VESPERS FOR SUNDAYS
Vespers form the part of the priest’s daily office which is recited in the afternoon or evening. In ancient times they were chanted by the faithful every day, and this venerable custom is still retained by certain Religious Orders. After the prayers of praise which accompany the Sacrifice of the Mass there are no others so solemn as the vesper prayers.
Coming into the sanctuary with his assistants the celebrant first kneels before the altar and recites the following prayer:
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APERI, Domine, os meum ad benedicendum nomen sanctum tuum: munda quoque cor meum ab omnibus vanis, perversis, et alienis cogitationibus: intellectum illumina, affectum inflamma, ut digne, attente, ac devote hoc officium recitare valeam, et exaudiri merear ante conspectum di- |
O LORD, open Thou my mouth that I may bless Thy holy Name; cleanse my heart from all vain, evil, and wandering thoughts; enlighten my understanding; kindle my affections, that I may worthily, attentively, and devoutly recite this office, and may deserve to be heard before the presence of Thy divine |
