The LORD says: You, Bethlehem-Ephrathah, too small to be among the clans of Judah, From you shall come forth for me one who is to be ruler in Israel; Whose origin is from of old, from ancient times. (Therefore the Lord will give them up, until the time when she who is to give birth has borne, And the rest of his brethren shall return to the children of Israel.) He shall stand firm and shepherd his flock by the strength of the LORD, in the majestic name of the LORD, his God; And they shall remain, for now his greatness shall reach to the ends of the earth; he shall be peace.
R. (Isaiah 61:10) With delight I rejoice in the Lord.
Though I trusted in your mercy,
let my heart rejoice in your salvation.
Let me sing of the LORD, "He has been good to me."
R. (Isaiah 61:10) With delight I rejoice in the Lord.
Brothers and sisters: We know that all things work for good for those who love God, who are called according to his purpose. For those he foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, so that he might be the firstborn among many brothers. And those he predestined he also called; and those he called he also justified; and those he justified he also glorified.
The Book of the genealogy of Jesus Christ, the son of David, the son of Abraham. Abraham became the father of Isaac, Isaac the father of Jacob, Jacob the father of Judah and his brothers. Judah became the father of Perez and Zerah, whose mother was Tamar. Perez became the father of Hezron, Hezron the father of Ram, Ram the father of Amminadab. Amminadab became the father of Nahshon, Nahshon the father of Salmon, Salmon the father of Boaz, whose mother was Rahab. Boaz became the father of Obed, whose mother was Ruth. Obed became the father of Jesse, Jesse the father of David the king. David became the father of Solomon, whose mother had been the wife of Uriah. Solomon became the father of Rehoboam, Rehoboam the father of Abijah, Abijah the father of Asaph. Asaph became the father of Jehoshaphat, Jehoshaphat the father of Joram, Joram the father of Uzziah. Uzziah became the father of Jotham, Jotham the father of Ahaz, Ahaz the father of Hezekiah. Hezekiah became the father of Manasseh, Manasseh the father of Amos, Amos the father of Josiah. Josiah became the father of Jechoniah and his brothers at the time of the Babylonian exile. After the Babylonian exile, Jechoniah became the father of Shealtiel, Shealtiel the father of Zerubbabel, Zerubbabel the father of Abiud. Abiud became the father of Eliakim, Eliakim the father of Azor, Azor the father of Zadok. Zadok became the father of Achim, Achim the father of Eliud, Eliud the father of Eleazar. Eleazar became the father of Matthan, Matthan the father of Jacob, Jacob the father of Joseph, the husband of Mary. Of her was born Jesus who is called the Christ. Now this is how the birth of Jesus Christ came about. When his mother Mary was betrothed to Joseph, but before they lived together, she was found with child through the Holy Spirit. Joseph her husband, since he was a righteous man, yet unwilling to expose her to shame, decided to divorce her quietly. Such was his intention when, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, "Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary your wife into your home. For it is through the Holy Spirit that this child has been conceived in her. She will bear a son and you are to name him Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins." All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had said through the prophet: Behold, the virgin shall be with child and bear a son, and they shall name him Emmanuel, which means "God is with us."
The Book of the genealogy of Jesus Christ, the son of David, the son of Abraham. Abraham became the father of Isaac, Isaac the father of Jacob, Jacob the father of Judah and his brothers. Judah became the father of Perez and Zerah, whose mother was Tamar. Perez became the father of Hezron, Hezron the father of Ram, Ram the father of Amminadab. Amminadab became the father of Nahshon, Nahshon the father of Salmon, Salmon the father of Boaz, whose mother was Rahab. Boaz became the father of Obed, whose mother was Ruth. Obed became the father of Jesse, Jesse the father of David the king. David became the father of Solomon, whose mother had been the wife of Uriah. Solomon became the father of Rehoboam, Rehoboam the father of Abijah, Abijah the father of Asaph. Asaph became the father of Jehoshaphat, Jehoshaphat the father of Joram, Joram the father of Uzziah. Uzziah became the father of Jotham, Jotham the father of Ahaz, Ahaz the father of Hezekiah. Hezekiah became the father of Manasseh, Manasseh the father of Amos, Amos the father of Josiah. Josiah became the father of Jechoniah and his brothers at the time of the Babylonian exile. After the Babylonian exile, Jechoniah became the father of Shealtiel, Shealtiel the father of Zerubbabel, Zerubbabel the father of Abiud. Abiud became the father of Eliakim, Eliakim the father of Azor, Azor the father of Zadok. Zadok became the father of Achim, Achim the father of Eliud, Eliud the father of Eleazar. Eleazar became the father of Matthan, Matthan the father of Jacob, Jacob the father of Joseph, the husband of Mary. Of her was born Jesus who is called the Christ. Now this is how the birth of Jesus Christ came about. When his mother Mary was betrothed to Joseph, but before they lived together, she was found with child through the Holy Spirit. Joseph her husband, since he was a righteous man, yet unwilling to expose her to shame, decided to divorce her quietly. Such was his intention when, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, "Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary your wife into your home. For it is through the Holy Spirit that this child has been conceived in her. She will bear a son and you are to name him Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins." All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had said through the prophet: Behold, the virgin shall be with child and bear a son, and they shall name him Emmanuel, which means "God is with us."
The Last Supper, with a view of Christ in the Garden of Olives through the doorway at the back · Andrea Boscoli
Then Jesus came with them into a country place which is called Gethsemani; and he said to his disciples: Sit you here, till I go yonder and pray. And taking with him Peter and the two sons of Zebedee, he began to grow sorrowful and to be sad. Then he saith to them: My soul is sorrowful even unto death: stay you here, and watch with me. And going a little further, he fell upon his face, praying, and saying: My Father, if it be possible, let this chalice pass from me. Nevertheless not as I will, but as thou wilt. And he cometh to his disciples, and findeth them asleep, and he saith to Peter: What? Could you not watch one hour with me? Watch ye, and pray that ye enter not into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh weak. Again the second time, he went and prayed, saying: My Father, if this chalice may not pass away, but I must drink it, thy will be done. And he cometh again and findeth them sleeping: for their eyes were heavy. And leaving them, he went again: and he prayed the third time, saying the selfsame word. Then he cometh to his disciples, and saith to them: Sleep ye now and take your rest; behold the hour is at hand, and the Son of man shall be betrayed into the hands of sinners. Rise, let us go: behold he is at hand that will betray me.
