Dominica Septuagesimae

The groans of death surrounded me, the sorrows of hell encompassed me: and in my affliction I called upon the Lord, and He heard my voice from His holy temple.

Graciously hear the prayers of Thy people, we beseech Thee, O Lord: that we who are justly afflicted for our sins, may be mercifully delivered for the glory of Thy name. Through our Lord.

Brethren: Know you not that they that run in the race, all run indeed, but one receiveth the prize? So run that you may obtain. And every one that striveth for the mastery, refraineth himself from all things: and they indeed that they may receive a corruptible crown; but we an incorruptible one. I therefore so run, not as at an uncertainty: I so fight, not as one beating the air: but I chastise my body, and bring it into subjection: lest perhaps when I have preached to others, I myself should become a castaway.

A helper in due time in tribulation: let them trust in Thee who know Thee: for Thou hast not forsaken them that seek Thee, O Lord. For the poor man shall not be forgotten to the end: the patience of the poor shall not perish for ever: arise, O Lord, let not man prevail.

Out of the depths I have cried to Thee, O Lord: Lord, hear my voice. Let Thine ears be attentive to the voice of my supplication. If Thou, O Lord, shalt observe iniquities: Lord, who shall endure it? For with Thee there is merciful forgiveness: and by reason of Thy law I have waited for Thee, O Lord.

May Thy faithful, O God, be strengthened by Thy gifts: that receiving them, they may still desire them, and desiring them, may receive them for evermore. Through our Lord.