October 21 - Saint Gaspar Del Bufalo (5)
HYMN
In grateful jubilation, O Father, we praise you:
You are our light and guide to heaven;
Every follower, O blessed Gaspar,
In you confides.
You made the ardent soul spotless
In the divine blood of the Lamb.
From the meek, crucified Nazarene,
You drew strength.
The wicked and treacherous, Gaspar,
you brought to gentle tears.
You happily pointed the way to Christ,
the joy of our life.
Driven by infinite charity,
by the mystical bloodless sacrifice
you yearn to be fed, to imitate God
who became our food.
At your voice, how many vile, unworthy,
wicked and corrupt ones repented,
and from the Cross received
hidden bursts of love!
O glorious one, from your celestial honors,
fill your children from your bounty.
May they bring to an oppressed world
Living gifts of salvation.
O kind Father, Redeemer Son,
Holy Spirit, fount of all life,
to you be eternal praise, adoration,
and infinite glory. Amen
Or another hymn or song approved by the ecclesiastic authority.
Ant. 1 God’s love for us
allows us to abide in him.
PSALM 15 Who is worthy to stand before the Lord?
You have approached Mount Zion and the city of the living God (Hebrews 12: 22).
Lord, who may abide in your tent? *
Who may dwell on your holy mountain?
Whoever walks without blame, *
doing what is right, speaking truth from the heart;
Who does not slander a neighbor, *
does no harm to another, never defames a friend;
Who disdains the wicked, *
but honors those who fear the Lord;
Who keeps an oath despite the cost, †
lends no money at interest, *
accepts no bribe against the innocent.
Whoever acts like this *
shall never be shaken.
Ant. 1 God’s love for us
allows us to abide in him.
Ant .2 Blessed are we when we conduct ourselves
with a merciful heart.
PSALM 112 Beatitudes of the just
Live as children of light, for light produces every kind of goodness and righteousness and truth (Ephesians 5:8-9).
Happy are those who fear the Lord, *
who greatly delight in God’s commands.
Their descendants shall be mighty in the land, *
generation upright and blessed.
Wealth and riches shall be in their homes; *
their prosperity shall endure forever.
They shine through the darkness, a light for the upright; *
they are gracious, merciful, and just.
All goes well for those gracious in lending, *
who conduct their affairs with justice.
They shall never be shaken; *
the just shall be remembered forever.
They shall not fear an ill report; *
their hearts are steadfast, trusting the Lord.
Their hearts are tranquil, without fear, *
till at last they look down on their foes.
Lavishly they give to the poor; †
their prosperity shall endure forever; *
their horn shall be exalted in honor.
The wicked shall be angry to see this; †
they will gnash their teeth and waste away; *
the desires of the wicked come to nothing.
Ant. 2 Blessed are we when we conduct ourselves
with a merciful heart.
Ant. 3 Adoration, praise and charity:
this is our thanksgiving hymn to the Father.
CANTICLE Revelation 15:3-4 Hymn of adoration and praise
Great and wonderful are your works, †
Lord God almighty. *
Just and true are your ways, O king of the nations.
Who will not fear you, Lord, †
or glorify your name? *
For you alone are holy.
All the nations will come †
and worship before you, *
for your righteous acts have been revealed.
Ant. 3 Adoration, praise and charity:
this is our thanksgiving hymn to the Father.
READING 2 Corinthians 5:17-20
So whoever is in Christ is a new creation: the old things have passed away; behold, new things have come. And all this is from God, who has reconciled us to himself through Christ and given us the ministry of reconciliation, namely, God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ, not counting their trespasses against them and entrusting to us the message of reconciliation. So we are ambassadors for Christ, as if God were appealing through us. We implore you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God.
RESPONSORY
R. Let us present ourselves as ministers of God, * in the Holy Spirit, in sincere love.
-- Let us present ourselves as ministers of God, in the Holy Spirit, in sincere love.
V. In all truth, and in the power of God.
-- in the Holy Spirit, in sincere love.
Glory to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit.
-- Let us present ourselves as ministers of God, in the Holy Spirit, in sincere love.
Magnificat Ant Rejoice, O Saint Gaspar, in the Lamb of God: he has prepared for you a kingdom from the foundation of the world.
My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord; *
my spirit rejoices in God my savior.
For he has looked upon his handmaid's lowliness; *
behold, from now on all ages will call me blessed.
The Mighty One has done great things for me, *
and holy is his name.
His mercy is from age to age *
to those who fear him.
He has shown might with his arm, *
dispersed the arrogant of mind and heart.
He has thrown down the rulers from their thrones*
but lifted up the lowly.
The hungry he has filled with good things; *
the rich he has sent away empty.
He has helped Israel his servant, *
remembering his mercy,
according to his promise to our fathers, *
to Abraham and to his descendants forever.
Magnificat Ant Rejoice, O Saint Gaspar, in the Lamb of God: he has prepared for you a kingdom from the foundation of the world.
INTERCESSIONS
Let us bless the Lord Jesus, who shed his blood for our salvation at the closing of the day. In union with Saint Gaspar, let us present our petitions to the Father, thanking him for redeeming us in the blood of Christ:
Praise and thanksgiving be evermore to Jesus, who with his blood has saved us.
For the glory of your holy name, for the coming of your kingdom and for the salvation of the whole world:
- we offer you, Father, the blood of Jesus.
For the spread of the Church, for our Pope N., bishops, priests, deacons, religious men and women, and for the sanctification of all your people.
- we offer you, Father, the blood of Jesus.
For the conversion of sinners, for the loving acceptance of your word and for unity among Christians
- we offer you, Father, the blood of Jesus.
For the civil authorities, for the strengthening of public morals and for peace and justice among nations:
- we offer you, Father, the blood of Jesus.
For the sanctification of our work, for the poor, the sick and the afflicted, and for all who rely on our prayers:
- we offer you, Father, the blood of Jesus.
For our special needs both spiritual and temporal, for those of our relatives, friends and benefactors, and also for those of our enemies:
- we offer you, Father, the blood of Jesus.
For those who are to die today, for the faithful departed, and for our final union in the glory of the Lamb:
- we offer you, Father, the blood of Jesus.
Our Father.
Prayer
Almighty and merciful God, who gave us an ardent witness of love for your divinity and for our neighbour in Saint Gaspar del Bufalo, priest and dedicated missionary of the Precious Blood of Christ; through his intercession, listen to the voice of the blood of your Son which daily rises to you from the earth in the painful cry of suffering humanity. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever.
In grateful jubilation, O Father, we praise you:
You are our light and guide to heaven;
Every follower, O blessed Gaspar,
In you confides.
You made the ardent soul spotless
In the divine blood of the Lamb.
From the meek, crucified Nazarene,
You drew strength.
The wicked and treacherous, Gaspar,
you brought to gentle tears.
You happily pointed the way to Christ,
the joy of our life.
Driven by infinite charity,
by the mystical bloodless sacrifice
you yearn to be fed, to imitate God
who became our food.
At your voice, how many vile, unworthy,
wicked and corrupt ones repented,
and from the Cross received
hidden bursts of love!
O glorious one, from your celestial honors,
fill your children from your bounty.
May they bring to an oppressed world
Living gifts of salvation.
O kind Father, Redeemer Son,
Holy Spirit, fount of all life,
to you be eternal praise, adoration,
and infinite glory. Amen
Or another hymn or song approved by the ecclesiastic authority.
Ant. 1 God’s love for us
allows us to abide in him.