The Scourging at the Pillar
John 19:1; Matthew 27:26 (Douay-Rheims)
Plate Depicting Christ’s Passion · Painter of the Royal Procession
Then therefore, Pilate took Jesus, and scourged him. Then he released to them Barabbas, and having scourged Jesus, delivered him unto them to be crucified.
The Crowning with Thorns
Matthew 27:27-31 (Douay-Rheims)
Preparation for the Crucifixion · Unknown artist
Then the soldiers of the governor taking Jesus into the hall, gathered together unto him the whole band; And stripping him, they put a scarlet cloak about him. And platting a crown of thorns, they put it upon his head, and a reed in his right hand. And bowing the knee before him, they mocked him, saying: Hail, king of the Jews. And spitting upon him, they took the reed, and struck his head. And after they had mocked him, they took off the cloak from him, and put on him his own garments, and led him away to crucify him.
The Carrying of the Cross
John 19:16-17; Luke 23:26-27 (Douay-Rheims)
Christ Carrying the Cross · Sebastiano del Piombo
Then therefore he delivered him to them to be crucified. And they took Jesus, and led him forth. And bearing his own cross, he went forth to that place which is called Calvary, but in Hebrew Golgotha. And as they led him away, they laid hold of one Simon of Cyrene, coming from the country; and they laid the cross on him to carry after Jesus. And there followed him a great multitude of people, and of women, who bewailed and lamented him.
The Crucifixion and Death
Luke 23:33-46 (Douay-Rheims)
The Crucifixion with the Virgin and Saint John · Hendrick ter Brugghen
And when they were come to the place which is called Calvary, they crucified him there; and the robbers, one on the right hand, and the other on the left. And Jesus said: Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do. But they, dividing his garments, cast lots. And the people stood beholding, and the rulers with them derided him, saying: He saved others; let him save himself, if he be Christ, the elect of God. And the soldiers also mocked him, coming to him, and offering him vinegar, And saying: If thou be the king of the Jews, save thyself. And there was also a superscription written over him in letters of Greek, and Latin, and Hebrew: THIS IS THE KING OF THE JEWS. And one of those robbers who were hanged, blasphemed him, saying: If thou be Christ, save thyself and us. But the other answering, rebuked him, saying: Neither dost thou fear God, seeing thou art under the same condemnation? And we indeed justly, for we receive the due reward of our deeds; but this man hath done no evil. And he said to Jesus: Lord, remember me when thou shalt come into thy kingdom. And Jesus said to him: Amen I say to thee, this day thou shalt be with me in paradise. And it was almost the sixth hour; and there was darkness over all the earth until the ninth hour. And the sun was darkened, and the veil of the temple was rent in the midst. And Jesus crying with a loud voice, said: Father, into thy hands I commend my spirit. And saying this, he gave up the ghost.
The Agony in the Garden
Matthew 26:36-46 (Douay-Rheims)
The Last Supper, with a view of Christ in the Garden of Olives through the doorway at the back · Andrea Boscoli
Then Jesus came with them into a country place which is called Gethsemani; and he said to his disciples: Sit you here, till I go yonder and pray. And taking with him Peter and the two sons of Zebedee, he began to grow sorrowful and to be sad. Then he saith to them: My soul is sorrowful even unto death: stay you here, and watch with me. And going a little further, he fell upon his face, praying, and saying: My Father, if it be possible, let this chalice pass from me. Nevertheless not as I will, but as thou wilt. And he cometh to his disciples, and findeth them asleep, and he saith to Peter: What? Could you not watch one hour with me? Watch ye, and pray that ye enter not into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh weak. Again the second time, he went and prayed, saying: My Father, if this chalice may not pass away, but I must drink it, thy will be done. And he cometh again and findeth them sleeping: for their eyes were heavy. And leaving them, he went again: and he prayed the third time, saying the selfsame word. Then he cometh to his disciples, and saith to them: Sleep ye now and take your rest; behold the hour is at hand, and the Son of man shall be betrayed into the hands of sinners. Rise, let us go: behold he is at hand that will betray me.
The Scourging at the Pillar
John 19:1; Matthew 27:26 (Douay-Rheims)
Plate Depicting Christ’s Passion · Painter of the Royal Procession
Then therefore, Pilate took Jesus, and scourged him. Then he released to them Barabbas, and having scourged Jesus, delivered him unto them to be crucified.
The Crowning with Thorns
Matthew 27:27-31 (Douay-Rheims)
Preparation for the Crucifixion · Unknown artist
Then the soldiers of the governor taking Jesus into the hall, gathered together unto him the whole band; And stripping him, they put a scarlet cloak about him. And platting a crown of thorns, they put it upon his head, and a reed in his right hand. And bowing the knee before him, they mocked him, saying: Hail, king of the Jews. And spitting upon him, they took the reed, and struck his head. And after they had mocked him, they took off the cloak from him, and put on him his own garments, and led him away to crucify him.
The Carrying of the Cross
John 19:16-17; Luke 23:26-27 (Douay-Rheims)
Christ Carrying the Cross · Sebastiano del Piombo
Then therefore he delivered him to them to be crucified. And they took Jesus, and led him forth. And bearing his own cross, he went forth to that place which is called Calvary, but in Hebrew Golgotha. And as they led him away, they laid hold of one Simon of Cyrene, coming from the country; and they laid the cross on him to carry after Jesus. And there followed him a great multitude of people, and of women, who bewailed and lamented him.
