Achieving Weight Loss through the Prayers of the Divine Office of the Virgin Mary

Achieving Weight Loss
through the Prayers of the
Divine Office of the Virgin Mary

Compiled and Edited by John P. Gross

Travel writer and co-author with wife, Donna, of
Secrets To An Affordable Walt Disney World® Vacation

Author of

Rosary Meditations: A Bouquet of Roses for Our Lady

Remember me in your prayers!

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To download the entire book (144 pages) to your computer as one file, right click on this link and save to to your desktop.

To read or download each day's prayers separately, click on the appropriate link:
Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday

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Antiphons and psalms: The Psalter of the Blessed Virgin. (Public Domain) Retrieved from http://www.scribd.com/doc/8600606/The-Psalter-of-the-Blessed-Virgin-Mary-Stbonaventure

HYMNS:

A Babe Is Born In Bethlehem
Words: 14th Century Latin hymn, Puer natus in Bethlehem
Translation by Rev. C. P. Krauth
http://www.hymnsandcarolsofchristmas.com/Hymns_and_Carols/a_babe_is_born_in_bethlehem_1.htm

As the Dewy Shades of Even
Text: from Sisters of Notre Dame
http://users.stargate.net/~bmames/ht0451_.htm

A Tale of the Olden Time
Words: Rev. Gerard Moultrie
Carol 683, Rev. Charles Lewis Hutchins, Carols Old and Carols New (Boston: Parish Choir, 1916)
http://www.hymnsandcarolsofchristmas.com/Hymns_and_Carols/a_tale_of_the_olden_time.htm

Ave! Mary, Full Of Grace
Paris Missal, 1706
http://www.hymnsandcarolsofchristmas.com/Hymns_and_Carols/ave_mary_full_of_grace.htm

Ave Maris Stella
Hail, bright star of ocean
Unknown origin. 9th century.
http://www.preces-latinae.org/thesaurus/BVM/AveMarisStella.html

A Spotless Rose Is Blowing
Alternate Title: The Rose of Sharon
Words: Es ist ein Reis entsprungen, 15th Century German carol
Translator Catherine Winkworth, 1869
http://www.hymnsandcarolsofchristmas.com/Hymns_and_Carols/lo_how_a_rose_eer_blooming5.htm

A Virgin Did Come
Words: S. C. Clarke
Carol 284, Rev. Charles Lewis Hutchins, Carols Old and Carols New (Boston: Parish Choir, 1916)
http://www.hymnsandcarolsofchristmas.com/Hymns_and_Carols/a_virgin_did_come.htm

Blessed be that lady bright
Words: English Traditional, Fifteenth Century
Edith Rickert, Ancient English Christmas Carols: 1400-1700 (London: Chatto & Windus, 1914)
http://www.hymnsandcarolsofchristmas.com/Hymns_and_Carols/blessed_be_that_lady_bright.htm

Blest Guardian of All Virgin Souls
Author: Unknown, 17th cent. Translation by Father Caswall.
First appeared in the Office of the Purity of the Blessed Virgin, authorized by Pope Benedict XIV 1751. Present Liturgical Use: Hymn for Matins on the Feast of the Immaculate Conception.
http://www.cathcorn.org/hotbam/88.html

Bring Flowers of the Rarest
May Crowning Hymn
http://www.frogmusic.com/thecatholichymnal/hymn_lyrics_-_public_domain/

A.-M^ieHuguet, priest, "Cantiques a Marie, Priere. Air: La Brigatine," in Le Livre des Enfants de Marie (3rd ed. Toulouse, France: Delsol, Imprimeur-Libraire, 1850) p. 535.

A.-M^ieHuguet, priest, "Cantiques a Marie, A Marie, Air: Sainte Alice," in Le Livre des Enfants de Marie (3rd ed. Toulouse, France: Delsol, Imprimeur-Libraire, 1850) p 536.

A.-M^ieHuguet, priest, "Cantiques a Marie, Sur L'Air: Allemand," in Le Livre des Enfants de Marie (3rd ed. Toulouse, France: Delsol, Imprimeur-Libraire, 1850) p 537.

A.-M^ieHuguet, priest, "Cantiques a Marie, L'Assomption," in Le Livre des Enfants de Marie (3rd ed. Toulouse, France: Delsol, Imprimeur-Libraire, 1850) p 539.

A.-M^ieHuguet, priest, "Cantiques a Marie, Pour Le Mois de Marie," in Le Livre des Enfants de Marie (3rd ed. Toulouse, France: Delsol, Imprimeur-Libraire, 1850) p 540.

A.-M^ieHuguet, priest, "Cantiques a Marie, Priez Pour Nous," in Le Livre des Enfants de Marie (3rd ed. Toulouse, France: Delsol, Imprimeur-Libraire, 1850) p 543.

Come Behold The Virgin Mother
William Sandys, Christmas Carols Ancient and Modern (London: Richard Beckley, 1833)
http://www.hymnsandcarolsofchristmas.com/Hymns_and_Carols/come_behold_the_virgin_mother.htm

Daily, Daily Sing to Mary
Unknown
http://www.keepandshare.com/htm/music_lyrics/catholic/daily_daily_sing_to_mary.php

Gabriel, From Heaven's King
Based on the 13th Century Latin Hymn, Angelus Ad Virginem
Gerald Manley Hopkins, S.J. (1844-1889)
http://www.hymnsandcarolsofchristmas.com/Hymns_and_Carols/angelus_ad_virginem-hopkins.htm

Gabriel To Mary Went
Words: Angelus Ad Virginem, Anonymous 13th or 14th Century Latin
Translator: Rev. J. O'Connor, Date Unknown
http://www.hymnsandcarolsofchristmas.com/Hymns_and_Carols/gabriel_to_mary_went.htm

Hail! Blessed Virgin Mary!
George Ratcliffe Woodward (1848-1934)
"An Italian Carol Book," 1920
http://www.hymnsandcarolsofchristmas.com/Hymns_and_Carols/hail_blessed_virgin_mary.htm

Hail, Holy Queen
Unknown
http://www.thecatholichymnal.com/hymn_lyrics_-_public_domain/

Hail Mary, Full Of Grace, Mother In Virginity 15th Century
http://www.hymnsandcarolsofchristmas.com/Hymns_and_Carols/hail_mary_full_of_grace_mother.htm

Hail Mary, Star Of Morning 16th Century
http://www.hymnsandcarolsofchristmas.com/Hymns_and_Carols/hail_mary_star_of_morning.htm

Hail, you Star of the Ocean!
Variation of "Ave, Maris stella, late 8th or early 9th century.
http://www.catholicdoors.com/prayers/english/p00056.htm

I'll sing a hymn to Mary
Fr. J. Wyze 1825-1898
http://www.ehymnbook.org/p25/p25327.html

Immaculate Mary, Thy Praises We Sing
Anonymous
http://www.hiriproductions.com/Mysterium%20Songbook.pdf

Like The Dawning Of The Morning
"Our Lady's Expectation" by Fr Faber
Burns & Oates Hymnal, 1849
http://www.archive.org/stream/MN41365ucmf_3/MN41365ucmf_3_djvu.txt

Look Down, O Mother Mary
Author: Alfonso M. de Liguori
Publication Date: 1913
Provenance: http://www.hymnary.org/hymn/ACH1913/d123
text: http://www.archive.org/stream/manualofthesodal00unknuoft/manualofthesodal00unknuoft_djvu.txt

Mary Mother, Meek And Mild
Words: English Traditional, Fifteenth Century
Edith Rickert, Ancient English Christmas Carols: 1400-1700 (London: Chatto & Windus, 1914), p. 13.
http://www.hymnsandcarolsofchristmas.com/Hymns_and_Carols/mary_mother_meek_and_mild.htm

Mary, That Mother Mild
Words: Maria gieng geschwind, from Köln Gesangbuch, 1623
Translation by Rev. George R. Woodward
George Radcliffe Woodward, ed, Songs of Syon (London: Schott & Co., Third Edition, 1908), #245
http://www.hymnsandcarolsofchristmas.com/Hymns_and_Carols/mary_that_mother_mild.htm

O Queen of the Holy Rosary
Emily Shapcote, d. ca.1906 / Wirtemburg Gesangbuch, 1784
http://romaaeterna.jp/basil/sb157.html

Portal of the World's Salvation
The Virgin Mary
Laurence Housman, 1906
http://www.oremus.org/hymnal/p/p030.html

Praise We the Lord This Day
Hymns for the Festivals, 1846
http://www.cyberhymnal.org/htm/p/r/praisewe.htm

Purification of St. Mary the Virgin
For Mary, The Mother of Jesus
Words: John Keble (1972-1866), 1827
George Radcliffe Woodward, ed, Songs of Syon (London: Schott & Co., Third Edition, 1908), # 216
http://www.hymnsandcarolsofchristmas.com/Hymns_and_Carols/ave_maria_blessed_maid.htm

Sing of Mary, Pure and Lowly
Words: Roland Ford Palmer, 1914
http://summamamas.stblogs.org/archives/2005/08/-her-virgin-eye.html

Song of Mary
Adaptation of The Magnificat
http://www.hymnsandcarolsofchristmas.com/Hymns_and_Carols/song_of_mary.htm

The Annunciation
HOW pure, and frail, and white
Ave Maria Journal, 1880

Scriptural texts: Ronald L. Conte Jr., translator and editor: The Sacred Bible, Catholic Public Domain Version, Original Edition. Retrieved from http://www.sacredbible.org/catholic/index.htm

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A special thanks to Suzanne Fowler whose audio series, "The Light Weigh,"¹ inspired me to write the weight loss prayers found in the antiphons. In short, her thesis is that we are born with a need to be loved. Some of us try to fill that need with food, but only God can truly satisfy us. God loves us and wants us to be healthy and do all things in moderation, including eating. Yes, eating less requires sacrifice. It means that we are ignoring our own needs and making God the center of our life. However, sacrifice brings blessings from God for ourselves and others, especially when added to prayer. Mrs. Fowler calls these "grace-filled moments" - times when God is particularly receptive to answering our prayers for specific intentions, like relief for someone who is suffering or for greater causes like the end of abortion. Our sacrifices and prayers are particularly valuable when we unite them to our Lord's sacrifice on the cross and offer them to God for the benefit of others. Please see lightweigh.com to learn more about her program.

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Donna and I are fortunate to live near Emmitsburg, Maryland which is the home of the Shrine of Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton, Saint Mary's Seminary, and the National Shrine Grotto of Lourdes. The Grotto, known affectionately as "Mary's Mountain," is a replica of the shrine in Lourdes, France and draws thousands of visitors from around the world who come to pay homage annually to our Blessed Mother. They are in much need of funds to build a Visitors Welcome Center. If you feel that our prayer book has been of value to you and would like to show your appreciation, we invite you to make a donation to their wonderful cause securely online. Choose "Grotto Fund" as your gift purpose. Thanks and may God bless you!

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Disclaimer: Please seek professional medical advice before starting any weight loss or exercise program. We assume no legal responsibility for any information provided.

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Dedicated to the Blessed Mother,
to my mother, Virginia, who went to heaven in 1983,
to my wife, Donna, my comforting angel,
to my children, Julie and Paul, gifts from God,
and to all who struggle to honor God in their bodies.

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Copyright © 2009 by John P. Gross. All rights reserved. Reproduction of this material must be done in its entirety with the copyright notice intact. This book is not for sale, but is offered to the public free of charge in honor of the Blessed Virgin Mary and for the glory of God.

¹Suzanne Fowler, "Light Weigh," http://www.lightweigh.com/... accessed May 2, 2009. (I bought the audio tapes at Ebay. They are just one of the resources provided with the program.)

+ This symbol in the text indicates that the reader should make the sign of the cross.

SUNDAY

Morning Prayer

+ O Lady, come to my assistance: and by the light of thy mercy enlighten me.

Psalm 69

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

We praise thee, O Mother of God: we confess thee, Mary, ever Virgin. Thou art the Spouse of the Eternal Father: the whole earth venerates thee. Thee all angels and archangels, thrones and principalities serve. Thee all powers and all virtues of Heaven: and all dominations obey. Before thee all the angelic choirs: the Cherubim and Seraphim exulting stand. With unceasing voice every angelic creature proclaims thee: Holy, holy, holy: Mary, Mother of God and Virgin!

Full are the heavens and the earth: of the majesty and glory of the fruit of thy womb. Thee the glorious choir of Apostles: praise as the Mother of their Creator. Thee the white-robed multitude of blessed martyrs: glorify as the Mother of Christ. Thee the glorious army of Confessors: style the Temple of the Trinity. Thee the amiable choir of holy virgins: preaches as the example of virginity and humility. Thee the whole heavenly court: honoureth as Queen. The Church, invoking thee, calls thee throughout the whole world: Mother of the Divine Majesty. Venerating thee as the true Mother of the heavenly King: holy, sweet, and loving.

Thou art the Lady of Angels: thou art the gate of Paradise. Thou art the ladder of glory: and of the heavenly kingdom. Thou art the bridal chamber: thou art the ark of piety and grace. Thou art the vein of mercy: thou art the Spouse and the Mother of the Eternal King. Thou art the temple of the treasury of the Holy Spirit: thou art the noble throne of the whole blessed Trinity. Thou art the Mediatrix of God, and the lover of men: the heavenly Illuminatrix of mortal men. Thou art the inspirer of the warriors, the advocate of the poor: the compassionate refuge of sinners. Thou art the distributrix of gifts: the barrier against demons and the proud, and their fear.

Thou art the Lady of the world, the Queen of Heaven: after God our only hope. Thou art the salvation of them that call upon thee: the harbor of the shipwrecked, the solace of the wretched, the refuge of those who perish. Thou art the Mother of all the blessed, full of joy after God: the comfort of all the dwellers in Heaven. Thou art the promotrix of the just, the one who gathers together those who stray: the promise of the patriarchs. Thou art the truth of the prophets, the herald and teacher of the Apostles: the Mistress of the Evangelists. Thou art the strength of martyrs, the example of confessors: the honor and the festivity of virgins.

Thou hast received into thy womb the Son of God: to deliver exiled man. By thee is driven out the ancient enemy: and the kingdoms of Heaven are opened to believers. Thou sittest together with thy Son: at the right hand of the Father. Do thou intercede for us, O Virgin Mary: with Him who we believe will come to judge us. We beseech thee, therefore, help us, thy servants: who have been redeemed with the Precious Blood of Thy Son.

Save thy people, O Lady: that we may be partakers of the inheritance of Thy Son. And rule us: and keep us forever. Day by day, O loving one: we salute thee. And we desire to praise thee forever: with both mind and voice. Deign, O sweet Mary, now and forever: to keep us without sin. Have mercy on us, O loving one: have mercy on us. Let thy great mercy be upon us: because we trust in thee, O Virgin Mary. In thee, O sweet Mary, we hope: do thou defend us forever. Praise becometh thee; empire is thine: to thee be power and glory forever. Amen.

The Psalter of the Blessed Virgin

Antiphon 1
O Lady, thy grace comforts our soul. Refresh me with the grace of God's love, the spiritual nourishment that truly satisfies.