PSALM 15 Who is worthy to stand before the Lord?
You have approached Mount Zion and the city of the living God (Hebrews 12: 22).
Lord, who may abide in your tent? *
Who may dwell on your holy mountain?
Whoever walks without blame, *
doing what is right, speaking truth from the heart;
Who does not slander a neighbor, *
does no harm to another, never defames a friend;
Who disdains the wicked, *
but honors those who fear the Lord;
Who keeps an oath despite the cost, †
lends no money at interest, *
accepts no bribe against the innocent.
Whoever acts like this *
shall never be shaken.
Ant. 1 God’s love for us
allows us to abide in him.
Ant .2 Blessed are we when we conduct ourselves
with a merciful heart.
PSALM 112 Beatitudes of the just
Live as children of light, for light produces every kind of goodness and righteousness and truth (Ephesians 5:8-9).
Happy are those who fear the Lord, *
who greatly delight in God’s commands.
Their descendants shall be mighty in the land, *
generation upright and blessed.
Wealth and riches shall be in their homes; *
their prosperity shall endure forever.
They shine through the darkness, a light for the upright; *
they are gracious, merciful, and just.
All goes well for those gracious in lending, *
who conduct their affairs with justice.
They shall never be shaken; *
the just shall be remembered forever.
They shall not fear an ill report; *
their hearts are steadfast, trusting the Lord.
Their hearts are tranquil, without fear, *
till at last they look down on their foes.
Lavishly they give to the poor; †
their prosperity shall endure forever; *
their horn shall be exalted in honor.
The wicked shall be angry to see this; †
they will gnash their teeth and waste away; *
the desires of the wicked come to nothing.
Ant. 2 Blessed are we when we conduct ourselves
with a merciful heart.
Ant. 3 Adoration, praise and charity:
this is our thanksgiving hymn to the Father.
CANTICLE Revelation 15:3-4 Hymn of adoration and praise
Great and wonderful are your works, †
Lord God almighty. *
Just and true are your ways, O king of the nations.
Who will not fear you, Lord, †
or glorify your name? *
For you alone are holy.
All the nations will come †
and worship before you, *
for your righteous acts have been revealed.
Ant. 3 Adoration, praise and charity:
this is our thanksgiving hymn to the Father.
READING 2 Corinthians 5:17-20
So whoever is in Christ is a new creation: the old things have passed away; behold, new things have come. And all this is from God, who has reconciled us to himself through Christ and given us the ministry of reconciliation, namely, God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ, not counting their trespasses against them and entrusting to us the message of reconciliation. So we are ambassadors for Christ, as if God were appealing through us. We implore you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God.
RESPONSORY
R. Let us present ourselves as ministers of God, * in the Holy Spirit, in sincere love.
-- Let us present ourselves as ministers of God, in the Holy Spirit, in sincere love.
V. In all truth, and in the power of God.
-- in the Holy Spirit, in sincere love.
Glory to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit.
-- Let us present ourselves as ministers of God, in the Holy Spirit, in sincere love.
Magnificat Ant Rejoice, O Saint Gaspar, in the Lamb of God: he has prepared for you a kingdom from the foundation of the world.
My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord; *
my spirit rejoices in God my savior.
For he has looked upon his handmaid's lowliness; *
behold, from now on all ages will call me blessed.
The Mighty One has done great things for me, *
and holy is his name.
His mercy is from age to age *
to those who fear him.
He has shown might with his arm, *
dispersed the arrogant of mind and heart.
He has thrown down the rulers from their thrones*
but lifted up the lowly.
The hungry he has filled with good things; *
the rich he has sent away empty.
He has helped Israel his servant, *
remembering his mercy,
according to his promise to our fathers, *
to Abraham and to his descendants forever.
Magnificat Ant Rejoice, O Saint Gaspar, in the Lamb of God: he has prepared for you a kingdom from the foundation of the world.
INTERCESSIONS
Let us bless the Lord Jesus, who shed his blood for our salvation at the closing of the day. In union with Saint Gaspar, let us present our petitions to the Father, thanking him for redeeming us in the blood of Christ:
Praise and thanksgiving be evermore to Jesus, who with his blood has saved us.
For the glory of your holy name, for the coming of your kingdom and for the salvation of the whole world:
- we offer you, Father, the blood of Jesus.
For the spread of the Church, for our Pope N., bishops, priests, deacons, religious men and women, and for the sanctification of all your people.
- we offer you, Father, the blood of Jesus.
For the conversion of sinners, for the loving acceptance of your word and for unity among Christians
- we offer you, Father, the blood of Jesus.
For the civil authorities, for the strengthening of public morals and for peace and justice among nations:
- we offer you, Father, the blood of Jesus.
For the sanctification of our work, for the poor, the sick and the afflicted, and for all who rely on our prayers:
- we offer you, Father, the blood of Jesus.
For our special needs both spiritual and temporal, for those of our relatives, friends and benefactors, and also for those of our enemies:
- we offer you, Father, the blood of Jesus.
For those who are to die today, for the faithful departed, and for our final union in the glory of the Lamb:
- we offer you, Father, the blood of Jesus.
Our Father.
Prayer
Almighty and merciful God, who gave us an ardent witness of love for your divinity and for our neighbour in Saint Gaspar del Bufalo, priest and dedicated missionary of the Precious Blood of Christ; through his intercession, listen to the voice of the blood of your Son which daily rises to you from the earth in the painful cry of suffering humanity. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever.
Published in
October 21 - Saint Gaspar Del Bufalo
Complementary psalmody. However, if the solemnity is celebrated on Sunday, the psalms are taken from Sunday, Week I.
Mid-morning
Ant. May the blood of Christ be our consolation in life,
our hope in heaven.
READING Revelation 4:11
Worthy are you, Lord our God, to receive glory and honor and power, for you created all things; because of your will they came to be and were created.
V. Amen! Honor, glory, wisdom, thanksgiving,
R. honor, power and might to our God for ever and ever. Amen.
Midday
Ant. The Lord Jesus is total goodness and love.
To give us his life he allowed himself to be crucified.
READING Revelation 5:9-10
Worthy are you to receive the scroll and to break open its seals, for you were slain and with your blood you purchased for God those from every tribe and tongue, people and nation. You made them a kingdom and priests for our God, and they will reign on earth.
V. Worthy is the Lamb to receive glory,
R. honor and blessings.
Mid-afternoon
Ant. The blood of the Son of God
heals, sanctifies and gives life.
READING Revelation 21:5-7
The one who sat on the throne said, “Behold, I make all things new.” Then he said, “Write these words down, for they are trustworthy and true.” He said to me, “They are accomplished. I am the Alpha and the Omega, the beginning and the end. To the thirsty I will give a gift from the spring of life-giving water. The victor will inherit these gifts, and I shall be his God, and he will be my son.”
V. The Lamb who sits on the throne will be their shepherd,
R. who will lead them to the springs of the living water.
Prayer
Almighty and merciful God, who gave us an ardent witness of love for your divinity and for our neighbour in Saint Gaspar del Bufalo, priest and dedicated missionary of the Precious Blood of Christ; through his intercession, listen to the voice of the blood of your Son which daily rises to you from the earth in the painful cry of suffering humanity. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever.
Mid-morning
Ant. May the blood of Christ be our consolation in life,
our hope in heaven.
READING Revelation 4:11
Worthy are you, Lord our God, to receive glory and honor and power, for you created all things; because of your will they came to be and were created.
