Catholic Caucus: Sunday Mass Readings, 06-24-12, Solemnity, Nativity, St John the Baptist, Vigil

June Devotion: The Sacred Heart

Since the 16th century Catholic piety has assigned entire months to special devotions. The month of June is set apart for devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. "From among all the proofs of the infinite goodness of our Savior none stands out more prominently than the fact that, as the love of the faithful grew cold, He, Divine Love Itself, gave Himself to us to be honored by a very special devotion and that the rich treasury of the Church was thrown wide open in the interests of that devotion." These words of Pope Pius XI refer to the Sacred Heart Devotion, which in its present form dates from the revelations given to Saint Margaret Mary Alacoque in 1673-75.

The devotion consists in the divine worship of the human heart of Christ, which is united to His divinity and which is a symbol of His love for us. The aim of the devotion is to make our Lord king over our hearts by prompting them to return love to Him (especially through an act of consecration by which we offer to the Heart of Jesus both ourselves and all that belongs to us) and to make reparation for our ingratitude to God.

INVOCATION

O Heart of love, I put all my trust in Thee; for I fear all things from my own weakness, but I hope for all things from Thy goodness.
Saint Margaret Mary Alacoque

PRAYER TO THE SACRED HEART

Devotion to the Sacred Heart was the characteristic note of the piety of Saint Gertrude the Great (1256-1302), Benedictine nun and renowned mystic. She was, in fact, the first great exponent of devotion to the Sacred Heart. In our efforts to honor the Heart of Jesus we have this prayer as a model for our own:
Hail! O Sacred Heart of Jesus, living and quickening source of eternal life, infinite treasure of the Divinity, and burning furnace of divine love. Thou art my refuge and my sanctuary, 0 my amiable Savior. Consume my heart with that burning fire with which Thine is ever inflamed. Pour down on my soul those graces which flow from Thy love, and let my heart be so united with Thine, that our wills may be one, and mine in all things be conformed to Thine. May Thy divine will be equally the standard and rule of all my desires and of all my actions. Amen.
Saint Gertrude

FOR THE CHURCH

O most holy Heart of Jesus, shower Thy blessings in abundant measure upon Thy holy Church, upon the Supreme Pontiff and upon all the clergy; to the just grant perseverance; convert sinners; enlighten unbelievers; bless our relations, friends and benefactors; assist the dying; deliver the holy souls in purgatory; and extend over all hearts the sweet empire of Thy love. Amen.

A PRAYER OF TRUST

O God, who didst in wondrous manner reveal to the virgin, Margaret Mary, the unsearchable riches of Thy Heart, grant that loving Thee, after her example, in all things and above all things, we may in Thy Heart find our abiding home.
Roman Missal

ACT OF LOVE

Reveal Thy Sacred Heart to me, O Jesus, and show me Its attractions. Unite me to It for ever. Grant that all my aspirations and all the beats of my heart, which cease not even while I sleep, may be a testimonial to Thee of my love for Thee and may say to Thee: Yes, Lord, I am all Thine;
pledge of my allegiance to Thee rests ever in my heart will never cease to be there. Do Thou accept the slight amount of good that I do and be graciously pleased to repair all m] wrong-doing; so that I may be able to bless Thee in time and in eternity. Amen.
Cardinal Merry del Val

MEMORARE TO THE SACRED HEART
Remember, O most sweet Jesus, that no one who has had recourse to Thy Sacred Heart, implored its help, or sought it mercy was ever abandoned. Encouraged with confidence, O tenderest of hearts, we present ourselves before Thee, crushes beneath the weight of our sins. In our misery, O Sacred Hear. of Jesus, despise not our simple prayers, but mercifully grant our requests.

Prayer Source: Prayer Book, The by Reverend John P. O'Connell, M.A., S.T.D. and Jex Martin, M.A., The Catholic Press, Inc., Chicago, Illinois, 1954

Only for Love: The Sacred Heart and the Priesthood [Catholic Caucus]

Catholic Word of the Day: LITANY OF THE SACRED HEART, 10-19-09
Devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus
Devotion to the Sacred Heart Today
The Biblical Foundation of Devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus [Ecumenical]
Heart to Heart (Sacred Heart of Jesus Devotion) [St. Margaret Mary Alacoque]
(June) The Month of the Sacred Heart {Catholic/Orthodox Caucus]
First Friday Devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus [St. Margaret Mary Alacoque]
The Heart of the World (On the Sacred Heart of Jesus) (Catholic Caucus)
The Sacred Heart Is The Holy Eucharist(Catholic Caucus)
The Origin of the Sacred Heart Badge

Importance of Devotion to the Sacred Heart
An Awesome Homily on the Solemnity of the Sacred Heart of Jesus by Father Edmond Kline
Catholic Prayer and Devotion: June the Month of the Sacred Heart
Catholic Devotions: Sacred Heart of Jesus
Pope Urges Jesuits to Spread Sacred Heart Devotion
Homilies preached by Father Altier on the Feast of the Sacred Heart
Catholic Meditation and Devotion: The Sacred Heart of Jesus
Daily Recomendation to the Sacred Heart of Jesus powerful prayer!
The Sacred Heart and the Eucharist
The Love of the Sacred Heart

On the Sacred Heart - "We Adore God's Love of Humanity"
HAURIETIS AQUAS (On Devotion To The Sacred Heart) - Encyclical by Pope Pius XII
Solemnity Most Sacred Heart of Jesus and Immaculate Heart of Mary
Sacred Heart a Feast of God's Love, Says John Paul II
The Sacred Heart of Jesus: Symbol of Combativity and the Restoration of Christendom
Devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus-The Early Church, Middle Ages up to St. Margaret Mary
See this Heart
‘God Will Act and Will Reign’
About Devotion To The Sacred Heart:The Story Of Saint Margaret Mary Alacoque
Rediscover Feast of Sacred Heart, John Paul II Tells Youth

"Behold this Heart which has loved men so much, and yet men do not want to love Me in return. Through you My divine Heart wishes to spread its love everywhere on earth."

- Jesus to Saint Margaret Mary

Our Lord also made 12 promises to St. Margaret Mary for those that are devoted to His Sacred Heart.

I will give them all the graces necessary for their state in life.
I will give peace in their families.
I will console them in all their troubles.
They shall find in My Heart an assured refuge during life and especially at the hour of death.
I will pour abundant blessings on all their undertakings.
Sinners shall find in My Heart the source and infinite ocean of mercy.
Tepid souls shall become fervent.
Fervent souls shall speedily rise to great perfection.
I will bless the homes in which the image of My Sacred Heart shall be exposed and honoured.
I will give to priests the power to touch the most hardened hearts.
Those who propagate this devotion shall have their name written in My Heart, and it shall never be effaced.
The all-powerful love of My Heart will grant to all those who shall receive Communion on the First Friday of nine consecutive months the grace of final repentance; they shall not die under My displeasure, nor without receiving their Sacraments; My Heart shall be their assured refuge at the last hour.

June 2012

Pope's intentions

General Intention: Christ, Present in the Eucharist. That believers may recognize in the Eucharist the living presence of the Risen One who accompanies them in daily life.

Missionary Intention: European Christians. That Christians in Europe may rediscover their true identity and participate with greater enthusiasm in the proclamation of the Gospel.

Fortnight for Freedom
June 21-July 4

The bishops of the United States invite you to join in an urgent prayer for religious liberty.

Almighty God, Father of all nations,
For freedom you have set us free in Christ Jesus (Gal 5:1).
We praise and bless you for the gift of religious liberty,
the foundation of human rights, justice, and the common good.
Grant to our leaders the wisdom to protect and promote our liberties;
By your grace may we have the courage to defend them, for ourselves and for all those who live in this blessed land.
We ask this through the intercession of Mary Immaculate, our patroness, and in the name of your Son, our Lord Jesus Christ, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, with whom you live and reign, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

· USCCB Ad Hoc Committee

Arlington Catholic Herald

GOSPEL COMMENTARY LK 1:57-66, 80

The Birth of John the Baptist

By Fr. Jack Peterson, YA

Today’s feast of the Nativity of St. John the Baptist is marked by joy and mystery. Both realities are woven beautifully into the events that surround this exciting and unexpected birth of Jesus’ cousin and forerunner.

Elizabeth and Zechariah are beyond child-bearing years; plus, they have been barren. At this stage in their lives their pregnancy is completely unexpected. The mysterious grace of this birth in their old age proclaims that this child and his life-project are the work of God. There is no human explanation for what is happening to them. By this birth, God says to them, “Know that I am God, and that I am acting in your lives.”

There is mystery surrounding Zechariah as a father. The Lord makes him unable to speak for the duration of the pregnancy. (Some wives might suggest that God should do that more regularly.) Zechariah is a man of faith, described in Luke’s Gospel as “righteous in the eyes of God.” Yet, his lack of faith in this particular offer from the Lord brings about this unusual chastisement. We can take comfort in the fact that God uses this time of quiet in his life to bestow many graces upon him. At the time of John’s birth, Zechariah sings one of the greatest hymns of praise that we have in the Scriptures. He demonstrates beautiful obedience in naming his son John. God often prunes us in order to help us bear more fruit.

John proceeds to bring astounding joy into his parents’ lives. Three months prior, John himself had leaped for joy in Elizabeth’s womb when Mary arrived from Nazareth pregnant with Jesus. John was startled by the presence of the one who would redeem the world and restore life and hope to mankind. His tiny little heart rejoiced, so near was our salvation. The child’s joy quickly became the mother’s joy.

On the day of his birth, the level of joy in the home and the town of Elizabeth and Zechariah must have been palatable. God was faithful to His promise. This old and barren couple had become a family of three. And they knew that this child would have a very special place in God’s plan. “You my child shall be called the prophet of the Most High.”