The Crucifixion and Death
Luke 23:33-46 (Douay-Rheims)
The Crucifixion with the Virgin and Saint John · Hendrick ter Brugghen
And when they were come to the place which is called Calvary, they crucified him there; and the robbers, one on the right hand, and the other on the left. And Jesus said: Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do. But they, dividing his garments, cast lots. And the people stood beholding, and the rulers with them derided him, saying: He saved others; let him save himself, if he be Christ, the elect of God. And the soldiers also mocked him, coming to him, and offering him vinegar, And saying: If thou be the king of the Jews, save thyself. And there was also a superscription written over him in letters of Greek, and Latin, and Hebrew: THIS IS THE KING OF THE JEWS. And one of those robbers who were hanged, blasphemed him, saying: If thou be Christ, save thyself and us. But the other answering, rebuked him, saying: Neither dost thou fear God, seeing thou art under the same condemnation? And we indeed justly, for we receive the due reward of our deeds; but this man hath done no evil. And he said to Jesus: Lord, remember me when thou shalt come into thy kingdom. And Jesus said to him: Amen I say to thee, this day thou shalt be with me in paradise. And it was almost the sixth hour; and there was darkness over all the earth until the ninth hour. And the sun was darkened, and the veil of the temple was rent in the midst. And Jesus crying with a loud voice, said: Father, into thy hands I commend my spirit. And saying this, he gave up the ghost.
Seven Sorrows of the Blessed Virgin Mary Rosary
The First Sorrow of Mary: The Prophecy of Simeon
Luke 2:34-35
The Presentation of Christ in the Temple, and the Baptism of Christ · Frantz Clein
…Simeon blessed them and said to Mary his mother, “Behold, this child is destined for the fall and rise of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be contradicted (and you yourself a sword will pierce) so that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.”
The Second Sorrow of Mary: The Flight Into Egypt
Matthew 2:13-14
The Holy Family in Egypt · Albrecht Dürer
When they had departed, behold, 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.” Joseph rose and took the child and his mother by night and departed for Egypt.
The Third Sorrow of Mary: Jesus is Lost in the Temple
Luke 2:43-45
Enthroned Virgin with the Writing Christ Child · Unknown artist
After they had completed their days, as they were returning, the boy Jesus remained behind in Jerusalem, but his parents did not know it. Thinking that he was in the caravan, they journeyed for a day and looked for him among their relatives and acquaintances, but not finding him, they returned to Jerusalem to look for him.
The Fourth Sorrow of Mary: Meeting Jesus on the Way to Calvary
Luke 23:27-29
Christ Carrying the Cross · Master of the Worcester Carrying of the Cross
A large crowd of people followed Jesus, including many women who mourned and lamented him. Jesus turned to them and said, “Daughters of Jerusalem, do not weep for me; weep instead for yourselves and for your children, for indeed, the days are coming when people will say, ‘Blessed are the barren, the wombs that never bore and the breasts that never nursed.’”
The Fifth Sorrow of Mary: Standing at the Foot of the Cross
John 19:25-27
The Crucifixion with the Virgin and Saint John · Hendrick ter Brugghen
Standing by the cross of Jesus were his mother and his mother’s sister, Mary the wife of Clopas, and Mary of Magdala. When Jesus saw his mother and the disciple there whom he loved, he said to his mother, “Woman, behold, your son.” Then he said to the disciple, “Behold, your mother.” And from that hour the disciple took her into his home.
The Sixth Sorrow of Mary: Jesus is Taken Down From the Cross
John 19:32-34
Deposition of Christ, ‘Florence Pietà’ · Michelangelo Buonarroti
…the soldiers came and broke the legs of the first and then of the other one who was crucified with Jesus. But when they came to Jesus and saw that he was already dead, they did not break his legs, but one soldier thrust his lance into his side, and immediately blood and water flowed out.
The Seventh Sorrow of Mary: Jesus is Buried in the Garden Tomb
John 19:41-42
The Entombment · Moretto da Brescia (Alessandro Bonvicino)
…in the place where he had been crucified there was a garden, and in the garden a new tomb, in which no one had yet been buried. So they laid Jesus there because of the Jewish preparation day; for the tomb was close by.
The First Sorrow of Mary: The Prophecy of Simeon
Luke 2:34-35
The Presentation of Christ in the Temple, and the Baptism of Christ · Frantz Clein
…Simeon blessed them and said to Mary his mother, “Behold, this child is destined for the fall and rise of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be contradicted (and you yourself a sword will pierce) so that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.”
The Second Sorrow of Mary: The Flight Into Egypt
Matthew 2:13-14
The Holy Family in Egypt · Albrecht Dürer
When they had departed, behold, 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.” Joseph rose and took the child and his mother by night and departed for Egypt.
The Third Sorrow of Mary: Jesus is Lost in the Temple
Luke 2:43-45
Enthroned Virgin with the Writing Christ Child · Unknown artist
After they had completed their days, as they were returning, the boy Jesus remained behind in Jerusalem, but his parents did not know it. Thinking that he was in the caravan, they journeyed for a day and looked for him among their relatives and acquaintances, but not finding him, they returned to Jerusalem to look for him.
The Fourth Sorrow of Mary: Meeting Jesus on the Way to Calvary
Luke 23:27-29
Christ Carrying the Cross · Master of the Worcester Carrying of the Cross
A large crowd of people followed Jesus, including many women who mourned and lamented him. Jesus turned to them and said, “Daughters of Jerusalem, do not weep for me; weep instead for yourselves and for your children, for indeed, the days are coming when people will say, ‘Blessed are the barren, the wombs that never bore and the breasts that never nursed.’”
The Fifth Sorrow of Mary: Standing at the Foot of the Cross
John 19:25-27
The Crucifixion with the Virgin and Saint John · Hendrick ter Brugghen
Standing by the cross of Jesus were his mother and his mother’s sister, Mary the wife of Clopas, and Mary of Magdala. When Jesus saw his mother and the disciple there whom he loved, he said to his mother, “Woman, behold, your son.” Then he said to the disciple, “Behold, your mother.” And from that hour the disciple took her into his home.
The Sixth Sorrow of Mary: Jesus is Taken Down From the Cross
John 19:32-34
Deposition of Christ, ‘Florence Pietà’ · Michelangelo Buonarroti
…the soldiers came and broke the legs of the first and then of the other one who was crucified with Jesus. But when they came to Jesus and saw that he was already dead, they did not break his legs, but one soldier thrust his lance into his side, and immediately blood and water flowed out.