V. Amen! Honor, glory, wisdom, thanksgiving,
R. honor, power and might to our God for ever and ever. Amen.
Midday
Ant. The Lord Jesus is total goodness and love.
To give us his life he allowed himself to be crucified.
READING Revelation 5:9-10
Worthy are you to receive the scroll and to break open its seals, for you were slain and with your blood you purchased for God those from every tribe and tongue, people and nation. You made them a kingdom and priests for our God, and they will reign on earth.
V. Worthy is the Lamb to receive glory,
R. honor and blessings.
Mid-afternoon
Ant. The blood of the Son of God
heals, sanctifies and gives life.
READING Revelation 21:5-7
The one who sat on the throne said, “Behold, I make all things new.” Then he said, “Write these words down, for they are trustworthy and true.” He said to me, “They are accomplished. I am the Alpha and the Omega, the beginning and the end. To the thirsty I will give a gift from the spring of life-giving water. The victor will inherit these gifts, and I shall be his God, and he will be my son.”
V. The Lamb who sits on the throne will be their shepherd,
R. who will lead them to the springs of the living water.
Prayer
Almighty and merciful God, who gave us an ardent witness of love for your divinity and for our neighbour in Saint Gaspar del Bufalo, priest and dedicated missionary of the Precious Blood of Christ; through his intercession, listen to the voice of the blood of your Son which daily rises to you from the earth in the painful cry of suffering humanity. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever.
Published in
October 21 - Saint Gaspar Del Bufalo
HYMN
I saw a man, sent by God,
shouting in the land of death:
“Come back to life! Open wide the doors
to the Gospel of Jesus Christ.”
“Come back to life, you are worth a treasure!
The Blood of Christ is your price!
In his name”, he says, “I break
the chains that enslave you.”
“Away with the weapons, away with hate.
May Love win in every dispute!
One sole Covenant, one Church
Jesus founded in his blood!”
“A thousand tongues I would like to possess,
a thousand lives to live and to sacrifice!
May I my blood, my suffering
Give back to the loving Lord!”
Let us joyfully acclaim your name:
Father, Son, Holy Spirit:
To you be glory forever, O Lord,
In your kingdom that has no end. Amen
Or another suitable hymn approved by ecclesiastic authority.
Ant. 1 Let us rekindle our intimacy with the Lord,
the only delight of our hearts.
PSALM 63: 2-9 A soul thirsting for God
The Church thirsts for her Savior, yearning to drink at the fount of living water that springs up for eternal life. (Cf Cassiodorus).
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.
Ant. 1 Let us rekindle our intimacy with the Lord,
the only delight of our hearts
Ant. 2 Let us give thanks to God
and let us bless him along with all the creatures.
CANTICLE Daniel 3: 57-88, 56 Let all creatures praise the Lord
Praise our God, all you his servants. (Rv 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, *
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; *
lightning 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 in the firmament of heaven, *
praiseworthy and glorious forever.
At the end of the canticle the Glory be to the Father is not said.
Ant. 2 Let us give thanks to God
and let us bless him along with all the creatures
Ant. 3 Praise and thanksgiving be evermore to Jesus
who with his blood has saved us.
PSALM 149 The joy of God’s 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 Zion’s 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.
Ant. 3 Praise and thanksgiving be evermore to Jesus
who with his blood has saved us.
READING Hebrews 12, 1-2
Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us rid ourselves of every burden and sin that clings to us and persevere in running the race that lies before us while keeping our eyes fixed on Jesus, the leader and perfecter of faith. For the sake of the joy that lay before him he endured the cross, despising its shame, and has taken his seat at the right of the throne of God.
RESPONSORY
R. Let us remain firm in the work undertaken, * keeping our gaze on Jesus.
-- Let us remain firm in the work undertaken, keeping our gaze on Jesus.
V. Being careful that no one disregards the grace of God,
-- and keeping our gaze on Jesus.
R. Glory be to the Father and to the Holy Spirit.
-- Let us remain firm in the work undertaken, keeping our gaze on Jesus.
Benedictus Ant. Let us serve the Lord with joy:
who in his kindness has visited and redeemed us.
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 †
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 ever shall be *
world without end. Amen
Benedictus Ant. Let us serve the Lord with joy:
who in his kindness has visited and redeemed us.
INTERCESSIONS
To Jesus, who loves us and freed us from our sins by his blood, in true faith let us ask:
Grant us, O Lord, the power of your Blood.
Lord Jesus, you chose to live a family life:
- by the intercession of Saint Gaspar, educated by saintly parents,
may every family, as a small domestic church, foster your peace and live in your grace.
Lord Jesus, you want to be acknowledged in the poor and in the marginalized:
- by the intercession of Saint Gaspar, raise authentic missionaries who will serve you in the needy, everywhere in the world.
Lord Jesus, your word offers hope to prisoners:
- by the intercession of Saint Gaspar, jailed and exiled, grant us the opportunity to lift up those who are denied a country and freedom, to be made worthy to share in the victory of the Lamb.
Lord Jesus, sent as missionary by the Father to announce the Word:
- by the intercession of Saint Gaspar, make all missionaries, catechists, collaborators, inflamed by your Spirit, witnesses of your future kingdom.
Lord Jesus, you endured our sins in your body:
- by the intercession of Saint Gaspar, give us strength in trials, patience in suffering, perseverance in witnessing to your mercy.
Our Father.
Prayer
Almighty and merciful God, who gave us an ardent witness of love for your divinity and for our neighbour in Saint Gaspar del Bufalo, priest and dedicated missionary of the Precious Blood of Christ; through his intercession, listen to the voice of the blood of your Son which daily rises to you from the earth in the painful cry of suffering humanity. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever.
I saw a man, sent by God,
shouting in the land of death:
“Come back to life! Open wide the doors
to the Gospel of Jesus Christ.”
“Come back to life, you are worth a treasure!
The Blood of Christ is your price!
In his name”, he says, “I break
the chains that enslave you.”
“Away with the weapons, away with hate.
May Love win in every dispute!
One sole Covenant, one Church
Jesus founded in his blood!”
“A thousand tongues I would like to possess,
a thousand lives to live and to sacrifice!
May I my blood, my suffering
Give back to the loving Lord!”
Let us joyfully acclaim your name:
Father, Son, Holy Spirit:
To you be glory forever, O Lord,
In your kingdom that has no end. Amen
Or another suitable hymn approved by ecclesiastic authority.
Ant. 1 Let us rekindle our intimacy with the Lord,
the only delight of our hearts.
PSALM 63: 2-9 A soul thirsting for God
The Church thirsts for her Savior, yearning to drink at the fount of living water that springs up for eternal life. (Cf Cassiodorus).
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.
Ant. 1 Let us rekindle our intimacy with the Lord,
the only delight of our hearts
Ant. 2 Let us give thanks to God
and let us bless him along with all the creatures.
CANTICLE Daniel 3: 57-88, 56 Let all creatures praise the Lord
Praise our God, all you his servants. (Rv 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, *
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; *
lightning 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 in the firmament of heaven, *
praiseworthy and glorious forever.
At the end of the canticle the Glory be to the Father is not said.
Ant. 2 Let us give thanks to God
and let us bless him along with all the creatures
Ant. 3 Praise and thanksgiving be evermore to Jesus
who with his blood has saved us.
PSALM 149 The joy of God’s 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 Zion’s 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.
Ant. 3 Praise and thanksgiving be evermore to Jesus
who with his blood has saved us.