As Christians living two millennia after John, we have additional reasons for rejoicing today. We know what will happen to this unexpected child. He will grow up to become the last of the great prophets and the only one privileged to actually present the Messiah and Lord to the world, “Behold the Lamb of God.” He will help prepare the world to embrace its Savior by preaching a baptism of repentance. He will end up being imprisoned for speaking the truth (about marriage). He will lay down his life in witness to Jesus. John will become a bright light shining on a hilltop for the whole world to see.

Remembering and celebrating John’s birth helps us to experience anew the joy of salvation today. He reminds us that there was indeed a long time in the history of the world when we could not turn to Jesus for forgiveness, healing, guidance and strength as we can today. We are so privileged to be Jesus’ disciples. John invites us to be startled at our encounter with Christ, especially as He comes to us so humbly under the guise of a piece of bread. John teaches us to trust that God wants to do great things in our lives; He wants to surprise us with unexpected blessings. John teaches the great value of humility by his burning desire to let Jesus increase in his life while he decreased.

Let me finish with the words of the opening collect for today’s feast: “O God, who raised up St. John the Baptist to make ready a nation fit for Christ the Lord, give your people, we pray, the grace of spiritual joys and direct the hearts of all the faithful into the way of salvation and peace … .”

Fr. Peterson is assistant chaplain at Marymount University in Arlington and director of the Youth Apostles Institute in McLean.

Archdiocese of Washington

You are John the Baptist! – A Meditation on the Solemnity of the Nativity of the St. John the Baptist

By: Msgr. Charles Pope

We briefly step out of the “green” of Ordinary Time (tempus per annum) to celebrate the birth of the great and last Prophet of the Old Testament, St. John the Baptist. And in so doing, we do not only commemorate a great prophet of history, but we also consider the office of prophet, an office to which we are summoned by our baptism.

Therefore as we consider John the Baptist, we also learn of ourselves in terms of our duties both as a prophet and also as one who must be open the proclamation of those who are appointed prophets to us. Lets consider four aspects of the life and ministry of John the Baptist.

1. His PREPARING PURPOSE - In the first reading today, The Church applies these words of Isaiah to John the Baptist to describe his purpose:

The LORD called me from birth, from my mother’s womb he gave me my name. He made of me a sharp-edged sword and concealed me in the shadow of his arm….You are my servant, he said to me, through whom I show my glory…. to raise up the tribes of Jacob, and restore the survivors of Israel; I will make you a light to the nations, that my salvation may reach to the ends of the earth. (Isaiah 49:1-6)

So, the Lord wants to save his people, he wants to restore and raise us up. But, as he had warned in the Book of Malachi, it was necessary to prepare the people for the coming of the Messiah. For should he come, and they be unprepared, there would be doom:

“Surely the day is coming; it will burn like a furnace. And all the arrogant and every evildoer will be stubble. For the day that is coming will set them on fire,” says the Lord Almighty. “Not a root or a branch will be left to them.

But for you who revere my name, the sun of righteousness will rise with healing in its wings. And you will go out and leap like calves released from the stall. Then you will trample down the wicked; they will be ashes under the soles of your feet on the day when I do these things,” says the Lord Almighty.

“So, remember the law of my servant Moses, the decrees and laws I gave him at Horeb for all Israel.

“See, I will send you the prophet Elijah before that great and terrible day of the Lord comes. He will turn the hearts of the fathers to their children, and the hearts of the children to their fathers; lest I will come and strike the land with doom.” (Mal 4:1-6)

God therefore, in His love, promised to send an Elijah figure to prepare the people, for the Great and Terrible day of the Lord, so that they could endure it and even consider it bright and sunny in its warm and healing rays. John the Baptist was that Elijah figure. And Jesus, who had come to cast a fire on the earth (cf Lk 12:49) tells us this very truth of John the Baptist:

From the days of John the Baptist until now, the kingdom of heaven has been forcefully advancing, and forceful men [also] attack it. For all the Prophets and the Law prophesied until John. And if you are willing to accept it, he is the Elijah who was to come. He who has ears, let him hear. (Matt 11:12-15)

In other words, time to get ready. Either the Lord will come to us or we will go to him. And the Lord, not wanting us to be lost, sends Elijah, sends John the Baptist, sends the Church, sends parents, priests, teachers and many prophets to prepare us. The great day of judgement dawns for each of us, the Lord in his love sends prophets to prepare us.

2. His PENITENTIAL PROCLAMATION. The second reading today says of St. John the Baptist: John heralded [Jesus'] coming by proclaiming a baptism of repentance. Matthew reports John’s words as being Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is near!….Prepare the way for the Lord, make straight paths for him.(Matt 3:1).

So at the heart of getting ready to meet God is repentance. In recent decades there have been some in the Church who have wanted to soft-peddle themes of repentance and frank discussion of human sinfulness and worldliness. But the true prophet cannot prescind from this basic theme. God is very holy, and the holiest among us are the first to acknowledge that it is an awesome thing to fall into the hands of a living and holy God. God is surely rich in mercy, but there is a reason for that: we are sinners.

To be sure, repentance is more than a reform of our moral behavior. The Greek word translated here as “Repent” is metanoite which means more literally to come to a new mind, a new way of thinking, to have different and better priorities, to exchange worldly notions for heavenly wisdom.

Therefore a true prophet will be steeped in God’s Word, and the teachings of the Church. A true prophet will preach and announce what God reveals and see everything else in the light of it. A true prophet will summon God’s people to truth that God proclaims, and will expose lies and errors for what they are.

In summoning God’s people to repent therefore the prophet seeks not only to reform, or inform God’s people, but to transform them by God’s grace. Thus, when God summons us to his presence we will already be well adjusted to the temperature of his glory. Our eyes will be adjusted to the radiance of his love. And our souls will be conformed to the values of his heavenly kingdom.

Repent! That is, come to whole new mind, a new way of thinking and understanding, a new heart, a new love, and thus, a new behavior and a new way to walk that makes “straight paths” for and to the Lord.

3. His PERSISTENT POINTING to Christ. John the Baptist was a kind of “rock star” in his own time. It is difficult to underestimate his renown. Such fame is usually the recipe for megalomania and personal disaster. But John humbly points to Christ: What you suppose that I am’ I am not he. Behold, one is coming after me; I am not worthy to unfasten the sandals of his feet.

It was John who had pointed and said, “Look! There is the Lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world!” (Jn 1:29)

The true prophet points only to Christ, only to God. John did not look to his own glory or fame, he looked to Jesus. He did not look to bottom line and try and figure what it would cost him to follow Jesus, he just looked and pointed. And if anyone did note John’s glory and gifts he simply pointed to Jesus and said, He must become greater; I must become less (Jn 3:30).

The true prophet is turned toward Christ, looks for him and eagerly points to him.

4. His PRESENT PERSON - Note that John the Baptist was a real person who ministered to real people of his time in order to get them ready to meet Jesus Christ. Therefore two questions come to mind:

1. Who is John the Baptist for you? Surely the Church has this role to be like John the Baptist preparing us to meet God. The Church proclaims repentance points always to Christ. Many scoff at the Church on account of her role, and the gospel and certain aspects of the Gospel go in season and out of season. Yet, though she be a voice as of one crying in the wilderness, still she prophesies: “Repent and believe the Good News! Prepare the way for the Lord! Remember you are dust and to dust you shall return. Seek that which is above, rather than the things of earth!” Yes the Church is surely “The Prophet” for us.

Others such as parents, teachers and pastors have also had this role John in our life. For the Church is not an abstraction, the Church has members who take up her voice. And thus, for many the first place they hear of Jesus is not in a Papal encyclical or even in the bible. They of Jesus at their mother’s knee, from their father’s voice, from a religious sister, or teacher. And together they say, “this is the way, walk in it.”

Yes, John the Baptist is still present in the prophetic ministry of the Church and others.

2. How are you John the Baptist to others? Just as you have had the prophetic ministry of John the baptist from others, so are you called to take it up for others. To whom have you witnessed? To whom have you declared, “This is the way, walk in it?” To have you have you said, “Repent and believe in the Good News?”

When you were baptized your were given the office of prophet. Have you taken up this role? Have others been made ready through you to meet God?

Think about it? God had John the Baptist, who does He have now. It looks like you. You are John the Baptist!

Sunday Gospel Reflections

Solemnity of the Nativity of St. John the Baptist
Reading I: Is 49:1-6 II: Acts 13:22-26

Gospel
Luke 1:57-66,80

⁵⁷When the time arrived for Elizabeth to have her child she gave birth to a son.
⁵⁸Her neighbors and relatives heard that the Lord had shown his great mercy toward her, and they rejoiced with her.
⁵⁹When they came on the eighth day to circumcise the child, they were going to call him Zechariah after his father,
⁶⁰but his mother said in reply, "No. He will be called John."
⁶¹But they answered her, "There is no one among your relatives who has this name."
⁶²So they made signs, asking his father what he wished him to be called.
⁶³He asked for a tablet and wrote, "John is his name," and all were amazed.
⁶⁴Immediately his mouth was opened, his tongue freed, and he spoke blessing God.
⁶⁵Then fear came upon all their neighbors, and all these matters were discussed throughout the hill country of Judea.
⁶⁶All who heard these things took them to heart, saying, "What, then, will this child be?" For surely the hand of the Lord was with him.
⁸⁰ The child grew and became strong in spirit, and he was in the desert until the day of his manifestation to Israel.

Interesting Details

Liturgical note: During the liturgical year, the Church celebrates only three birthdays celebrated in a liturgical year: that of Jesus (Dec 25), of John the Baptist (June 24), and of the Blessed Virgin Mary (Sept 8).
(v. 59) On the eighth day: The parents of John have him circumcise according to the regulation of the Laws in Lev 12:3.
(v. 60) He will be called John: In Hebrew, "Yehohanan" or "Yohanan" means "Yahweh is gracious." Like Jesus (Mt 1:21), the name of John was given to his parents by the angel Gabriel before he was born (Lk 1:13).
(v. 64) His mouth was opened, his tongue is freed: During Elizabeth's pregnancy and childbirth, Zechariah was silent the entire time. The first word he could utter was praising God.
(v. 66) And the hand of the Lord is with him: Luke presents John as a parallel to Jesus. Both were born by God's intervention; both have a respective mission to fulfill.

