Common-Meter Offertories for the Liturgical Year [2023 Revised and Expanded Edition]
  • Benedixisti (Ps 84(85):2–3a; 3b–4a, 8)

    Third Week of Advent [OF, EF]

    • “‘Go and tell John what you hear and see: the blind regain their sight, the lame walk, lepers are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, and the poor have the good news proclaimed to them. And blessed is the one who takes no offense at me.’”
      —Mt 11:4–6 [OF:A]

    • “‘I baptize with water; but there is one among you whom you do not recognize, the one who is coming after me, whose sandal strap I am not worthy to untie.’”
      —Jn 1:26–27 [OF:B; EF]

    • “‘I am baptizing you with water, but one mightier than I is coming. I am not worthy to loosen the thongs of his sandals. He will baptize you with the holy Spirit and fire.’”
      —Lk 3:16 [OF:C]



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


    2. You pardoned their iniquity
      And cleansed them from their sin.
      Your righteous anger you restrained;
      You kept your wrath within.

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

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

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  • Tollite portas (Ps 23(24):7; 1, 2)

    Nativity of the Lord [Christmas]: At the Vigil Mass [OF, EF]

    [ Vigil | Night | Dawn | Day ]

    • “‘Do not be afraid, Joseph, son of David, to take to you Mary your wife, for that which is begotten in her is of the Holy Spirit.’”
      —Mt 1:20 [OF, EF]



    1. You mighty gates and ancient doors
      Lift up your heads on high!
      The King of glory then shall come
      In wondrous majesty.


    2. The Lord’s possession is the earth [2016 version]
      The Lord possesses all the earth [2023 version]
      And all that it contains;
      The world did he alone conceive,
      And all that it sustains.

    3. Its own foundations God Most High
      Upon the seas did lay,
      And he himself established it
      Upon the floods to stay.

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

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  • Laetentur caeli (Ps 95(96):11; 1, 2)

    Nativity of the Lord [Christmas]: At the Mass during the Night [OF, EF]

    [ Vigil | Night | Dawn | Day ]

    • “Suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying: Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among men of good will.”
      —Lk 2:14 [OF, EF]



    1. Let all the heav’ns above be glad,
      And let the earth rejoice
      Before the presence of the Lord;
      Sing with exultant voice.


    2. Sing out with praise unto the Lord
      New canticles of mirth;
      Sing unto him wholeheartedly,
      All nations of the earth.

    3. For ever sing unto the Lord;
      Extol his holy name,
      And his salvation joyfully
      From day to day proclaim.

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

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  • Deus enim (Ps 92(93):1c, 2; 1ab, 4b–5)

    Nativity of the Lord [Christmas]: At the Mass at Dawn [OF, EF]

    [ Vigil | Night | Dawn | Day ]

    • “The shepherds went with haste, and they found Mary and Joseph, and the Babe lying in the manger. And when they had seen, they understood what had been told them concerning this Child.”
      —Lk 2:16–17 [OF, EF]



    1. The Lord has formed the sphere of earth, [2016 version]
      The Lord has formed the world of earth, [2023 revision]
      Which moved shall never be;
      Established is your throne, O God,
      From all eternity.


    2. The Lord is King, and robed is he
      In glory ever bright;
      He girds himself in pow’r divine
      And clothes himself in might.

    3. Majestic is the Lord on high;
      He rules with righteousness.
      For ever is his house adorned
      With fitting holiness.

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

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  • Tui sunt caeli (Ps 88(89):12, 15a; 8b & 10, 15b & 18b, 11 & 14b)

    Nativity of the Lord [Christmas]: At the Mass during the Day [OF, EF]

    [ Vigil | Night | Dawn | Day ]

    • “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God; and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things were made through Him, and without Him was made nothing that has been made. In Him was life, and the life was the light of men. And the light shines in the darkness; and the darkness grasped it not.”
      —Jn 1:1–5 [OF, EF]



    1. The heavens and the earth are yours,
      Their fullness yours alone;
      Your justice and your righteousness
      Prepare your holy throne.


    2. How great and awesome is the Lord
      Above the ones he saves;
      He rules the power of the sea
      And stills its crashing waves.

    3. Your mercy and your saving truth
      Shall go before your face;
      According to your holy will
      Our power shall be raised.

    4. You have cut down your prideful foes
      And cast them from your sight.
      Your arm, O Lord, is full of strength,
      Your right hand great in might.

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

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  • Reges Tharsis (Ps 71(72):10, 11; 2 & 11b, 7 & 8b)

    Epiphany of the Lord [OF, EF]

    • “When Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea, in the days of King Herod, behold, magi from the east arrived in Jerusalem, saying, ‘Where is the newborn king of the Jews? We saw his star at its rising and have come to do him homage.’”
      —Mt 2:1–2 [OF, EF]

    Baptism of the Lord [EF]

    • “‘Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world.’”
      —Jn 1:29 [EF]



    1. The kings of Tarshish and the isles
      To God shall tribute pay;
      Arabia and Sheba shall
      Their gifts before him lay.

    2. All kings on earth shall worship him,
      And him alone adore;
      All nations voluntarily
      Shall serve him ever more.


    3. O Lord, your judgments give the king,
      And justice to his son,
      To judge your people and the poor
      With truth for every one.

    4. O may the lofty mountains bring
      Unto your people peace;
      And may the lowly foothills bring
      True justice and redress.