The Seventh Sorrow of Mary: Jesus is Buried in the Garden Tomb
John 19:41-42
The Entombment · Moretto da Brescia (Alessandro Bonvicino)
…in the place where he had been crucified there was a garden, and in the garden a new tomb, in which no one had yet been buried. So they laid Jesus there because of the Jewish preparation day; for the tomb was close by.
Stations of the Cross
Station 1 — Jesus is Condemned to Death
Pilate saith: "Behold the Man." when the chief priests and the servants had seen him, they cried out saying: "Crucify Him, crucify Him. He calleth Himself the Son of God. He hath become the censurer of our thoughts. He is grevious unto us, even to behold, for His life is not like other men's, and He abstaineth from our ways as from filthiness…"
My people, what have I done to thee? Or in what have I grieved thee? Behold I have planted thee as my fairest vine, and thou hast become very bitter to Me. I went before thee in a pillar of cloud
and thou hast brought Me before Pilate's judgement seat.
He was offered because it was His own will, and He opened not His mouth. He shall be led as a sheep to the slaughter and shall be dumb as a lamb before His shearer, and He shall not open His mouth. He is cut off out of the land of the living: for the wickedness of His people He was struck.
Station 2 — Jesus Is Made to Carry His Cross
Then Pilate delivered Him to be crucified. And they took Jesus and led Him forth. And bearing His own cross, He went forth to the place which is called Calvary.
My people, what have I done to thee, or in what have I grieved thee? I was thy guide through the desert for forty years, and fed thee with manna and brought thee into an excellent land, and thou hast prepared a cross for thy Savior?
He hath borne our infirmities and carried our sorrows; and we have thought Him as it were a leper and as one struck by God and afflicted. He was wounded for our transgressions: He was bruised for our sins, the chastisement of our peace was upon Him. All we like sheep have gone astray, every one hath turned aside into his own way: and the Lord hath laid on Him the iniquity of us all.
Station 3 — Jesus Falls the First Time
He shall lay down his life for sin, He shall see a long-lived seed, and the will of the Lord shall be prosperous in His hand. But the Lord is now pleased to bruise him in infirmity.
O Father, I am afflicted and greatly humbled, I cry aloud because of the sorrow of My Heart. Lord, all My longing is known to Thee, and My sighs are not hidden from Thee. My Heart beats furiously, My strength is gone, Mine eyes are dim and dull with weeping and pain. My friends and my companions come within sight of Me, but stand aloof, and my neighbors keep far from
me.
The arrows of Thy judgement have sunk deep in Me, and Thy hand is pressing heavily upon Me. There is no soundness in My body because of Thine anger. The iniquities of My people, like a flood, have overwhelmed Me; like a crushing burden they weigh upon Me.
Station 4 — Jesus Meets His Sorrowful Mother
Behold, thy Son is set for the fall and for the resurrection of many in Israel, and for a sign of contradiction. And thine own soul a sword shall pierce, that out of many hearts thoughts may be revealed.
Weeping I have wept in the night, and my tears are on my cheeks, because the comforter, the relief of my soul, is taken from me. I have spread forth my hands, there is none to comfort me. I called for my friends and they deceived me, they have become my enemies; my priests and my
ancients have rejoiced in my evil. My child is desolate and the enemy hath prevailed. O all ye that pass by the way, attend and see if there be any sorrow like to my sorrow.
Ah, Mother! fount of love, make me feel the force of thy sorrow, make me weep with thee: Who is there could contemplate the Mother and the Son in sorrow, and not join his own with theirs?6
Station 5 — Simon of Cyrene Helps Jesus to Carry His Cross
As they led Him away, they laid hold of one Simon of Cyrene, coming from the country, and they laid the cross on him to carry after Jesus.
Furious enemies are around Me like a herd of oxen, they hem Me like fierce bulls. I am drained like water, My bones are weakened, My heart is like melting wax in My breast.
Who will arise as My defender against the wicked? Who will stand by Me against the workers of
iniquity? My heart hath endured reproach and misery. I looked for one that would have pity on Me, but there was no man, and for one that would console Me, and I found none.
Station 6 — Veronica Wipes the Face of Jesus
There is no beauty in Him, nor comeliness, a worm, not a man, the object of men's contempt. We have seen Him and there is no sightliness, that we should be desirous of Him. Despised, rejected, a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief. His visage was inglorious among men and His form among the sons of men. Whereupon we esteemed Him not.
All ye who seek Christ, lift up your eyes on high, to behold a token of His eternal glory. O brightness of the Father's glory, incomprehensible love, by Thy presence bestow upon us the
fullness of Thy light.
Thou art beautiful above the sons of men, grace is poured abroad in Thy lips. "My heart hath uttered a good word. I speak my works to the King." He is the brightness of eternal light, the unspotted mirror, and the image of His goodness.
Station 7 — Jesus Falls the Second Time
I am afflicted and greatly humbled, I roared with the groaning of My heart. My heart is troubled, My strength hath left Me, and the light of My eyes itself is not with Me.
Thy burning wrath has swept over Me, Thy terrors have confounded Me. They have encompassed Me like water all day long, closing around on every side. Thou hast put far from Me a friend and neighbor, leaving darkness as My companion.
In Thee, O Lord! I have hoped, thou wilt hear Me, O Lord My God! For I am on the verge of ruin, and my sorrow is continually before Me. Forsake Me not, O Lord My God, do not Thou depart from Me. Attend unto My help, O Lord, the God of My salvation.
Station 8 — The Women of Jerusalem Weep Over Jesus
There followed Him a great multitude of people and of women, who bewailed and lamented Him. Jesus turning to them, said: "Daughters of Jerusalem, weep not over Me, but weep for yourselves and for your children."
My eyes are consumed with weeping, My entrails boil, My liver is poured upon the earth, for the destruction of the daughter of My people. The children say to their mothers: "Where is what and wine?" as they faint away as wounded in the streets of the city, as they breathe out their souls in
the bosoms of their mothers. A voice was heard, lamentation and great mourning: Rachel bewails her children and would not be comforted, because they are not.