One Main Point

The Lord is gracious in granting Zechariah a son, and most gracious in sending us His Son to bring "salvation to the ends of the earth".

Reflections

Describe a time when you like Zachariah, took a step of faith and beginning speaking, praising God.
How was "the hand of the Lord" seen in John's life? In your life?

Sunday, June 24, 2012
The Birth of St. John the Baptist (Solemnity)

First Reading:
Psalm:
Second Reading:
Gospel:

Isaiah 49:1-6
Psalm 139:1-3, 13-15
Acts 13:22-26
Luke 1:57-66, 80

Oh my Lord! How true it is that whoever works for you is paid in troubles! And what a precious price to those who love you if we understand its value.

-- St. Teresa

The Angelus

The Angel of the Lord declared to Mary:
And she conceived of the Holy Spirit.

Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee; blessed art thou among women and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus.
Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of our death. Amen.

Behold the handmaid of the Lord: Be it done unto me according to Thy word.

Hail Mary . . .

And the Word was made Flesh: And dwelt among us.

Hail Mary . . .

Pray for us, O Holy Mother of God, that we may be made worthy of the promises of Christ.

Let us pray:

Pour forth, we beseech Thee, O Lord, Thy grace into our hearts; that we, to whom the incarnation of Christ, Thy Son, was made known by the message of an angel, may by His Passion and Cross be brought to the glory of His Resurrection, through the same Christ Our Lord.

Amen.

I’ve been upset all day, ever since I read on Drudge about the Catholic priest that was convicted of complicity in the child abuse accusations.

My Dad was the desk sergeant in a township that bordered Philadelphia when a class of acolytes was molested. Those boys would be the same age as this priest that was convicted. My parents never told me about the problem, another student told me. My mother confirmed it years later.

At the time I didn’t even know what homosexuals did with each other. All that I knew was that the priest had gotten the boys drunk on church wine, in the basement and did things to them. One of the boys broke down and told his parents. The church made a deal with the township authorities AND THE PARENTS, to send the priest to some rehabilitation site, out west, if the parents would not press charges. 5 of the boys transferred to the public school. I knew one of them personally. I don’t know what happened to the rest or how many there were in the acolyte class.

I’ve been upset about this all day. I’m not sure why. It just seems so strange to me that everyone didn’t know about this and other similar events that had nothing to do with the Catholic Church.

I’ve been upset all day, ever since I read on Drudge about the Catholic priest that was convicted of complicity in the child abuse accusations.

My Dad was the desk sergeant in a township that bordered Philadelphia when a class of acolytes was molested. Those boys would be the same age as this priest that was convicted. My parents never told me about the problem, another student told me. My mother confirmed it years later.

At the time I didn’t even know what homosexuals did with each other. All that I knew was that the priest had gotten the boys drunk on church wine, in the basement and did things to them. One of the boys broke down and told his parents. The church made a deal with the township authorities AND THE PARENTS, to send the priest to some rehabilitation site, out west, if the parents would not press charges. 5 of the boys transferred to the public school. I knew one of them personally. I don’t know what happened to the rest or how many there were in the acolyte class.

I’ve been upset about this all day. I’m not sure why. It just seems so strange to me that everyone didn’t know about this and other similar events that had nothing to do with the Catholic Church.

Office of Readings

INVITATORY

The Invitatory may be said for the first ëhourí recited in the day.

Lord, + open my lips.
ñ And my mouth will proclaim your praise.

Ant. Come, let us worship the Lord, the Lamb of God, proclaimed by John.

Psalm 95
A call to praise God

Encourage each other daily while it is still today (Hebrews 3:13).

Come, let us sing to the Lord *
and shout with joy to the Rock who saves us.
Let us approach him with praise and thanksgiving *
and sing joyful songs to the Lord.

Ant. Come, let us worship the Lord, the Lamb of God, proclaimed by John.

The Lord is God, the mighty God, *
the great king over all the gods.
He holds in his hands the depths of the earth *
and the highest mountains as well.
He made the sea; it belongs to him, *
the dry land, too, for it was formed by his hands.

Ant. Come, let us worship the Lord, the Lamb of God, proclaimed by John.

Come, then, let us bow down and worship *
bending the knee before the Lord, our maker.
For he is our God and we are his people, *
the flock he shepherds.

Ant. Come, let us worship the Lord, the Lamb of God, proclaimed by John.

Today, listen to the voice of the Lord: Ü
Do not grow stubborn, as your fathers did
in the wilderness, *
when at Meriba and Massah
they challenged me and provoked me, *
Although they had seen all of my works.

Ant. Come, let us worship the Lord, the Lamb of God, proclaimed by John.

Forty years I endured that generation. *
I said, ìThey are a people whose hearts go astray
and they do not know my ways.î
So I swore in my anger, *
ìThey shall not enter into my rest.î

Ant. Come, let us worship the Lord, the Lamb of God, proclaimed by John.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, *
and to the Holy Spirit:
as it was in the beginning, is now, *
and will be for ever. Amen.

Ant. Come, let us worship the Lord, the Lamb of God, proclaimed by John.

If the Invitatory is not said, then the following is used:

God, + come to my assistance.
ñ Lord, make haste to help me.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit:
ñ as it was in the beginning, is now, will be for ever. Amen. Alleluia.

HYMN

On Jordanís bank the Baptistís cry
announces that the Lord is nigh;
awake and hearken, for he brings
glad tidings of the King of kings.

Then cleansed be every breast from sin;
make straight the way for God within,
prepare we in our hearts a home
where such a mighty Guest may come.

For thou art our salvation, Lord,
our refuge and our great reward;
without thy grace we waste away
like flowers that wither and decay.

To heal the sick stretch out thine hand,
and bid the fallen sinner stand;
shine forth and let thy light restore
earthís own true loveliness once more.

All praise, eternal Son, to thee,
whose advent doth thy people free;
whom with the Father we adore
and Holy Ghost for evermore.

Melody: Winchester New L.M.
Music: Musikalisches Handbuch, 1690
Text: Charles Coffin, 1736
Translation: John Chandler, 1837

PSALMODY

Ant. 1 The Lord called me before I was born; from my motherís womb he named me.

Psalm 21:2-8, 14
Thanksgiving for the kingís victory

He accepted life that he might rise and live for ever (Saint Hilary).

O Lord, your strength gives joy to the king; *
how your saving help makes him glad!
You have granted him his heartís desire; *
you have not refused the prayer of his lips.

You came to meet him with the blessings of success; *
you have set on his head a crown of pure gold.
He asked you for life and this you have given, *
days that will last from age to age.

Your saving help has given him glory. *
You have laid upon him majesty and splendor,
you have granted your blessings to him for ever. *
You have made him rejoice with the joy of your presence.

The king has put his trust in the Lord: *
through the mercy of the Most High he shall stand firm.
O Lord, arise in your strength; *
we shall sing and praise your power.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, *
and to the Holy Spirit:
as it was in the beginning, is now, *
and will be for ever. Amen.

Psalm Prayer

Father, you have given us life on this earth and have met us with the grace of redemption. Bestow your greatest blessing on us, the fullness of eternal life.

Ant. The Lord called me before I was born; from my motherís womb he named me.

Ant. 2 The Lord made my tongue a sharp sword; he hid me in the shadow of his hand.

Psalm 92
Praise of God the Creator

Sing in praise of Christís redeeming work (Saint Athanasius).

I

It is good to give thanks to the Lord, *
to make music to your name, O Most High,
to proclaim your love in the morning *
and your truth in the watches of the night,
on the ten-stringed lyre and the lute, *
with the murmuring sound of the harp.

Your deeds, O Lord, have made me glad; *
for the work of your hands I shout with joy.
O Lord, how great are your works! *
How deep are your designs!
The stupid cannot know this *
and the fool cannot understand.

Though the wicked spring up like grass *
and all who do evil thrive,
they are doomed to be eternally destroyed. *
But you, Lord, are eternally on high.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, *
and to the Holy Spirit:
as it was in the beginning, is now, *
and will be for ever. Amen.

Ant. The Lord made my tongue a sharp sword; he hid me in the shadow of his hand.

Ant. 3 John testified: He who is to come after me existed before me.

II

See how your enemies perish; *
all doers of evil are scattered.

To me you give the wild oxís strength; *
you anoint me with the purest oil.
My eyes looked in triumph on my foes; *
my ears heard gladly of their fall.
The just will flourish like the palm-tree *
and grow like a Lebanon cedar.

Planted in the house of the Lord *
they will flourish in the courts of our God,
still bearing fruit when they are old, *
still full of sap, still green,
to proclaim that the Lord is just. *
In him, my rock, there is no wrong.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, *
and to the Holy Spirit:
as it was in the beginning, is now, *
and will be for ever. Amen.

Psalm Prayer

Take our shame away from us, Lord, and make us rejoice in your saving works. May all who have been chosen by your Son always abound in works of faith, hope, and love in your service.

Ant. John testified: He who is to come after me existed before me.

He came to bear witness to the light.
ñ That all might believe through him.

READINGS

FIRST READING

From the book of the prophet Jeremiah
1:4-10, 17-19

The call of the prophet

The word of the Lord came to me thus:
Before I formed you in the womb I knew you,
   before you were born I dedicated you,
   a prophet to the nations I appointed you.

ìAh, Lord God!î I said,
   ìI know not how to speak; I am too young.î

   But the Lord answered me,
Say not, ìI am too young.î
   To whomever I send you, you shall go;
   whatever I command you, you shall speak.
Have no fear before them,
   because I am with you to deliver you, says the Lord.

   Then the Lord extended his hand and touched my mouth, saying,
See, I place my words in your mouth!
   This day I set you
   over nations and over kingdoms,
To root up and to tear down,
   to destroy and to demolish,
   to build and to plant.