    5. Abundant peace and righteousness
      Shall in his days expand;
      And he, till shines the moon no more,
      Shall all the earth command.

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

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  • Benedictus, qui venit (Ps 117(118):26, 27; 24, 22, 23)

    Baptism of the Lord [OF]

    • “Jesus came from Galilee to John at the Jordan to be baptized by him.”
      —Mt 3:13 [OF:A]; cf. Mk 1:9 [OF:B]

    • “‘I am baptizing you with water, but one mightier than I is coming. I am not worthy to loosen the thongs of his sandals. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire.’”
      —Lk 3:16 [OF:C]



    1. [2016 version]
      He who approaches in God’s name
      Is blest and gives us light;

      We bless you from the house of God,
      For it is just and right.


      [2023 revision]
      How blest is he who in the Lord's
      Most holy name draws near!
      We bless you from the house of God
      The Lord, our light most clear.


    2. This is the holy day indeed
      That God himself has made;
      Let us therefore rejoice in it
      With praises well conveyed.
      [2016 version]
      The Lord himself has made,
      So let us all rejoice in it
      With praises gladly prayed. [2023 revision]

    3. [2016 version]
      The stone, which formerly among
      The builders was refused,

      Has now become the cornerstone
      For ever to be used.

      [2023 revision]
      The stone which once the builders had
      Rejected as they planned,
      Has now become the cornerstone
      For evermore to stand.

    4. [2023 addition]
      The Lord has done it, and secures
      His enemies' demise;
      This work of God we now behold
      Is wondrous in our eyes.

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

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  • Iubilate Deo omnis (Ps 99(100):2–3a; 3b, 4b–5)

    First Week in Ordinary Time (except Baptism of the Lord) [OF]

    Ferias of the First Week after Epiphany [EF]



    1. O earth, sing joyfully to God;
      With gladness serve the Lord.
      Exult before his holy face,
      For he himself is God.


    2. The Lord alone created us—
      The Lord, not we ourselves.
      His people and his sheep we are,
      And in his pasture dwell.

    3. Because the Lord our God is good,
      Extol his holy name;
      His mercy and unchanging truth
      For ever shall remain.

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

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  • Iubilate Deo universa (Ps 65(66):1, 2, 16; 13b–14a, 14b–15a)

    Fifth Sunday of Easter [OF]

    • “‘Amen, amen, I say to you, whoever believes in me will do the works that I do, and will do greater ones than these, because I am going to the Father.’”
      —Jn 1:29 [OF:A]

    • “‘If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask for whatever you want and it will be done for you.’”
      —Jn 15:7 [OF:B]

    • “‘As I have loved you, so you also should love one another.’”
      —Jn 13:34 [OF:C]

    Fourth Sunday after Easter [EF]

    • “‘When he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will teach you all truth.’”
      —Jn 16:13a [EF]

    Second Week in Ordinary Time [OF]; Second Sunday after Epiphany [EF]

    • “John the Baptist saw Jesus coming toward him and said, ‘Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world.’”
      —Jn 1:29 [OF:A]

    • “You have been purchased at a price.”
      —1 Cor 6:20a [OF:B]

    • “‘Everyone serves good wine first, and then when people have drunk freely, an inferior one; but you have kept the good wine until now.’”
      —Lk 3:16 [OF:C; EF]



    1. Let all the earth cry out to God;
      May joyful songs be raised.
      Sing psalms in honor of his name,
      And spread his glorious praise.

    2. I make his many marvels known
      And sing them rev’rently.
      Come, all who fear the Lord, and hear
      His wonders wrought for me.


    3. To you, O Lord, my vows I pay,
      Those which my mouth declared:
      In my distress I promised you
      An off’ring well prepared.

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

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  • Dextera Domini (Ps 117(118):16, 17; 5–6a, 13 & 14b)

    Easter Vigil [OF]

    • “‘We know that our old self was crucified with him, so that our sinful body might be done away with, that we might no longer be in slavery to sin. For a dead person has been absolved from sin.”
      —Rom 6:6–7 [OF]

    Holy Thursday [EF]

    • “‘Know you what I have done to you? You call Me Master and Lord. And you say well; for so I am. If then I being your Lord and Master, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another's feet.’”
      —Jn 13:13–14 [EF]

    Third Week in Ordinary Time [OF]

    • “The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; upon those who dwelt in the land of gloom a light has shone.”
      —Is 9:1 [OF:A]

    • “‘Come after me, and I will make you fishers of men.’”
      —Mk 1:17 [OF:B]

    • “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he has anointed me to bring glad tidings to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim liberty to captives and recovery of sight to the blind, to let the oppressed go free, and to proclaim a year acceptable to the Lord.”
      —Lk 4:18–19 [OF:C]

    Third Sunday after Epiphany [EF]

    • “Jesus said to the centurion, ‘Go your way; as you have believed, so be it done to you. And the servant was healed in that hour.’”
      —Mt 8:13 [EF]

    Fourth Sunday after Epiphany [EF]

    • “The men wondered, saying, ‘What manner of man is this, for the winds and the sea obey him?’”
      —Mt 8:27 [EF]

    Fifth Sunday after Epiphany [EF]

    • “‘Gather up the weeds first, and bind them in bundles to burn; but gather the wheat into my barns.’”
      —Mt 13:30 [EF]

    Sixth Sunday after Epiphany [EF]

    • “‘The kingdom of heaven is like to a grain of mustard seed, which a man took and sowed in his field. Which is the least indeed of all seeds; but when it is grown up, it is greater than all herbs, and becometh a tree, so that the birds of the air come, and dwell in the branches thereof.’”
      —Mt 13:31–32 [EF]



    1. The Lord’s right hand has shown its pow’r
      And has exalted me;
      I shall not die, but live to tell
      The Lord’s most wondrous deeds.