READING Hebrews 12, 1-2
Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us rid ourselves of every burden and sin that clings to us and persevere in running the race that lies before us while keeping our eyes fixed on Jesus, the leader and perfecter of faith. For the sake of the joy that lay before him he endured the cross, despising its shame, and has taken his seat at the right of the throne of God.
RESPONSORY
R. Let us remain firm in the work undertaken, * keeping our gaze on Jesus.
-- Let us remain firm in the work undertaken, keeping our gaze on Jesus.
V. Being careful that no one disregards the grace of God,
-- and keeping our gaze on Jesus.
R. Glory be to the Father and to the Holy Spirit.
-- Let us remain firm in the work undertaken, keeping our gaze on Jesus.
Benedictus Ant. Let us serve the Lord with joy:
who in his kindness has visited and redeemed us.
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 †
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 ever shall be *
world without end. Amen
Benedictus Ant. Let us serve the Lord with joy:
who in his kindness has visited and redeemed us.
INTERCESSIONS
To Jesus, who loves us and freed us from our sins by his blood, in true faith let us ask:
Grant us, O Lord, the power of your Blood.
Lord Jesus, you chose to live a family life:
- by the intercession of Saint Gaspar, educated by saintly parents,
may every family, as a small domestic church, foster your peace and live in your grace.
Lord Jesus, you want to be acknowledged in the poor and in the marginalized:
- by the intercession of Saint Gaspar, raise authentic missionaries who will serve you in the needy, everywhere in the world.
Lord Jesus, your word offers hope to prisoners:
- by the intercession of Saint Gaspar, jailed and exiled, grant us the opportunity to lift up those who are denied a country and freedom, to be made worthy to share in the victory of the Lamb.
Lord Jesus, sent as missionary by the Father to announce the Word:
- by the intercession of Saint Gaspar, make all missionaries, catechists, collaborators, inflamed by your Spirit, witnesses of your future kingdom.
Lord Jesus, you endured our sins in your body:
- by the intercession of Saint Gaspar, give us strength in trials, patience in suffering, perseverance in witnessing to your mercy.
Our Father.
Prayer
Almighty and merciful God, who gave us an ardent witness of love for your divinity and for our neighbour in Saint Gaspar del Bufalo, priest and dedicated missionary of the Precious Blood of Christ; through his intercession, listen to the voice of the blood of your Son which daily rises to you from the earth in the painful cry of suffering humanity. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever.
Published in
October 21 - Saint Gaspar Del Bufalo
Invitatory
Ant. On the feast of Saint Gaspar, come everyone:
let us praise the Lord, our eternal salvation.
PSALM 95 Invitation to praise God
Encourage yourself daily while it is still “today” (Heb 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.)
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, 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.)
Today, listen to the voice of the Lord: 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.)
Forty years I endured that generation; †
I said: “They are a people whose hearts go astray *
and they do not know my ways.”
So I swore in my anger, *
“They shall not enter into my rest.” (Ant.)
Glory to the Father and to the Son *
and to the Holy Spirit.
As it was in the beginning,
is now, and ever will be. Amen (Ant.)
Alternative Invitatory Psalms: 100, 67, 24
HYMN
Your sons rejoice
on this holy day:
may they imitate you in works,
and exalt you in song.
Tenacious, brave apostle,
you were guide to Heaven:
may your followers radiate in the world
the light of the Gospel.
Faithful admirer
of the noble Xavier,
you became a missionary,
a herald of Love.
Wherever your blazing
words resounded,
the depraved and impenitent
to Christ returned.
May the Blood most precious,
That saved us from evil,
refresh our spirit
with immortal bliss.
We praise the Father on high,
The Redeemer Son,
And the Spirit Paraclete:
The one only God of Love. Amen.
Or another suitable hymn approved by ecclesiastic authority.
Ant.1 We place our life at the service of the Lord,
certain of his fidelity.
PSALM 21, 2-8. 14 In thanksgiving for the victory of the Messiah-King
Lord, the king finds joy in your power; *
in your victory how greatly he rejoices!
You have granted him his heart’s desire; *
you did not refuse the prayer of his lips.
For you welcomed him with goodly blessings; *
you placed on his head a crown of pure gold.
He asked life of you; you gave it to him, *
length of days forever.
Great is his glory in your victory; *
majesty and splendor you confer upon him.
You make him the pattern of blessings forever, *
you gladden him with the joy of your presence.
For the king trusts in the Lord, *
stands firm through the love of the Most High.
Arise, Lord, in your power! *
We will sing and chant the praise of your might.
Ant. 1 We place our life at the service of the Lord,
certain of his fidelity.
Ant. 2 Blessed are those who seek God with a sincere heart
and who love him for ever.
PSALM 92 Praise the creator Lord
I (1-9)
It is good to give thanks to the Lord, *
to sing praise to your name, Most High,
To proclaim your love in the morning, *
your faithfulness in the night,
With the ten-stringed harp, *
with melody upon the lyre.
For you make me jubilant, Lord, by your deeds; *
at the works of your hands I shout for joy.
How great are your works, Lord! *
How profound your purpose!
A senseless person cannot know this; *
a fool cannot comprehend.
Though the wicked flourish like grass *
and all sinners thrive,
They are destined for eternal destruction; *
for you, Lord, are forever on high.
Ant. 2 Blessed are those who seek God with a sincere heart
and who love him for ever.
Ant. 3 In the blood of Christ we will bring abundant fruits
for our God and Father.
II (10-16)
Indeed your enemies, Lord, †
indeed your enemies shall perish;
all sinners shall be scattered.
You have given me the strength of a wild bull; *
you have poured rich oil upon me.
My eyes look with glee on my wicked enemies; *
my ears delight in the fall of my foes.
The just shall flourish like the palm tree, *
shall grow like a cedar of Lebanon.
Planted in the house of the Lord, *
they shall flourish in the courts of our God.
They shall bear fruit even in old age, *
always vigorous and sturdy,
As they proclaim: “The Lord is just;*
our rock, in whom there is no wrong.”
Ant. 3 In the blood of Christ we will bring abundant fruits
for our God and Father.
V. The Lamb upon the throne will take care of them
R. And will lead them to the source of living waters.
FIRST READING
From the Book of Revelation of Saint John, the apostle. Revelation 5:1-14
The vision of the Lamb
I saw a scroll in the right hand of the one who sat on the throne. It had writing on both sides and was sealed with seven seals. Then I saw a mighty angel who proclaimed in a loud voice, “Who is worthy to open the scroll and break its seals?” But no one in heaven or on earth or under the earth was able to open the scroll or to examine it.
I shed many tears because no one was found worthy to open the scroll or to examine it. One of the elders said to me, “Do not weep. The lion of the tribe of Judah, the root of David, has triumphed, enabling him to open the scroll with its seven seals.
Then I saw standing in the midst of the throne and the four living creatures and the elders, a Lamb that seemed to have been slain. He had seven horns and seven eyes; these are the (seven) spirits of God sent out into the whole world. He came and received the scroll from the right hand of the one who sat on the throne. When he took it, the four living creatures and the twenty-four elders fell down before the Lamb. Each of the elders held a harp and gold bowls filled with incense, which are the prayers of the holy ones. They sang a new hymn: “Worthy are you to receive the scroll and to break open its seals, for you were slain and with your blood you purchased for God those from every tribe and tongue, people and nation. You made them a kingdom and priests for our God, and they will reign on earth.”
I looked again and heard the voices of many angels who surrounded the throne and the living creatures and the elders. They were countless in number, and they cried out in a loud voice: “Worthy is the Lamb that was slain to receive power and riches, wisdom and strength, honor and glory and blessing.”