But do you gird your loins;
   stand up and tell them
   all that I command you.
Be not crushed on their account,
   as though I would leave you crushed before them;

For it is I this day
   who have made you a fortified city,
A pillar of iron, a wall of brass,
   against the whole land:
Against Judahís kings and princes,
   against its priests and people.
They will fight against you, but not prevail over you,
   for I am with you to deliver you, says the Lord.

RESPONSORY
Jeremiah 1:5, 9, 10

Before I formed you in the womb I knew you;
before you were born I consecrated you,
ñ and I appointed you a prophet to the nations.

I have placed my words in your mouth;
have set you over nations and over kingdoms.
ñ And I appointed you a prophet to the nations.

SECOND READING

From a sermon by Saint Augustine, bishop
(Sermo 293, 1-3: PL 38, 1327-1328)

The voice of one crying in the wilderness

The Church observes the birth of John as a hallowed event. We have no such commemoration for any other fathers; but it is significant that we celebrate the birthdays of John and of Jesus. This day cannot be passed by. And even if my explanation does not match the dignity of the feast, you may still meditate on it with great depth and profit.

John is born of a woman too old for childbirth; Christ was born of a youthful virgin. The news of Johnís birth was met with incredulity, and his father was struck dumb. Christís birth was believed, and he was conceived through faith.

Such is the topic, as I have presented it, for our inquiry and discussion. But as I said before, if I lack either the time or the ability to study the implications of so profound a mystery, he who speaks within you even when I am not here will teach you better; it is he whom you contemplate with devotion, whom you have welcomed into your hearts, whose temples you have become.

John, then, appears as the boundary between the two testaments, the old and the new. That he is a sort of boundary the Lord himself bears witness, when he speaks of the law and the prophets up until John the Baptist. Thus he represents times past and is the herald of the new era to come. As a representative of the past, he is born of aged parents; as herald of the new, he is declared to be a prophet while still in his motherís womb. For when yet unborn, he leapt in his motherís womb at the arrival of blessed Mary. In that womb he had already been designated a prophet, even before he was born; it was revealed that he was to be Christís precursor, before they ever saw one another. These are divine happenings, going beyond the limits of our human fraility. Eventually he is born, he receives his name, his fatherís tongue is loosened. See how these events reflect reality

Zechariah is silent and loses his voice until John, the precursor of the Lord, is born and restores his voice. The silence of Zechariah is nothing but the age of prophecy lying hidden, obscured, as it were, and concealed before the preaching of Christ. At Johnís arrival, it becomes clear when the one who was being prophesied is about to come. The release of Zechariahís voice at the birth of John is a parallel to the rending of the veil at Christís crucifixion. If John were announcing his own coming, Zechariahís lips would not have been opened. The tongue is loosened because a voice is born. For when John was preaching the Lordís coming he was asked: Who are you? And he replied: I am the voice of one crying in the wilderness. The voice is John, but the Lord in the beginning was the Word. John was a voice that lasted only for a time; Christ, the Word in the beginning, is eternal.

RESPONSORY
Luke 1:76-77

You, my child, shall be called the prophet of the Most High,
ñ for you will go before the Lord to prepare his way.

To give his people knowledge of salvation
by the forgiveness of their sins.
ñ For you will go before the Lord to prepare his way.

If the Optional Vigil is not said, continue with the Te Deum.

OPTIONAL VIGIL

CANTICLES

Ant. Kings and princes will rise up and acknowledge you; they will adore the Lord God who chose you.

Canticle I: Jeremiah 17:7-8
Blessed are those who hope in the Lord

Blessed are they who hear the word of God and keep it (Luke 11:28).

Blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord, *
whose hope is the Lord.

He is like a tree planted beside the waters *
that stretches out its roots to the stream:

It fears not the heat when it comes, *
its leaves stay green;
In the year of drought it shows no distress, *
but still bears fruit

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, *
and to the Holy Spirit:
as it was in the beginning, is now, *
and will be for ever. Amen.

Canticle II: Sirach 14:20; 15:3-52, 6b
The happiness of the wise man

Wisdom is justified by her children (Luke 7:35).

Happy the man who meditates on wisdom, *
and reflects on knowledge;

She will nourish him with the bread of understanding, *
and give him the water of learning to drink.

He will lean upon her and not fall, *
he will trust in her and not be put to shame.

She will exalt him above his fellows; *
and he will inherit an everlasting name.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, *
and to the Holy Spirit:
as it was in the beginning, is now, *
and will be for ever. Amen.

Canticle III: Sirach 31:8-11
Blessed are those who do not seek after gold

Make for yourselves a never-failing treasure in heaven (Luke 12:33).

Happy the rich man found without fault, *
who turns not aside after gain!

Who is he, that we may praise him? *
he, of all his kindred, has done wonders,
for he has been tested by gold and come off safe, *
and this remains his glory.

He could have sinned but did not, *
could have done evil but would not,
So that his possessions are secure, *
and the assembly recounts his praises.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, *
and to the Holy Spirit:
as it was in the beginning, is now, *
and will be for ever. Amen.

Ant. Kings and princes will rise up and acknowledge you; they will adore the Lord God who chose you.

THE HOLY GOSPEL

+ A reading from the holy Gospel according to Luke
1:5-17

Your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you shall name him John.

In the days of Herod, King of Judea,
   there was a priest named Zechariah
   of the priestly division of Abijah;
   his wife was from the daughters of Aaron,
   and her name was Elizabeth.
Both were righteous in the eyes of God,
   observing all the commandments
   and ordinances of the Lord blamelessly.
But they had no child, because Elizabeth was barren
   and both were advanced in years.
Once when he was serving
   as priest in his divisionís turn before God,
according to the practice of the priestly service,
   he was chosen by lot
   to enter the sanctuary of the Lord to burn incense.
Then, when the whole assembly of the people was praying outside
   at the hour of the incense offering,
   the angel of the Lord appeared to him,
   standing at the right of the altar of incense.
Zechariah was troubled by what he saw, and fear came upon him.
But the angel said to him, ìDo not be afraid, Zechariah,
   because your prayer has been heard.
Your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son,
   and you shall name him John.
And you will have joy and gladness,
   and many will rejoice at his birth,
   for he will be great in the sight of the Lord.
John will drink neither wine nor strong drink.
He will be filled with the holy Spirit even from his motherís womb,
   and he will turn many of the children of Israel
   to the Lord their God.
He will go before him in the spirit and power of Elijah
   to turn the hearts of fathers toward children
   and the disobedient to the understanding of the righteous,
   to prepare a people fit for the Lord.î

Or:

+ A reading from the holy Gospel according to John
1:29-34

Behold the Lamb of God.

John the Baptist saw Jesus coming toward him and said,
   ìBehold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world.
He is the one of whom I said,
   ëA man is coming after me who ranks ahead of me
   because he existed before me.í
I did not know him,
   but the reason why I came baptizing with water
   was that he might be made known to Israel.î
John testified further, saying,
   ìI saw the Spirit come down like a dove from the sky
   and remain upon him.
I did not know him,
   but the one who sent me to baptize with water told me,
   ëOn whomever you see the Spirit come down and remain,
   he is the one who will baptize with the holy Spirit.í
Now I have seen and testified that he is the Son of God.î

Or:

+ A reading from the holy Gospel according to John
3:22-30

The friend of the bridegroom rejoices at the bridegroomís voice.

Jesus and his disciples went into the region of Judea,
   where he spent some time with them baptizing.
John was also baptizing in Aenon near Salim,
   because there was an abundance of water there,
   and people came to be baptized,
   for John had not yet been imprisoned.
Now a dispute arose between the disciples of John and a Jew
   about ceremonial washings.
So they came to John and said to him,
   ìRabbi, the one who was with you across the Jordan,
   to whom you testified,
   here he is baptizing and everyone is coming to him.î
John answered and said,
   ìNo one can receive anything except what has been given him from heaven.
You yourselves can testify that I said that I am not the Messiah,
   but that I was sent before him.
The one who has the bride is the bridegroom;
   the best man, who stands and listens for him,
   rejoices greatly at the bridegroomís voice.
So this joy of mine has been made complete.
He must increase; I must decrease.î

A homily on the Gospel may be given.

TE DEUM

You are God: we praise you;
You are the Lord: we acclaim you;
You are the eternal Father:
All creation worships you.

To you all angels, all the powers of heaven,
Cherubim and Seraphim, sing in endless praise:
   Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might,
   heaven and earth are full of your glory.

The glorious company of apostles praise you.
The noble fellowship of prophets praise you.
The white-robed army of martyrs praise you.

Throughout the world the holy Church acclaims you:
   Father, of majesty unbounded,
   your true and only Son, worthy of all worship,
   and the Holy Spirit, advocate and guide.

You, Christ, are the king of glory,
the eternal Son of the Father.

When you became man to set us free
you did not shun the Virginís womb.

You overcame the sting of death,
and opened the kingdom of heaven to all believers.

You are seated at Godís right hand in glory.
We believe that you will come, and be our judge.

Come then, Lord, and help your people,
bought with the price of your own blood,
and bring us with your saints
to glory everlasting.

V. Save your people, Lord, and bless your inheritance.
R. Govern and uphold them now and always.
V. Day by day we bless you.
R. We praise your name for ever.
V. Keep us today, Lord, from all sin.
R. Have mercy on us, Lord, have mercy.
V. Lord, show us your love and mercy;
R. for we put our trust in you.
V. In you, Lord, is our hope:
R. and we shall never hope in vain.

The final part of the hymn may be omitted.

CONCLUDING PRAYER

Let us pray.

God our Father,
you raised up John the Baptist
to prepare a perfect people for Christ the Lord.
Give your Church joy in spirit
and guide those who believe in you
into the way of salvation and peace.
We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
one God, for ever and ever.
ñ Amen.