    2. I sought the Lord in my distress;
      He heard my cry of grief.
      And as my helper is the Lord, [2016 version]
      And as he is my saving help, [2023 revision]
      He brought me blest relief.

    3. I was hard pressed that I might fall,
      But God had me upraised.
      He has become my saving strength;
      May he be ever praised.

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

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  • Diffusa est (Ps 44(45):3bc; [1–2,] 4)

    February 2: Presentation of the Lord [OF]; Purification of the Blessed Virgin Mary [EF]

    • “Simeon came in the Spirit into the temple; and when the parents brought in the child Jesus to perform the custom of the law in regard to him, he took him into his arms and blessed God.”
      —Lk 2:27–28 [OF, EF]



    1. The grace of God the Lord Most High
      Upon your lips is poured;
      Therefore by him have you been blest
      Both now and evermore.


    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. In your resplendent majesty,
      Triumphantly progress;
      And in your glorious dignity,
      May you gain good success.

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

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  • Perfice (Ps 16(17):5, 6, 7; 1a, 8b & 13b, 15)

    Fifth Week in Ordinary Time [OF]

    • “‘Your light must shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your heavenly Father.’”
      —Mt 5:16 [OF:A]

    • “He cured many who were sick with various diseases, and he drove out many demons, not permitting them to speak because they knew him.”
      —Mk 1:34 [OF:B]

    • “Jesus said to Simon, ‘Do not be afraid; from now on you will be catching men.’”
      —Lk 5:10b [OF:C]

    Sexagesima Sunday [EF]

    • “If I must needs glory, I will glory of the things that concern my infirmity.”
      —2 Cor 11:30 [EF]

    Twelfth Week in Ordinary Time [OF]

    • “‘Your Father knows what you need before you ask him.’”
      —Mt 6:8 [OF:A]

    • “Jesus was in the stern, asleep on a cushion. They woke him and said to him, ‘Teacher, do you not care that we are perishing?’ He woke up, rebuked the wind, and said to the sea, ‘Quiet! Be still!’ The wind ceased and there was great calm.”
      —Mk 4:38–39 [OF:B]

    • “‘If anyone wishes to come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me. For whoever wishes to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will save it.’”
      —Lk 9:23–24 [OF:C]

    Sixth Sunday after Pentecost [EF]

    • “Know you not that all we, who are baptized in Christ Jesus, are baptized in his death?”
      —Rom 6:3 [EF]



    1. As I traverse your paths, O Lord,
      Direct my feet and heart,
      That from your ways in which I walk
      My steps may not depart.

    2. Whenever I call out to you,
      To me incline your ear;
      Your kindness show to those who do
      Their hope in you declare.


    3. O God my Savior, hear my cause,
      And listen to my cry:
      Protect and keep me as you would
      The apple of your eye.

    4. Conceal me, Lord, securely in
      The shadow of your wings;
      Deliver me from wickedness
      And from whom evil springs.

    5. Then as for me, before your sight
      In justice shall I be,
      And satisfied when you reveal
      Your majesty to me.

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

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  • Benedictus es… in labiis (Ps 118(119):12, 13; 1–2 & 22a & 30b, 14, 29–30 & 32)

    Sixth Week in Ordinary Time [OF]

    • “‘I tell you, unless your righteousness surpasses that of the scribes and Pharisees, you will not enter into the kingdom of heaven.’”
      —Mt 5:20 [OF:A]

    • “A leper came to him [and kneeling down] begged him and said, ‘If you wish, you can make me clean.’ Moved with pity, he stretched out his hand, touched him, and said to him, ‘I do will it. Be made clean.’ The leprosy left him immediately, and he was made clean.”
      —Mk 1:40–42 [OF:B]

    • “Blessed are those who trust in the Lord; the Lord will be their trust.”
      —Jer 17:7 [OF:C]

    Quinquagesima Sunday [EF]

    • “And Jesus standing, commanded him to be brought unto him. And when he was come near, he asked him, Saying: What wilt thou that I do to thee? But he said: Lord, that I may see. And Jesus said to him: Receive thy sight: thy faith hath made thee whole. And immediately he saw, and followed him, glorifying God. And all the people, when they saw it, gave praise to God.”
      —Lk 18:40–43 [EF]



    1. For ever blest are you, O Lord;
      Teach me your just decrees.
      My lips shall then declare the way
      That you make known to me.


    2. How blest are they who ever keep
      The pure and perfect way,
      Who never from the sacred paths
      Of God’s commandments stray!

    3. Contempt and scorn remove from them,
      The people you preserve;
      They do not dare forget your words,
      But your commands observe.

    4. I take delight in your decrees
      As in the greatest wealth;
      Remove me from the evil way,
      Restore my soul to health.

    5. Because I choose the way of truth,
      Your laws to me impart;
      I run the way of your commands
      For you have grown my heart.