Psalm 1

Blessed is the man, O Virgin Mary, who loves thy name; thy grace will comfort his soul. He will be refreshed as by fountains of water; thou wilt produce in him the fruit of justice. Blessed art thou among women; by the faith of thy holy heart. By the beauty of thy body thou surpassest all women; by the excellence of thy sanctity thou surpassest all angels and archangels. Thy mercy and thy grace are preached everywhere; God has blessed the works of thy hands.

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

Antiphon 1
O Lady, thy grace comforts our soul. Refresh me with the grace of God's love, the spiritual nourishment that truly satisfies.

Antiphon 2
O Lady, from thy throne on high thou hast deigned to be mindful of me. Deliver me from the enslavement of addiction.

Psalm 4

When I called upon thee, thou didst hear me, O Lady: and from thy throne on high thou hast deigned to be mindful of me. From the roaring of the wild beasts prepared to devour me: and from the hands of them that sought me, thy grace will deliver me. For thy mercy is kind and thy heart loving: towards all who invoke thy holy name. Blessed art thou, O Lady, forever: and thy majesty for evermore. Glorify her, all ye nations in thy strength: and all ye peoples of the earth, extol her magnificence.

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

Antiphon 2
O Lady, from thy throne on high thou hast deigned to be mindful of me. Deliver me from the enslavement of addiction.

Antiphon 3
O Lady, in thee have I hoped. May I be strengthened by thy help to seek Jesus when I am fearful, angry or emotionally upset rather than turn to food for comfort.

Psalm 7

O my Lady, in thee have I hoped: from my enemies deliver me. Shut thou the mouth of the lion and his teeth: restrain the lips of those that persecute me. For thy name's sake delay not to accomplish thy mercy in us. May the brightness of thy countenance shine upon us: that the Most High may keep remembrance of us. If the enemy should persecute my soul, O Lady, may I be strengthened by thy help: lest his sword should strike me.

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

Antiphon 3
O Lady, in thee have I hoped. May I be strengthened by thy help to seek Jesus when I am fearful, angry or emotionally upset rather than turn to food for comfort.

FIRST READING
Brief readings (one paragraph to a page in length) from Christ-oriented texts: New Testament, Meditations on the Life of Christ by Thomas a Kempis, Life of Christ by Bishop Sheen, Divine Intimacy by Father Gabriel of St. Mary Magdalen, etc..

SECOND READING
Brief readings (one paragraph to a page in length) from Mary-oriented texts: City of God by Mary of Agreda, Treatise On True Devotion To The Blessed Virgin by St. Louis De Montfort, Worlds First Love by Bishop Fulton Sheen, etc..

RESPONSORY

O Lady, thou art my reminder that I am never alone. God is always with me in my efforts to control my weight.
- O Lady, thou art my reminder that I am never alone. God is always with me in my efforts to control my weight.
Mother Mary, I want to honor God in my body.
- God is always with me in my efforts to control my weight.
Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
- O Lady, thou art my reminder that I am never alone. God is always with me in my efforts to control my weight.

CANTICLE TO MARY

Antiphon+
O Lady, thou hast brought about our redemption so that we may serve God in peace. Free me from the anxiety that causes me to overeat.

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 to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, as it was in the beginning, is now and will be forever. Amen.

Canticle in Honor of Mary
The Psalter of the Blessed Virgin

Antiphon
O Lady, thou hast brought about our redemption so that we may serve God in peace. Free me from the anxiety that causes me to overeat.

INTERCESSIONS

O Mother of Perpetual Help, whom I honor today with my prayers, grant the petitions I have humbly placed before thee:

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.

Let us ask our Heavenly Father for our daily bread:

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. Amen.

CONCLUSION

Thy mercies, O Lady, I will sing forever. With the ointment of thy tender mercy heal the broken in heart: and with the oil of thy mercy console our griefs. May thy gracious countenance appear to me in my end: may the beauty of thy face rejoice my spirit in its going forth. Stir up my spirit to love thy goodness: excite my mind to extol thy nobility and worth. Deliver me from evil and tribulation: and from all sin keep thou my soul.

Psalm 88

I ask this through Jesus Christ, thy Son, who lives and reigns with the Father and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever.

+ May God have mercy on us and bless us. Let thy grace, O Lady, ever protect me: let thy presence give light to my end.
- Amen.

Psalms 66

SUNDAY

Midmorning Prayer

+ O Lady, come to my assistance: and by the light of thy mercy enlighten me.

Psalm 69

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

HYMN

The Holy Ghost is to thee sent
From the Father Omnipotent,
Now is God within thee went,
The angel said "Ave."

When the angel ave began,
Flesh and blood together ran;
Mary bare both God and man,
Through virtue and pure dignity.

So saith the gospel of Saint John:
God and man is made but one,
In flesh and blood, body and bone,
One God in Persons Three.

Mary grant to us thy bliss
Where thy Son His dwelling is;
For what we have done amiss
Pray for grace for charity. Amen.

Hail Mary, Full Of Grace,
Mother In Virginity 15th Century

Antiphon 1
I trust in our Lady; her mercy will deliver me. Mother, help me to control my snacking between meals.

Psalm 10

I trust in our Lady; because of the sweetness of the mercy of her name. Her eyes look upon the poor: and her hands are stretched out to the orphan and the widow. Seek after her from thy youth: she will glorify thee before the face of the peoples. Her mercy will deliver us from the multitude of our sins: and will bestow on us fruitfulness of merits. Stretch out to us thy arm, O glorious Virgin: and do not turn away from us thy glorious face.

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

Antiphon 1
I trust in our Lady; her mercy will deliver me. Mother, help me to control my snacking between meals.

Antiphon 2
Save me, O Mother of fair love. Help me break my attachment to food and restore my relationship to God.

Psalm 11

Save me, O Mother of fair love: fount of clemency and sweetness of piety. Thou alone makest the circuit of the earth: that thou mayst help those that call upon thee. Beautiful are thy ways: and thy paths are peaceful. In thee shine forth the beauty of chastity, the light of justice, and the splendor of truth. Thou art clothed with the sunrays as with a vesture: resplendent with a shining twelve-starred crown.

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

Antiphon 2
Save me, O Mother of fair love. Help me break my attachment to food and restore my relationship to God.

Antiphon 3
Be mindful, O Lady, that thou speak for us good things: plead my case before thy Son and He will strengthen my resolve to eat less.

Psalm 14

O Lady, who shall dwell in the tabernacle of God? or who shall rest with the leaders of the people? The poor in spirit, and the pure of heart, the meek, the peaceful, and the mourners. Be mindful, O Lady, that thou speak for us good things: and that thou mayest turn away the indignation of thy Son from us. O sinners, let us embrace the footprints of Mary, and cast ourselves at her blessed feet. Let us hold her fast, nor let her go: until we deserve to be blessed by her.

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

Antiphon 3
Be mindful, O Lady, that thou speak for us good things: plead my case before thy Son and He will strengthen my resolve to eat less.

FIRST READING
Christ-oriented texts

SECOND READING
Mary-oriented texts

+ Let us embrace the footprints of Mary
- and cast ourselves at her blessed feet.

Psalm 23

SUNDAY

Midday Prayer

+ O Lady, come to my assistance: and by the light of thy mercy enlighten me.

Psalm 69

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

HYMN

Hail Mary, Star of morning,
Thou herald of the Sun!
Whose light, the day adorning,
Reveal’d the Holy One:
Ere time began, e’en then
God chose thee to his Mother,
Thou pride of Christian men!

From throne of God supernal
Sped mighty Gabriel;
Touching the Son eternal
Good tidings for to tell:
“Hail Virgin, pure from stain!
Thou shalt be called Mother,
Yet Virgin still remain.

The Spirit high and holy
Shall overshadow thee,
And make thee, maiden lowly,
His spotless bride to be;
Lo! God shall be thy Son;
His Name it shall be Jesus,
None ending to his throne.”

Saith Mary, “Here behold me,
The hand-maid of the Lord;
Be it, as thou hast told me,
According to thy word!”
Thus spake that maiden bright,
Ere Gabriel departed
Upward to realms of light.

Hail Mary, sweet and tender!
Thy Son is God on high,
Th’ eternal Father’s splendour,
As Scriptures testify:
Fair Maid, thou givest birth
To Jesus Christ thy Maker,
That hath no peer on earth.

Hail Mary, Star Of Morning
Sixteenth Century

Antiphon 1
O Lady, thou art our model of holiness. I will imitate thee and grow closer to God whose love will fill my emptiness.

Psalm 16

Hear, O Lady, my justice and my love: remove from me my tribulations. I will give praise to thee in the voice of rejoicing: when thou shalt magnify thy mercy in me. Imitate her, ye holy virgins of God: as Agnes, Barbara, Dorothy, and Catherine have done. Give honor to her by the voice of thy lips: thus have Agatha, Lucy, Margaret, and Cecilia received her grace. She will give thee as thy Spouse the Son of the Father: and a crown incomparably radiant with the lilies of Paradise.

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

Antiphon 1
O Lady, thou art our model of holiness. I will imitate thee and grow closer to God whose love will fill my emptiness.

Antiphon 2
O Lady, in the sweetness of thy name my urge to eat when upset shall be consoled.

Psalm 20

O Lady, in thy strength our heart shall rejoice: and in the sweetness of thy name our soul shall be consoled. From thy throne send us wisdom: by which we shall be sweetly enlightened in all truth. Give us grace to abstain from carnal desires: that the light of thy grace may arise in our hearts. How sweet are thy words, O Lady, to them that love thee: how sweet is the shower of thy graces. I will sing unto thy glory and honor: and in thy name I will glory forever.

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

Antiphon 2
O Lady, in the sweetness of thy name my urge to eat when upset shall be consoled.

Antiphon 3
O most holy Mother, thou reignest over us forever. Help thy servant to eat slower.

Psalm 23

The earth is the Lord's and the fullness thereof: but thou, O most holy Mother, reignest with Him forever. Thou art clothed with glory and beauty: every precious stone is thy covering and thy clothing. The brightness of the sun is upon thy head: the beauty of the moon is beneath thy feet. Shining orbs adorn thy throne: the morning stars glorify thee forever. Be mindful of us, O Lady, in thy good pleasure: and make us worthy to glorify thy 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 forever. Amen.

Antiphon 3
O most holy Mother, thou reignest over us forever. Help thy servant to eat slower.

FIRST READING
Christ-oriented texts

SECOND READING
Mary-oriented texts

Shining orbs adorn thy throne
- the morning stars glorify thee forever.

Psalm 23

SUNDAY

Midafternoon

+ O Lady, come to my assistance: and by the light of thy mercy enlighten me.

Psalm 69

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

HYMN

Hail! Blessed Virgin Mary!
For so, when he did meet thee
Spake mighty Gabriel,
and thus we greet thee.
Come weal, come woe, our
hymn shall never vary.
Hail! Blessed Virgin Mary!
|Hail! Blessed Virgin Mary!

Ave! Ave Maria!
To gladden priest and people
The angelus shall ring
from every steeple,
To sound his virgin birth.
Alleluia!
Ave! Ave Maria!
Ave! Ave Maria!

Archangels chant, 'Hosanna!'
And, 'Holy! Holy! Holy!'
Before the Infant born
of thee, thou lowly,
Aye-maiden child of
Joachim and Anna.
Archangels chant Hosanna!
Archangels chant Hosanna!

George Ratcliffe Woodward (1848-1934)
"An Italian Carol Book," 1920

Antiphon 1
O Queen of Heaven: withdraw not thy mercy and thy grace from thy servant. Help me to not eat when I am bored.

Psalm 26

O Lady, may thy light be the splendor of my countenance: and let the serenity of thy grace shine upon my mind. Raise up my head: and I will sing a psalm to thy name. Turn not away thy face from me: for from my youth up I have greatly desired thy beauty and thy grace. I have loved thee and sought after thee, O Queen of Heaven: withdraw not thy mercy and thy grace from thy servant. I will give praise to thee in the nations: and I will honor the throne of thy glory.

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

Antiphon 1
O Queen of Heaven: withdraw not thy mercy and thy grace from thy servant. Help me to not eat when I am bored.

Antiphon 2
O Lady, have mercy on me in the day of my trouble. Help me to control my eating when I am afraid of not having enough.

Psalm 27

To thee, O Lady, will I cry, and thou shalt hear me: in the voice of thy praise thou wilt make me glad. Have mercy on me in the day of my trouble: and in the light of thy truth deliver me. Blessed be thou, O Lady: to the uttermost ends of the earth. The sanctuary which thy hands have established: is the holy temple of thy body. Thy conscience is pure and undefiled: a place of propitiation and the holy dwelling of God.

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

Antiphon 2
O Lady, have mercy on me in the day of my trouble. Help me to control my eating when I am afraid of not having enough.

Antiphon 3
O Lady, give thy blessing to those who praise and glorify thee. Help me to break the habit of eating everything on my plate.

Psalm 28

Bring to Our Lady, O ye sons of God: bring to Our Lady praise and reverence. Give strength to thy saints, O holy Mother: and thy blessing to those who praise and glorify thee. Hear the groans of those who sigh to thee: and despise not the prayers of those who invoke thy name. Let thy hand be ready to help me: and thy ear inclined to my prayer. Let the heavens and the earth bless thee: the sea and the world.

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

Antiphon 3
O Lady, give thy blessing to those who praise and glorify thee. Help me to break the habit of eating everything on my plate.

FIRST READING
Christ-oriented texts

SECOND READING
Mary-oriented texts

+ Blessed be thou, O Lady
- to the uttermost ends of the earth.

Psalm 27

SUNDAY

Evening Prayer

+ O Lady, come to my assistance: and by the light of thy mercy enlighten me.

Psalm 69

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

HYMN

My soul gives glory to my God,
My heart pours out its praise.
God lifted up my lowliness
In many marvelous ways.

My God has done great things for me:
Yes, holy is this Name.
All people will declare me blessed,
And blessings they shall claim.

From age to age to all who fear,
Such mercy love imparts,
Dispensing justice far and near,
Dismissing selfish hearts.

Love casts the mighty from their thrones,
Promotes the insecure,
Leaves hungry spirits satisfied;
The rich seem suddenly poor.

Praise God, whose loving covenant
Supports those in distress,
Remembering past promises
With present faithfulness.

Song of Mary
Adaptation of The Magnificat

Antiphon 1
O Lady, thou art my strength and my refuge. Help me to keep a positive attitude despite temporary setbacks.

Psalm 30

In thee, O Lady, have I hoped, let me never be confounded: receive me in thy grace. Thou art my strength and my refuge: my consolation and my protection. To thee, O Lady, have I cried, when my heart was in anguish: and thou hast heard me from the heights of the eternal hills. Thou shalt draw me out of the snares which they hid for me: for thou art my helper. Into thy hands, O Lady, I commend my spirit: my whole life and my last day.

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

Antiphon 1
O Lady, thou art my strength and my refuge. Help me to keep a positive attitude despite temporary setbacks.

Antiphon 2
When we invoke Our Lady in necessities, we find sweet help and refreshment. I shall not want for she teaches me to trust that God will provide for all my needs.