Then I heard every creature in heaven and on earth and under the earth and in the sea, everything in the universe, cry out:
“To the one who sits on the throne and to the Lamb be blessing and honor, glory and might, forever and ever.”
Then I heard every creature in heaven and on earth and under the earth and in the sea, everything in the universe, cry out: “To the one who sits on the throne and to the Lamb be blessing and honor, glory and might, forever and ever.”
The four living creatures answered, “Amen,” and the elders fell down and worshiped.
RESPONSORY Revelation 4:8, 7:10
R. They cried out in a loud voice: * “Salvation comes from our God and from the Lamb.”
V. “Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God almighty.”
R. “Salvation comes from our God and from the Lamb.”
SECOND READING
From the writings of Saint Gaspar del Bufalo, priest
(Circular letter, Spiritual exercises of 1835)
Who is the Missionary of the Most Precious Blood?
What is a missionary? He is a man who, spiritually dead to everything which could hinder the purpose of the ministry and his holy vocation, lives in union with God and for his glory alone: For to me life is Christ. He is a man who nourishes himself with no other food than with the heavenly food to which the sacred text refers: My food is to do the will of the one who sent me. He thirsts after justice and sanctity: Blessed are they who hunger and thirst for righteousness. His heart, animated by the heavenly fire of the love of God, is pierced and moved when he sees that men do not love God: Who is weak, and I am not weak? Who is led to sin, and I am not indignant?
So, now, let us consider how we ought to examine ourselves in these days on the things that we have mentioned up to this point, so that we might renew within ourselves the fervor of that type of life which confirms what Jesus once said to his apostles: And you also testify. With great power the apostles bore witness to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus. By this self-examination, we will come to realize better how our Society provides us with these means through which we are to advance toward a more and more vigorous life of virtue - withdrawal from the world, recollection, silence, examination of conscience, and all the other means enumerated in our “Practices”. These means, indeed, do develop a strengthening of the Spirit and the progress to be made in reaching perfection! They that hope in the Lord will renew their strength, they will soar as with eagles’ wings; They will run and not grow weary.
This interior cultivation of the Spirit lays the foundation for the exterior life of the ministry. We are ordained to perform duties towards God, towards our Society, and towards our neighbor. In each one of us, the words of the Lord should be verified when he speaks of the just man who seeks always to advance and mature in holiness: Happy are those… whose hearts are set on pilgrim roads. As they pass through the Baca valley, they find spring water to drink.
May we diligently keep these few sentiments in our hearts and let them be deeply imprinted there. Let us imitate the Blessed Virgin Mary, who cherished the words of our blessed Savior, for she was the very mirror of sanctity who kept all these things, reflecting on them in her heart. After Jesus, may our good Mother be our guide and teacher, our prototype and model. In a spirit of deep humility, let us listen to and cherish those teachings of God which are given in the sacred passages quoted above. May our hearts be filled with those holy desires which bring about a most intimate union with the highest Good. May he always direct our tongue in announcing the eternal truths to the people: My heart is stirred by a noble theme ... Lord, open my lips. May our lips, then, be closed for this reason. I will listen for the word of God; surely the Lord will proclaim peace to his people. Notice! First, I myself must listen, so that I, then, may be listened to by the people. With the grace of God and in accordance with each one’s capacity, there will be realized both in me and in the others that very system of peace which establishes the kingdom of God firmly in our hearts: I will listen for the word of God.
RESPONSORY
R. The missionary lives only * for God and for his glory;
V. he gives himself totally to others,
R for God and for his glory.
HYMN Te Deum
We praise you, O God; *
we acclaim you Lord and Master.
Everlasting Father, *
all the world bows down before you.
All the angels sing your praise, *
the hosts of heaven and all the angelic powers;
All the cherubim and seraphim *
call out to you in unending chorus:
Holy, holy, holy *
is the Lord God of angel hosts!
The heavens and the earth are filled, Lord, *
with your majesty and glory.
Your praises are sung *
by the renowned Apostles;
By all the prophets, *
who themselves deserve our praise;
By that mighty white-robed army *
who shed their blood for Christ.
And to the ends of the earth, *
the holy Church proclaims her faith in you:
Father, *
whose majesty is boundless;
Your only Son, *
who is true God and who is to be adored;
The Holy Spirit, *
sent to be our Advocate.
O Christ, the King of glory! *
You alone are the Father’s eternal Son.
When you were to become man so as to save humankind, *
you did not shrink back from the chaste Virgin’s womb.
When you triumphantly destroyed death’s sting, *
you opened up to believers the kingdom of haven.
You are now enthroned at God’s right hand, in the Father’s glory: *
We believe that you will come for judgment.
We therefore implore you to grant your servants grace and aid, *
for you shed your precious blood for their redemption.
Admit them all to the ranks of your saints *
in everlasting glory.
Be their Shepherd, Lord, *
uphold and exalt them forever and ever.
Day by day we praise you, *
daily we acclaim you.
We will confess and glorify your hold name, *
now and for all eternity.
In your great mercy, Lord, throughout this day *
keep us free from sin by your protection.
Have mercy on us, we humbly pray; *
Lord, have mercy on us.
May your mercy, Lord, your loving-kindness, always remain with us; *
for we have placed our confidence in you.
In you alone, Lord, I have hoped; *
may I not be disappointed.
Prayer
Almighty and merciful God, who gave us an ardent witness of love for your divinity and for our neighbour in Saint Gaspar del Bufalo, priest and dedicated missionary of the Precious Blood of Christ; through his intercession, listen to the voice of the blood of your Son which daily rises to you from the earth in the painful cry of suffering humanity. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever.
Ant. On the feast of Saint Gaspar, come everyone:
let us praise the Lord, our eternal salvation.
PSALM 95 Invitation to praise God
Encourage yourself daily while it is still “today” (Heb 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.)
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, 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.)
Today, listen to the voice of the Lord: 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.)
Forty years I endured that generation; †
I said: “They are a people whose hearts go astray *
and they do not know my ways.”
So I swore in my anger, *
“They shall not enter into my rest.” (Ant.)
Glory to the Father and to the Son *
and to the Holy Spirit.
As it was in the beginning,
is now, and ever will be. Amen (Ant.)
Alternative Invitatory Psalms: 100, 67, 24
HYMN
Your sons rejoice
on this holy day:
may they imitate you in works,
and exalt you in song.
Tenacious, brave apostle,
you were guide to Heaven:
may your followers radiate in the world
the light of the Gospel.
Faithful admirer
of the noble Xavier,
you became a missionary,
a herald of Love.
Wherever your blazing
words resounded,
the depraved and impenitent
to Christ returned.
May the Blood most precious,
That saved us from evil,
refresh our spirit
with immortal bliss.
We praise the Father on high,
The Redeemer Son,
And the Spirit Paraclete:
The one only God of Love. Amen.
Or another suitable hymn approved by ecclesiastic authority.
Ant.1 We place our life at the service of the Lord,
certain of his fidelity.
PSALM 21, 2-8. 14 In thanksgiving for the victory of the Messiah-King
Lord, the king finds joy in your power; *
in your victory how greatly he rejoices!
You have granted him his heart’s desire; *
you did not refuse the prayer of his lips.
For you welcomed him with goodly blessings; *
you placed on his head a crown of pure gold.
He asked life of you; you gave it to him, *
length of days forever.