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

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  • Intende voci (Ps 5:3, 4; 2, 9b & 12ac)

    Seventh Week in Ordinary Time [OF]

    • “‘Be perfect, just as your heavenly Father is perfect.’”
      —Mt 5:48 [OF:A]

    • “‘Which is easier, to say to the paralytic, “Your sins are forgiven,” or to say, “Rise, pick up your mat and walk”? But that you may know that the Son of Man has authority to forgive sins on earth’ — he said to the paralytic, ‘I say to you, rise, pick up your mat, and go home.’”
      —Mk 2:9–11 [OF:B]

    • “‘Be merciful, just as [also] your Father is merciful.’”
      —Lk 6:36 [OF:C]



    1. To you I voice my humble prayer,
      My Savior and my God;
      May my petition reach your ear,
      My King and sov’reign Lord.


    2. Make haste and hearken unto me,
      And listen as I pray;
      My cry of supplication hear:
      O Lord, make straight my way.

    3. Let all who hope in you, O Lord,
      Rejoice for all their days,
      And all who love your holy name
      For ever sing your praise.

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

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  • Domine convertere (Ps 6:5; 2, 3)

    Eighth Week in Ordinary Time [OF]

    • “Can a mother forget her infant, be without tenderness for the child of her womb? Even should she forget, I will never forget you.”
      —Is 49:15 [OF:A]

    • “‘The days will come when the bridegroom is taken away from them, and then they will fast on that day.’”
      —Mk 2:20 [OF:B]

    • “‘A good person out of the store of goodness in his heart produces good, but an evil person out of a store of evil produces evil; for from the fullness of the heart the mouth speaks.’”
      —Lk 6:45 [OF:C]

    Second Sunday after Pentecost [EF]

    • “‘“Go out into the highways and hedges, and make them come in, so that my house may be filled. For I tell you that none of those who were invited shall taste of my supper.”’”
      —Lk 14:23–24 [EF]



    1. Remember, Lord, your saving help;
      Your pity on me take.
      And save me, not as I deserve,
      But for your mercy’s sake.


    2. Lord, in your wrath rebuke me not.
      Condemn me not to fire,
      Nor punish me in endless rage;
      Restrain your rightful ire.

    3. Afflict me not, for I am weak;
      Your mercy grant instead.
      And heal me, Lord, because my bones
      Are quivering with dread.

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

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  • Scapulis suis (Ps 90(91):4–5; 2a & 5b–6a, 11 & 12b, 13–14b)

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

    • “Jesus said to him, ‘Begone, Satan, for it is written, “The Lord your God shall you worship and Him only shall you serve.”’ Then the devil left Him; and behold, angels came and ministered to Him.”
      —Mt 4:10–11 [OF:A; EF]

    • “The Spirit drove Jesus out into the desert, and he remained in the desert for forty days, tempted by Satan. He was among wild beasts, and the angels ministered to him.”
      —Mk 1:12–13 [OF:B]

    • “‘It is written: “You shall worship the Lord, your God,
      and him alone shall you serve.”’”

      —Lk 4:8 [OF:C]



    1. The wings of God shall cover you
      And keep you well concealed.
      Beneath them you shall find your hope;
      His truth shall be your shield.


    2. He shall declare unto the Lord,
      “You are my refuge sure;
      You are my fortress and my God,
      My only hope secure.”

    3. You neither shall have need to fear
      The terrors of the night,
      Nor any arrows that by day
      Take up their threat’ning flight.

    4. For angels’ hands shall bear you up,
      And you they’ll wait upon,
      Lest you at any time should dash
      Your foot against a stone.

    5. Upon the asp, the basilisk,
      And lion you shall tread;
      And you shall trample underfoot
      The evil dragon’s head.

    6. I surely shall deliver him
      For he has hoped in me;
      Because my holy name he knows,
      Salvation shall he see.

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

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  • Veritas mea (Cf. Ps 88(89):25, 20bc, 28, 37)

    March 19: Saint Joseph, Spouse of the Blessed Virgin Mary [OF, EF]

    • “‘Do not be afraid, Joseph, son of David, to take to you Mary your wife, for that which is begotten in her is of the Holy Spirit. And she shall bring forth a Son, and you shall call His name Jesus; for He shall save His people from their sins.’”
      —Mt 1:20b–21 [OF: Option 1; EF]

    • “When his parents saw him, they were astonished, and his mother said to him, ‘Son, why have you done this to us? Your father and I have been looking for you with great anxiety.’ And he said to them, ‘Why were you looking for me? Did you not know that I must be in my Father’s house?’”
      —Lk 2:48–49 [OF: Option 2]



    1. My truth and mercy shall abide
      With him for evermore,
      And in my name his horn shall rise;
      His greatness shall endure.


    2. I placed my crown of holy pow’r
      Upon this mighty one,
      And from my people magnified
      This highly favored son.

    3. The love that I have given him
      I never shall efface;
      For ever in my sight divine
      Shall stand his rightful place.

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

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  • Laudate Dominum (Ps 134(135):3, 6; 2 & 5, 13–14, 20b & 21)

    Fourth Sunday of Lent [OF:AB]

    • “‘He put clay on my eyes, and I washed, and now I can see.’”
      —Jn 9:15 [OF:A]

    • “‘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:B]

    Fourth Sunday in Lent [EF]

    • “When the people, therefore, had seen the sign which Jesus had worked, they said, This is indeed the Prophet Who is to come into the world. So when Jesus perceived that they would come to take Him by force and make Him king He fled again to the mountain, Himself alone.”
      —Jn 6:14–15



    1. O praise the Lord for he is good;
      Extol his gracious name.
      His will in heaven and on earth
      Is done to great acclaim.


