A CANTICLE LIKE THAT OF ZACHARIAS (LUKE I)

Blessed be thou, O Lady and Mother of my God of Israel: who by thee hath quickened and hath wrought the redemption of His people. And hath raised up a horn of salvation of thy chastity: in the house of David, His servant. As he spoke by the mouth of Isaias: and others of his holy prophets. Give us salvation from our enemies, O Virgin of virgins: from the hand of those who hate us, give us peace. And do thy mercy for us and our relations: that thou mayest be mindful of the testament of the Almighty God, Which he hath sworn to our fathers: to Abraham and his seed forever; That thus, being delivered from the hand of our enemies: we may serve Him in peace. In sanctity and justice before thee: all our days. And thou, O Mary, shalt be called the Prophet of God: for thou hast known that He hath regarded the humility of His handmaid. By whom He hath given the knowledge of salvation to His people: in the remission of their sins. By the bowels of the multitude of thy mercies: visit us, O Morning Star, the Orient from on high. Enlighten the darknesses of those who sit in the shadow of death, and deign to instill into them the light of thy most Beloved Son. Have mercy, O Mother of Mercies, on us miserable sinners, who neglect to do penance for our past sins: and daily commit so much that deserves penance. Glory be to the Father, etc.