Or:

O God, who raised up Saint John the Baptist
to make ready a nation fit for Christ the Lord,
give your people, we pray,
the grace of spiritual joys
and direct the hearts of all the faithful
into the way of salvation and peace.
Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, for ever and ever.
ñ Amen.

ACCLAMATION

Let us praise the Lord.
ñ And give him thanks.

Lauds

INVITATORY

The Invitatory may be said for the first ëhourí recited in the day.

Lord, + open my lips.
ñ And my mouth will proclaim your praise.

Ant. Come, let us worship the Lord, the Lamb of God, proclaimed by John.

Psalm 95
A call to praise God

Encourage each other daily while it is still today (Hebrews 3:13).

Come, let us sing to the Lord *
and shout with joy to the Rock who saves us.
Let us approach him with praise and thanksgiving *
and sing joyful songs to the Lord.

Ant. Come, let us worship the Lord, the Lamb of God, proclaimed by John.

The Lord is God, the mighty God, *
the great king over all the gods.
He holds in his hands the depths of the earth *
and the highest mountains as well.
He made the sea; it belongs to him, *
the dry land, too, for it was formed by his hands.

Ant. Come, let us worship the Lord, the Lamb of God, proclaimed by John.

Come, then, let us bow down and worship *
bending the knee before the Lord, our maker.
For he is our God and we are his people, *
the flock he shepherds.

Ant. Come, let us worship the Lord, the Lamb of God, proclaimed by John.

Today, listen to the voice of the Lord: Ü
Do not grow stubborn, as your fathers did
in the wilderness, *
when at Meriba and Massah
they challenged me and provoked me, *
Although they had seen all of my works.

Ant. Come, let us worship the Lord, the Lamb of God, proclaimed by John.

Forty years I endured that generation. *
I said, ìThey are a people whose hearts go astray
and they do not know my ways.î
So I swore in my anger, *
ìThey shall not enter into my rest.î

Ant. Come, let us worship the Lord, the Lamb of God, proclaimed by John.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, *
and to the Holy Spirit:
as it was in the beginning, is now, *
and will be for ever. Amen.

Ant. Come, let us worship the Lord, the Lamb of God, proclaimed by John.

If the Invitatory is not said, then the following is used:

God, + come to my assistance.
ñ Lord, make haste to help me.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit:
ñ as it was in the beginning, is now, will be for ever. Amen. Alleluia.

HYMN

Most truly happy, of exalted virtue,
Purest of heralds of the Sun of Justice,
Martyr intrepid, dweller in the desert,
     Greatest of prophets!

Now by your merits and compelling virtue,
From our soulsí pathway take the stones of harshness,
Make smooth the rugged, straighten out the crooked,
     Gently prepare us.

So that our Maker and the worldís Redeemer
May find us ready, purified and loving,
Happy to welcome even smallest imprint
     Of feet so sacred.

Trinity holy, One, Almighty Godhead,
All saints in heaven celebrate your praises;
Humbly we beg you, spare and grant us pardon
     Through the Redemption. Amen.

Melody: Christe Sanctorum, 11.11.11.5
Music: Paris Antiphoner, 1681
Text: O nimis felix
Translation: © the Benedictines of Saint Ceciliaís Abbey, Ryde, UK. Used with permission.

PSALMODY

Ant. 1 You shall name the child John, and many will rejoice at his birth.

Psalm 63:2-9
A soul thirsting for God

Whoever has left the darkness of sin yearns for God.

O God, you are my God, for you I long; *
for you my soul is thirsting.
My body pines for you *
like a dry, weary land without water.
So I gaze on you in the sanctuary *
to see your strength and your glory.

For your love is better than life, *
my lips will speak your praise.
So I will bless you all my life, *
in your name I will lift up my hands.
My soul shall be filled as with a banquet, *
my mouth shall praise you with joy.

On my bed I remember you. *
On you I muse through the night
for you have been my help; *
in the shadow of your wings I rejoice.
My soul clings to you; *
your right hand holds me fast.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, *
and to the Holy Spirit:
as it was in the beginning, is now, *
and will be for ever. Amen.

Psalm Prayer

Father, creator of unfailing light, give that same light to those who call to you. May our lips praise you; our lives proclaim your goodness; our work give you honor, and our voices celebrate you for ever.

Ant. You shall name the child John, and many will rejoice at his birth.

Ant. 2 In the spirit and power of Elijah, he will go before the Lord to prepare a people worthy of him.

Canticle: Daniel 3:57-88, 56
Let all creatures praise the Lord

All you servants of the Lord, sing praise to him (Revelation 19:5).

Bless the Lord, all you works of the Lord. *
Praise and exalt him above all forever.
Angels of the Lord, bless the Lord. *
You heavens, bless the Lord.
All you waters above the heavens, bless the Lord. *
All you hosts of the Lord, bless the Lord.
Sun and moon, bless the Lord. *
Stars of heaven, bless the Lord.

Every shower and dew, bless the Lord. *
All you winds, bless the Lord.
Fire and heat, bless the Lord. *
Cold and chill, bless the Lord.
Dew and rain, bless the Lord. *
Frost and chill, bless the Lord.
Ice and snow, bless the Lord. *
Nights and days, bless the Lord.
Light and darkness, bless the Lord. *
Lightnings and clouds, bless the Lord.

Let the earth bless the Lord. *
Praise and exalt him above all forever.
Mountains and hills, bless the Lord. *
Everything growing from the earth, bless the Lord.
You springs, bless the Lord. *
Seas and rivers, bless the Lord.
You dolphins and all water creatures, bless the Lord. *
All you birds of the air, bless the Lord.
All you beasts, wild and tame, bless the Lord. *
You sons of men, bless the Lord.

O Israel, bless the Lord. *
Praise and exalt him above all forever.
Priests of the Lord, bless the Lord. *
Servants of the Lord, bless the Lord.
Spirits and souls of the just, bless the Lord. *
Holy men of humble heart, bless the Lord.
Hananiah, Azariah, Mishael, bless the Lord. *
Praise and exalt him above all forever.

Let us bless the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit. *
Let us praise and exalt him above all forever.
Blessed are you, Lord, in the firmament of heaven. *
Praiseworthy and glorious and exalted above all forever.

Ant. In the spirit and power of Elijah, he will go before the Lord to prepare a people worthy of him.

Ant. 3 You, my child, shall be called the prophet of the Most High, for you will go before the Lord to prepare his way.

Psalm 149
The joy of Godís holy people

Let the sons of the Church, the children of the new people, rejoice in Christ, their King (Hesychius).

Sing a new song to the Lord, *
his praise in the assembly of the faithful.
Let Israel rejoice in its maker, *
let Zionís sons exult in their king.
Let them praise his name with dancing *
and make music with timbrel and harp.

For the Lord takes delight in his people. *
He crowns the poor with salvation.
Let the faithful rejoice in their glory, *
shout for joy and take their rest.
Let the praise of God be on their lips *
and a two-edged sword in their hand,

to deal out vengeance to the nations *
and punishment on all the peoples;
to bind their kings in chains *
and their nobles in fetters of iron;
to carry out the sentence pre-ordained; *
this honor is for all his faithful.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, *
and to the Holy Spirit:
as it was in the beginning, is now, *
and will be for ever. Amen.

Psalm Prayer

Let Israel rejoice in you, Lord, and acknowledge you as creator and redeemer. We put our trust in your faithfulness and proclaim the wonderful truths of salvation. May your loving kindness embrace us now and for ever.

Ant. You, my child, shall be called the prophet of the Most High, for you will go before the Lord to prepare his way.

READING
Malachi 3:23-24

Lo, I will send you
   Elijah, the prophet,
Before the day of the Lord comes,
   the great and terrible day,

To turn the hearts of the fathers to their children,
   and the hearts of the children to their fathers,
Lest I come and strike
   the land with doom.

RESPONSORY

He will be great in the eyes of the Lord and he will be filled with the Holy Spirit.
ñ He will be great in the eyes of the Lord and he will be filled with the Holy Spirit.

He will go before the Lord to prepare a people worthy of him.
ñ And he will be filled with the Holy Spirit.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
ñ He will be great in the eyes of the Lord and he will be filled with the Holy Spirit.

CANTICLE OF ZECHARIAH

Ant. The mouth of Zechariah was opened, and he spoke this prophecy: Blessed be the Lord, the God of Israel.

Luke 1:68-79
The Messiah and his forerunner

Blessed + be the Lord, the God of Israel; *
he has come to his people and set them free.

He has raised up for us a mighty savior, *
born of the house of his servant David.

Through his holy prophets he promised of old Ü
that he would save us from our enemies, *
from the hands of all who hate us.

He promised to show mercy to our fathers *
and to remember his holy covenant.

This was the oath he swore to our father Abraham: *
to set us free from the hands of our enemies,
free to worship him without fear, *
holy and righteous in his sight
all the days of our life.

You, my child, shall be called the prophet of the Most High; *
for you will go before the Lord to prepare his way,
to give his people knowledge of salvation *
by the forgiveness of their sins.

In the tender compassion of our God *
the dawn from on high shall break upon us,
to shine on those who dwell in darkness and the shadow of death, *
and to guide our feet into the way of peace.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, *
and to the Holy Spirit:
as it was in the beginning, is now, *
and will be for ever. Amen.

Ant. The mouth of Zechariah was opened, and he spoke this prophecy: Blessed be the Lord, the God of Israel.

INTERCESSIONS

In faith let us call upon Christ who sent John to prepare for his coming:
Dawn from on high, break upon us.

Your coming caused John the Baptist to leap for joy in his motherís womb,
ñ help us to rejoice at your coming among us.
Dawn from on high, break upon us.

Through the life and preaching of the Baptist you showed us the way to repentance,
ñ turn our hearts to follow the commandments of your kingdom.
Dawn from on high, break upon us.

You willed that your coming among us should be announced by John the Baptist,
ñ send new heralds to proclaim you throughout the world.
Dawn from on high, break upon us.