Psalm 33

I will bless Our Lady at all times: and her praise shall never fail in my mouth. Magnify her with me: all ye who are nourished with the milk and honey of her refreshment. In dangers and doubts invoke her: and in necessities thou wilt find sweet help and refreshment. Take example from her conversation: and be zealous to imitate her charity and humility. Because thou wast most humble, O Lady: thou hast induced the Uncreated Word to take flesh from thee.

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

Antiphon 2
When we invoke Our Lady in necessities, we find sweet help and refreshment. I shall not want for she teaches me to trust that God will provide for all my needs.

Antiphon 3
O Lady, thou hast led me out of the den of misery. Help me to spend some time each day in prayerful meditation to relieve stress.

Psalm 39

Expecting, I have expected thy grace: and thou hast done with me according to the multitude of the mercies of thy name. Thou hast heard my prayers: and thou hast led me out of the den of misery, and from the pit of the enemy. Manifold and wonderful are thy gifts, O Lady: incomparable are the gifts of thy graces. Let all those exult and rejoice in thee who love thee: let them who have hated thy name, fall into hell. Blessed be thou forever, O Lady: forever, world without end.

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

Antiphon 3
O Lady, thou hast led me out of the den of misery. Help me to spend some time each day in prayerful meditation to relieve stress.

FIRST READING
Christ-oriented texts

SECOND READING
Mary-oriented texts

RESPONSORY

O Lady, thou art my reminder that the Heart of Jesus burns with love for me. "He is a merciful and compassionate Lord. He has given food to those who fear him." (Psalm 110, Sacred Scripture)
- O Lady, thou art my reminder that the Heart of Jesus burns with love for me. "He is a merciful and compassionate Lord. He has given food to those who fear him."
Mother Mary, I want to honor God in my body.
- "He has given food to those who fear him."
Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
- O Lady, thou art my reminder that the Heart of Jesus burns with love for me. "He is a merciful and compassionate Lord. He has given food to those who fear him."

CANTICLE TO MARY

Antiphon+
O Lady, God exalted thee and placed us in thy spiritual care. I thank thee for helping me to make peace with food.

My heart has rejoiced in the Lord: and my heart has exalted in my Lady. For He who is mighty has done great things to me: by Mary His Mother. There is no one holy as is Our Lady: who alone has surpassed all. Let the old things depart from our mouth: and let us speak with new tongues. Exalt and praise Mary, O Sion and Jerusalem: for she is great amongst the ladies of Israel. She makes poor and she enriches: she humbles and she exalts. She is higher than the heavens: she is wider than the earth: is this Lady of ours.

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

Canticle in Honor of Mary
The Psalter of the Blessed Virgin

Antiphon
O Lady, God exalted thee and placed us in thy spiritual care. I thank thee for helping me to make peace with food.

INTERCESSIONS

O Mother of Perpetual Help, whom I honor today with my prayers, grant the petitions I have humbly placed before thee:

Let us ask our Heavenly Father for our daily bread:

CONCLUSION

Hear my prayer, O Lady, and my supplication: and let mine enemies pine away. Have mercy on me from Heaven and from the height of thy throne: and permit me not to be troubled in the valley of misery. Keep my foot, lest it should be injured: and may thy grace be with my end.

I ask this through Jesus Christ, thy Son, who lives and reigns with the Father and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever.

Psalm 38

+ May God have mercy on us and bless us. Let thy grace, O Lady, ever protect me: let thy presence give light to my end.
- Amen.

Psalm 66

SUNDAY

Night Prayer

+ O Lady, come to my assistance: and by the light of thy mercy enlighten me.

Psalm 69

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

Examination of Conscience
Followed by an Act of Contrition:

O Lady, let not the Lord rebuke me in His anger: obtain for us pardon for our sins. Let all our desire be in thy sight: our hope and our confidence. My heart is troubled within me: light departs from my interior. Enlighten with thy brightness my blindness: sweeten with thy sweetness my contrite heart. Forsake us not, O Lady, Mother of God: let thy grace and thy power be at my right hand.

Psalm 37

HYMN

Portal of the world's salvation,
lo, a Virgin pure and mild,
humble-hearted, high in station,
form of beauty undefiled,
crown of earth's anticipation,
comes the Mother-maid with child.

Here the serpent's power subduing,
see the bush unburned by fire,
Gideon's fleece of heaven's imbuing,
Aaron's rod of bright attire,
fair, and pure, and peace-ensuing,
spouse of Solomon's desire.

Jesse's branch received its flower,
Mother of Emmanuel,
portal sealed and mystic bower
promised by Ezekiel,
rock of Daniel's dream, whose power
smote, and lo, the image fell!

See in flesh so great a wonder
by the power of God ordained,--
him, whose feet all worlds lay under,
in a Virgin's womb contained;--
so on earth, her bonds to sunder,
righteousness from heaven hath rained.

The Virgin Mary
Laurence Housman, 1906

Antiphon 1
O Lady, by thee I have experienced the clemency of Jesus Christ. He is the bread of life that came down from heaven for man to eat and live forever. (John: 6:50)

Psalm 137

I will praise thee, O Lady, with my whole heart: because by thee I have experienced the clemency of Jesus Christ. Hear, O Lady, my words and prayers: and in the sight of angels I will sing praise to thee. In whatever day thou shalt invoke me, hear me: and multiply thy power in my soul. Let all tribes and tongues praise thee: because by thee salvation is restored to us. From all trouble save thy servants: and make them live under thy protection and 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 forever. Amen.

Antiphon 1
O Lady, by thee I have experienced the clemency of Jesus Christ. He is the bread of life that came down from heaven for man to eat and live forever. (John: 6:50)

FIRST READING
Christ-oriented texts

SECOND READING
Mary-oriented texts

RESPONSORY

When my spirit shall go forth, Lady, let it be commended to thee.
- When my spirit shall go forth, Lady, let it be commended to thee.

Lead it to the harbor of salvation: there let it await securely the coming of the Redeemer.
- When my spirit shall go forth, Lady, let it be commended to thee.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
- When my spirit shall go forth, Lady, let it be commended to thee.

Psalm 145

Antiphon
+ I will praise thee, O Lady, because by thee the Lord has been rendered favorable unto me. He will satisfy my hunger with good things.

I will praise thee, O Lady, because by thee the Lord has been rendered favorable unto me: and has consoled me. Behold, Lady, thou art my savior: I will deal confidently in thee, and will not be confounded. For thou art my strength and my praise in the Lord: and thou hast become salvation unto me. I will draw waters in joy from the rivulet: and I will always invoke thy name. Make known among the peoples the virtues of Our Lady: for her name is exceedingly sublime. Exalt her and praise her, all the human race: because the Lord my God has given to thee such a mediatrix.

Canticle in Honor of Mary
The Psalter of the Blessed Virgin

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

Antiphon
I will praise thee, O Lady, because by thee the Lord has been rendered favorable unto me. He will satisfy my hunger with good things.

CONCLUSION

Lady of the angels, Queen of the world: purify my heart with the fire of love and of thy charity. Thou art the mother of the illumination of my heart: thou art the nurse who refreshes my mind. My mouth longs to praise thee: my mind devoutly aspires to venerate thee with ardent affection. My soul longs to pray to thee: because the whole of my being commends itself to thy guidance and teaching.

Psalm 40

I ask this through Jesus Christ, thy Son, who lives and reigns with the Father and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever.

+ Intercede for me, O Lady, with thy Christ: neither do thou forsake me in death or in life.
- Amen.

Psalms 83

MONDAY

Morning Prayer

+ O Lady, come to my assistance: and by the light of thy mercy enlighten me.

Psalm 69

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

HYMN

Virgin Mary,
Ah! For the good of our hearts,
Dry up our tears
Because of this life.

Oh my tender mother,
Open thy arms to me;
In thee I hope,
Do not abandon me.

In stressful days,
Thy sweet smiles
Cause my problems
To vanish.

Oh my tender mother,
Open thy arms to me;
In thee I hope,
Do not abandon me.

Cantiques a Marie
Priere, Air: La Brigatine, Part One
Les Livres des Enfants de Marie, 1850.
Translated by John P. Gross, 2009.

Antiphon 1
O Lady, thou art the nurse who refreshes my mind: thy graces calm my spirit and assuage my emotional hunger.

Psalm 40

Blessed Mary understandeth concerning the needy and the poor: who remains faithful in her praises. Lady of the angels, Queen of the world: purify my heart with the fire of love and of thy charity. Thou art the mother of the illumination of my heart: thou art the nurse who refreshes my mind. My mouth longs to praise thee: my mind devoutly aspires to venerate thee with ardent affection. My soul longs to pray to thee: because the whole of my being commends itself to thy guidance and teaching.

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

Antiphon 1
O Lady, thou art the nurse who refreshes my mind: thy graces calm my spirit and assuage my emotional hunger.

Antiphon 2
Rejoice in our Lady: for many good things are prepared for those who praise her. She will strengthen my resolve to do the Father's will in caring for my body.

Psalm 43

O Lady, we have heard with our ears: and our fathers have told it unto us. For thy merits are ineffable: and thy wonders exceedingly stupendous. O Lady, innumerable are thy virtues: and inestimable are thy mercies. Exult, O my soul, and rejoice in her: for many good things are prepared for those who praise her. Blessed be thou, O Queen of the Heavens and the angels: and let those who praise thy magnificence be blessed by God.

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

Antiphon 2
Rejoice in our Lady: for many good things are prepared for those who praise her. She will strengthen my resolve to do the Father's will in caring for my body.

Antiphon 3
O Lady, by thy most worthy Son I am restored. With thy grace, I will embrace the cross of food addiction and follow Him. He will help me carry it.

Psalm 44

My heart hath uttered a good word, Lady: it is sweetened with honey-flowing dew. By thy sanctity let my sins be purged: by thy integrity may incorruption be bestowed upon me. By thy virginity may my soul be loved by Christ: and joined to him by the bond of love. By thy fecundity I, a captive, am redeemed: by thy virginal bringing forth I am delivered from eternal death. By thy most worthy Son I, a lost one, am restored: and from the exile of misery I am led back to the homeland of beatitude.

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

Antiphon 3
O Lady, by thy most worthy Son I am restored. With thy grace, I will embrace the cross of food addiction and follow Him. He will help me carry it.

FIRST READING
Christ-oriented texts

SECOND READING
Mary-oriented texts

RESPONSORY

O Lady, thou encourages me to turn to God for the spiritual nourishment that truly satisfies.
- O Lady, thou encourages me to turn to God for the spiritual nourishment that truly satisfies.
Mother Mary, I want to honor God in my body.
- God is the spiritual nourishment that truly satisfies.
Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
- O Lady, thou encourages me to turn to God for the spiritual nourishment that truly satisfies.

CANTICLE TO MARY

Antiphon+
O Lady, thou hast brought about our redemption so that we may serve God in peace. Free me from the anxiety that causes me to overeat.

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

Canticle in Honor of Mary
The Psalter of the Blessed Virgin

Antiphon
O Lady, thou hast brought about our redemption so that we may serve God in peace. Free me from the anxiety that causes me to overeat.

INTERCESSIONS

O Mother of Perpetual Help, whom I honor today with my prayers, grant the petitions I have humbly placed before thee:

Let us ask our Heavenly Father for our daily bread:

CONCLUSION

O Lady, thou art our refuge in all our needs: and a most powerful force bruising and crushing our enemy. The world is full of thy benefits: they surpass the heavens and penetrate the depths. By the fullness of thy grace those who were in the abyss rejoice to find themselves liberated. By the power of thy virginal fecundity, those who were above this world: rejoice to find themselves freed. By the glorious Son of thy most holy virginity: men are made companions and fellow-citizens of the angels.

Psalm 45

+ May God have mercy on us and bless us. Let thy grace, O Lady, ever protect me: let thy presence give light to my end.
- Amen.

Psalm 66

MONDAY

Midmorning Prayer

+ O Lady, come to my assistance: and by the light of thy mercy enlighten me.

Psalm 69

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

HYMN

The heart that loves thee,
Always in peace,
Even death
Loses its sting.

Oh my tender mother,
Open thy arms to me;
In thee I hope,
Do not abandon me.

Happy refuge,
That a God of love
To the docile heart
Offers always.

Oh my tender mother,
Open thy arms to me;
In thee I hope,
Do not abandon me.

Cantiques a Marie
Priere, Air: La Brigatine, Part Two
Les Livres des Enfants de Marie, 1850.
Translated by John P. Gross, 2009.

Antiphon 1
Have mercy on me, O Lady: for thou art the light and the hope of all who trust in thee. Help me to build my life around God. He will nurture and sustain me.

Psalm 46

All ye nations, clap thy hands: sing in jubilee to the glorious Virgin. For she is the gate of life, the door of salvation, and the way of our reconciliation. The hope of the penitent: the comfort of those that weep: the blessed peace of hearts, and their salvation. Have mercy on me, O Lady, have mercy on me: for thou art the light and the hope of all who trust in thee. By thy salutary fecundity let it please thee: that pardon of my sins may be granted unto me.

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

Antiphon 1
Have mercy on me, O Lady: for thou art the light and the hope of all who trust in thee. Help me to build my life around God. He will nurture and sustain me.

Antiphon 2
Thou hast received her, O God of angels and men: and given her the principality over every place of thy domination. With her grace, I, a faithful subject, will develop a healthy relationship with food.

Psalm 47

Great art thou, O Lady, and exceedingly to be praised: in the city of the God of Heaven: in the entire Church of His elect. Thou hast ascended, hymned by the angelic choirs: buoyed by the archangels, crowned with lilies and roses. Meet her, ye Powers and Principalities: go to welcome her, ye Virtues and Dominations. Cherubim, and Thrones, and Seraphim, exalt her: and place her at the right hand of the Spouse, her most loving Son. Oh, with how joyful a soul, with how serene an aspect hast thou received her, O God of angels and men: and given her the principality over every place of thy domination.

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

Antiphon 3
O Lady, by the fruit of thy womb, refresh and sustain the hunger of thy little ones.

Psalm 48

Hear ye these things, all ye nations: give ear, all ye who desire to enter the kingdom of God. Honor the Virgin Mary: and ye will find life and perpetual salvation. Keep thy poor servants, O Lady: join them with a happy union to Christ. By the fruit of thy womb, refresh and sustain the hunger of thy little ones. For after thy bringing forth thou hast remained incorrupt: and after thy Son, inviolate.

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

Antiphon 3
O Lady, by the fruit of thy womb, refresh and sustain the hunger of thy little ones.

FIRST READING
Christ-oriented texts

SECOND READING
Mary-oriented texts

+ Let us embrace the footprints of Mary
- and cast ourselves at her blessed feet.

Psalm 14

MONDAY

Midday Prayer

+ O Lady, come to my assistance: and by the light of thy mercy enlighten me.

Psalm 69

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

HYMN

Oh thee whose smile,
To the heart of the unfortunate,
When hope expires,
Renders a pious calm;

Whom always tender mother
This sad mortal,
Thou consoles on earth
And makes him think of heaven;

From life's sorrows,
Virgin Mary,
Deliver me,
My heart hopes in thee.