    2. All you within his temple courts
      Praise him with one accord,
      For I myself have recognized
      How great is God our Lord.

    3. Your name and your memorial, Lord,
      For ever shall endure;
      The Lord shall judge his chosen ones,
      His servants’ souls secure.

    4. Bless him, all you who fear the Lord,
      From Sion’s holy mount;
      Who dwells in fair Jerusalem,
      His wondrous deeds recount.

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

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  • Confitebor tibi Domine (Ps 118(119):7, 10, 17, 25; 1–2; 30a, 34, 36b, 37b, 39b, 58a & 97b)

    Fifth Sunday of Lent [OF]

    • “‘Father, I thank you for hearing me. I know that you always hear me; but because of the crowd here I have said this, that they may believe that you sent me.’”
      —Jn 11:41–42 [OF:A]

    • “‘Whoever serves me must follow me, and where I am, there also will my servant be. The Father will honor whoever serves me.’”
      —Jn 12:26 [OF:B]

    • “‘Jesus straightened up and said to her, ‘Woman, where are they? Has no one condemned you?’ She replied, ‘No one, sir.’ Then Jesus said, ’Neither do I condemn you. Go, [and] from now on do not sin any more.’”
      —Jn 8:10–11 [OF:C]

    Passion Sunday [EF]

    • “‘If I glorify Myself, My glory is nothing. It is My Father Who glorifies Me, of Whom you say that He is your God.’”
      —Jn 8:54



    1. With all my heart, O Lord, I praise
      And glorify your name;
      I pray you keep me free from sin
      And everlasting shame.

    2. O bless your servant bountif’lly,
      For, Lord, in you I trust;
      And then my life shall be restored
      Because your word is just.


    3. How blest are they who ever keep
      The pure and perfect way,
      Who never from the sacred paths
      Of God’s commandments stray!

    4. How blest, who to his righteous laws
      Obedient have been;
      And have with undivided heart
      His favor sought to win!

    5. Your faithful ways, O God of truth,
      My happy choice I’ve made;
      Your statutes are my rule of life
      Before me ever laid.

    6. Let not the want of worldly wealth
      Supplant your law divine,
      But to your precepts and decrees
      Let my whole heart incline.

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

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  • Improperium exspectavit (Ps 68(69):21, 22; 2, 13, 14a)

    Palm Sunday of the Passion of the Lord [OF]; Palm Sunday [EF]

    • “Immediately one of the bystanders ran to get a sponge; he soaked it in wine, and putting it on a reed, gave it to him to drink. But the rest said, ‘Wait, let us see if Elijah comes to save him.’”
      —Mt 27:48–49 [OF:A, EF]; cf. Mk 15:36 [OF:B]

    • “All together they shouted out, ‘Away with this man! Release Barabbas to us.’ — Now Barabbas had been imprisoned for a rebellion that had taken place in the city and for murder. — ”
      —Lk 23:18–19 [OF:C]

    The Most Sacred Heart of Jesus [OF, EF]

    • “‘No one knows the Son except the Father, and no one knows the Father except the Son and anyone to whom the Son wishes to reveal him.’”
      —Mt 11:27 [OF:A]

    • “They will look upon him whom they have pierced.”
      —Jn 19:37b [OF:B; EF]

    • “‘There will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous people who have no need of repentance.’”
      —Lk 15:17 [OF:C]



    1. *My heart awaited shame and woe;
      And I had hoped for one
      To grieve with me or comfort me,
      But I encountered none.

    2. [2023 revision]
      *To mock my hunger and my thirst
      They gave me gall for food
      And lifted to my lips a sponge
      With vinegar imbued.


      [2016 version]
      *In their severe hostility
      They gave me gall to eat;
      And vinegar they had me drink,
      Although my thirst was great.


    3. The waters rise into my soul,
      The waters of the flood;
      From this excruciating trial
      Deliver me, O God.

    4. The people sitting at the gate
      Against me all profess;
      The drunkards that delight in wine
      Sing songs at my distress.

    5. But as for me, O God, I pray,
      That when it pleases you,
      Abundant mercy grant to me
      And so my soul renew.


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

    *In the Mass of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus verse 2 is omitted, and verse 1 is repeated as needed.

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  • Terra tremuit (Ps 75(76):9b, 10a; 2, 3)

    Easter Sunday [OF, EF]

    • “‘This man God raised (on) the third day and granted that he be visible, not to all the people, but to us, the witnesses chosen by God in advance, who ate and drank with him after he rose from the dead.’”
      —Acts 10:40–41 [OF]

    • “‘Be not affrighted; ye seek Jesus of Nazareth, who was crucified: He is risen, He is not here; behold the place where they laid Him.’”
      —Mk 16:6 [EF]



    1. When God arose in glorious light,
      Earth trembled, stilled, and feared;
      None dared to stand before the sight
      When God the Judge appeared.


    2. In Judah God is eminent,
      His name in Israel great;
      In peace he put his holy place,
      On Sion set his seat.

    3. There did he break the horn, the bow,
      The shield, the sword, the war;
      More glorious than th'eternal hills,
      O Lord our God, you are.

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

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  • Angelus Domini (Mt 28:2; 5, 6)

    Second Sunday of Easter [OF]; Low Sunday [EF]

    • “Now when it was late that same day, the first of the week, and the doors were shut, where the disciples were gathered together, for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood in the midst, and said to them: ‘Peace be to you.’”
      —Mk 20:19 [OF, EF]



    1. The Angel of the Lord came down
      And to the women said,
      “He whom you seek, the Crucified,
      Has risen from the dead.