You wished to be baptized by John in the Jordan to fulfill all that the Father required,
ñ help us to do the Fatherís will.
Dawn from on high, break upon us.

THE LORDíS PRAYER

(Now let us pray as Christ the Lord has taught us:)

Our Father, who art in heaven,
hallowed be thy name;
thy kingdom come;
thy will be done on earth
as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread;
and forgive us our trespasses
as we forgive those who trespass against us;
and lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from evil.

CONCLUDING PRAYER

God our Father,
you raised up John the Baptist
to prepare a perfect people for Christ the Lord.
Give your Church joy in spirit
and guide those who believe in you
into the way of salvation and peace.
We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
one God, for ever and ever.
ñ Amen.

Or:

O God, who raised up Saint John the Baptist
to make ready a nation fit for Christ the Lord,
give your people, we pray,
the grace of spiritual joys
and direct the hearts of all the faithful
into the way of salvation and peace.
Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, for ever and ever.
ñ Amen.

DISMISSAL

May the Lord + bless us,
protect us from all evil
and bring us to everlasting life.
ñ Amen.

Daytime Prayer

INTRODUCTION

God, + come to my assistance.
ñ Lord, make haste to help me.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit:
ñ as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever. Amen. Alleluia.

HYMN

At Midmorning

Breathe on me, breath of God,
Fill me with life anew,
That I may love the things you love,
And do what you would do.

Breathe on me, breath of God,
Until my heart is pure,
Until with you I have one will,
To live and to endure.

Breathe on me, breath of God,
My soul with grace refine,
Until this earthly part of me
Glows with your fire divine.

Breathe on me, breath of God,
So I shall never die,
But live with you the perfect life
In your eternity.

Melody: Yattendon 64.66.86
Music: H. E. Woodbridge, 1845-1917
Text: Edwin Hatch, 1835-1889 adapted by Anthony G. Petti

At Midday

Almighty Ruler, God of truth,
Who guide and master all,
The rays with which you gild the dawn
With noonday heat now fall.

O quench the fires of hatred, Lord,
Of anger and of strife;
Bring health to every mind and heart
That peace may enter life.

Most holy Father, grant our prayer
Through Christ your only Son,
That in your Spirit we may live
And praise you ever one.

Melody: Ballerma C.M.
Music: F. Barthelemon, 1774-1808
Text: Ralph Wright, O.S.B.

At Midafternoon

Lord God and Maker of all things,
Creation is upheld by you.
While all must change and know decay,
You are unchanging, always new.

You are manís solace and his shield
His rock secure on which to build;
You are the spiritís tranquil home;
In you alone is hope fulfilled.

To God the Father, and the Son
And Holy Spirit render praise,
Blest Trinity, from age to age
The strength of all our living days.

Melody: Auctoritate Saeculi L.M.
Music: Poitiers Antiphoner, 1746
Text: © Stanbrook Abbey, used with permission.

PSALMODY

Antiphons

Midmorning He will be great in the eyes of the Lord and he will be filled with the Holy Spirit from his motherís womb.

Midday When your greeting sounded in my ears, the infant in my womb leaped for joy.

Midafternoon This child will be great in the eyes of the Lord, for the hand of the Lord will be with him.

Psalm 118
Song of joy for salvation

This Jesus is the stone which, rejected by you builders, has become the chief stone supporting all the rest (Acts 4:11).

I

Give thanks to the Lord for he is good, *
for his love endures for ever.

Let the sons of Israel say: *
ìHis love endures for ever.î
Let the sons of Aaron say: *
ìHis love endures for ever.î
Let those who fear the Lord say: *
ìHis love endures for ever.î

I called to the Lord in my distress; *
he answered and freed me.
The Lord is at my side; I do not fear. *
What can man do against me?
The Lord is at my side as my helper: *
I shall look down on my foes.

It is better to take refuge in the Lord *
than to trust in men:
it is better to take refuge in the Lord *
than to trust in princes.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, *
and to the Holy Spirit:
as it was in the beginning, is now, *
and will be for ever. Amen.

II

The nations all encompassed me; *
in the Lordís name I crushed them.
They compassed me, compassed me about; *
in the Lordís name I crushed them.
They compassed me about like bees; Ü
they blazed like a fire among thorns. *
In the Lordís name I crushed them.

I was hard-pressed and was falling *
but the Lord came to help me.
The Lord is my strength and my song; *
he is my savior.
There are shouts of joy and victory *
in the tents of the just.

The Lordís right hand has triumphed; *
his right hand raised me.
The Lordís right hand has triumphed;
I shall not die, I shall live *
and recount his deeds.
I was punished, I was punished by the Lord, *
but not doomed to die.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, *
and to the Holy Spirit:
as it was in the beginning, is now, *
and will be for ever. Amen.
I shall proclaim your goodness, Lord, for you have answered me.

III

Open to me the gates of holiness: *
I will enter and give thanks.
This is the Lordís own gate *
where the just may enter.
I will thank you for you have answered *
and you are my savior.

The stone which the builders rejected *
has become the corner stone.
This is the work of the Lord, *
a marvel in our eyes.
This day was made by the Lord; *
we rejoice and are glad.

O Lord, grant us salvation; *
O Lord, grant success.
Blessed in the name of the Lord *
is he who comes.
We bless you from the house of the Lord; *
the Lord God is our light.

Go forward in procession with branches *
even to the altar.
You are my God, I thank you. *
My God, I praise you.
Give thanks to the Lord for he is good; *
for his love endures for ever.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, *
and to the Holy Spirit:
as it was in the beginning, is now, *
and will be for ever. Amen.

Psalm Prayer

Lord God, you have given us the great day of rejoicing: Jesus Christ, the stone rejected by the builders, has become the cornerstone of the Church, our spiritual home. Shed upon your Church the rays of your glory, that it may be seen as the gate of salvation open to all nations. Let cries of joy and exultation ring out from its tents to celebrate the wonder of Christís resurrection.

Antiphons

Midmorning He will be great in the eyes of the Lord and he will be filled with the Holy Spirit from his motherís womb.

Midday When your greeting sounded in my ears, the infant in my womb leaped for joy.

Midafternoon This child will be great in the eyes of the Lord, for the hand of the Lord will be with him.

At the other hours, the complementary psalmody is used.

MIDMORNING

READING
Isaiah 49:1

Hear me, O coastlands,
listen, O distant peoples.
The Lord called me from birth,
from my motherís womb he gave me my name.

I saw the Spirit descending and resting upon him.
ñ This man will baptize with the Holy Spirit.

CONCLUDING PRAYER

Let us pray.

God our Father,
you raised up John the Baptist
to prepare a perfect people for Christ the Lord.
Give your Church joy in spirit
and guide those who believe in you
into the way of salvation and peace.
We ask this through Christ our Lord.
ñ Amen.

Or:

O God, who raised up Saint John the Baptist
to make ready a nation fit for Christ the Lord,
give your people, we pray,
the grace of spiritual joys
and direct the hearts of all the faithful
into the way of salvation and peace.
Through Christ our Lord.
ñ Amen.

ACCLAMATION

Let us praise the Lord.
ñ And give him thanks.

MIDDAY

READING
See Isaiah 49:5-6

For now the Lord has spoken
who formed me as his servant from the womb,
I will make you a light to the nations,
that my salvation may reach to the ends of the earth.

The Lord called me from birth.
ñ From my motherís womb he named me.

CONCLUDING PRAYER

Let us pray.

God our Father,
you raised up John the Baptist
to prepare a perfect people for Christ the Lord.
Give your Church joy in spirit
and guide those who believe in you
into the way of salvation and peace.
We ask this through Christ our Lord.
ñ Amen.

Or:

O God, who raised up Saint John the Baptist
to make ready a nation fit for Christ the Lord,
give your people, we pray,
the grace of spiritual joys
and direct the hearts of all the faithful
into the way of salvation and peace.
Through Christ our Lord.
ñ Amen.

ACCLAMATION

Let us praise the Lord.
ñ And give him thanks.

MIDAFTERNOON

READING

Isaiah 49:7b

When kings see you, they shall stand up,
and princes shall prostrate themselves
Because of the Lord who is faithful,
the Holy One of Israel who has chosen you.

I have placed my words in your mouth.
ñ I have set you over nations and over kingdoms.

CONCLUDING PRAYER

Let us pray.

God our Father,
you raised up John the Baptist
to prepare a perfect people for Christ the Lord.
Give your Church joy in spirit
and guide those who believe in you
into the way of salvation and peace.
We ask this through Christ our Lord.
ñ Amen.

Or:

O God, who raised up Saint John the Baptist
to make ready a nation fit for Christ the Lord,
give your people, we pray,
the grace of spiritual joys
and direct the hearts of all the faithful
into the way of salvation and peace.
Through Christ our Lord.
ñ Amen.

ACCLAMATION

Let us praise the Lord.
ñ And give him thanks.

Vespers

INTRODUCTION

God, + come to my assistance.
ñ Lord, make haste to help me.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit:
ñ as it was in the beginning, is now, will be for ever. Amen. Alleluia.

HYMN

The great forerunner of the morn,
The herald of the Word, is born;
And faithful hearts shall never fail
With thanks and praise his light to hail.

With heavenly message Gabriel came,
That John should be that heraldís name,
And with prophetic utterance told
His actions great and manifold.

John, still unborn, yet gave aright
His witness to the coming light;
And Christ, the sun of all the earth,
Fulfilled that witness at his birth.

Of woman-born shall never be
A greater prophet than was he,
Whose mighty deeds exalt his fame
To greater than a prophetís name.

All praise to God the Father be,
All praise, eternal Son, to thee,
Whom with the Spirit we adore
For ever and for evermore.

Melody: Sedulius L.M.
Music: Nurnbergisches Gesangbuch, 1676
Text: Saint Bede the Venerable, 673-735
Translation: John Mason Neale, 1818-1866

PSALMODY

Ant. 1 There was a man sent by God whose name was John.

Psalm 15
Who is worthy to stand in Godís presence?