Everywhere I hear the storm,
Everywhere plaintive cries;
Ah! Save from shipwreck
Our fragile boat.

May thy veil forever,
On the waves where we float,
Protect us from
The flashes of the tempest.

Cantiques a Marie
Air: Sainte Alice, Part One
Les Livres des Enfants de Marie, 1850.
Translated by John P. Gross, 2009.

Antiphon 1
O Lady, by thee the salvation of the world is repaired. Restore in me a healthy relationship with food.

Psalm 49

The God of gods hath spoken to Mary: by Gabriel, his messenger, saying: Hail, full of grace, the Lord is with thee: by thee the salvation of the world is repaired. The Son of the Most High hath greatly desired thy beauty and thy comeliness. Adorn thy bridal chamber, O Daughter of Sion: prepare to meet thy God. Thou shalt conceive by the Holy Ghost: who will make thy delivery virginal and joyful.

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

Antiphon 1
O Lady, by thee the salvation of the world is repaired. Restore in me a healthy relationship with food.

Antiphon 2
O Lady, make peace for me with Him who has created me: then I shall stop eating compulsively.

Psalm 50

Have mercy on me, O Lady: for thou art called the Mother of Mercy. And according to thy mercy: cleanse me from all my iniquities. Pour forth thy grace upon me: and withdraw not from me thine accustomed clemency. For I will confess my sins to thee: and I will accuse myself of all my crimes before thee. Reconcile me to the Fruit of thy womb: and make peace for me with Him who has created me.

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

Antiphon 2
O Lady, make peace for me with Him who has created me: then I shall stop eating compulsively.

Antiphon 3
O Lady, thou shalt deliver me from all tribulation: peace will bring relief from emotional hunger.

Psalm 53

O Lady, save me in thy name: and deliver me from my injustices. That the craft of the enemy may not hurt me: hide me under the shadow of thy wings. O my Lady, help me! bestow thy grace upon my soul! Willingly I will offer thee a sacrifice of praise: and I will give praise to thy name, for it is good. For thou shalt deliver me from all tribulation: and my eye shall despise mine enemies.

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

Antiphon 3
O Lady, thou shalt deliver me from all tribulation: peace will bring relief from emotional hunger.

FIRST READING
Christ-oriented texts

SECOND READING
Mary-oriented texts

Shining orbs adorn thy throne
- the morning stars glorify thee forever.

Psalm 23

MONDAY

Midafternoon

+ O Lady, come to my assistance: and by the light of thy mercy enlighten me.

Psalm 69

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

HYMN

From the reefs of life,
Virgin Mary,
Deliver me,
My heart hopes in thee.

Often vain joys
lull us to sleep here below,
And cast in our path
Dangerous charms.

Wearing spectacles that deceive
Never seeing clearly,
May I walk without obstacle
On the road to heaven.

From life's dreams,
Virgin Mary,
Deliver me,
My heart hopes in thee.

Cantiques a Marie
Air: Sainte Alice, Part Two
Les Livres des Enfants de Marie, 1850.
Translated by John P. Gross, 2009.

Antiphon 1
Whatever of honor is bestowed upon the Mother belongs to the praise and the glory of the Savior. O Lady, may my prayers rise like incense to heaven and gain for me the assistance of thy Son in my struggle to make peace with food.

Psalm 57

If indeed thou will truly speak justice: honor the Queen of justice and mercy. For this belongs to the praise and the glory of the Savior: whatever of honor is bestowed upon the Mother. The roses of martyrs surround thee, O Queen: and the lilies of virgins encompass thy throne. Praise ye her, all together, ye morning stars: the seas and the rivers and the foundations of the world.

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

Antiphon 2
Intercede for me, O saving Mother of God, and I shall overcome all obstacles to controlling my inordinate appetite.

Psalm 59

O God, thou hast cast us off because of our sins: thou hast had mercy on us by the Virgin Mary. Intercede for us, O saving Mother of God: who hast brought forth salvation for men and angels. For thou infusest joy into the sad: and joy and sweetness into the mourners. Rejoice us by the sweet sounds of thy speech: and pour thy balm of roses forth into our hearts. Thunder, ye heavens, from above, and give praise to her: glorify her, ye earth, with all the dwellers therein.

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

Antiphon 2
Intercede for me, O saving Mother of God, and I shall overcome all obstacles to controlling my inordinate appetite.

Antiphon 3
O Lady, hear thou the weeping of my heart and heal the pain that food can only relieve for a time.

Psalm 61

O Lady, shall not my soul be subject to thee: who hast brought forth the Savior of all? Be mindful of us, O savior of the lost: hear thou the weeping of our hearts. Pour forth graces from thy treasury: and with thine unguents soothe our grief. Give us joy and peace: that thou mayest confound the enemies of the good. Wash away all our sins: heal all our infirmities.

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

Antiphon 3
O Lady, hear thou the weeping of my heart and heal the pain that food can only relieve for a time.

FIRST READING
Christ-oriented texts

SECOND READING
Mary-oriented texts

+ Blessed be thou, O Lady
- to the uttermost ends of the earth.

Psalm 27

MONDAY

Evening Prayer

+ O Lady, come to my assistance: and by the light of thy mercy enlighten me.

Psalm 69

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

HYMN

As the dewy shades of even
Gather o'er the balmy air;
Listen, gentle Queen of Heaven,
Listen to our vesper pray'r.

Holy Mother! near me hover
Free my tho'ts from aught defiled;
With thy wings of mercy cover,
Keep from sin thy helpless child.

Thine own sinless heart was broken,
Sorrow's sword had pierced its core;
Holy Mother! by that token,
Now thy pity I implore.

Queen of heaven guard and guide me,
Save my soul from dark despair;
In thy tender bosom hide me,
Take me, Mother, to thy care.

Sisters of Notre Dame

Antiphon 1
O Lady, stand for us before the throne of God. Give me the grace to never offend Him through overindulgence.

Psalm 62

O God, my God: I will glorify thee by Thy Mother. For she hath conceived thee in virginity: and without travail she hath brought Thee forth. Blessed be thou, O Lady: stand for us before the throne of God. Beauty and brightness are in thy sight. Keep my soul, O Lady: that it may never fall into sin.

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

Antiphon 1
O Lady, stand for us before the throne of God. Give me the grace to never offend Him through overindulgence.

Antiphon 2
Enlighten, O Lady, mine eyes: and illumine my blindness that I may see how much harm overeating can do to my body.

Psalm 63

Hear my prayer, O Lady, when I beseech thee: from the fear of the cruel one deliver my soul. Obtain for us peace and salvation: in the last day. Blessed be thou above all women: and blessed be the fruit of thy womb. Enlighten, O Lady, mine eyes: and illumine my blindness. Give me firm confidence in thee: in my life and in mine end.

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

Antiphon 2
Enlighten, O Lady, mine eyes: and illumine my blindness that I may see how much harm overeating can do to my body.

Antiphon 3
O Lady, the Lord hath set a resplendent crown upon thy head: and hath set thy throne above all the orders of angels. Look with favor upon me, thy lowly servant, and free me from my dependency on food.

Psalm 64

A hymn becometh thee, O Lady, in Sion: praise and jubilation in Jerusalem. The Lord hath given thee the blessing of all nations: praise and glory in the sight of all peoples. The Lord hath blessed thee in His mercy: and hath set thy throne above all the orders of angels. He hath placed grace and beauty in thy lips: and with a mantle of glory he hath clothed thy body. He hath set a resplendent crown upon thy head: and hath adorned thee with the jewels of virtues.

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

FIRST READING
Christ-oriented texts

SECOND READING
Mary-oriented texts

RESPONSORY

O Lady, thou encourages me to embrace the Holy Trinity, the source of real peace that food can never provide.
- O Lady, thou encourages me to embrace the Holy Trinity, the source of real peace that food can never provide.
Mother Mary, I want to honor God in my body.
- the Trinity is the source of real peace.
Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
- O Lady, thou encourages me to embrace the Holy Trinity, the source of real peace that food can never provide.

CANTICLE TO MARY

Antiphon+
He who is mighty has done great things to me: by Mary His Mother. She refreshes my soul and restores my body.

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

Canticle in Honor of Mary
The Psalter of the Blessed Virgin

Antiphon
He who is mighty has done great things to me: by Mary His Mother. She refreshes my soul and restores my body.

INTERCESSIONS

O Mother of Perpetual Help, whom I honor today with my prayers, grant the petitions I have humbly placed before thee:

Let us ask our Heavenly Father for our daily bread:

CONCLUSION

I ask this through Jesus Christ, thy Son, who lives and reigns with the Father and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever.

Psalm 38

+ May God have mercy on us and bless us. Let thy grace, O Lady, ever protect me: let thy presence give light to my end.
- Amen.

Psalm 66

MONDAY

Night Prayer

+ O Lady, come to my assistance: and by the light of thy mercy enlighten me.

Psalm 69

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

Examination of Conscience
Followed by an Act of Contrition

Psalm 37

HYMN

Sing of Mary, pure and lowly,
Virgin mother undefiled,
Sing of God's own Son most holy,
Who became her little child.
Fairest child of fairest mother,
God the Lord who came to earth,
Word made flesh, our very brother,
Takes our nature by his birth.

Sing of Jesus, son of Mary,
In the home at Nazareth.
Toil and labour cannot weary
Love enduring unto death.
Constant was the love he gave her,
Though he went forth from her side,
Forth to preach, and heal, and suffer,
Till on Calvary he died.

Glory be to God the Father;
Glory be to God the Son;
Glory be to God the Spirit;
Glory to the Three in One.
From the heart of blessed Mary,
From all saints the song ascends,
And the Church the strain reechoes
Unto earth's remotest ends.

Words: Roland Ford Palmer, 1914

Antiphon 1
I am vehemently oppressed, O Lady, but my hope in thee is undiminished: thou shalt help me lose my excess weight permanently.

Psalm 70

In thee, O Lady, have I hoped: let me never be confounded: in thy mercy deliver me and free me. Because of the multitude of my iniquities: I am vehemently oppressed. Mine enemies have acted above my head: they have mocked me and derided me day by day. See, O Lady, how I am troubled: stretch forth thy hands, and succor him who perishes. Delay not, for the sake of the grace of thy name: and thou shalt become unto me joy and salvation.

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

Antiphon 1
I am vehemently oppressed, O Lady, but my hope in thee is undiminished: thou shalt help me lose my excess weight permanently.

FIRST READING
Christ-oriented texts

SECOND READING
Mary-oriented texts

RESPONSORY

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
- When my spirit shall go forth, Lady, let it be commended to thee.

Psalm 145

Antiphon
+ I will praise thee, O Lady, because by thee the Lord has been rendered favorable unto me. He will satisfy my hunger with good things.

Canticle in Honor of Mary
The Psalter of the Blessed Virgin

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

Antiphon
I will praise thee, O Lady, because by thee the Lord has been rendered favorable unto me. He will satisfy my hunger with good things.

CONCLUSION

Psalm 40

I ask this through Jesus Christ, thy Son, who lives and reigns with the Father and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever.

+ Intercede for me, O Lady, with thy Christ: neither do thou forsake me in death or in life.
- Amen.

Psalms 83

TUESDAY

Morning Prayer

+ O Lady, come to my assistance: and by the light of thy mercy enlighten me.

Psalm 69

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

HYMN

Bring flow'rs of the fairest, bring flow'rs of the rarest,
From garden and woodland and hillside and vale;
Our full hearts are swelling our glad voices telling
The praise of the loveliest Rose of the vale.

Chorus:
O Mary! we crown thee with blossoms today,
Queen of the Angels, Queen of the May,
O Mary we crown thee with blossoms today,
Queen of the Angels, Queen of the May.

Our voices ascending, in harmony blending,
Oh! thus may our hearts turn dear Mother, to thee;
Oh! thus shall we prove thee how truly we love thee,
How dark without Mary life's journey would be. Chorus

O Virgin most tender, our homage we render,
Thy love and protection, sweet Mother, to win;
In danger defend us, in sorrow befriend us,
And shield our hearts from contagion and sin. Chorus

Of Mothers the dearest, oh, wilt thou be nearest,
When life with temptation is darkly replete?
Forsake us, O never! Our hearts be they ever
As pure as the lilies we lay at thy feet. Chorus

May Crowning Hymn

.Antiphon 1
O Lady, with the bandages of thy grace and loving kindness heal my pain. Lead me to the joy of prayerful union with God when I am tempted to overeat.

Psalm 71

Give to the King thy judgment, O God: and thy mercy to the Queen, His Mother. In thy hand are life and salvation: perpetual joy and glorious eternity. Sprinkle my heart with thy sweetness: make me forget the miseries of this life. Draw me after thee by the bands of thy mercy: and with the bandages of thy grace and loving kindness heal my pain. Stir up in me a desire for Heaven: and inebriate my soul with the joy of Paradise.

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

Antiphon 1
O Lady, with the bandages of thy grace and loving kindness heal my pain. Lead me to the joy of prayerful union with God when I am tempted to overeat.

Antiphon 2
O Lady, make light arise within me. Lift my spirits should I become discouraged by temporary setbacks.

Psalm 72

How good is God to Israel: to those who pay homage to His Mother and venerate her. For she is our comfort: she is the most excellent of help in labor. The enemy hath overspread my soul with darkness: O Lady, make light arise within me. Let the wrath of God be turned away from me by thee: placate him by thy merits and thy prayers. Stand for me in the day of judgment: in His presence take up my cause, and be my advocate.

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

Antiphon 2
O Lady, make light arise within me. Lift my spirits should I become discouraged by temporary setbacks.

Antiphon 3
O Lady, deliver us by thy right hand from the bonds that enslave us. Help me to break free of my unhealthy eating habits.

Psalm 73

O Lady, why hast thou cast us off? and why wilt thou not help us in the day of tribulation? Let my prayer come into thy sight: and despise not the voices of those who groan. The enemy hath stretched his bow against us: he has strengthened his right hand, and there is no consoler. Break for us the bonds of his malicious doings: and deliver us by thy right hand. Drive him back into the place of perdition: let eternal damnation possess him.

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

Antiphon 3
O Lady, deliver us by thy right hand from the bonds that enslave us. Help me to break free of my unhealthy eating habits.

FIRST READING
Christ-oriented texts

SECOND READING
Mary-oriented texts

RESPONSORY

O Lady, controlling my urge to overeat is a heavy cross to bear, but thou art there to lighten the load.
- O Lady, controlling my urge to overeat is a heavy cross to bear, but thou art there to lighten the load.
Mother Mary, I want to honor God in my body.
- thou art there to lighten the load.
Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
- O Lady, controlling my urge to overeat is a heavy cross to bear, but thou art there to lighten the load.

CANTICLE TO MARY

Antiphon+
O Lady, thou hast brought about our redemption so that we may serve God in peace. Free me from the anxiety that causes me to overeat.

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

Canticle in Honor of Mary
The Psalter of the Blessed Virgin

Antiphon
O Lady, thou hast brought about our redemption so that we may serve God in peace. Free me from the anxiety that causes me to overeat.