    2. “To his disciples quickly go,
      And tell them what you hear:
      To Galilee he now proceeds,
      And you shall see him there.”

    3. Jesus stood in their midst and said,
      “My peace unto you be;
      Be not afraid, for it is I,
      Your Savior, whom you see.”

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

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  • Lauda anima (Ps 145(146):2a; 7a, 8b & 7b & 9–10)

    Third Sunday of Easter [OF]

    • “‘Were not our hearts burning within us while he spoke to us on the way and opened the Scriptures to us?’”
      —Lk 24:32 [OF:A]

    • “The way we may be sure that we know him is to keep his commandments.”
      —1 Jn 2:3 [OF:B]

    • “Then I heard every creature in heaven and on earth and under the earth and in the sea, everything in the universe, cry out: ‘To the one who sits on the throne and to the Lamb be blessing and honor, glory and might, forever and ever.’”
      —Rev 5:13 [OF:C]

    Third Sunday after Easter [EF]

    • “‘I will see you again, and your heart shall rejoice; and your joy no man shall take from you.’”
      —Jn 16:22b [EF]



    1. For ever praise the Lord, my soul,
      And bless his holy name;
      My whole life long, his wondrous love
      My grateful song shall claim.


    2. He keeps the truth eternally,
      Does justice for th’oppressed,
      Gives to the hungry food to eat, [2016 version]
      Gives food to all the hungry ones, [2023 revision]
      And raises the distressed.

    3. The stranger’s shield, the widow’s aid,
      The orphan’s help is he;
      And by his hand the evil way
      Destroyed shall ever be.

    4. The God that does in Sion dwell
      Is our eternal King.
      From age to age his reign endures;
      Let all his praises sing.

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

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  • Deus, Deus meus (Ps 62(63):2a, 5b; 2b & 3b, 7b–8)

    Fourth Sunday of Easter [OF]

    • “If you are patient when you suffer for doing what is good,
      this is a grace before God.”

      — 1 Pt 2:20b [OF:A]

    • “Beloved, we are God’s children now; what we shall be has not yet been revealed. We do know that when it is revealed we shall be like him, for we shall see him as he is.”
      — 1 Jn 3:2 [OF:B]

    • “‘The Lamb who is in the center of the throne will shepherd them and lead them to springs of life-giving water, and God will wipe away every tear from their eyes.’”
      — Rev 7:17 [OF:C]

    Second Sunday after Easter [EF]

    • “‘I am the good Shepherd: and I know Mine, and Mine know Me.’”
      — Jn 10:14 [EF]



    1. From dawn I watch for you, O God;
      I hope to see your face.
      And in your name I lift my hands
      Unto your holy place.


    2. My soul is thirsting after you;
      My flesh longs to behold
      The fullness of your holy pow’r
      And majesty untold.

    3. At daybreak I shall ponder you,
      My helper from on high;
      And in the shadow of your wings
      I raise my joyful cry.

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

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  • Benedicite gentes (Ps 65(66):8, 9, 20; 3b–4a, 5 & 17 & 19)

    Sixth Sunday of Easter [OF]

    • “‘Whoever has my commandments and observes them is the one who loves me. And whoever loves me will be loved by my Father, and I will love him and reveal myself to him.’”
      — Jn 14:21 [OF:A]

    • “‘It was not you who chose me, but I who chose you and appointed you to go and bear fruit that will remain, so that whatever you ask the Father in my name he may give you.’”
      — Jn 15:16 [OF:B]

    • “‘Do not let your hearts be troubled or afraid.’”
      — Jn 14:27c [OF:C]

    Fifth Sunday after Easter [EF]

    • “‘Ask, and you shall receive; that your joy may be full.’”
      — Jn 16:24b [EF]



    1. O peoples, bless the Lord our God,
      His praises loudly sing;
      He brought my soul to life, and kept
      My feet from faltering.

    2. May blessèd ever be my God,
      Who neither, when I prayed,
      Withheld his mercy from my soul
      Nor turned his face away.


    3. Let all the earth cry out to God;
      May joyful songs be raised.
      Sing psalms in honor of his name,
      And spread his glorious praise.

    4. Your mighty pow’r compels your foes
      To shrink before your face;
      The earth shall worship God Most High
      Within his holy place.

    5. O come and see the works of God,
      How wonderful his deeds.
      To him I cried, of him I sang,
      And he gave ear to me.

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

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  • Ascendit Deus (Ps 46(47):6; 2, 3, 4)

    The Ascension of the Lord [OF, EF]

    • “As they were looking on, Jesus was lifted up, and a cloud took him from their sight.”
      — Acts 1:9 [OF:A]

    • “And the Lord Jesus, after he had spoken to them, was taken up into heaven, and sitteth on the right hand of God.”
      — Mk 16:19 [OF:B; EF]

    • “As he blessed them he parted from them and was taken up to heaven.”
      — Lk 24:51 [OF:C]

    Seventh Sunday of Easter [OF]

    • “‘And now I will no longer be in the world, but they are in the world, while I am coming to you.’”
      — Jn 17:11a [OF:AB]

    • “Stephen said, ‘Behold, I see the heavens opened and the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God.’”
      — Acts 7:56 [OF:C]

    Sunday after Ascension [EF]

    • “‘But when the Paraclete cometh, whom I will send you from the Father, the Spirit of truth, who proceedeth from the Father, he shall give testimony of me.’”
      — Jn 15:26 [EF]



    1. God rises up to heav’n above
      Amid triumphant noise;
      The Lord now claims his angel throne [2016 version]
      The Lord claims his angelic throne [2023 revision]
      With trumpet’s royal voice.