You have come to Mount Zion, to the city of the living God (Hebrews 12:22).

Lord, who shall be admitted to your tent *
and dwell on your holy mountain?

He who walks without fault; *
he who acts with justice
and speaks the truth from his heart; *
he who does not slander with his tongue;

he who do no wrong to his brother, *
who casts no slur on his neighbor,
who holds the godless in disdain, *
but honors those who fear the Lord;

he who keeps his word, come what may; *
who takes no interest on a loan
and accepts no bribes against the innocent. *
Such a man will stand firm for ever.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, *
and to the Holy Spirit:
as it was in the beginning, is now, *
and will be for ever. Amen.

Psalm Prayer

Make our lives blameless, Lord. Help us to do what is right and to speak what is true, that we may dwell in your tent and find rest on your holy mountain.

Ant. There was a man sent by God whose name was John.

Ant. 2 He came to bear witness to the truth.

Psalm 112
The happiness of the just

Live as children born of the light. Light produces every kind of goodness and justice and truth (Ephesians 5:8-9).

Happy the man who fears the Lord, *
who takes delight in all his commands.
His sons will be powerful on earth; *
the children of the upright are blessed.

Wealth and riches are in his house; *
his justice stands firm for ever.
He is a light in the darkness for the upright: *
he is generous, merciful and just.

The good man takes pity and lends, *
he conducts his affairs with honor.
The just man will never waver: *
he will be remembered for ever.

He has no fear of evil news; *
with a firm heart he trusts in the Lord.
With a steadfast heart he will not fear; *
he will see the downfall of his foes.

Openhanded, he gives to the poor; Ü
his justice stands firm for ever. *
His head will be raised in glory.

The wicked man sees and is angry, Ü
grinds his teeth and fades away; *
the desire of the wicked leads to doom.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, *
and to the Holy Spirit:
as it was in the beginning, is now, *
and will be for ever. Amen.

Psalm Prayer

Lord God, you are the eternal light which illumines the hearts of good people. Help us to love you, to rejoice in your glory, and so to live in this world as to avoid harsh judgment in the next. May we come to see the light of your countenance.

Ant. He came to bear witness to the truth.

Ant. 3 John was like a brilliantly shining light.

Canticle: Revelation 15:3-4
Hymn of adoration

Mighty and wonderful are your works, *
Lord God Almighty!
Righteous and true are your ways, *
O King of the nations!

Who would dare refuse you honor, *
or the glory due your name, O Lord?

Since you alone are holy, *
all nations shall come
and worship in your presence. *
Your mighty deeds are clearly seen.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, *
and to the Holy Spirit:
as it was in the beginning, is now, *
and will be for ever. Amen.

Ant. John was like a brilliantly shining light.

READING
Acts 13:23-25

According to his promise, God has brought forth from Davidís descendants Jesus, a savior for Israel. John heralded the coming of Jesus by proclaiming a baptism of repentance to all the people of Israel. As Johnís career was coming to an end, he would say, ìWhat you suppose me to be I am not. Rather, look for one who comes after me. I am not worthy to unfasten the sandals of his feet.î

RESPONSORY

Prepare the way of the Lord; make straight his paths.
ñ Prepare the way of the Lord; make straight his paths.

He who is to come after me existed before me.
ñ Make straight his paths.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
ñ Prepare the way of the Lord; make straight his paths.

CANTICLE OF MARY

Ant. Zechariah enterd the temple of the Lord, and the angel Gabriel appeared to him, standing on the right of the altar of incense.

Luke 1:46-55
The soul rejoices in the Lord

My + soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord, Ü
my spirit rejoices in God my Savior *
for he has looked with favor on his lowly servant.

From this day all generations will call me blessed: Ü
the Almighty has done great things for me, *
and holy is his Name.

He has mercy on those who fear him *
in every generation.

He has shown the strength of his arm, *
he has scattered the proud in their conceit.

He has cast down the mighty from their thrones, *
and has lifted up the lowly.

He has filled the hungry with good things, *
and the rich he has sent away empty.

He has come to the help of his servant Israel *
for he has remembered his promise of mercy,
the promise he made to our fathers, *
to Abraham and his children for ever.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, *
and to the Holy Spirit:
as it was in the beginning, is now, *
and will be for ever. Amen.

Ant. Zechariah enterd the temple of the Lord, and the angel Gabriel appeared to him, standing on the right of the altar of incense.

INTERCESSIONS

Let us pray joyfully to God our Father who called John the Baptist to proclaim the coming of the kingdom of Christ:
O Lord, guide our feet into the way of peace.

You called John the Baptist from his motherís womb to prepare the way of your Son,
ñ help us to follow in that path which the Baptist opened before the Lord Jesus.
O Lord, guide our feet into the way of peace.

May your Church, in imitation of the Baptist, fearlessly point out the Lamb of God,
ñ so that people in every age may acknowledge that the Lord comes to them.
O Lord, guide our feet into the way of peace.

John the Baptist did not exalt himself but acknowledged his role as forerunner of the Christ,
ñ teach us to acknowledge that you are the giver of all our good gifts and that we must use them in your service.
O Lord, guide our feet into the way of peace.

You called John the Baptist to give testimony to you by his life and even by his death,
ñ help us to imitate his unceasing witness to your truth.
O Lord, guide our feet into the way of peace.

Remember those who have died,
ñ give them a place of light, happiness, and peace.
O Lord, guide our feet into the way of peace.

THE LORDíS PRAYER

(Now let us pray as Christ the Lord has taught us:)

Our Father, who art in heaven,
hallowed be thy name;
thy kingdom come;
thy will be done on earth
as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread;
and forgive us our trespasses
as we forgive those who trespass against us;
and lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from evil.

CONCLUDING PRAYER

God our Father,
you raised up John the Baptist
to prepare a perfect people for Christ the Lord.
Give your Church joy in spirit
and guide those who believe in you
into the way of salvation and peace.
We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
one God, for ever and ever.
ñ Amen.

Or:

O God, who raised up Saint John the Baptist
to make ready a nation fit for Christ the Lord,
give your people, we pray,
the grace of spiritual joys
and direct the hearts of all the faithful
into the way of salvation and peace.
Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, for ever and ever.
ñ Amen.

DISMISSAL

May the Lord + bless us,
protect us from all evil
and bring us to everlasting life.
ñ Amen.

Compline

INTRODUCTION

God, + come to my assistance.
ñ Lord, make haste to help me.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit:
ñ as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever. Amen. Alleluia.

Examination of Conscience

A brief examination of conscience may be made. In the communal celebration of the Office, a Penitential Rite using the formulas of the Mass may be inserted here.

[I confess to almighty God
and to you, my brothers and sisters,
that I have greatly sinned,
in my thoughts and in my words,
in what I have done and in what I have failed to do,

And, striking their breast, they say:

through my fault, through my fault,
through my most grievous fault;

Then they continue:

therefore I ask blessed Mary ever-Virgin,
all the Angels and Saints,
and you, my brothers and sisters,
to pray for me to the Lord our God.

The absolution by the Priest follows:

May almighty God have mercy on us,
forgive us our sins,
and bring us to everlasting life.
ñ Amen.]

HYMN

God who made the earth and heaven,
    Darkness and light;
You the day for work have givín
    For rest the night.
May your angel guards defend us,
Slumber sweet your mercy send us,
Holy dreams and hope attend us,
    All through the night.

And when morn again shall call us
    To run lifeís way,
May we still whateíer befall us,
    Your will obey.
From the powír of evil hide us,
In the narrow pathway guide us,
Never be your smile denied us
    All through the day.

Guard us waking, guard us sleeping,
    And, when we die,
May we in your mighty keeping
    All peaceful lie.
When the last dread call shall wake us,
Then O Lord, do not forsake us,
But to reign in glory take us
With you on high.

Melody: Ar Hyd Y Nos 84.84.88.84
Music: Welsh Carol
Text: st 1 Reginald Heber, 1783-1826; st. 2 William Mercer, 1811-1876; st. 3 Richard Whately, 1787-1863

PSALMODY

Ant. Night holds no terrors for me sleeping under Godís wings.

Psalm 91
Safe in Godís sheltering care

I have given you the power to tread upon serpents and scorpions (Luke 10:19).

He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High *
and abides in the shade of the Almighty
says to the Lord: ìMy refuge, *
my stronghold, my God in whom I trust!î

It is he who will free you from the snare *
of the fowler who seeks to destroy you;
he will conceal you with his pinions *
and under his wings you will find refuge.

You will not fear the terror of the night *
nor the arrow that flies by day,
nor the plague that prowls in the darkness *
nor the scourge that lays waste at noon.

A thousand may fall at your side, *
ten thousand fall at your right,
you, it will never approach; *
his faithfulness is buckler and shield.

Your eyes have only to look *
to see how the wicked are repaid,
you who have said: ìLord, my refuge!î *
and have made the Most High your dwelling.

Upon you no evil shall fall, *
no plague approach where you dwell.
For you has he commanded his angels, *
to keep you in all your ways.

They shall bear you upon their hands *
lest you strike your foot against a stone.
On the lion and the viper you will tread *
and trample the young lion and the dragon.

Since he clings to me in love, I will free him; *
protect him for he knows my name.
When he calls I shall answer: ìI am with you,î *
I will save him in distress and give him glory.

With length of life I will content him; *
I shall let him see my saving power.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, *
and to the Holy Spirit:
as it was in the beginning, is now, *
and will be for ever. Amen.

Ant. Night holds no terrors for me sleeping under Godís wings.

READING
Revelation 22:4-5

They shall see the Lord face to face and bear his name on their foreheads. The night shall be no more. They will need no light from lamps or the sun, for the Lord God shall give them light, and they shall reign forever.

RESPONSORY

Into your hands, Lord, I commend my spirit.
ñ Into your hands, Lord, I commend my spirit.

You have redeemed us, Lord God of truth.
ñ I commend my spirit.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
ñ Into your hands, Lord, I commend my spirit.