INTERCESSIONS

O Mother of Perpetual Help, whom I honor today with my prayers, grant the petitions I have humbly placed before thee:

Let us ask our Heavenly Father for our daily bread:

CONCLUSION

Psalm 45

+ May God have mercy on us and bless us. Let thy grace, O Lady, ever protect me: let thy presence give light to my end.
- Amen.

Psalm 66

TUESDAY

Midmorning Prayer

+ O Lady, come to my assistance: and by the light of thy mercy enlighten me.

Psalm 69

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

HYMN

Immaculate Mary, thy praises we sing;
Thou reigns now in splendor with Jesus our King.
Ave, ave, ave, Maria! Ave, ave, Maria!

In heaven, the blessed thy glory proclaim;
On earth we, thy children, invoke thy sweet name.
Ave, ave, ave, Maria! Ave, ave, Maria!

We pray for the Church, our true Mother on earth,
And beg thee to watch o'er the land of our birth.
Ave, ave, ave, Maria! Ave, ave, Maria!

Anonymous

Antiphon 1
O Lady, we praise thee and are mindful of thy virtues. Help me to be patient as I learn to relate to food in a healthy way.

Psalm 74

We will praise thee, O Lady: and we will praise thy name: make us to delight in thy praises. Sing ye to her, ye dwellers upon earth: and announce her praise to the peoples. Praise and magnificence are before her: fortitude and exultation are in her throne. Adore ye her in her beauty: glorify the Maker of her beauty. Be mindful in eternity of her mercy: keep in mind her virtues and her wonders.

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

Antiphon 1
O Lady, we praise thee and are mindful of thy virtues. Help me to be patient as I learn to relate to food in a healthy way.

Antiphon 2
O Lady, health and life are in thy house. My spiritual and physical rebirth are in thy hands.

Psalm 75

In Judea God is known: in Israel the honor of His Mother. Sweet is the memory of her above honey and the honeycomb: and her love is above all aromatic perfumes. Health and life are in her house: and in her dwelling are peace and eternal glory. Honor her, ye heavens and earth: because the supreme artificer has wonderfully honored her. Give to her praise, all ye creatures: and joyfully celebrate her astonishing mercy.

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

Antiphon 2
O Lady, health and life are in thy house. My spiritual and physical rebirth are in thy hands.

Antiphon 3
Our Lady hath turned my fear into a sweet confidence and calmed my mind. "O Lord, all eyes hope in thee, and thou provides their food in due time." (Psalm 144, Sacred Scripture)

Psalm 76

With my voice I cried to the Lady: and by her grace she bowed down to me. She hath taken sorrow and grief from my heart: and she hath soothed my heart by her sweetness. She hath turned my fear into a sweet confidence: and by her honey-flowing aspect she hath calmed my mind. By her holy help I have avoided the dangers of death: and I have escaped the cruel hand. Thanks be to God and to thee, O loving Mother, for all things which I have obtained: for thy piety and thy mercy.

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

Antiphon 3
Our Lady hath turned my fear into a sweet confidence and calmed my mind. "O Lord, all eyes hope in thee, and thou provides their food in due time." (Psalm 144, Sacred Scripture)

FIRST READING
Christ-oriented texts

SECOND READING
Mary-oriented texts

+ Let us embrace the footprints of Mary
- and cast ourselves at her blessed feet.

Psalm 14

TUESDAY

Midday Prayer

+ O Lady, come to my assistance: and by the light of thy mercy enlighten me.

Psalm 69

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

HYMN

Ave Maria! blessed Maid!
Lily of Eden’s fragrant shade!
Who can express the love
That nurtured thee, so pure and sweet,
Making thy heart a shelter meet
For Jesus’ holy Dove!

Ave Maria! Mother blest,
To whom, caressing and caress’d,
Clings the eternal Child;
Favour’d beyond Archangels’ dream,
When first on thee with tenderest gleam
The new-born Saviour smiled.

Thou wept’st, meek Maiden, Mother mild,
Thou wept’st upon thy sinless Child,
Thy very heart was riven:
And yet, what mourning matron here
Would deem thy sorrows bought too dear
By all on this side heaven?

A Son that never did amiss,
That never shamed his Mother’s kiss,
Nor cross’d her fondest prayer:
E’en from the Tree he deign’d to bow
For her his agonized brow,
Her, his sole earthly care.

Ave Maria! thou whose name
All but adoring love may claim,
Yet may we reach thy shrine;
For he, thy Son and Saviour, vows
To crown all lowly lofty brows
With love and joy like thine.

Purification of St. Mary the Virgin
For Mary, The Mother of Jesus
John Keble, 1827

Antiphon 1
O Lady, we glorify thee: thy love fills a hunger that no food can satisfy.

Psalm 77

Attend, O people of God, to His commandments: and forget not the Queen of grace. Open thy heart to search her out: and thy lips to glorify her. Let her love come down into thy hearts: long to please her. Her beauty outshines the sun and the moon: she is adorned with the ornaments of virtues. Have mercy on me, O Queen of glory and honor: and keep my soul from all danger.

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

Antiphon 1
O Lady, we glorify thee: thy love fills a hunger that no food can satisfy.

Antiphon 2
O Lady, unite me to Him who hath redeemed me. He is the vine and we are the branches that He nourishes.

Psalm 78

O Lady, the heathen have come into the inheritance of God: which thou hast established in Christ by thy merits. Let thy speech be sweet before Him: and unite me to Him who hath redeemed me. Stretch forth thine arm against the cruel enemy: and unfold to me his craft. Thy voice is sweet above every melody: the angelic harmony cannot be compared with it. Drop down on me the sweetness of thy graces: and the fragrance of thy heavenly gifts.

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

Antiphon 2
O Lady, unite me to Him who hath redeemed me. He is the vine and we are the branches that He nourishes.

Antiphon 3
O Lady, by the sweet fragrance of thy spiritual gifts thou hast restored my soul. Christ now lives in me and I will not abuse my body for fear of driving Him away.

Psalm 79

Give ear to me, thou who rulest Israel: praise thy Mother with me. Arise and shake thyself from the dust, O my soul: go forth to meet the Queen of Heaven. Loose the bands of thy neck, O poor little soul of mine: and welcome her with glorious praises. The odor of life comes forth from her: and all salvation springs out of her heart. By the sweet fragrance of her spiritual gifts: dead souls are raised to life.

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

Antiphon 3
O Lady, by the sweet fragrance of thy spiritual gifts thou hast restored my soul. Christ now lives in me and I will not abuse my body for fear of driving Him away.

FIRST READING
Christ-oriented texts

SECOND READING
Mary-oriented texts

+ Shining orbs adorn thy throne
- the morning stars glorify thee forever.

Psalm 23

TUESDAY

Midafternoon

+ O Lady, come to my assistance: and by the light of thy mercy enlighten me.

Psalm 69

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

HYMN

O Queen of the Holy Rosary,
O bless us as we pray,
And offer thee our roses
In garlands day by day,
While from our Father's garden,
With loving hearts and bold,
We gather to thine honor
Buds white and red and gold.

O Queen of the Holy Rosary,
Each myst'ry blends with thine
The sacred life of Jesus
In ev'ry step divine.
Thy soul was His fair garden,
Thy virgin breast His throne,
Thy thoughts His faithful mirror,
Reflecting Him alone.

Sweet Lady of the Rosary,
White roses let us bring,
And lay them round thy footstool,
Before our Infant King.
For, resting in thy bosom,
God's Son was fain to be
The child of thy obedience
And spotless purity.

Emily Shapcote, d. ca.1906
Wirtemburg Gesangbuch, 1784

Antiphon 1
Let us imitate her humility: her obedience and her meekness. “My food is to do the will of the One who sent me." (John 4:34)

Psalm 80

Rejoice to the Lady, our helper: sing aloud in the joy of thy heart. Let thy affections be enkindled in her: and she will overwhelm thy enemies with confusion. Let us imitate her humility: her obedience and her meekness. All graces shine forth in her: for her capacity was immense. Run ye to her with holy devotion: and she will share her good things with thee.

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

Antiphon 1
Let us imitate her humility: her obedience and her meekness. “My food is to do the will of the One who sent me." (John 4:34)

Antiphon 2
He who drinketh from her, will spring forth unto life everlasting: and he will never thirst.

Psalm 81

God is in the congregation of Jews: from whom, as a rose, has come forth the Mother of God. Wipe away my stains, O Lady: thou who art ever resplendent in purity. Make the fountain of life flow into my mouth: whence the living waters take their rise and flow forth. All ye who thirst, come to her: she will willingly give thee to drink from her fountain. He who drinketh from her, will spring forth unto life everlasting: and he will never thirst.

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

Antiphon 2
He who drinketh from her, will spring forth unto life everlasting: and he will never thirst.

Antiphon 3
O Lady, may I be received by thee into the peace of Jesus Christ who is our true food and true drink.

Psalm 82

O my Lady, who shall be like unto thee? In grace and glory thou surpassest all. As the heavens are above the earth: so art thou high above all, and exceedingly exalted. Wound my heart with thy charity: make me worthy of thy grace and thy gifts. May my heart melt in thy fear: and may the desire of thee enkindle my soul. Make me desire thy honor and thy glory: that I may be received by thee into the peace of Jesus Christ.

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

Antiphon 3
O Lady, may I be received by thee into the peace of Jesus Christ who is our true food and true drink.

FIRST READING
Christ-oriented texts

SECOND READING
Mary-oriented texts

+ Blessed be thou, O Lady
- to the uttermost ends of the earth.

Psalm 27

TUESDAY

Evening Prayer

+ O Lady, come to my assistance: and by the light of thy mercy enlighten me.

Psalm 69

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

HYMN

Blest guardian of all virgin souls,
Portal of bliss to man forgiven,
Pure Mother of Almighty God,
Thou hope of earth and joy of heaven!

Fair Lily found among the thorns,
Most beauteous Dove with wings of gold,
Rod from whose tender root upsprang
That healing Flower so long foretold.

Thou Tower against the dragon proof,
Thou Star to storm-tossed voyagers dear;
Our course lies o’er a treacherous deep,
Thine be the light by which we steer.

Scatter the mists that round us hang;
Keep far the fatal shoals away;
And while through darkling waves we sweep,
Open a path to light and day.

O Jesu, born of Virgin bright,
Immortal glory be to Thee;
Praise to the Father infinite
And Holy Ghost eternally.

Anonymous 17th Century
Feast of the Immaculate Conception

Antiphon 1
O Lady, thou art our model of prudence for thy actions are always pleasing to the Father. "My food is to do the will of the One who sent me." John 4:34

Psalm 84

O Lady, thou hast blessed thy house: thou hast consecrated thy dwelling. This one is fair among the daughters of Jerusalem: whose memory is in blessing. The holy angels have proclaimed her blessed: glorify her, ye Virtues and Dominations. Ye peoples and nations, seek out her prudence: and search out the treasures of her mercy. Think of her in goodness: and seek her in simplicity of heart.

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

Antiphon 1
O Lady, thou art our model of prudence for thy actions are always pleasing to the Father. "My food is to do the will of the One who sent me." John 4:34

Antiphon 2
O Lady, the light of thy mercies leads to salvation. "He gives food to all flesh, for his mercy is eternal." (Psalm 135, Sacred Scripture)

Psalm 85

Incline thine ear, O Lady, and hear me: turn thy face to me, and have mercy on me. May the inflowing of thy sweetness delight the souls of the saints: and the infusion of thy charity be sweet above the sweetest honey. The resplendence of thy glory enlightens the mind: and the light of thy mercies leads to salvation. The fountain of thy goodness inebriates the thirsty: and the aspect of thy countenance draws men away from sin. To know thee and to learn thee is the root of immortality: and to declare thy virtues is the way of salvation.

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

Antiphon 2
O Lady, the light of thy mercies leads to salvation. "He gives food to all flesh, for his mercy is eternal." (Psalm 135, Sacred Scripture)

Antiphon 3
Grant, O Lady, that I may live in the grace of the Holy Spirit: who counsels me to eat moderately lest I offend the Father.

Psalm 86

The foundations of life in the soul of the just: are to persevere in charity unto the end. Thy grace raises up the poor man in adversity: and the invocation of thy name inspires him with confidence. Paradise is filled with thy tender mercies: and by the fear of thee the infernal enemy is confounded. He who hopes in thee, will find treasures of peace: and he who invokes thee not in this life, will not attain to the kingdom of God. Grant, O Lady, that we may live in the grace of the Holy Ghost: and lead our souls to a holy end.

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

Antiphon 3
Grant, O Lady, that I may live in the grace of the Holy Spirit: who counsels me to eat moderately lest I offend the Father.

FIRST READING
Christ-oriented texts

SECOND READING
Mary-oriented texts

RESPONSORY

O Lady, guide me with thy wisdom. Help me to make the right food choices today.
- O Lady, guide me with thy wisdom. Help me to make the right food choices today.
Mother Mary, I want to honor God in my body.
- help me to make the right food choices today.
Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
- O Lady, guide me with thy wisdom. Help me to make the right food choices today.

CANTICLE TO MARY

Antiphon+
He who is mighty has done great things to me: by Mary His Mother. She refreshes my soul and restores my body.

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

Canticle in Honor of Mary
The Psalter of the Blessed Virgin

Antiphon
He who is mighty has done great things to me: by Mary His Mother. She refreshes my soul and restores my body.

INTERCESSIONS

O Mother of Perpetual Help, whom I honor today with my prayers, grant the petitions I have humbly placed before thee:

Let us ask our Heavenly Father for our daily bread:

CONCLUSION

Psalm 38

I ask this through Jesus Christ, thy Son, who lives and reigns with the Father and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever.

+ May God have mercy on us and bless us. Let thy grace, O Lady, ever protect me: let thy presence give light to my end.
- Amen.

Psalm 66

TUESDAY

Night Prayer

+ O Lady, come to my assistance: and by the light of thy mercy enlighten me.

Psalm 69

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

Examination of Conscience
Followed by an Act of Contrition:

Psalm 37

HYMN

Daily, daily sing to Mary,
Sing, my soul, her praises due.
All her feasts, her actions worship
With the heart's devotion true.
Lost in wond'ring contemplation,
Be her Majesty confess'd.
Call her Mother, call her Virgin,
Happy Mother, Virgin blest.

She is mighty to deliver.
Call her, trust her lovingly.
When the tempest rages round thee,
She will calm the troubled sea.
Gifts of heaven she has given,
Noble Lady, to our race.
She, the Queen, who decks her subjects
With the light of God's own grace.

Sing, my tongue, the Virgin's trophies
Who for us her Maker bore.
For the curse of old inflicted,
Peace and blessing to restore.
Sing in songs of peace unending,
Sing the world's majestic Queen.
Weary not nor faint in telling.
All the gifts she gives to men.

Unknown

Antiphon 1
O Lady, strengthen our hearts against the concupiscence of the flesh. Help me to resist eating strictly for pleasure.

Psalm 87

Lady, thou art the helper of my salvation: by day and by night I have cried to thee. Let my prayer enter into thy sight: console my sadness with the sight of thee. Evils are multiplied in my soul: cleanse it from filth and sin. May thy power overcome our enemies: lest they hinder our salvation. Bestow on us thy grace to resist them: strengthen our hearts against the concupiscence of the flesh.