O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, thine enemies shall beat thee to the ground, and thy children who are in thee, because thou hast not known the time of thy visitation.
Station 9 — Jesus Falls the Third Time
The Lord hath made a vintage of Me, as He spoke in the day of His fierce anger. From above He hath sent fire into My bones and hath chastised Me, He hath spread a net for My feet, He hath turned Me back, he hath made Me desolate, wasted with sorrow all the day long.
O Lord, Thou hast placed Me in the nethermost pit, in dark places, and in the shadow of death. Thy wrath lies heavily upon Me, all Thy billows of fury sweep over Me. Thou hast removed Mine acquaintances far from Me, they regard Me as an abomination, I am imprisoned and
cannot escape.
The iniquities of My people are put upon My neck. My strength is weakened. The Lord hath delivered Me into a hand out of which I am not able to rise.
Station 10 — Jesus Is Stripped of His Garments
Who is this that cometh from Edom, in crimsoned garments from Bosra, this beautiful one arrayed in majesty, walking in the greatness of His strength? It is I, who announce vindication, I who am mighty to save. Why is then Thine apparel red and Thy garments like theirs that tread in the winepress? I have trodden the winepress alone, and of My people there was no one with Me. The blood spurted on My garments, all My apparel I stained, for My year of redemption was at hand.
O My people, for thy sake I have borne reproach, shame hath covered My face. My foes gaze on Me and examine Me with malicious delight. They are dividing among them My clothes, and upon My vesture they cast lots.
Station 11 — Jesus is Nailed to the Cross
When they were come to the place which is called Calvary, they crucified Him there, and the robbers, one on the right hand, and the other on the left.
All who pass by and see Me deride Me; they mock Me in their words, they wag their heads at Me. Like a ravening and roaring lion, they open their mouth to devour Me: He hoped in the Lord, let the Lord come to His rescue; let the Lord free him, if He cares for Him!...
My strength is dried up, My tongue hath cleaved to My jaws, and Thou hast brought Me down to the dust of death. For enemies, like a pack of dogs, have encircled Me, the council of the wicked hath besieged Me. They have pierced My hands and My feet. They have numbered all My bones.
Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.
Station 12 — Jesus Is Raised Upon the Cross and Dies
It was almost the sixth hour, and there was darkness over all the earth until the ninth hour. And the veil of the Temple was rent in tow from the top to the bottom, and the earth quaked, and the rocks were split, and the graves were opened…And Jesus cried out with a loud voice:
Eloi, Eloi, lamma sabacthani? O My God, My God, look upon Me, why hast Thou forsaken Me? I cry by day, and Thou dost not answer, I cry in the night-time and no relief comes to Me…
Have Mercy on Me, O Lord. My eyes are troubled in Thy wrath, My soul and My bowels. My strength is giving way under misery, and My whole body is shaken. I am forgotten like one that is dead, I am cast aside like a broken vessel.
It is consummated. Father, into Thy hands I commend My spirit. And Jesus, bowing His head, gave up the ghost.
Station 13 — Jesus Is Taken Down from the Cross and Placed in the Arms of His Mother
Let the evening come suddenly upon the whole heavens, and let the astonished sun dispatch the day, while we contemplate the spectacle of the cruel death and the divine tragedy.
My people, what have I done to thee, or in what have I grieved thee? I opened a way through the sea before thee, and thou hast opened My side with a spear.
With what a flood of tears, with what sorrow is the grief-stricken Virgin Mother overwhelmed,
while she beholds her son lying in her arms after being taken down from the bloody Tree! Full of sorrow she bathes with her tears His sweet lips, His gentle breast, His most dear side, His pierced right hand, His wounded left, and His feet red with blood.
O Mother, we beseech thee by these tears, by the cruel death of thy Son, and by the purple of His wounds, plant deep in our hearts the grief of thine own heart!15
Station 14 — Jesus is Laid in the Sepulcher
There was in the place where He was crucified a garden: and in the garden a new sepulcher. There, because of the Passover of the Jews, they laid Jesus.
This day shall be a memorial for you. This is the Passage of the Lord. I will execute judgment, for I am the Lord. And this Blood shall be unto you a sign, and I shall see the Blood and shall pass over you, and the plague shall not be upon you to destroy you, when I shall strike the land of Egypt.
Behold in peace is My bitterness transformed. Thou wilt not leave My soul in hell, nor wilt Thou give Thy holy one to see corruption. Hell shall not confess to Thee, neither shall death praise Thee, nor shall they that go down into the abyss look for Thy truth. The living, the living shall give praise to Thee, as I do this day.
Blessing and honor, glory, and power unto Him that sitteth upon the throne, and unto the Lamb, Who hath redeemed us to God by His blood, for ever and ever. Amen.
Station 1 — Jesus is Condemned to Death
Pilate saith: "Behold the Man." when the chief priests and the servants had seen him, they cried out saying: "Crucify Him, crucify Him. He calleth Himself the Son of God. He hath become the censurer of our thoughts. He is grevious unto us, even to behold, for His life is not like other men's, and He abstaineth from our ways as from filthiness…"
My people, what have I done to thee? Or in what have I grieved thee? Behold I have planted thee as my fairest vine, and thou hast become very bitter to Me. I went before thee in a pillar of cloud
and thou hast brought Me before Pilate's judgement seat.
He was offered because it was His own will, and He opened not His mouth. He shall be led as a sheep to the slaughter and shall be dumb as a lamb before His shearer, and He shall not open His mouth. He is cut off out of the land of the living: for the wickedness of His people He was struck.
Station 2 — Jesus Is Made to Carry His Cross
Then Pilate delivered Him to be crucified. And they took Jesus and led Him forth. And bearing His own cross, He went forth to the place which is called Calvary.
My people, what have I done to thee, or in what have I grieved thee? I was thy guide through the desert for forty years, and fed thee with manna and brought thee into an excellent land, and thou hast prepared a cross for thy Savior?