Great is his glory in your victory; *
majesty and splendor you confer upon him.
You make him the pattern of blessings forever, *
you gladden him with the joy of your presence.
For the king trusts in the Lord, *
stands firm through the love of the Most High.
Arise, Lord, in your power! *
We will sing and chant the praise of your might.
Ant. 1 We place our life at the service of the Lord,
certain of his fidelity.
Ant. 2 Blessed are those who seek God with a sincere heart
and who love him for ever.
PSALM 92 Praise the creator Lord
I (1-9)
It is good to give thanks to the Lord, *
to sing praise to your name, Most High,
To proclaim your love in the morning, *
your faithfulness in the night,
With the ten-stringed harp, *
with melody upon the lyre.
For you make me jubilant, Lord, by your deeds; *
at the works of your hands I shout for joy.
How great are your works, Lord! *
How profound your purpose!
A senseless person cannot know this; *
a fool cannot comprehend.
Though the wicked flourish like grass *
and all sinners thrive,
They are destined for eternal destruction; *
for you, Lord, are forever on high.
Ant. 2 Blessed are those who seek God with a sincere heart
and who love him for ever.
Ant. 3 In the blood of Christ we will bring abundant fruits
for our God and Father.
II (10-16)
Indeed your enemies, Lord, †
indeed your enemies shall perish;
all sinners shall be scattered.
You have given me the strength of a wild bull; *
you have poured rich oil upon me.
My eyes look with glee on my wicked enemies; *
my ears delight in the fall of my foes.
The just shall flourish like the palm tree, *
shall grow like a cedar of Lebanon.
Planted in the house of the Lord, *
they shall flourish in the courts of our God.
They shall bear fruit even in old age, *
always vigorous and sturdy,
As they proclaim: “The Lord is just;*
our rock, in whom there is no wrong.”
Ant. 3 In the blood of Christ we will bring abundant fruits
for our God and Father.
V. The Lamb upon the throne will take care of them
R. And will lead them to the source of living waters.
FIRST READING
From the Book of Revelation of Saint John, the apostle. Revelation 5:1-14
The vision of the Lamb
I saw a scroll in the right hand of the one who sat on the throne. It had writing on both sides and was sealed with seven seals. Then I saw a mighty angel who proclaimed in a loud voice, “Who is worthy to open the scroll and break its seals?” But no one in heaven or on earth or under the earth was able to open the scroll or to examine it.
I shed many tears because no one was found worthy to open the scroll or to examine it. One of the elders said to me, “Do not weep. The lion of the tribe of Judah, the root of David, has triumphed, enabling him to open the scroll with its seven seals.
Then I saw standing in the midst of the throne and the four living creatures and the elders, a Lamb that seemed to have been slain. He had seven horns and seven eyes; these are the (seven) spirits of God sent out into the whole world. He came and received the scroll from the right hand of the one who sat on the throne. When he took it, the four living creatures and the twenty-four elders fell down before the Lamb. Each of the elders held a harp and gold bowls filled with incense, which are the prayers of the holy ones. They sang a new hymn: “Worthy are you to receive the scroll and to break open its seals, for you were slain and with your blood you purchased for God those from every tribe and tongue, people and nation. You made them a kingdom and priests for our God, and they will reign on earth.”
I looked again and heard the voices of many angels who surrounded the throne and the living creatures and the elders. They were countless in number, and they cried out in a loud voice: “Worthy is the Lamb that was slain to receive power and riches, wisdom and strength, honor and glory and blessing.”
Then I heard every creature in heaven and on earth and under the earth and in the sea, everything in the universe, cry out:
“To the one who sits on the throne and to the Lamb be blessing and honor, glory and might, forever and ever.”
Then I heard every creature in heaven and on earth and under the earth and in the sea, everything in the universe, cry out: “To the one who sits on the throne and to the Lamb be blessing and honor, glory and might, forever and ever.”
The four living creatures answered, “Amen,” and the elders fell down and worshiped.
RESPONSORY Revelation 4:8, 7:10
R. They cried out in a loud voice: * “Salvation comes from our God and from the Lamb.”
V. “Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God almighty.”
R. “Salvation comes from our God and from the Lamb.”
SECOND READING
From the writings of Saint Gaspar del Bufalo, priest
(Circular letter, Spiritual exercises of 1835)
Who is the Missionary of the Most Precious Blood?
What is a missionary? He is a man who, spiritually dead to everything which could hinder the purpose of the ministry and his holy vocation, lives in union with God and for his glory alone: For to me life is Christ. He is a man who nourishes himself with no other food than with the heavenly food to which the sacred text refers: My food is to do the will of the one who sent me. He thirsts after justice and sanctity: Blessed are they who hunger and thirst for righteousness. His heart, animated by the heavenly fire of the love of God, is pierced and moved when he sees that men do not love God: Who is weak, and I am not weak? Who is led to sin, and I am not indignant?
So, now, let us consider how we ought to examine ourselves in these days on the things that we have mentioned up to this point, so that we might renew within ourselves the fervor of that type of life which confirms what Jesus once said to his apostles: And you also testify. With great power the apostles bore witness to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus. By this self-examination, we will come to realize better how our Society provides us with these means through which we are to advance toward a more and more vigorous life of virtue - withdrawal from the world, recollection, silence, examination of conscience, and all the other means enumerated in our “Practices”. These means, indeed, do develop a strengthening of the Spirit and the progress to be made in reaching perfection! They that hope in the Lord will renew their strength, they will soar as with eagles’ wings; They will run and not grow weary.
This interior cultivation of the Spirit lays the foundation for the exterior life of the ministry. We are ordained to perform duties towards God, towards our Society, and towards our neighbor. In each one of us, the words of the Lord should be verified when he speaks of the just man who seeks always to advance and mature in holiness: Happy are those… whose hearts are set on pilgrim roads. As they pass through the Baca valley, they find spring water to drink.
May we diligently keep these few sentiments in our hearts and let them be deeply imprinted there. Let us imitate the Blessed Virgin Mary, who cherished the words of our blessed Savior, for she was the very mirror of sanctity who kept all these things, reflecting on them in her heart. After Jesus, may our good Mother be our guide and teacher, our prototype and model. In a spirit of deep humility, let us listen to and cherish those teachings of God which are given in the sacred passages quoted above. May our hearts be filled with those holy desires which bring about a most intimate union with the highest Good. May he always direct our tongue in announcing the eternal truths to the people: My heart is stirred by a noble theme ... Lord, open my lips. May our lips, then, be closed for this reason. I will listen for the word of God; surely the Lord will proclaim peace to his people. Notice! First, I myself must listen, so that I, then, may be listened to by the people. With the grace of God and in accordance with each one’s capacity, there will be realized both in me and in the others that very system of peace which establishes the kingdom of God firmly in our hearts: I will listen for the word of God.
RESPONSORY
R. The missionary lives only * for God and for his glory;
V. he gives himself totally to others,
R for God and for his glory.
HYMN Te Deum
We praise you, O God; *
we acclaim you Lord and Master.
Everlasting Father, *
all the world bows down before you.
All the angels sing your praise, *
the hosts of heaven and all the angelic powers;
All the cherubim and seraphim *
call out to you in unending chorus:
Holy, holy, holy *
is the Lord God of angel hosts!
The heavens and the earth are filled, Lord, *
with your majesty and glory.
Your praises are sung *
by the renowned Apostles;
By all the prophets, *
who themselves deserve our praise;
By that mighty white-robed army *
who shed their blood for Christ.