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

Antiphon 1
O Lady, strengthen our hearts against the concupiscence of the flesh. Help me to resist eating strictly for pleasure.

FIRST READING
Christ-oriented texts

SECOND READING
Mary-oriented texts

RESPONSORY

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
- When my spirit shall go forth, Lady, let it be commended to thee.

Psalm 145

Antiphon
+ I will praise thee, O Lady, because by thee the Lord has been rendered favorable unto me. He will satisfy my hunger with good things.

Canticle in Honor of Mary
The Psalter of the Blessed Virgin

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

Antiphon
I will praise thee, O Lady, because by thee the Lord has been rendered favorable unto me. He will satisfy my hunger with good things.

CONCLUSION

Psalm 40

I ask this through Jesus Christ, thy Son, who lives and reigns with the Father and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever.

+ Intercede for me, O Lady, with thy Christ: neither do thou forsake me in death or in life.
- Amen.

Psalms 83

WEDNESDAY

Morning Prayer

+ O Lady, come to my assistance: and by the light of thy mercy enlighten me.

Psalm 69

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

HYMN

Hail, bright star of ocean,
God's own Mother blest,
Ever sinless Virgin,
Gate of heavenly rest.

Taking that sweet Ave
Which from Gabriel came,
Peace confirm within us,
Changing Eva's name.

Break the captives' fetters,
Light on blindness pour,
All our ills expelling,
Every bliss implore.

Show thyself a Mother;
May the Word Divine,
Born for us thy Infant,
Hear our prayers through thine.

Ave Maris Stella
Unknown origin. 9th century

.Antiphon 1
O Lady, they who hope in thee will be clothed with light: joy and perpetual rejoicing will be mine when I reach my ideal weight.

Psalm 89

O Lady, thou art made unto us refreshment: in all our needs. The diffusion of thy grace produces thy holy operations in us: and the gentle dropping of thy sweetness maketh holy affections. I will be mindful, O Lady, of thy tender mercies: I will sing unto thee a sacrifice of praise and a song of joy. They who honor thee will obtain a perennial crown for ashes: and the mantle of praise for the spirit of mourning. They who hope in thee will be clothed with light: joy and perpetual rejoicing will be their lot.

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

Antiphon 1
O Lady, they who hope in thee will be clothed with light: joy and perpetual rejoicing will be mine when I reach my ideal weight.

Antiphon 2
He that dwelleth in the help of the Mother of God: will abide under her protection. She will defend me against the negative thoughts that threaten to undermine my success.

Psalm 90

He that dwelleth in the help of the Mother of God: will abide under her protection. The concourse of enemies will not harm him: the flying arrow will not touch him. For she will deliver him from the snare of the hunter: and under her wings she will protect him. Cry out to her in thy dangers: and the scourge will not come nigh thy dwelling. He who has placed his hope in her, will find the fruit of grace: the gate of paradise will be opened to him.

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

Antiphon 2
He that dwelleth in the help of the Mother of God: will abide under her protection. She will defend me against the negative thoughts that threaten to undermine my success.

Antiphon 3
O Lady, thou art our model of humility and heaven rejoices when we imitate thee. I humbly place my life in God's hands trusting that He will heal my food addiction.

Psalm 91

It is good to give praise to the Virgin Mary: and to sing glory to her is the prosperity of the mind. To declare her merits rejoices the mind: and to imitate her works makes glad the angels of God. He who obtains her favor: is recognized by the dwellers in Paradise. And he who shall bear the character of her name, shall be written in the book of life. Arise, O Lady, and judge our cause: and deliver us from those who rise up against us. Withdraw not thy right hand from the sinner: and meet with thy sword the darts of the destroyer.

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

Antiphon 3
O Lady, thou art our model of humility and heaven rejoices when we imitate thee. I humbly place my life in God's hands trusting that He will heal my food addiction.

FIRST READING
Christ-oriented texts

SECOND READING
Mary-oriented texts

RESPONSORY

O Lady, help me to overcome my addiction to food so I can lose my excess weight.
- O Lady, help me to overcome my addiction to food so I can lose my excess weight.
Mother Mary, I want to honor God in my body.
- help me to lose my excess weight.
Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
- O Lady, help me to overcome my addiction to food so I can lose my excess weight.

CANTICLE TO MARY

Antiphon+
O Lady, thou hast brought about our redemption so that we may serve God in peace. Free me from the anxiety that causes me to overeat.

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

Canticle in Honor of Mary
The Psalter of the Blessed Virgin

Antiphon
O Lady, thou hast brought about our redemption so that we may serve God in peace. Free me from the anxiety that causes me to overeat.

INTERCESSIONS

O Mother of Perpetual Help, whom I honor today with my prayers, grant the petitions I have humbly placed before thee:

Let us ask our Heavenly Father for our daily bread:

CONCLUSION

Psalm 45

+ May God have mercy on us and bless us. Let thy grace, O Lady, ever protect me: let thy presence give light to my end.
- Amen.

Psalm 66

WEDNESDAY

Midmorning Prayer

+ O Lady, come to my assistance: and by the light of thy mercy enlighten me.

Psalm 69

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

HYMN

Mary mother, meek and mild,
Fro shame and sin that ye us shield,
For great on ground ye go with child,
¹Gabriele nuncio.

Mary mother, be not adread,
Jesu is in your body bred,
And of your breast He will be fed,
²Cum pudoris lilio.

Mary mother, the fruit of thee
For us was nailed on a tree,
In heaven is now His majesty,
Cum pudoris lilio.

Mary mother, the thirde day
Up He rose, as I you say,
To hell He took the righte way,
³Motu fertus proprio.

Mary mother, after thy Son,
Up thou styest⁴ with him to wone;⁵
The angels were glad when thou were come,
⁶In celi palacio.

¹"From Gabriel the messenger."
²"With the lily of chastity."
³"He is borne by His own motion."
⁴Ascendest.
⁵Dwell
⁶"In the palace of heaven."

Ave Maris Stella, Part 2
Unknown origin. 9th century

Antiphon 1
O Lady, do thou uphold those who are fainting away in their temptations. Help me to avoid those foods that I can not stop eating.

Psalm 92

The Lord hath reigned, He is clothed with beauty: He hath crowned His Mother with the ornaments of virtues. May the Mother of peace fulfill in us his propitiation: and may she teach her servants the way of equity. Ye who desire the wisdom of Christ: serve His Mother with a reverent soul. Who will suffice to relate thy works, O Lady? and who shall search out the treasures of thy mercy? Do thou uphold those who are fainting away in their temptations: and appoint them a lot in truth.

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

Antiphon 1
O Lady, do thou uphold those who are fainting away in their temptations. Help me to avoid those foods that I can not stop eating.

Antiphon 2
Serve her reverently with rejoicing: and the Most Blessed Fruit of her womb shall heal thee. Help me, Lord, to overcome the fears that I try to soothe with food.

Psalm 93

The Lord is a God to whom revenge belongeth: but thou, O Mother of mercy, inclinest Him to mercy. Thy magnificence, O Lady, is preached forever: and they who venerate thee shall find the way of peace. Serve her reverently with rejoicing: and the Most Blessed Fruit of her womb shall heal thee. Look, O Lady, upon the humility of thy servants: and they shall praise thee in the generations of ages. Magnify thy name in the multiplication of thy graces: and permit not thy servants to be subject to perils.

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

Antiphon 2
Serve her reverently with rejoicing: and the Most Blessed Fruit of her womb shall heal thee. Help me, Lord, to overcome the fears that I try to soothe with food.

Antiphon 3
O Lady, obtain for us a full pardon, stand for us before the tribunal of God. He loves me and is ready to help me overcome my eating disorder.

Psalm 94

Come, let us rejoice to Our Lady: let us joyfully sing to the saving Mary, our Queen. Let us come before her presence with joy: and in canticles let us all praise her together. Come, let us adore, and fall down before her: let us confess our sins to her with tears. Obtain for us a full pardon, stand for us before the tribunal of God. Receive our souls at our end: and lead us into eternal rest.

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

Antiphon 3
O Lady, obtain for us a full pardon, stand for us before the tribunal of God. He loves me and is ready to help me overcome my eating disorder.

FIRST READING
Christ-oriented texts

SECOND READING
Mary-oriented texts

+ Let us embrace the footprints of Mary
- and cast ourselves at her blessed feet.

Psalm 14

WEDNESDAY

Midday Prayer

+ O Lady, come to my assistance: and by the light of thy mercy enlighten me.

Psalm 69

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

HYMN

Hail! Holy Queen, enthroned above, O Maria!
Hail, Queen of mercy and of love, O Maria.

Triumph all ye Cherubim,
Sing with us ye Seraphim,
Heav'n and earth resound the hymn;
Salve, Salve, Salve Regína!

The cause of joy to all below, O Maria.
The spring through which all graces flow, O Maria. Triumph...

O gentle, loving, holy one, O Maria.
The God of light became thy Son, O Maria. Triumph...

Our life, our sweetness here below, O Maria.
Our hope in sorrow and in woe, O Maria. Triumph...

Turn then, most gracious advocate, O Maria.
Toward us thine eyes compassionate, O Maria. Triumph...

O clement, gracious, Mother sweet, O Maria.
O Virgin Mary, we entreat, O Maria. Triumph...

Hail! Holy Queen, enthroned above, O Maria.
Most holy Mother full of love, O Maria. Triumph...

Unknown

Antiphon 1
O Lady, thou hast reconciled us to the Father who will fill our hearts with food and gladness. (Acts: 14:16)

Psalm 95

Sing a new song to her who is full of grace: sing to Mary all ye of the earthly world. For she excels in sanctity all the angels: and those born of women in her wonders and miracles. Beauty and glory are in her countenance: and grace is in her eyes. Bring ye to her glory, ye fathers of the peoples: rejoice in her, all ye creatures of God. Thou has an admirable exchange worked by her means: by reason of which thou art called the sons of the Most High God.

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

Antiphon 1
O Lady, thou hast reconciled us to the Father who will fill our hearts with food and gladness. (Acts: 14:16)

Antiphon 2
O Lady, thou art Queen of heaven and earth. Have mercy on thy people and help us in our hour of need.

Psalm 96

The Lord hath reigned, let Mary rejoice: in all the empire under her rule. Adore her, all ye citizens of the heavenly commonwealth: exalt her, ye fair virgins, her daughters. For she is raised above principalities and dominations: she is exalted above angels and the embassies of archangels. Patriarchs and prophets, break forth in her praise: make a harmony, Apostles and martyrs of Christ. Confessors and virgins, sing canticles to her from the songs of Sion: and congratulate her, holy monks, for the triumphs she has won.

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

Antiphon 2
O Lady, thou art Queen of heaven and earth. Have mercy on thy people and help us in our hour of need.

Antiphon 3
O Lady, thou art merciful, patient and full of compassion. Comfort me when I am tempted to overeat to feel better.

Psalm 97

Sing to Our Lady a new song: for she hath done wonderful things. In the sight of nations she hath revealed her mercy: her name is heard even to the ends of the earth. Be mindful, O Lady, of the poor and the wretched: and support them by the help of thy holy refreshment. For thou, O Lady, art sweet and true: exceedingly patient and full of compassion. Tread upon the enemies of our souls: and crush with thy holy arm their disobedience.

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

Antiphon 3
O Lady, thou art merciful, patient and full of compassion. Comfort me when I am tempted to overeat to feel better.

FIRST READING
Christ-oriented texts

SECOND READING
Mary-oriented texts

+ Shining orbs adorn thy throne
- the morning stars glorify thee forever.

Psalm 23

WEDNESDAY

Midafternoon

+ O Lady, come to my assistance: and by the light of thy mercy enlighten me.

Psalm 69

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

HYMN

Hail, thou Star of the ocean!
Portal of the sky!
Ever Virgin Mother
Of the Lord Most High!

Oh! by Gabriel's Ave,
Uttered long ago,
Eva's name reversing,
Establish peace below.

Break the captives' fetters;
Light on blindness pour;
All our ills expelling,
Every bliss implore.

Show thyself a Mother;
Offer Him our sighs,
Who for us Incarnate
Did not thee despise.

Virgin of all virgins!
To thy shelter take us:
Gentlest of the gentle!
Chaste and gentle make us.

Still, as on we journey
Help our weak endeavor,
Till with thee and Jesus
We rejoice for ever.

Through the highest heaven,
To the Almighty Three,
Father, Son, and Spirit,
One same glory be. Amen.

Variation of Ave, Maris Stella
Late 8th or early 9th century

Antiphon 1
To them whom thou shalt help, O Lady, will be the refreshment of peace. After years of struggling and failing to control my weight, I surrender myself into thy care. Give me rest.

Psalm 99

Sing with joy to Our Lady, ye men of the earth: serve her in joy and pleasantness. With all thy soul draw nigh unto her: and in all thy strength keep her ways. Search her out, and she will be manifested to thee: be clean of heart, and thou will take hold of her. To them whom thou shalt help, O Lady, will be the refreshment of peace: and they from whom thou turnest away thy face shall have no hope of salvation. Be mindful of us, O Lady, and let evil not take hold of us: help us in the end, and we shall find eternal life.

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

Antiphon 1
To them whom thou shalt help, O Lady, will be the refreshment of peace. After years of struggling and failing to control my weight, I surrender myself into thy care. Give me rest.

Antiphon 2
O Lady, I pray thee, let me not be defrauded of my hope and good confidence. The road to recovery is long but success is assured with thy assistance.

Psalm 100

To thee, O Lady, will I sing mercy and judgment: I will sing to thee in joy of heart, when thou shalt have made my soul glad. I will praise thee and thy glory: and thou shalt bestow refreshment upon my soul. I have been zealous for thy love and thy honor: therefore wilt thou defend my cause before the judge of ages. I am drawn by thy goodness and grace: I pray thee, let me not be defrauded of my hope and good confidence. Strengthen thou my soul in my last days: and in this my flesh make me to behold my Savior.

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

Antiphon 2
O Lady, I pray thee, let me not be defrauded of my hope and good confidence. The road to recovery is long but success is assured with thy assistance.

Antiphon 3
O Lady, hear my prayer and I shall be healed.

Psalm 101

O Lady, hear my prayer: and let my cry come unto thee. Turn not thy sacred countenance away from me: nor hate me because of my uncleanness. Forsake me not in the thought and counsel of mine enemies: and permit me not to fall in their wicked attacks. Those who trust in thee, will not fear the tortuous snake: and those who exalt thee in praises will escape the infernal regions. By thy virginal conception give me a good confidence in thee: and by thy admirable delivery rejoice my soul.

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

Antiphon 3
O Lady, hear my prayer and I shall be healed.

FIRST READING
Christ-oriented texts

SECOND READING
Mary-oriented texts

+ Blessed be thou, O Lady
- to the uttermost ends of the earth.

Psalm 27

WEDNESDAY

Evening Prayer

+ O Lady, come to my assistance: and by the light of thy mercy enlighten me.

