courage, daughter; your faith has saved you.’”
        —Mt 9:22 [EF]



      1. Lord, from the depths I cry to you,
        O listen to my prayer;
        Unto the voice of my appeal
        Lend your attentive ear.


      2. Oh, who could stand if you, O Lord,
        Should mark iniquities?
        But mercy you are pleased to give,
        That honored you may be.

      3. Therefore my soul shall hope in God,
        Relying on his word;
        More than nightwatchmen wait for dawn
        I wait for you, O Lord.

      4. For with the Lord is mercy found,
        Redemption to be giv’n;
        And Israël he shall redeem
        From all their grievous sin.

      (Copyright © 2016 Aristotle A. Esguerra. May be freely used for non-commercial purposes.)

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    • Postula a me (Ps 2:8; 1, 4, 7, 6)

      Christ the King [OF, EF]

      • “‘When the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all the angels with him, he will sit upon his glorious throne, and all the nations will be assembled before him.’”
        —Mt 25:31–32a [OF:A]

      • “‘My kingdom does not belong to this world. If my kingdom did belong to this world, my attendants would be fighting to keep me from being handed over to the Jews. But as it is, my kingdom is not here.’”
        —Jn 18:36 [OF:B, EF]

      • “‘Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.’”
        —Lk 23:42 [OF:C]



      1. “‘Ask of me, and your heritage
        The nations I shall make.
        My Son, the ends of all the earth
        Possession you shall take.’”


      2. Why do the nations writhe in rage
        And uselessly conspire?
        The Lord from heav’n shall laugh at them
        And scoff with holy ire:

      3. “‘This day have I begotten you,’
        The Lord to me intoned,
        ‘The King to rule by my command
        On Sion’s holy throne.’”

      (Copyright © 2016 Aristotle A. Esguerra. May be freely used for non-commercial purposes.)

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    • Bonum est confiteri (Ps 91(92):2; 6, 10, 11 & 12)

      Fourth Week in Ordinary Time [OF]

      • “‘It is due to him that you are in Christ Jesus, who became for us wisdom from God, as well as righteousness, sanctification, and redemption, so that, as it is written, ‘Whoever boasts, should boast in the Lord.’”
        —1 Cor :31–32a [OF:A]

      • “All were amazed and asked one another, ‘What is this? A new teaching with authority. He commands even the unclean spirits and they obey him.’”
        —Mk 1:27 [OF:B]

      • “All spoke highly of him and were amazed at the gracious words that came from his mouth.”
        —Lk 4:22a [OF:C]

      Thirty-Fourth Week in Ordinary Time (except Sunday) [OF]

      Septuagesima Sunday [EF]

      • “‘“I will also give to this last even as to thee.”’”
        —Mt 20:14b



      1. It truly is both right and just
        To thank the sov’reign Lord,
        And to your name, O God Most High,
        To sing with one accord.


      2. How wondrous are your works, O Lord!
        Profound are your decrees!
        Too deeply are your counsels set
        For hardened hearts to see.

      3. Behold, O Lord, your enemies
        Shall perish and decay;
        And those that work iniquity
        Shall cast themselves away.

      4. My horn shall then exalted be,
        My old age rich in love,
        Because the downfall of my foes
        I witnessed from above.

      (Copyright © 2016 Aristotle A. Esguerra. May be freely used for non-commercial purposes.)

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    • Deus tu convertens (Ps 84(85):7–8; 2–3a, 11a, 12)

      Second Week of Advent [OF, EF]

      • “‘I am baptizing you with water, for repentance, but the one who is coming after me is mightier than I. I am not worthy to carry his sandals. He will baptize you with the holy Spirit and fire.’”
        —Mt 3:11 [OF:A]

      • “John the Baptist appeared in the desert proclaiming a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins.”
        —Mk 1:4 [OF:B]

      • “‘All flesh shall see the salvation of God.’”
        —Lk 3:6 [OF:C]

      • “The Gentiles are to glorify God for his mercy, as it is written: Therefore will I confess to thee, O Lord, among the Gentiles, and will sing to thy name. And again he saith: Rejoice, ye Gentiles, with his people.”
        —Rom 15:9–10 [EF]



      1. Make us to see your goodness, Lord;
        To us your mercy show.
        Your saving health to us provide;
        Your life in us renew.


      2. Lord, you have granted to your land
        The blessings long implored;
        And Israël, your chosen one,
        From guilt you have restored.

      3. Now truth, arisen from the earth,
        With mercy has convened;
        And justice has looked down from heav’n
        With countenance serene.

      (Copyright © 2016 Aristotle A. Esguerra. May be freely used for non-commercial purposes.)

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    • Ave Maria (Lk 1:28, 42; 34–35a, 35b)

      Fourth Sunday of Advent [OF, EF]

      • “‘The virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall name him Emmanuel.’”
        —Is 7:14 [OF:A]

      • “‘Your house and your kingdom are firm forever before me; your throne shall be firmly established forever.’”
        —2 Sm 7:16 [OF:B]

      • “‘Blessed are you who believed that what was spoken to you by the Lord would be fulfilled.’”
        —Lk 1:45 [OF:C]

      • “The Lord is near to all who call upon Him, to all who call upon Him in truth.”
        —Ps 144:18 [EF]

      December 8: Immaculate Conception [OF, EF]

      • “‘I will put enmities between you and the woman, and your seed and her seed: she shall crush your head, and you shall lie in wait for her heel.’”
        —Gen 3:15 [OF]

      • “He who finds me finds life, and wins favor from the Lord.”
        —Prov 8:35 [EF]

      January 1: Solemnity of Mary, the Holy Mother of God* [OF]

      • “When the fullness of time had come, God sent his Son, born of a woman, born under the law, to ransom those under the law, so that we might receive adoption.”
        —Gal 4:4–5

      March 25: Annunciation [OF, EF]

      • “‘I will put enmities between you and the woman, and your seed and her seed: she shall crush your head, and you shall lie in wait for her heel.’”
        —Gen 3:15 [OF]

      • “‘The virgin shall be with child, and bear a Son, and shall name Him Emmanuel.’”
        —Is 7:14 [OF, EF]

      *differs from the chant assigned in the Graduale Romanum 1974.



      1. “Hail, Holy Mary, full of grace;
        With you is God the Lord.
        Among all women you are blest,
        Your womb its fruit adored.”


      2. [2016 version]
        “How can this be,” the Virgin asked,
        “Since man I do not know?”

        And Gabriel said, “The Holy Ghost
        Himself to you shall show.

        [2023 revision]
        The Virgin asked, “How can this be,
        “Since I do not know man?”
        And Gabriel said, “The Holy Ghost
        Shall carry out his plan:

      3. “His pow’r shall overshadow you
        And so shall you conceive;
        Therefore, the child that you shall bear
        The Son of God shall be.”

      (Copyright © 2016, 2023 Aristotle A. Esguerra. May be freely used for non-commercial purposes.)

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