GOSPEL CANTICLE

Ant. Protect us, Lord, as we stay awake; watch over us as we sleep, that awake, we may keep watch with Christ, and asleep, rest in his peace.

Luke 2:29-32
Christ is the light of the nations and the glory of Israel

Lord, + now you let your servant go in peace; *
your word has been fulfilled:

my own eyes have seen the salvation *
which you have prepared in the sight of every people:

a light to reveal you to the nations *
and the glory of your people Israel.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, *
and to the Holy Spirit:
as it was in the beginning, is now, *
and will be for ever. Amen.

Ant. Protect us, Lord, as we stay awake; watch over us as we sleep, that awake, we may keep watch with Christ, and asleep, rest in his peace.

CONCLUDING PRAYER

Let us pray.

Lord,
we have celebrated today
the mystery of the rising of Christ to new life.
May we now rest in your peace,
safe from all that could harm us,
and rise refreshed and joyful,
to praise you throughout another day.
We ask this through Christ our Lord.
ñ Amen.

BLESSING

May the all-powerful Lord
grant us a restful night
and a peaceful death.
ñ Amen.

Antiphon or song in honor of the Blessed Virgin Mary

Hail, holy Queen, mother of mercy,
our life, our sweetness, and our hope.
To you do we cry,
poor banished children of Eve.
To you do we send up our sighs
mourning and weeping in this vale of tears.
Turn then, most gracious advocate,
your eyes of mercy toward us,
and after this exile
show us the blessed fruit of your womb, Jesus.
O clement, O loving,
O sweet Virgin Mary.

Or:

Hail Mary, full of grace,
the Lord is with you!
Blessed are you among women,
and blessed is the fruit of your womb, Jesus.
Holy Mary, Mother of God,
pray for us sinners,
now and at the hour of our death.

Or:

Salve, Regina, mater misericordiae;
vita, dulcedo et spes nostra, salve,
Ad te clamamus, exsules filii Evae.
Ad te suspiramus, gementes et flentes
in hac lacrimarum valle.

Eia ergo, advocata nostra,
illos tuos misericordes occulos
ad nos converte.
Et Iesum, benedictum fructum ventris tui,
nobis post hoc exilium ostende.
O clemens, o pia, o dulcis Virgo Maria.

Or:

Loving mother of the Redeemer,
gate of heaven, star of the sea,
assist your people who have fallen yet strive to rise again.
To the wonderment of nature you bore your Creator,
yet remained a virgin after as before.
You who received Gabrielís joyful greeting,
have pity on us poor sinners.

Nativity of Saint John the Baptist

Nativity of Saint John the Baptist
June 24th
Solemnity

Nativity of John the Baptist - 1523 - Rome
from The Book of Gospels, Midwest Theological Forum (see links page)

Nativity of Saint John the Baptist: Born six months before our Lord, Saint John the Baptist was the son of Zechariah and Elizabeth, our Lady's couin. He was the last and greatest of the prophets. As the forerunner of the Savior, he had the mission of preparing the Jews for the coming of Christ. When Jesus had come, Saint John bore witness to Him before his own followers and encouraged them to follow Him.
Source: Daily Roman Missal, Edited by Rev. James Socías, Midwest Theological Forum, Chicago, Illinois ©2003
Readings for the Birth of Saint John the Baptist
Collect:
O God, who raised up Saint John the Baptist
to make ready a nation fit for Christ the Lord,
give your people, we pray,
the grace of spiritual joys
and direct the hearts of all the faithful
into the way of salvation and peace.
Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, for ever and ever. +Amen.
First Reading: Isaiah 49:1-6
Listen to me, O coastlands, and hearken, you peoples from afar. The Lord called me from the womb, from the body of my mother He named my name. He made my mouth like a sharp sword, in the shadow of His hand He hid me; He made me a polished arrow, in His quiver He hid me away. And He said to me, "You are My servant, Israel, in whom I will be glorified." But I said, "I have labored in vain, I have spent my strength for nothing and vanity; yet surely my right is with the Lord, and my recompense with my God."

And now the Lord says, who formed me from the womb to be His servant, to bring Jacob back to Him, and that Israel might be gathered to Him, for I am honored in the eyes of the Lord, and my God has become my strength-- He says: "It is too light a thing that you should be My servant to raise up the tribes of Jacob and to restore the preserved of Israel; I will give you as a light to the nations, that My salvation may reach to the end of the earth."

Second Reading: Acts 13:22-26
In those days, Paul said, God raised up David to be their king; of whom He testified and said, 'I have found in David the son of Jesse a man after My heart, who will do all My will.' Of this man's posterity God has brought to Israel a Savior, Jesus, as He promised. Before His coming John had preached a baptism of repentance to all the people of Israel. And as John was finishing his course, he said, 'What do you suppose that I am? I am not He. No, but after me one is coming, the sandals of whose feet I am not worthy to untie.'

"Brethren, sons of the family of Abraham, and those among you that fear God, to us has been sent the message of this salvation.

Gospel Reading: Luke 1:57-66, 80
Now the time came for Elizabeth to be delivered, and she gave birth to a son. And her neighbors and kinsfolk heard that the Lord had shown great mercy to her, and they rejoiced with her. And on the eighth day they came to circumcise the child; and they would have named him Zechariah after his father, but his mother said, "Not so; he shall be called John." And they said to her, "None of your kindred is called by this name." And they made signs to his father, inquiring what he would have him called. And he asked for a writing tablet, and wrote, "His name is John." And they all marveled. And immediately his mouth was opened and his tongue loosed, and he spoke, blessing God. And fear came on all their neighbors. And all these things were talked about through all the hill country of Judea; and all who heard them laid them up in their hearts, saying, "What then will this child be?" For the hand of the Lord was with him.

And the child grew and became strong in spirit, and he was in the wilderness till the day of his manifestation to Israel.
Vigil Mass Readings for the Birth of Saint John the Baptist
Collect at the Vigil Mass:
Grant, we pray, almighty God,
that your family may walk in the way of salvation
and attentive to what Saint John the Precursor urged,
may come safely to the One he foretold,
our Lord Jesus Christ.
Who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, for ever and ever. +Amen.
First Reading: Jeremiah 1:4-10
'Now the word of the Lord came to me saying, "Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, and before you were born I consecrated you; I appointed you a prophet to the nations." Then I said, "Ah, Lord God! Behold, I do not know how to speak, for I am only a youth." But the Lord said to me, "Do not say, 'I am only a youth'; for to all to whom I send you you shall go, and whatever I command you you shall speak. Be not afraid of them, for I am with you to deliver you, says the Lord." Then the Lord put forth His hand and touched my mouth; and the Lord said to me, "Behold, I have put My words in your mouth. See, I have set you this day over nations and over kingdoms, to pluck up and to break down, to destroy and to overthrow, to build and to plant."

Second Reading: 1 Peter 1:8-12
Without having seen Him you love Him; though you do not now see Him you believe in Him and rejoice with unutterable and exalted joy. As the outcome of your faith you obtain the salvation of your souls.

The prophets who prophesied of the grace that was to be yours searched and inquired about this salvation; they inquired what person or time was indicated by the Spirit of Christ within them when predicting the sufferings of Christ and the subsequent glory. It was revealed to them that they were serving not themselves but you, in the things which have now been announced to you by those who preached the good news to you through the Holy Spirit sent from heaven, things into which angels long to look.

Gospel Reading: Luke 1:5-17
In the days of Herod, king of Judea, there was a priest named Zechariah, of the division of Abijah; and he had a wife of the daughters of Aaron, and her name was Elizabeth. And they were both righteous before God, walking in all the commandments and ordinances of the Lord blameless. But they had no child, because Elizabeth was barren, and both were advanced in years.

Now while he was serving as priest before God when his division was on duty, according to the custom of the priesthood, it fell to him by lot to enter the temple of the Lord and burn incense. And the whole multitude of the people were praying outside at the hour of incense. And there appeared to him an angel of the Lord standing on the right side of the altar of incense. And Zechariah was troubled when he saw him, and fear fell upon him. But the angel said to him, "Do not be afraid, Zechariah, for your prayer is heard, and your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you shall call his name John. And you will have joy and gladness, and many will rejoice at his birth; for he will be great before the Lord, and he shall drink no wine nor strong drink, and he will be filled with the Holy Spirit, even from his mother's womb. And he will turn many of the sons of Israel to the Lord their God, and he will go before him in the spirit and power of Elijah, to turn the hearts of the fathers to the children, and the disobedient to the wisdom of the just, to make ready for the Lord a people prepared."

John the Baptist: In the Spirit and Power of Elijah (Sunday is the Solemnity of John the Baptist!)
A brief primer on St. John the Baptist, Forerunner...

The Birth of Saint John the Baptist [Catholic/Orthodox Caucus
Living Faith: John the Baptizer teaches us the Way to Happiness and Freedom
SAINT JOHN THE BAPTIST THE PRECURSOR
THE BIRTH OF JOHN THE BAPTIST
John the Baptist, an Enduring Model of Fidelity to God
Birth of John the Baptist by St Augustine
Birth of St. John the Baptist, Feast: June 24
Homilies preached by Father Robert Altier on the Solemnity of the Birth of Saint John the Baptist
Nativity of the Forerunner John the Baptist, June 24
Saints John The Baptist, Zachary and Elizabeth [THE BIRTH OF ST JOHN THE BAPTIST]

Information: Birth of St. John the Baptist

Feast Day:

June 24

Information: Birth of St. John the Baptist

Feast Day:

June 24

June 24, 2012

Solemnity of the Nativity of Saint John the Baptist, Vigil Mass

Reading 1 Jer 1:4-10

Responsorial Psalm Ps 71:1-2, 3-4a, 5-6ab, 15ab and 17

Reading 2 1 Pt 1:8-12

Gospel Lk 1:5-17

You are John the Baptist! – A Meditation on the Solemnity of the Nativity of the St. John the Baptist