And to the ends of the earth, *
the holy Church proclaims her faith in you:
Father, *
whose majesty is boundless;
Your only Son, *
who is true God and who is to be adored;
The Holy Spirit, *
sent to be our Advocate.
O Christ, the King of glory! *
You alone are the Father’s eternal Son.
When you were to become man so as to save humankind, *
you did not shrink back from the chaste Virgin’s womb.
When you triumphantly destroyed death’s sting, *
you opened up to believers the kingdom of haven.
You are now enthroned at God’s right hand, in the Father’s glory: *
We believe that you will come for judgment.
We therefore implore you to grant your servants grace and aid, *
for you shed your precious blood for their redemption.
Admit them all to the ranks of your saints *
in everlasting glory.
Be their Shepherd, Lord, *
uphold and exalt them forever and ever.
Day by day we praise you, *
daily we acclaim you.
We will confess and glorify your hold name, *
now and for all eternity.
In your great mercy, Lord, throughout this day *
keep us free from sin by your protection.
Have mercy on us, we humbly pray; *
Lord, have mercy on us.
May your mercy, Lord, your loving-kindness, always remain with us; *
for we have placed our confidence in you.
In you alone, Lord, I have hoped; *
may I not be disappointed.
Prayer
Almighty and merciful God, who gave us an ardent witness of love for your divinity and for our neighbour in Saint Gaspar del Bufalo, priest and dedicated missionary of the Precious Blood of Christ; through his intercession, listen to the voice of the blood of your Son which daily rises to you from the earth in the painful cry of suffering humanity. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever.
Published in
October 21 - Saint Gaspar Del Bufalo
HYMN
In grateful jubilation, O Father, we praise you:
You are our light and guide to heaven;
Every follower, O blessed Gaspar,
In you confides.
You made the ardent soul spotless
In the divine blood of the Lamb.
From the meek, crucified Nazarene,
You drew strength.
The wicked and treacherous, Gaspar,
you brought to gentle tears.
You happily pointed the way to Christ,
the joy of our life.
Driven by infinite charity,
by the mystical bloodless sacrifice
you yearn to be fed, to imitate God
who became our food.
At your voice, how many vile, unworthy,
wicked and corrupt ones repented,
and from the Cross received
hidden bursts of love!
O glorious one, from your celestial honors,
fill your children from your bounty.
May they bring to an oppressed world
Living gifts of salvation.
O kind Father, Redeemer Son,
Holy Spirit, fount of all life,
to you be eternal praise, adoration,
and infinite glory. Amen
Ant.1 At all times and everywhere
may the Lord be blessed and loved.
PSALM 113 Give praise to the name of the Lord
He has thrown down the rulers from their thrones but lifted up the lowly (Luke1:52).
Praise, you servants of the Lord, *
praise the name of the Lord.
Blessed be the name of the Lord *
both now and forever.
From the rising of the sun to its setting *
let the name of the Lord be praised.
High above all nations is the Lord; *
above the heavens God’s glory.
Who is like the Lord, our God enthroned on high, *
looking down on heaven and earth?
The Lord raises the needy from the dust, *
lifts the poor from the ash heap,
Seats them with princes, *
the princes of the people,
Gives the childless wife a home, *
the joyful mother of children.
Ant.1 At all times and everywhere
may the Lord be blessed and loved.
Ant. 2 May our hearts be fixed on God,
our all.
PSALM 146 Blessed are they who hope in the Lord
Go and tell John what you hear and see: the blind regain their sight, the lame walk, lepers are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, and the poor have the good news proclaimed to them (Matthew 11:5).
Praise the Lord, my soul; *
I shall praise the Lord all my life, †
sing praise to my God while I live.
I put no trust in princes, *
in mere mortals powerless to save.
When they breathe their last, they return to the earth; *
that day all their planning comes to nothing.
Happy those whose help is Jacob’s God, *
whose hope is in the Lord, their God,
The maker of heaven and earth, *
the seas and all that is in them,
Who keeps faith forever, *
secures justice for the oppressed, †
gives food to the hungry.
The Lord sets prisoners free; *
the Lord gives sight to the blind.
The Lord raises up those who are bowed down; *
the Lord loves the righteous.
The Lord protects the stranger, †
sustains the orphan and the widow, *
but thwarts the way of the wicked.
The Lord shall reign forever, *
your God, Zion, through all generations!
Ant. 2 May our hearts be fixed on God,
our all.
Ant. 3 Redeemed by the blood of the Lamb,
we sing the praise of the Church to the Father.
CANTICLE cf. Ephesians 1, 3-10 God our Savior
Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, †
who has blessed us in Christ *
with every spiritual blessing in the heavens.
God chose us in him, †
before the foundation of the world, *
to be holy and without blemish before him.
In love he destined us †
for adoption to himself through Jesus Christ, *
in accord with the favor of his will,
for the praise of the glory of his grace *
that he granted us in the beloved.
In Christ we have redemption by his blood, *
the forgiveness of transgressions,
in accord with the riches of his grace *
that he lavished upon us.
In all wisdom and insight †
God has made known to us the mystery of his will *
in accord with his favor that he set forth in him,
as a plan for the fullness of times, *
to sum up all things in Christ, in heaven and on earth.
Ant. 3 Redeemed by the blood of the Lamb,
we sing the praise of the Church to the Father.
READING 2 Timothy 4:1-2, 5
I charge you in the presence of God and of Christ Jesus, who will judge the living and the dead, and by his appearing and his kingly power: proclaim the word; be persistent whether it is convenient or inconvenient; convince, reprimand, encourage through all patience and teaching. But you, be self-possessed in all circumstances; put up with hardship; perform the work of an evangelist; fulfill your ministry.
RESPONSORY 1 Corinthians 4:1
R. Thus should one regard us: as servants of Christ * and stewards of the mysteries of God.
-- Thus should one regard us: as servants of Christ and stewards of the mysteries of God.
V. We have become ministers of the gospel
-- and stewards of the mysteries of God.
Glory be to the Father….
-- Thus should one regard us: as servants of Christ and stewards of the mysteries of God.
Magnificat Ant. Let us exalt the Lamb of God with the saints:
He has prepared for us a kingdom from the foundation of the world.
My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord; *
my spirit rejoices in God my savior.
For he has looked upon his handmaid's lowliness; *
behold, from now on all ages will call me blessed.
The Mighty One has done great things for me, *
and holy is his name.
His mercy is from age to age *
to those who fear him.
He has shown might with his arm, *
dispersed the arrogant of mind and heart.
He has thrown down the rulers from their thrones*
but lifted up the lowly.
The hungry he has filled with good things; *
the rich he has sent away empty.
He has helped Israel his servant, *
remembering his mercy,
according to his promise to our fathers, *
to Abraham and to his descendants forever.
Magnificat Ant. Let us exalt the Lamb of God with the saints:
He has prepared for us a kingdom from the foundation of the world
INTERCESSIONS
God has reconciled us to himself through the blood of Christ. In the power of this blood and through the intercession of Saint Gaspar, let us present our prayers as we say:
Save your people, O Lord.
Lord Jesus, at the foot of the cross we raise the cry of the victims of injustice:
- by the power of your blood, give them courage.
Lord Jesus, at the foot of the cross we raise the cry of those in search of a country, a home and work:
- by the power of your blood, sustain them.
Lord Jesus, at the foot of the cross we raise the cry of prisoners, of refugees, of immigrants and of slaves everywhere:
- by the love of your blood, give them hope.
