Tuesday, February 01, 2005

prayers before praying

It is considered praiseworthy to say the following prayer, kneeling, in preparation for the Office.

Aperi, Domine
Open thou, O Lord, my mouth to bless thy holy Name; cleanse also my heart from all vain, evil, and wadering thoughts; enlighten my understanding; enkindle my affections; that I may say this Office worthily, with attention and devotion, and so be meet to be heard in the presence of thy divine Majesty. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.
To which is added:
The Prayer of St. Gertrude
O Lord, in union with that divine intention wherewith thou thyself on earth didst render thy praises to God, I desire to offer this my Office of prayer unto thee.

(From the Anglican Breviary)

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