He hath borne our infirmities and carried our sorrows; and we have thought Him as it were a leper and as one struck by God and afflicted. He was wounded for our transgressions: He was bruised for our sins, the chastisement of our peace was upon Him. All we like sheep have gone astray, every one hath turned aside into his own way: and the Lord hath laid on Him the iniquity of us all.
Station 3 — Jesus Falls the First Time
He shall lay down his life for sin, He shall see a long-lived seed, and the will of the Lord shall be prosperous in His hand. But the Lord is now pleased to bruise him in infirmity.
O Father, I am afflicted and greatly humbled, I cry aloud because of the sorrow of My Heart. Lord, all My longing is known to Thee, and My sighs are not hidden from Thee. My Heart beats furiously, My strength is gone, Mine eyes are dim and dull with weeping and pain. My friends and my companions come within sight of Me, but stand aloof, and my neighbors keep far from
me.
The arrows of Thy judgement have sunk deep in Me, and Thy hand is pressing heavily upon Me. There is no soundness in My body because of Thine anger. The iniquities of My people, like a flood, have overwhelmed Me; like a crushing burden they weigh upon Me.
Station 4 — Jesus Meets His Sorrowful Mother
Behold, thy Son is set for the fall and for the resurrection of many in Israel, and for a sign of contradiction. And thine own soul a sword shall pierce, that out of many hearts thoughts may be revealed.
Weeping I have wept in the night, and my tears are on my cheeks, because the comforter, the relief of my soul, is taken from me. I have spread forth my hands, there is none to comfort me. I called for my friends and they deceived me, they have become my enemies; my priests and my
ancients have rejoiced in my evil. My child is desolate and the enemy hath prevailed. O all ye that pass by the way, attend and see if there be any sorrow like to my sorrow.
Ah, Mother! fount of love, make me feel the force of thy sorrow, make me weep with thee: Who is there could contemplate the Mother and the Son in sorrow, and not join his own with theirs?6
Station 5 — Simon of Cyrene Helps Jesus to Carry His Cross
As they led Him away, they laid hold of one Simon of Cyrene, coming from the country, and they laid the cross on him to carry after Jesus.
Furious enemies are around Me like a herd of oxen, they hem Me like fierce bulls. I am drained like water, My bones are weakened, My heart is like melting wax in My breast.
Who will arise as My defender against the wicked? Who will stand by Me against the workers of
iniquity? My heart hath endured reproach and misery. I looked for one that would have pity on Me, but there was no man, and for one that would console Me, and I found none.
Station 6 — Veronica Wipes the Face of Jesus
There is no beauty in Him, nor comeliness, a worm, not a man, the object of men's contempt. We have seen Him and there is no sightliness, that we should be desirous of Him. Despised, rejected, a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief. His visage was inglorious among men and His form among the sons of men. Whereupon we esteemed Him not.
All ye who seek Christ, lift up your eyes on high, to behold a token of His eternal glory. O brightness of the Father's glory, incomprehensible love, by Thy presence bestow upon us the
fullness of Thy light.
Thou art beautiful above the sons of men, grace is poured abroad in Thy lips. "My heart hath uttered a good word. I speak my works to the King." He is the brightness of eternal light, the unspotted mirror, and the image of His goodness.
Station 7 — Jesus Falls the Second Time
I am afflicted and greatly humbled, I roared with the groaning of My heart. My heart is troubled, My strength hath left Me, and the light of My eyes itself is not with Me.
Thy burning wrath has swept over Me, Thy terrors have confounded Me. They have encompassed Me like water all day long, closing around on every side. Thou hast put far from Me a friend and neighbor, leaving darkness as My companion.
In Thee, O Lord! I have hoped, thou wilt hear Me, O Lord My God! For I am on the verge of ruin, and my sorrow is continually before Me. Forsake Me not, O Lord My God, do not Thou depart from Me. Attend unto My help, O Lord, the God of My salvation.
Station 8 — The Women of Jerusalem Weep Over Jesus
There followed Him a great multitude of people and of women, who bewailed and lamented Him. Jesus turning to them, said: "Daughters of Jerusalem, weep not over Me, but weep for yourselves and for your children."
My eyes are consumed with weeping, My entrails boil, My liver is poured upon the earth, for the destruction of the daughter of My people. The children say to their mothers: "Where is what and wine?" as they faint away as wounded in the streets of the city, as they breathe out their souls in
the bosoms of their mothers. A voice was heard, lamentation and great mourning: Rachel bewails her children and would not be comforted, because they are not.
O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, thine enemies shall beat thee to the ground, and thy children who are in thee, because thou hast not known the time of thy visitation.
Station 9 — Jesus Falls the Third Time
The Lord hath made a vintage of Me, as He spoke in the day of His fierce anger. From above He hath sent fire into My bones and hath chastised Me, He hath spread a net for My feet, He hath turned Me back, he hath made Me desolate, wasted with sorrow all the day long.
O Lord, Thou hast placed Me in the nethermost pit, in dark places, and in the shadow of death. Thy wrath lies heavily upon Me, all Thy billows of fury sweep over Me. Thou hast removed Mine acquaintances far from Me, they regard Me as an abomination, I am imprisoned and
cannot escape.
The iniquities of My people are put upon My neck. My strength is weakened. The Lord hath delivered Me into a hand out of which I am not able to rise.
Station 10 — Jesus Is Stripped of His Garments
Who is this that cometh from Edom, in crimsoned garments from Bosra, this beautiful one arrayed in majesty, walking in the greatness of His strength? It is I, who announce vindication, I who am mighty to save. Why is then Thine apparel red and Thy garments like theirs that tread in the winepress? I have trodden the winepress alone, and of My people there was no one with Me. The blood spurted on My garments, all My apparel I stained, for My year of redemption was at hand.
O My people, for thy sake I have borne reproach, shame hath covered My face. My foes gaze on Me and examine Me with malicious delight. They are dividing among them My clothes, and upon My vesture they cast lots.
Station 11 — Jesus is Nailed to the Cross
When they were come to the place which is called Calvary, they crucified Him there, and the robbers, one on the right hand, and the other on the left.