    2. All peoples, clap your hands to God,
      Exult with joyful mirth;
      For awesome is the Lord Most High,
      Great King o’er all the earth.

    3. He places peoples under us,
      Subdued by his right hand;
      Beneath our feet, the nations fall
      Prostrate at his command.

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

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  • Emitte spiritum (Ps 103(104):30, 31: 1–3a)

    Pentecost: At the Vigil Mass [OF]

    • “There was, of course, no Spirit yet, because Jesus had not yet been glorified.”
      — Jn 7:39b [OF]

    Vigil of Pentecost [EF]

    • “‘If you love Me, keep My commandments. And I will ask the Father and He will give you another Advocate to dwell with you forever, the Spirit of truth Whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees Him nor knows Him.’”
      — Jn 14:15–17a [EF]



    1. All things shall be created when
      You send your Spirit, Lord;
      By him the earth shall be renewed
      And you be e’er adored.


    2. For ever bless the Lord, my soul.
      My God, how great you are;
      With radiant glory you are robed,
      For ever set apart.

    3. You stretch the heavens like a tent,
      Your dwelling o’er the flood;
      The clouds you make your chariot,
      O Lord, Creator God.

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

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  • Confirma hoc (Ps 67(68):29–30; 5a, 27, 33–34a)

    Pentecost: At the Mass during the Day [OF]; Pentecost Sunday [EF]

    • “‘Receive the Holy Spirit. Whose sins you forgive are forgiven them, and whose sins you retain are retained.’”
      — Jn 20:22b–23 [OF:A]

    • “‘When the Advocate comes whom I will send* you from the Father, the Spirit of truth that proceeds from the Father, he will testify to me.’”
      — Jn 15:26 [option OF:B]

    • “‘The Advocate, the Holy Spirit, Whom the Father will send in My Name, He will teach you all things, and bring to your mind whatever I have said to you.’”
      — Jn 14:26 [option OF:C; EF]



    1. Send forth your pow’r, O Lord our God;
      Confirm and fortify
      The good that you have done in us,
      That yours we e’er shall be.


    2. Then in your temple kings shall bring
      Their gifts to you, O Lord,
      And in your own Jerusalem
      Sing praise with one accord.

    3. Sing to the Lord with joyful voice;
      Make music to his name.
      Prepare the way for him who soars
      Above the sunset’s flame.

    4. O Israel, bless the Lord your God;
      Extol him with a song.
      And kingdoms, bless him who ascends
      The heavens towards the dawn.

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

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  • Sperent (Ps 9:11, 12, 13; 5b & 6a & 8b–9a; 16a & 18b & 37a)

    Ninth Week in Ordinary Time [OF]

    • “‘Everyone who listens to these words of mine and acts on them will be like a wise man who built his house on rock. The rain fell, the floods came, and the winds blew and buffeted the house. But it did not collapse; it had been set solidly on rock.’”
      —Mt 7:24–25 [OF:A]

    • “Observe the sabbath day—keep it holy, as the LORD, your God, commanded you.”
      —Deut 5:12 [OF:B]

    • “‘Lord, do not trouble yourself, for I am not worthy to have you enter under my roof. Therefore, I did not consider myself worthy to come to you; but say the word and let my servant be healed.’”
      —Lk 7:6b-7 [OF:C]

    Third Sunday after Pentecost [EF]

    • “‘There will be joy among the angels of God over one sinner who repents.’”
      —Lk 15:10 [EF]



    1. All those who know your holy name,
      In you their trust shall place;
      For you, O Lord, do not forsake
      The ones who seek your face.

    2. Therefore, sing psalms before the Lord
      Who dwells in Sion fair,
      For neither does he spurn the poor
      Nor overlook their prayer.


    3. You sit upon your holy throne;
      The nations you reprove,
      And from your sight the wicked man
      For ever you remove.

    4. God judges all with equity;
      He shelters those in need,
      And brings their suff’ring to an end,
      For he has heard their plea.

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

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  • Benedictus sit (Tob 12:6; Dn 3)

    The Most Holy Trinity [OF, EF]

    • “Glory to the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit; to God who is, who was, and who is to come.’”
      —cf. Rev 1:8 [OF]

    • “‘Going therefore, teach ye all nations; baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost.”
      —Mt 28:19 [OF:B; EF]



    1. May God the Father, God the Son,
      And Holy Ghost be blest;
      By those who did his mercy see,
      Let praises be expressed.


    2. Let all the works of God on high
      Bow down before the Lord;
      Exalt and praise the Triune God
      Both now and evermore.

    3. How blest are you who search the depths
      Upon your angel throne; [2016 version]
      From your angelic throne; [2023 revision]
      Above all creatures are you praised,
      All glory yours alone.