Psalm 69

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

HYMN

Come behold the Virgin Mother
Fondly leaning on her child,
Nature shews not such another,
Glorious, holy, meek, and mild:
Bethlehem's ancient walls enclose him,
Dwelling place of David once;
Now no friendly homestead knows him,
Tho' the noblest of his sons.

Many a prophecy before him
Publish'd his bright advent long,
Guardian Angels low adore him
In a joyous heavenly song;
Eastern Sages see with wonder
His bright Star illume the day,
O'er the volumes old they ponder,
Volumes of dark prophecy.

Royal Bethlehem how deserted,
All his pomp and splendor lost;
Is a stable, vile and dirty,
All the welcome you can boost?
For they travel, of inquiring
Where the wondrous babe is born?
On they came with great desiring,
Although others treat with scorn.

See, a babe of days and weakness
Heaven's Almighty now appears,
Liable to death and sickness,
Shame and agony and tears.
Sovereign he and great Creator,
He who form'd the heav'ns and earth,
Yet takes on him human nature,
Angels wonder at his birth.

Why, ah, why this condescension,
God with mortal man to dwell?
Why lay by his grand pretension,
He who does all thrones excell?
'Tis to be a man, a brother,
With us sinners of mankind:
Vain we search for such another,
Ne'er we love like this shall find.

xxxx

'Tis to make himself an offering
As a pure atoning lamb,
Souls redeeming by his suffering,
That in human flesh he came;
As a God he could not suffer,
He a body true must have;
As a man what he might offer
Could not satisfy or save.

Tho' an infant now you view him,
He shall fill his Father's throne,
Gather all the Nations to him;
Every knee shall then bow down;
Foes shall at his presence tremble,
Great and small, and quick and dead,
None can fly, none dare dissemble,
None find where to hide his head.

Friends! Oh then in chearful voices
They shall shout with glad acclaim,
While each rising saint rejoices,
Saints of high or lowest fame.
Then what different appearing
We 'mong mortal tribes shall find;
Groaning those who now are sneering,
Triumphing the humble mind.

May we now, that day forestalling,
Hear the word, and read and pray,
Listen to the Gospel calling,
And with humble heart obey,
Give us hearty true repentance,
Life in faith and holiness;
then we need not fear thy sentence,
But may trust thy saving grace.

Hallelujah, Hallelujah, Hallelujah,
Praise the Lord.

Come Behold The Virgin Mother
William Sandys, 1833

Antiphon 1
By her mercy maladies are healed. She will relieve the stress that leads to my out of control eating.

Psalm 102

Bless, O my soul, the Mother of Jesus Christ: and all that is within me, glorify her name. Forget not her benefits: nor her grace and consolation. By her grace sins are forgiven: and by her mercy maladies are healed. Bless her, all ye powers of Heaven: glorify her, ye choirs of the Apostles and Prophets. Bless her, O ye sea, and the islands of the nations: sing a hymn to her, all ye heavens and the dwellers therein.

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

Antiphon 1
By her mercy maladies are healed. She will relieve the stress that leads to my out of control eating.

Antiphon 2
O Lady, fill us, thy servants, with holy virtues: especially temperance, the virtue of moderation and self-restraint.

Psalm 103

Bless, O my soul, the Virgin Mary: her honor and her magnificence forever. Thou hast clothed thyself with beauty and comeliness: thou art clad, O Lady, with a shining garment. From thee proceeds the healing of sins: and the discipline of peace, and the fervor of charity. Fill us, thy servants, with holy virtues: and let the wrath of God not come nigh unto us. Give eternal joy to thy servants: and forget them not in the death struggle.

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

Antiphon 2
O Lady, fill us, thy servants, with holy virtues: especially temperance, the virtue of moderation and self-restraint.

Antiphon 3
Sing gloriously unto Mary, declaring her virtues: her humility teaches me that I cannot control my eating without God's help.

Psalm 104

Give praise to Our Lady and call upon her name: sing gloriously unto her, declaring her virtues. Praise and exalt her, O Virgins, daughters of Sion: because she will espouse to thee the King of Angels. Honor ye the Queen full of all grace: and contemplate with reverence her most holy countenance. Eternal salvation is in thy hand, O Lady: those who honor thee worthily will receive it. Thy clemency will not fail in the eternal years: and thy mercy is from generation to generation.

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

Antiphon 3
Sing gloriously unto Mary, declaring her virtues: her humility teaches me that I cannot control my eating without God's help.

FIRST READING
Christ-oriented texts

SECOND READING
Mary-oriented texts

RESPONSORY

O Lady, thou art our model of the holy virtue of forgiveness. Help me to forgive myself when I eat more than I should.
- O Lady, thou art our model of the holy virtue of forgiveness. Help me to forgive myself when I eat more than I should.
Mother Mary, I want to honor God in my body.
- help me to forgive myself when I eat more than I should.
Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
- O Lady, thou art our model of the holy virtue of forgiveness. Help me to forgive myself when I eat more than I should.

CANTICLE TO MARY

Antiphon+
He who is mighty has done great things to me: by Mary His Mother. She refreshes my soul and restores my body.

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

Canticle in Honor of Mary
The Psalter of the Blessed Virgin

Antiphon
He who is mighty has done great things to me: by Mary His Mother. She refreshes my soul and restores my body.

INTERCESSIONS

O Mother of Perpetual Help, whom I honor today with my prayers, grant the petitions I have humbly placed before thee:

Let us ask our Heavenly Father for our daily bread:

CONCLUSION

Psalm 38

I ask this through Jesus Christ, thy Son, who lives and reigns with the Father and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever.

+ May God have mercy on us and bless us. Let thy grace, O Lady, ever protect me: let thy presence give light to my end.
- Amen.

Psalm 66

WEDNESDAY

Night Prayer

+ O Lady, come to my assistance: and by the light of thy mercy enlighten me.

Psalm 69

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

Examination of Conscience
Followed by an Act of Contrition:

Psalm 37

HYMN

Gabriel, from heaven's king
Sent to the maiden sweet,
Brought to her blissful tiding
And fair 'gan her to greet.
'Hail be thou, full of grace aright!
For so God's Son, the heaven's light,
Loves man, that He | a man will be | and take
Flesh of thee, maiden bright,
Mankind free for to make
Of sin and devil's might.'

Gently to him gave answer
The gentle maiden then:
'And in what wise should I bear
Child, that know not man?'
The angel said: 'O dread thee nought.
'Tis through the Holy Ghost that wrought
Shall be this thing | whereof tidings | I bring:
Lost mankind shall be bought
By thy sweet childbearing,
And back from sorrow brought.'

When the maiden understood
And the angel's words had heard,
Mildly, of her own mild mood,
The angel she answered:
'Our Lord His handmaiden, I wis,
I am, that here above us is:
And touching me |fulfilled be | thy saw;
That I, since His will is,
Be, out of nature's law
A maid with mother's bliss.'

The angel went away thereon
And parted from her sight
And straightway she conceived a Son
Through th' Holy Ghost His might.
In her was Christ contained anon,
True God, true man, in flesh and bone;
Born of her too | When time was due; | who then
Redeemed us for His own,
And bought us out of pain,
And died for us t'atone.

Filled full of charity,
Thou matchless maiden-mother,
Pray for us to him that He
For thy love above other,
Away our sin and guilt should take,
And clean of every stain us make
And heaven's bliss, | when our time is | to die,
Would give us for thy sake;
With grace to serve him by
Till He us to him take. Amen.

Gabriel, From Heaven's King
Gerald Manley Hopkins, S.J. (1844-1889)

Antiphon 1
O Lady, point out the way of understanding to thy servants. Help me to see that a successful weight loss diet has God in it.

Psalm 106

Give praise to the Lord, for He is good: give praise to His Mother, for her mercy endureth for ever. Show us, O Lady, the innocence and the way of prudence: and point out the way of understanding to thy servants. The fear of God enlightens the mind: and thy love rejoices it. Blessed is the man whose speech is pleasing to thee: his bones shall be fattened with marrow and fatness. Thy word shall uphold the feeble soul: and thy lips shall refresh the thirsty soul.

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

Antiphon 1
O Lady, point out the way of understanding to thy servants. Help me to see that a successful weight loss diet has God in it.

FIRST READING
Christ-oriented texts

SECOND READING
Mary-oriented texts

RESPONSORY

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
- When my spirit shall go forth, Lady, let it be commended to thee.

Psalm 145

Antiphon
+ I will praise thee, O Lady, because by thee the Lord has been rendered favorable unto me. He will satisfy my hunger with good things.

Canticle in Honor of Mary
The Psalter of the Blessed Virgin

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

Antiphon
I will praise thee, O Lady, because by thee the Lord has been rendered favorable unto me. He will satisfy my hunger with good things.

CONCLUSION

Psalm 40

I ask this through Jesus Christ, thy Son, who lives and reigns with the Father and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever.

+ Intercede for me, O Lady, with thy Christ: neither do thou forsake me in death or in life.
- Amen.

Psalms 83

THURSDAY

Morning Prayer

+ O Lady, come to my assistance: and by the light of thy mercy enlighten me.

Psalm 69

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

HYMN

A spotless Rose is blowing,
Sprung from a tender root,
Of ancient seers’ foreshowing,
Of Jesse promised fruit;

Its fairest bud unfolds to light
Amid the cold, cold winter,
And in the dark midnight.

The Rose which I am singing,
Whereof Isaiah said,
Is from its sweet root springing
In Mary, purest Maid;

For, through our God’s great love and might,
The blessed Babe she bare us
In a cold winter’s night.

15th Century German Carol
Translator Catherine Winkworth, 1869

.Antiphon 1
O Lady, be to us a shade of protection in our temptations. Help me to control my eating when I am tempted to binge.

Psalm 107

My heart is ready, O Lady, my heart is ready: to sing praises to thee and to chant. Greater is thy love than all riches: and thy grace is above gold and precious stones. Beatitude and justice are given by God: for those who turn away from their sins to thee shall obtain the remedy of penance. Thy fruits are grace and peace: and those who please thee shall be far from perdition. Be to us a shade of protection in our temptations: let the spreading of thy wings defend us from him who devours.

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

Antiphon 1
O Lady, be to us a shade of protection in our temptations. Help me to control my eating when I am tempted to binge.

Antiphon 2
O Lady, may thy servants be preserved unhurt. Help me to avoid overeating to the point where I become physically ill.

Psalm 108

O Lady, despise not my praise: and deign to accept this Psalter dedicated to thee. Look upon the will of my heart: and make my affection well-pleasing to thee. Hasten to visit thy servants: under the protection of thy hand may they be preserved unhurt. May they receive through thee the illumination of the Holy Spirit: and refreshment against the heat of cupidity. Heal, O Lady, the contrite of heart: and revive them by the ointment of piety.

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

Antiphon 2
O Lady, may thy servants be preserved unhurt. Help me to avoid overeating to the point where I become physically ill.

Antiphon 3
O Lady, from thy treasures pour into us the model of discipline. Strengthen my willpower so I can say no to food when I am tempted to eat for emotional reasons.

Psalm 109

The Lord said to Our Lady: Sit at my right hand, O my Mother! Goodness and sanctity have pleased thee: therefore thou shalt reign with me forever. The crown of immortality is on thy holy head: whose brightness and glory shall not be extinguished. Have mercy on us, O Lady, mother of light and splendor: enlighten us, O Lady of truth and virtue. From thy treasures pour into us the wisdom of God: and the understanding of prudence, and the model of discipline.

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

Antiphon 3
O Lady, from thy treasures pour into us the model of discipline. Strengthen my willpower so I can say no to food when I am tempted to eat for emotional reasons.

FIRST READING
Christ-oriented texts

SECOND READING
Mary-oriented texts

RESPONSORY

O Lady, thou art our model of moderation. Help me to control how much I eat.
- O Lady, thou art our model of moderation. Help me to control how much I eat.
Mother Mary, I want to honor God in my body.
- help me to control how much I eat.
Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
- O Lady, thou art our model of moderation. Help me to control how much I eat.

CANTICLE TO MARY

Antiphon+
O Lady, thou hast brought about our redemption so that we may serve God in peace. Free me from the anxiety that causes me to overeat.

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

Canticle in Honor of Mary
The Psalter of the Blessed Virgin

Antiphon
O Lady, thou hast brought about our redemption so that we may serve God in peace. Free me from the anxiety that causes me to overeat.

INTERCESSIONS

O Mother of Perpetual Help, whom I honor today with my prayers, grant the petitions I have humbly placed before thee:

Let us ask our Heavenly Father for our daily bread:

CONCLUSION

Psalm 45

+ May God have mercy on us and bless us. Let thy grace, O Lady, ever protect me: let thy presence give light to my end.
- Amen.

Psalm 66

THURSDAY

Midmorning Prayer

+ O Lady, come to my assistance: and by the light of thy mercy enlighten me.

Psalm 69

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

HYMN

I’ll tell you a tale of the olden time,
While the Yule log burns bright, and the Church bells chime.
Gloria in excelsis Deo.
There sate a fair Princess in joy on her throne,
And there in her arms her Infant was shown:
Gloria in excelsis,
Gloria in excelsis Deo.

The beasts of the meadows bowed down their head
All under the moonlight so softly shed.
Gloria in excelsis Deo.
They worship’d the king of Creation there
In the arms of the Mother so passing fair.
Gloria in excelsis.
Gloria in excelsis Deo.

O who are these masters of ancient mould?
O these are the shepherds the lord of the fold;
Gloria in excelsis Deo.
They have heard from the sky of the birth of their King,
They have heard all the sky with the harmony ring.
Gloria in excelsis,
Gloria in excelsis Deo.

The Kings of the East in number three,
All worship the Monarch of high degree;
Gloria in excelsis Deo.
Their tribute they offer, their heads they bow,
And clearer and clearer is echoing now,
Gloria in excelsis,
Gloria in excelsis Deo.

For all the zenith if blazing with light,
And musical voices enrapture the night;
Gloria in excelsis Deo.
O this is the carol of peace and goodwill
From the voices celestial, the zenith that fill;
Gloria in excelsis,
Gloria in excelsis Deo.

A Tale of the Olden Time
Rev. Gerard Moultrie, 1916

Antiphon 1
O Lady, thou shalt enlighten my mind. Help me to think and act like a thin person.

Psalm 110

I will give praise to thee, O Lady, with my whole soul: I will glorify thee with my whole mind. The works of thy grace will remain: and the testament of thy mercy before the throne of God. By thee redemption has been sent from God: the repentant people shall have the hope of salvation. A good understanding to all who honor thee: and their lot is among the angels of peace. Glorious and admirable is thy name: those who keep it will not fear in the moment of death.

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

Antiphon 1
O Lady, thou shalt enlighten my mind. Help me to think and act like a thin person.

Antiphon 2
O Lady, thou art ever mindful of those who have died before us and are undergoing their final purification in Purgatory. Offer my prayers and acts of self-denial to God for the release of their souls.

Psalm 111

Blessed is the man who feareth the Lady: and blessed is the heart that loves her. Happy the man who is never satiated with thy praise: and grows not weary of the narration of thy virtues. In his heart has arisen the light of God: the Holy Spirit enlightens his understanding. Bestow, O Lady, thy grace upon thy poor: revive the hungry and the needy. By thee names shall be in eternal remembrance: our heart shall not fear the evil hearing.