All who pass by and see Me deride Me; they mock Me in their words, they wag their heads at Me. Like a ravening and roaring lion, they open their mouth to devour Me: He hoped in the Lord, let the Lord come to His rescue; let the Lord free him, if He cares for Him!...
My strength is dried up, My tongue hath cleaved to My jaws, and Thou hast brought Me down to the dust of death. For enemies, like a pack of dogs, have encircled Me, the council of the wicked hath besieged Me. They have pierced My hands and My feet. They have numbered all My bones.
Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.
Station 12 — Jesus Is Raised Upon the Cross and Dies
It was almost the sixth hour, and there was darkness over all the earth until the ninth hour. And the veil of the Temple was rent in tow from the top to the bottom, and the earth quaked, and the rocks were split, and the graves were opened…And Jesus cried out with a loud voice:
Eloi, Eloi, lamma sabacthani? O My God, My God, look upon Me, why hast Thou forsaken Me? I cry by day, and Thou dost not answer, I cry in the night-time and no relief comes to Me…
Have Mercy on Me, O Lord. My eyes are troubled in Thy wrath, My soul and My bowels. My strength is giving way under misery, and My whole body is shaken. I am forgotten like one that is dead, I am cast aside like a broken vessel.
It is consummated. Father, into Thy hands I commend My spirit. And Jesus, bowing His head, gave up the ghost.
Station 13 — Jesus Is Taken Down from the Cross and Placed in the Arms of His Mother
Let the evening come suddenly upon the whole heavens, and let the astonished sun dispatch the day, while we contemplate the spectacle of the cruel death and the divine tragedy.
My people, what have I done to thee, or in what have I grieved thee? I opened a way through the sea before thee, and thou hast opened My side with a spear.
With what a flood of tears, with what sorrow is the grief-stricken Virgin Mother overwhelmed,
while she beholds her son lying in her arms after being taken down from the bloody Tree! Full of sorrow she bathes with her tears His sweet lips, His gentle breast, His most dear side, His pierced right hand, His wounded left, and His feet red with blood.
O Mother, we beseech thee by these tears, by the cruel death of thy Son, and by the purple of His wounds, plant deep in our hearts the grief of thine own heart!15
Station 14 — Jesus is Laid in the Sepulcher
There was in the place where He was crucified a garden: and in the garden a new sepulcher. There, because of the Passover of the Jews, they laid Jesus.
This day shall be a memorial for you. This is the Passage of the Lord. I will execute judgment, for I am the Lord. And this Blood shall be unto you a sign, and I shall see the Blood and shall pass over you, and the plague shall not be upon you to destroy you, when I shall strike the land of Egypt.
Behold in peace is My bitterness transformed. Thou wilt not leave My soul in hell, nor wilt Thou give Thy holy one to see corruption. Hell shall not confess to Thee, neither shall death praise Thee, nor shall they that go down into the abyss look for Thy truth. The living, the living shall give praise to Thee, as I do this day.
Blessing and honor, glory, and power unto Him that sitteth upon the throne, and unto the Lamb, Who hath redeemed us to God by His blood, for ever and ever. Amen.
Tuesday, September 8th, 2026
Ad Vesperas
In Nativitate Beatæ Mariæ Virginis ~ II. classis
Start
℣. O God, ✠ come to my assistance;
℟. O Lord, make haste to help me.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, * and to the Holy Ghost.
As it was in the beginning, is now, * and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.
Alleluia.
Psalms
{Psalms & antiphons from the Proper of Saints}
Ant. This day was born the glorious Virgin Mary, * a child of the seed of Abraham, a daughter of the tribe of Judah, a Princess of the lineage of David.
Psalm 109
The Lord said to my Lord: * Sit thou at my right hand:109:1
Until I make thy enemies * thy footstool.109:1
The Lord will send forth the sceptre of thy power out of Sion: * rule thou in the midst of thy enemies.109:2
With thee is the principality in the day of thy strength: in the brightness of the saints: * from the womb before the day star I begot thee.109:3
The Lord hath sworn, and he will not repent: * Thou art a priest for ever according to the order of Melchisedech.109:4
The Lord at thy right hand * hath broken kings in the day of his wrath.109:5
He shall judge among nations, he shall fill ruins: * he shall crush the heads in the land of many.109:6
He shall drink of the torrent in the way: * therefore shall he lift up the head.109:7
℣. Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, * and to the Holy Ghost.
℟. As it was in the beginning, is now, * and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.
Ant. This day was born the glorious Virgin Mary, a child of the seed of Abraham, a daughter of the tribe of Judah, a Princess of the lineage of David.
Ant.
This day is the Birthday of the holy Virgin Mary, * whose famous life still sheddeth lustre upon all the Churches.
Psalm 112
Praise the Lord, ye children: * praise ye the name of the Lord.112:1
(bow head)112:2
Blessed be the name of the Lord, * from henceforth now and for ever.
From the rising of the sun unto the going down of the same, * the name of the Lord is worthy of praise.112:3
The Lord is high above all nations; * and his glory above the heavens.112:4
Who is as the Lord our God, who dwelleth on high: * and looketh down on the low things in heaven and in earth?112:5
Raising up the needy from the earth, * and lifting up the poor out of the dunghill:112:7
That he may place him with princes, * with the princes of his people.112:8
Who maketh a barren woman to dwell in a house, * the joyful mother of children.112:9
℣. Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, * and to the Holy Ghost.
℟. As it was in the beginning, is now, * and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.
Ant. This day is the Birthday of the holy Virgin Mary, whose famous life still sheddeth lustre upon all the Churches.
Ant.
Mary was a maiden of illustrious birth, * the daughter of a Kingly race. We earnestly entreat her to help our minds and souls by her prayers.