Lord Jesus, at the foot of the cross we raise the cry of the suffering, the sick, the lonely and misunderstood:
- by your restoring blood, heal their sufferings.
Lord Jesus, at the foot of the cross we raise the cry of all those who live in areas plagued by war, instability and poverty:
- by your peace-bearing blood, reconcile us to God and nation to nation.
Lord Jesus, at the foot of the cross we raise our prayer for all the departed:
- may they celebrate with you the banquet of life without end.
Our Father.
Prayer
Almighty and merciful God, who gave us an ardent witness of love for your divinity and for our neighbour in Saint Gaspar del Bufalo, priest and dedicated missionary of the Precious Blood of Christ; through his intercession, listen to the voice of the blood of your Son which daily rises to you from the earth in the painful cry of suffering humanity. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever.
In grateful jubilation, O Father, we praise you:
You are our light and guide to heaven;
Every follower, O blessed Gaspar,
In you confides.
You made the ardent soul spotless
In the divine blood of the Lamb.
From the meek, crucified Nazarene,
You drew strength.
The wicked and treacherous, Gaspar,
you brought to gentle tears.
You happily pointed the way to Christ,
the joy of our life.
Driven by infinite charity,
by the mystical bloodless sacrifice
you yearn to be fed, to imitate God
who became our food.
At your voice, how many vile, unworthy,
wicked and corrupt ones repented,
and from the Cross received
hidden bursts of love!
O glorious one, from your celestial honors,
fill your children from your bounty.
May they bring to an oppressed world
Living gifts of salvation.
O kind Father, Redeemer Son,
Holy Spirit, fount of all life,
to you be eternal praise, adoration,
and infinite glory. Amen
Ant.1 At all times and everywhere
may the Lord be blessed and loved.
PSALM 113 Give praise to the name of the Lord
He has thrown down the rulers from their thrones but lifted up the lowly (Luke1:52).
Praise, you servants of the Lord, *
praise the name of the Lord.
Blessed be the name of the Lord *
both now and forever.
From the rising of the sun to its setting *
let the name of the Lord be praised.
High above all nations is the Lord; *
above the heavens God’s glory.
Who is like the Lord, our God enthroned on high, *
looking down on heaven and earth?
The Lord raises the needy from the dust, *
lifts the poor from the ash heap,
Seats them with princes, *
the princes of the people,
Gives the childless wife a home, *
the joyful mother of children.
Ant.1 At all times and everywhere
may the Lord be blessed and loved.
Ant. 2 May our hearts be fixed on God,
our all.
PSALM 146 Blessed are they who hope in the Lord
Go and tell John what you hear and see: the blind regain their sight, the lame walk, lepers are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, and the poor have the good news proclaimed to them (Matthew 11:5).
Praise the Lord, my soul; *
I shall praise the Lord all my life, †
sing praise to my God while I live.
I put no trust in princes, *
in mere mortals powerless to save.
When they breathe their last, they return to the earth; *
that day all their planning comes to nothing.
Happy those whose help is Jacob’s God, *
whose hope is in the Lord, their God,
The maker of heaven and earth, *
the seas and all that is in them,
Who keeps faith forever, *
secures justice for the oppressed, †
gives food to the hungry.
The Lord sets prisoners free; *
the Lord gives sight to the blind.
The Lord raises up those who are bowed down; *
the Lord loves the righteous.
The Lord protects the stranger, †
sustains the orphan and the widow, *
but thwarts the way of the wicked.
The Lord shall reign forever, *
your God, Zion, through all generations!
Ant. 2 May our hearts be fixed on God,
our all.
Ant. 3 Redeemed by the blood of the Lamb,
we sing the praise of the Church to the Father.
CANTICLE cf. Ephesians 1, 3-10 God our Savior
Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, †
who has blessed us in Christ *
with every spiritual blessing in the heavens.
God chose us in him, †
before the foundation of the world, *
to be holy and without blemish before him.
In love he destined us †
for adoption to himself through Jesus Christ, *
in accord with the favor of his will,
for the praise of the glory of his grace *
that he granted us in the beloved.
In Christ we have redemption by his blood, *
the forgiveness of transgressions,
in accord with the riches of his grace *
that he lavished upon us.
In all wisdom and insight †
God has made known to us the mystery of his will *
in accord with his favor that he set forth in him,
as a plan for the fullness of times, *
to sum up all things in Christ, in heaven and on earth.
Ant. 3 Redeemed by the blood of the Lamb,
we sing the praise of the Church to the Father.
READING 2 Timothy 4:1-2, 5
I charge you in the presence of God and of Christ Jesus, who will judge the living and the dead, and by his appearing and his kingly power: proclaim the word; be persistent whether it is convenient or inconvenient; convince, reprimand, encourage through all patience and teaching. But you, be self-possessed in all circumstances; put up with hardship; perform the work of an evangelist; fulfill your ministry.
RESPONSORY 1 Corinthians 4:1
R. Thus should one regard us: as servants of Christ * and stewards of the mysteries of God.
-- Thus should one regard us: as servants of Christ and stewards of the mysteries of God.
V. We have become ministers of the gospel
-- and stewards of the mysteries of God.
Glory be to the Father….
-- Thus should one regard us: as servants of Christ and stewards of the mysteries of God.
Magnificat Ant. Let us exalt the Lamb of God with the saints:
He has prepared for us a kingdom from the foundation of the world.
My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord; *
my spirit rejoices in God my savior.
For he has looked upon his handmaid's lowliness; *
behold, from now on all ages will call me blessed.
The Mighty One has done great things for me, *
and holy is his name.
His mercy is from age to age *
to those who fear him.
He has shown might with his arm, *
dispersed the arrogant of mind and heart.
He has thrown down the rulers from their thrones*
but lifted up the lowly.
The hungry he has filled with good things; *
the rich he has sent away empty.
He has helped Israel his servant, *
remembering his mercy,
according to his promise to our fathers, *
to Abraham and to his descendants forever.
Magnificat Ant. Let us exalt the Lamb of God with the saints:
He has prepared for us a kingdom from the foundation of the world
INTERCESSIONS
God has reconciled us to himself through the blood of Christ. In the power of this blood and through the intercession of Saint Gaspar, let us present our prayers as we say:
Save your people, O Lord.
Lord Jesus, at the foot of the cross we raise the cry of the victims of injustice:
- by the power of your blood, give them courage.
Lord Jesus, at the foot of the cross we raise the cry of those in search of a country, a home and work:
- by the power of your blood, sustain them.
Lord Jesus, at the foot of the cross we raise the cry of prisoners, of refugees, of immigrants and of slaves everywhere:
- by the love of your blood, give them hope.
Lord Jesus, at the foot of the cross we raise the cry of the suffering, the sick, the lonely and misunderstood:
- by your restoring blood, heal their sufferings.
Lord Jesus, at the foot of the cross we raise the cry of all those who live in areas plagued by war, instability and poverty:
- by your peace-bearing blood, reconcile us to God and nation to nation.
Lord Jesus, at the foot of the cross we raise our prayer for all the departed:
- may they celebrate with you the banquet of life without end.
Our Father.
Prayer
Almighty and merciful God, who gave us an ardent witness of love for your divinity and for our neighbour in Saint Gaspar del Bufalo, priest and dedicated missionary of the Precious Blood of Christ; through his intercession, listen to the voice of the blood of your Son which daily rises to you from the earth in the painful cry of suffering humanity. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever.
Published in
October 21 - Saint Gaspar Del Bufalo