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

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  • Illumina (Ps 12(13):4, 5; 1a & 2a, 4a & 6b)

    Fourth Sunday of Lent [OF:C]

    • “‘Coming to his senses he thought, “How many of my father’s hired workers have more than enough food to eat, but here am I, dying from hunger. I shall get up and go to my father and I shall say to him, ‘Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you. I no longer deserve to be called your son; treat me as you would treat one of your hired workers.’”’”
      —Lk 15:17–19 [OF:C]

    Tenth Week in Ordinary Time [OF]

    • “‘I did not come to call the righteous but sinners.’”
      —Mt 9:13b [OF:A]

    • “For this momentary light affliction is producing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison, as we look not to what is seen but to what is unseen; for what is seen is transitory, but what is unseen is eternal.”
      —2 Cor 4:17–18 [OF:B]

    • “Jesus stepped forward and touched the coffin; at this the bearers halted, and he said, ‘Young man, I tell you, arise!’”
      —Lk 7:14 [OF:C]

    Fourth Sunday after Pentecost [EF]

    • “We ourselves groan within ourselves, waiting for the adoption as sons of God, the redemption of our body, in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
      —Rom 8:23 [EF]



    1. O Lord, illuminate my eyes,
      Lest I in death shall sleep;
      How would my enemy exult
      If he my soul should keep!


    2. How long shall you forget me, Lord?
      Shall I be ever scorned?
      How long shall I be sorrowing?
      Must I for ever mourn?

    3. O look at me and hear me, Lord,
      And I to you shall sing;
      For all the gifts you give to me,
      My gratitude I bring.

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

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  • Portas caeli (Ps 77(78):23, 24, 25; 1–2[, 5–7])

    Solemnity of the Body and Blood of Christ [OF:Option 1]

    • “‘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]

    • “While they were eating, he took bread, said the blessing, broke it, and gave it to them, and said, ‘Take it; this is my body.’ Then he took a cup, gave thanks, and gave it to them, and they all drank from it. He said to them, ‘This is my blood of the covenant, which will be shed for many.’”
      —Mk 14:22–23 [OF:B]

    • “For as often as you eat this bread and drink the cup, you proclaim the death of the Lord until he comes.”
      —1 Cor 11:26 [OF:C]



    1. When God threw open heaven’s doors
      And rained down manna sweet,
      The people ransomed by the Lord
      The angels’ bread did eat.


    2. Attend, O people, to my law,
      And to my words incline;
      My mouth shall speak in parables
      And history divine.

    3. God gave to Jacob the command
      How Israël should live,
      And how this law our fathers must
      To their own children give,

    4. That generations yet to come
      Should to their unborn heirs
      Religiously transmit the same,
      And they again to theirs:

    5. To teach them that in God alone
      Their hope for ever stands;
      That they should ne’er his works forget,
      But keep his just commands.

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

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  • Benedicam Dominum (Ps 15(16):7, 8; 1–2a & 5a)

    Eleventh Week in Ordinary Time [OF]

    • “God proves his love for us in that while we were still sinners Christ died for us. How much more then, since we are now justified by his blood, will we be saved through him from the wrath.”
      —Roman 5:8–9 [OF:A]

    • “So we are always courageous, although we know that while we are at home in the body we are away from the Lord, for we walk by faith, not by sight.”
      —2 Cor 5:6–7 [OF:B]

    • “I have been crucified with Christ; yet I live, no longer I, but Christ lives in me.”
      —Gal 2:19b–20a [OF:C]

    Fifth Sunday after Pentecost [EF]

    • “Have no fear of their fear and do not be troubled. But hallow the Lord Christ in your hearts.”
      —1 Pet 3:14b–15a [EF]



    1. I bless the Lord who gives me light;
      I watch him over all.
      Because he stands at my right hand,
      I shall not ever fall.


    2. Preserve me, Lord; in you alone
      My hope shall ever be.
      I said: You are my God, my Lord,
      My chosen legacy.

    3. You make me know the ways of life
      That to your presence lead,
      Where bliss shall dwell eternally,
      And joy shall never fade.

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

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  • These are wonderful - what a great idea! I'm just realizing they exist now. Has anyone typeset them with melodies, I wonder?
  • With the permission of the illustrious author, Aristotle, I have begun setting these to organ scores at my website www.antiphonrenewal.com starting with Advent 2021

    I will eventually include melody scores as well as the organ/SATB.
    Thanked by 2Heath roy2
  • I have revised and hopefully improved verse 2 of the Palm Sunday/Sacred Heart paraphrase, faintly echoing Fred Pratt Green's "To Mock Your Reign, O Dearest Lord".

    Try it with Tallis' Third Mode Melody, repeating this verse after verse 5 (in rough accord with the format used in the Offertoriale) to round out the final CMD verse. [Edit: Or repeat this verse after verse 4, and close with verse 5.]
  • Aristotle, I have to thank you for this corpus of translations. I use them regularly (in conjunction with AntiphonRenewal's resources). I find them quite gratifying to use, and it's very nice to be able to have the people sing the texts in a familiar way, and then follow up with Fr. Weber's chanted version during the incensation of the altar. Best of both worlds.
    Thanked by 1Aristotle Esguerra
  • Revisions (some mild, some significant) have been posted for the following paraphrases:


    Thanked by 1CHGiffen
  • A softcover print edition incorporating all of the 2023 revisions is now available for purchase.

    The print edition includes paraphrases of four additional offertories not listed here:

    • Afferéntur… post eam (Common of Virgins; 3 verses)
    • Afferéntur… et próximae (Common of Virgins; 3 verses)
    • Stetit Angelus (Dedication of a Church Outside of Lent, Votive Mass of the Holy Angels; 2 verses)
    • Viri Galilaéi (Ascension of the Lord ad libitum; Seventh Sunday of Easter ad libitum; 2 verses)