Psalm 121
I rejoiced at the things that were said to me: * We shall go into the house of the Lord.121:1
Our feet were standing * in thy courts, O Jerusalem.121:2
Jerusalem, which is built as a city, * which is compact together.121:3
For thither did the tribes go up, the tribes of the Lord: * the testimony of Israel, to praise the name of the Lord.121:4
Because their seats have sat in judgment, * seats upon the house of David.121:5
Pray ye for the things that are for the peace of Jerusalem: * and abundance for them that love thee.121:6
Let peace be in thy strength: * and abundance in thy towers.121:7
For the sake of my brethren, and of my neighbours, * I spoke peace of thee.121:8
Because of the house of the Lord our God, * I have sought good things for thee.121:9
℣. Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, * and to the Holy Ghost.
℟. As it was in the beginning, is now, * and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.
Ant. Mary was a maiden of illustrious birth, the daughter of a Kingly race. We earnestly entreat her to help our minds and souls by her prayers.
Ant.
With all our heart and with all our soul let us sing praise to Christ * on this the solemn Feast-day of Mary, the mighty Mother of God.
Psalm 126
Unless the Lord build the house, * they labour in vain that build it.126:1
Unless the Lord keep the city, * he watcheth in vain that keepeth it.126:1
It is vain for you to rise before light, * rise ye after you have sitten, you that eat the bread of sorrow.126:2
When he shall give sleep to his beloved, * behold the inheritance of the Lord are children: the reward, the fruit of the womb.126:2
As arrows in the hand of the mighty, * so the children of them that have been shaken.126:4
Blessed is the man that hath filled the desire with them; * he shall not be confounded when he shall speak to his enemies in the gate.126:5
℣. Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, * and to the Holy Ghost.
℟. As it was in the beginning, is now, * and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.
Ant. With all our heart and with all our soul let us sing praise to Christ on this the solemn Feast-day of Mary, the mighty Mother of God.
Ant.
Let us keep with rejoicing the Birthday of the Blessed Virgin Mary, * that she may pray for us to our Lord Jesus Christ.
Psalm 147
Praise the Lord, O Jerusalem: * praise thy God, O Sion.147:1
Because he hath strengthened the bolts of thy gates * he hath blessed thy children within thee.147:2
Who hath placed peace in thy borders: * and filleth thee with the fat of corn.147:3
Who sendeth forth his speech to the earth: * his word runneth swiftly.147:4
Who giveth snow like wool: * scattereth mists like ashes.147:5
He sendeth his crystal like morsels: * who shall stand before the face of his cold?147:6
He shall send out his word, and shall melt them: * his wind shall blow, and the waters shall run.147:7
Who declareth his word to Jacob: * his justices and his judgments to Israel.147:8
He hath not done in like manner to every nation: * and his judgments he hath not made manifest to them.147:9
℣. Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, * and to the Holy Ghost.
℟. As it was in the beginning, is now, * and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.
Ant. Let us keep with rejoicing the Birthday of the Blessed Virgin Mary, that she may pray for us to our Lord Jesus Christ.
Chapter Hymn Verse
{from the Common or Feast} Sir 24:14 From the beginning, and before the world, was I created, and unto the world to come I shall not cease to be, and in the holy dwelling place I have ministered before him. ℟. Thanks be to God. Hymn The first verse of the following hymn is said genuflecting. Ave, star of ocean, Child divine who barest, Mother, ever-Virgin, Heaven's portal fairest. Taking that sweet Ave Erst by Gabriel spoken, Eva's name reversing, Be of peace the token. Break the sinners' fetters, Light to blind restoring, All our ills dispelling, Every boon imploring. Show thyself a mother In thy supplication; He will hear who chose thee At his incarnation. Maid all maids excelling, Passing meek and lowly, Win for sinners pardon, Make us chaste and holy. As we onward journey Aid our weak endeavour, Till we gaze on Jesus And rejoice forever. Father, Son, and Spirit, Three in One confessing, Give we equal glory Equal praise and blessing. Amen. ℣. This day is the Birthday of the holy Virgin Mary. ℟. Whose famous life still sheddeth lustre upon all the Churches.
Canticle: Magnificat
{Antiphon from the Proper of Saints}
Ant. Thy Birth, * O Virgin Mother of God, was a message of joy to the whole world, for out of thee rose the Sun of righteousness, even Christ our God. Who hath taken away the curse and brought a blessing, confounded death, and given unto us everlasting life.
Canticle of the Blessed Virgin
Luke 1:46-55
My soul ✠ * doth magnify the Lord.1:46
And my spirit hath rejoiced * in God my Saviour.1:47
Because he hath regarded the humility of his handmaid; * for behold from henceforth all generations shall call me blessed.1:48
Because he that is mighty, hath done great things to me; * and holy is his name.1:49
And his mercy is from generation unto generations, * to them that fear him.1:50
He hath shewed might in his arm: * he hath scattered the proud in the conceit of their heart.1:51
He hath put down the mighty from their seat, * and hath exalted the humble.1:52
He hath filled the hungry with good things; * and the rich he hath sent empty away.1:53
He hath received Israel his servant, * being mindful of his mercy:1:54
As he spoke to our fathers, * to Abraham and to his seed for ever.1:55
℣. Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, * and to the Holy Ghost.
℟. As it was in the beginning, is now, * and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.
Ant. Thy Birth, O Virgin Mother of God, was a message of joy to the whole world, for out of thee rose the Sun of righteousness, even Christ our God. Who hath taken away the curse and brought a blessing, confounded death, and given unto us everlasting life.
Prayer
{from the Proper of Saints}
℣. O Lord, hear my prayer.
℟. And let my cry come unto thee.
Let us pray.
Grant unto us thy servants, we beseech thee, O Lord, the gift of thy heavenly grace, unto whom Thou didst give the first sight of a Saviour as the offspring of a Blessed Virgin, and grant that this Feast, which they keep in honour of the same Virgin, may avail them unto the increase of peace.
Through Jesus Christ, thy Son our Lord, Who liveth and reigneth with thee, in the unity of the Holy Ghost, God, world without end.
℟. Amen.
Conclusion
℣. O Lord, hear my prayer.
℟. And let my cry come unto thee.
℣. Let us bless the Lord.
℟. Thanks be to God.
℣. May the souls of the faithful, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.
℟. Amen.
Source
Divinum Officium
· The Divinum Officium Project (MIT) — traditional Roman Breviary, not the modern Liturgy of the Hours.