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

Antiphon 3
O Lady, thou art our model of sanctity. Offer my prayers and acts of self-denial to God that the world acknowledge the sanctity of all human life from the moment of conception.

Psalm 112

Praise, ye children, the Mother of God: ye old men, glorify her name. Blessed be Mary, the Mother of Christ: for she is the way to the homeland of sanctity. Her throne is high above the Cherubim: her throne is above the hinges of heaven. Her countenance is upon the humble: and her looks upon those who trust in her. Her mercy is over all flesh: and her almsgiving until the ends of the earth.

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

Antiphon 3
O Lady, thou art our model of sanctity. Offer my prayers and acts of self-denial to God that the world acknowledge the sanctity of all human life from the moment of conception.

FIRST READING
Christ-oriented texts

SECOND READING
Mary-oriented texts

+ Let us embrace the footprints of Mary
- and cast ourselves at her blessed feet.

Psalm 14

THURSDAY

Midday Prayer

+ O Lady, come to my assistance: and by the light of thy mercy enlighten me.

Psalm 69

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

HYMN

HOW pure, and frail, and white,
The snowdrops shine!
Gather a garland bright
For Mary's shrine.

For, born of winter snows,
These fragile flowers
Are gifts to our fair Queen
From Spring's first hours.

For on this blessed day
She knelt at prayer;
When, lo! before her shone
An Angel fair.

'Hail, Mary!' thus he cried,
With reverent fear:
She, with sweet wondering eyes,
Marvelled to hear.

Be still, ye clouds of Heaven!
Be silent, Earth!
And hear an Angel tell
Of Jesus' birth.

While she, whom Gabriel hails
As full of grace,
Listens with humble faith
In her sweet face.

Ave Maria Journal, 1880

Antiphon 1
O Lady, console us and reconcile us with the Father. My success is assured if God is with me.

Psalm 113

In the going forth of my soul from this world: meet it, O Lady, and receive it. Console it with thy holy countenance: let not the sight of the demons terrify it. Be to it a ladder to Heaven: and a straight way to the Paradise of God. Obtain for it from the Father the pardon of peace: and a throne of light among the servants of God. Uphold the devout before the tribunal of Christ: take their cause into thy hands.

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

Antiphon 1
O Lady, console us and reconcile us with the Father. My success is assured if God is with me.

Antiphon 2
O Lady, the light of thy compassions hath shined upon me. Ease the discomfort I feel as I change my eating habits.

Psalm 114

I have loved the Mother of the Lord my God: and the light of her compassions she hath shined upon me. The sorrows of death have encompassed me: and the visitation of Mary hath rejoiced me. I have incurred grief and danger: and I have been recreated by her grace. Let her name and her memory be in the midst of our heart: and the blow of the malignant will not injure us. Be converted, my soul, unto her praise: and thou shalt find refreshment in thy last end.

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

Antiphon 2
O Lady, the light of thy compassions hath shined upon me. Ease the discomfort I feel as I change my eating habits.

Antiphon 3
O Lady, have compassion on my soul and guide it. Heal the pain I have suffered with this eating disorder and give me peace.

Psalm 115

I believed, therefore I have spoken: thy glory, O Lady, to the whole world. Have compassion on my soul, and guide it: deign in thy good pleasure to take possession of it. Assign to it the testament of thy peace and thy love: give to it the memory of thy name. Of the blessing of thy womb give me support: and from the fatness of thy grace sweeten my soul. Break thou the bonds of my sins: and with thy virtues adorn the face of my soul.

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

Antiphon 3
O Lady, have compassion on my soul and guide it. Heal the pain I have suffered with this eating disorder and give me peace.

FIRST READING
Christ-oriented texts

SECOND READING
Mary-oriented texts

+ Shining orbs adorn thy throne
- the morning stars glorify thee forever.

Psalm 23

THURSDAY

Midafternoon

+ O Lady, come to my assistance: and by the light of thy mercy enlighten me.

Psalm 69

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

HYMN

A Virgin did come from lowliest home,
And shelter she fain in a manger would find;
For full was the inn, and no room was within,
Save where to the stalls the mute oxen they bind.

Refrain:
O how wondrous the love and the deep humility
Of Him who was laid in the manger for me.

That Babe was a King, mystic gifts, lo, they bring,
Sure tokens they were of some great One to be;
To Bethlehem led, Eastern sages have sped
From afar "The Desire of all Nations" to see. Refrain

Accomplished their hope, their treasures they ope—
Gold, frankincense, myrrh, to that Infant they brought,
Gifts costly and rare, full of meaning they were,
Thou not yet unveiled were the great truths they taught. Refrain

No tokens of state round that Royal Babe wait,
Seeming least, and yet greatest of monarchs was He;
But in reverence low, princely Magi did bow,
As though they divined all His true dignity. Refrain

Words: S. C. Clarke
Rev. Charles Lewis Hutchins, 1916

Antiphon 1
O Lady, thy grace and mercy are confirmed upon us. Help me to deal with my problems rather than use food to escape them.

Psalm 116

Praise ye our Lady, all ye nations: glorify her, all ye peoples. For her grace and her mercy are confirmed upon us: and her truth remaineth forever. He who shall worthily have venerated her, will be justified: but he who shall have neglected her, will die in his sins. The lips of angels shall relate her wisdom: and all the citizens of Paradise will sing her praises. Those who approach her with a good soul: will not be seized by the devastating angel.

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

Antiphon 1
O Lady, thy grace and mercy are confirmed upon us. Help me to deal with my problems rather than use food to escape them.

Antiphon 2
O Lady, with a sad heart we cry out to thee. Lift my spirits should I become depressed over temporary setbacks.

Psalm 117

Give praise to the Lord, for He is good: give praise to His Mother, for her mercy endureth forever. The love of her driveth out sin from the heart: and her grace purifieth the conscience of the sinner. The way to come to Christ is to approach her: he who shall fly her shall not find the way of Peace. Let him who is hardened in sins, often call upon her: and light shall arise in his darkness. He who is sad in his heart, let him cry out to her: and he will be inebriated with a sweet-flowing dew.

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

Antiphon 2
O Lady, with a sad heart we cry out to thee. Lift my spirits should I become depressed over temporary setbacks.

Antiphon 3
O Lady, blessed are we who imitate thy humility. Help me to enlist the aid of family and friends for I can not conquer my eating problems alone.

Psalm 118

Blessed are the undefiled in the way: who imitate the Mother of God. Blessed are the imitators of her humility: blessed are the sharers in her charity. Blessed are the searchers into her virtues: blessed are they who are conformed to her image. Blessed are they who venerate her conception and her birth: blessed are they who devoutly serve her. Blessed are they who have hope and confidence in her: blessed are they who receive through her eternal happiness.

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

Antiphon 3
O Lady, blessed are we who imitate thy humility. Help me to enlist the aid of family and friends for I can not conquer my eating problems alone.

FIRST READING
Christ-oriented texts

SECOND READING
Mary-oriented texts

+ Blessed be thou, O Lady
- to the uttermost ends of the earth.

Psalm 27

THURSDAY

Evening Prayer

+ O Lady, come to my assistance: and by the light of thy mercy enlighten me.

Psalm 69

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

HYMN

Ave! Mary, full of grace,
In whose virgin arms’ embrace
God to God himself doth vow:
Let me in the temple wait,
Let me meet thee at the gate,
Jesu, for mine All art thou.

God is to his temple come;
Angels throng the hallow’d dome;
What beyond hath heav’n in store?
God himself our flesh doth wear,
Owns a Virgin-Mother’s care;
This than heav’n itself is more.

Incense-gales of gladness rise,
Where this morning sacrifice
‘Mid re-echoing shouts is made
Evening’s rite in tears shall end,
And with bitter weepings blend,
On the dark’ning Cross display’d.

There behold the Oblation wrought,
By whose precious ransom bought,
We are all to God made nigh:
Now no longer, Lord, our own,
To thy single service won,
Thine we live, and thine we die.

Let thy servants now depart;
May we see thee as thou art;
Nought of earth arrest our eyes!
If thou keep us here below,
Let us here with Jesus grow,
And in him hereafter rise.

Ave! Mary, Full Of Grace
Paris Missal, 1706

Antiphon 1
O Lady, thou hast delivered me. What shall I give back for these things, except my whole self? Accept my prayers and acts of self-denial for all the intentions of thy Son's sacred heart.

Psalm 118A

Give bountifully to thy servant, O Lady: enliven me, and I shall do thy will. I am a sojourner on the earth: hide nothing of thy love from me. My soul hath longed to desire thy praise: at all times. For thou art my salvation in the Lord: who hast delivered me, one condemned to death. What shall I give back for these things, except my whole self? O Lady receive me.

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

Antiphon 1
O Lady, thou hast delivered me. What shall I give back for these things, except my whole self? Accept my prayers and acts of self-denial for all the intentions of thy Son's sacred heart.

Antiphon 2
O Lady, at the announcement of the angel thou submitted to the Father's will. Help me to please the Father by eliminating eating habits that are harmful to my body.

Psalm 118B

Set before me for a law, O Lady, the holy of holies of thy will: and I shall always seek after it. Lead me into the path of thy tender mercies, O most beautiful of women: for this same have I desired. Incline my soul to the love of those above, O Lady: and not to unchasteness. Behold I have coveted thy chastity from my youth up: in thy mercy strengthen me. And I will keep the way of thy testimonies forever: and I will search out the commandments of thy Son, which I have loved.

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

Antiphon 2
O Lady, at the announcement of the angel thou submitted to the Father's will. Help me to please the Father by eliminating eating habits that are harmful to my body.

Antiphon 3
O Lady, thou hast given me hope. Although I may have substantial weight to lose, I trust in thee to help me reach my goal by losing one pound at a time.

Psalm 118C

Be mindful of thy word, O Princess of all ladies: in which thou hast given me hope. In the stormy waves of tempests it hath powerfully held me: for thy word hath quickened me. Lying men have surrounded me, and scourges are gathered together upon me: and behold thy hand hath delivered me. I have communicated all good things to them that fear thee: and to those who earnestly kept thy commandments. The earth is full of thy tender mercies: therefore, have I sought out the way of thy justifications.

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

Antiphon 3
O Lady, thou hast given me hope. Although I may have substantial weight to lose, I trust in thee to help me reach my goal by losing one pound at a time.

FIRST READING
Christ-oriented texts

SECOND READING
Mary-oriented texts

RESPONSORY

O Lady, when the temptation to overeat is more than I can stand, help me to kneel.
- O Lady, when the temptation to overeat is more than I can stand, help me to kneel.
Mother Mary, I want to honor God in my body.
- help me to kneel.
Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
- O Lady, when the temptation to overeat is more than I can stand, help me to kneel.

CANTICLE TO MARY

Antiphon+
He who is mighty has done great things to me: by Mary His Mother. She refreshes my soul and restores my body.

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

Canticle in Honor of Mary
The Psalter of the Blessed Virgin

Antiphon
He who is mighty has done great things to me: by Mary His Mother. She refreshes my soul and restores my body.

INTERCESSIONS

O Mother of Perpetual Help, whom I honor today with my prayers, grant the petitions I have humbly placed before thee:

Let us ask our Heavenly Father for our daily bread:

CONCLUSION

Psalm 38

I ask this through Jesus Christ, thy Son, who lives and reigns with the Father and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever.

+ May God have mercy on us and bless us. Let thy grace, O Lady, ever protect me: let thy presence give light to my end.
- Amen.

Psalm 66

THURSDAY

Night Prayer

+ O Lady, come to my assistance: and by the light of thy mercy enlighten me.

Psalm 69

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

Examination of Conscience
Followed by an Act of Contrition:

Psalm 37

HYMN

I'll sing a hymn to Mary,
The Mother of my God,
The Virgin of all virgins,
Of David's Royal blood.
O teach me, holy Mary,
A loving song to frame,
When wicked men blaspheme thee,
To love and bless thy name.

O Lily of the Valley,
O mystic Rose what tree
Or flower, e'en the fairest,
Is half so fair as thee?
O let me, though so lowly,
Recite my Mother's fame:
When wicked men blaspheme thee,
I'll love and bless thy name.

O noble Tower of David,
Of gold and ivory,
The Ark of God's Own promise,
The Gate of Heaven to me;

To live, and not to love thee,
Would fill my soul with shame:
When wicked men blaspheme thee,
I'll love and bless thy name.

But in the crown of Mary,
There lies a wondrous gem,
As Queen of all the Angels,
Which Mary shares with them;

"No sin hath e'er defiled thee,"
So doth our faith proclaim:
When wicked men blaspheme thee,
I'll love and bless thy name.

Fr. J. Wyze 1825-1898

Antiphon 1
O Lady, teach me the discipline of thy manners. Help me to practice the self-control that I demonstrate in other areas of my life in the areas of diet and exercise.

Psalm 118D

Thou hast done well with thy servant, O Lady: and because of this the angels rejoice. Teach me the discipline of thy manners and thy equity: because I have believed in thy words above all others. It is good for me that with thy burden thou hast humbled me: that I may follow thy conversation. Those who love thy servants, shall be venerated: but he who shall hate them, will fall in eternity. Let the drops of thy clemency ever fall upon me from above, and I shall live: for thy holy law is my meditation.

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

Antiphon 1
O Lady, teach me the discipline of thy manners. Help me to practice the self-control that I demonstrate in other areas of my life in the areas of diet and exercise.

FIRST READING
Christ-oriented texts

SECOND READING
Mary-oriented texts

RESPONSORY

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
- When my spirit shall go forth, Lady, let it be commended to thee.

Psalm 145

Antiphon
+ I will praise thee, O Lady, because by thee the Lord has been rendered favorable unto me. He will satisfy my hunger with good things.

Canticle in Honor of Mary
The Psalter of the Blessed Virgin

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

Antiphon
I will praise thee, O Lady, because by thee the Lord has been rendered favorable unto me. He will satisfy my hunger with good things.

CONCLUSION

Psalm 40

I ask this through Jesus Christ, thy Son, who lives and reigns with the Father and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever.

+ Intercede for me, O Lady, with thy Christ: neither do thou forsake me in death or in life.
- Amen.

Psalms 83

FRIDAY

Morning Prayer

+ O Lady, come to my assistance: and by the light of thy mercy enlighten me.

Psalm 69

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

HYMN

Sister of man, Queen of Angels,
Mother of a God dead on the cross,
Mary, to sing thy praises
Teach our timid voices.

Thou art the modest rose
Hidden from us by a protective veil,
But which, via its mystical perfume,
Deigns to reveal itself to us.

Sweet perfume that enlivens the soul,
Revives its languid spirit,
And cures all the wounds of the heart,
With its fragrant and mysterious scent.

Nothing has tarnished thy innocence
And thou purifies our longings;
Thou has known suffering
And thy hand wipes away our tears.

Yes, always, the one who prays to thee
Arises less burdened;
Thy example fortifies him
And thy sorrows have consoled him.

When thy motherly worries
At the foot of the cross became great,
The angels, gathering thy tears,
To God's bosom carried them.

Of celestial mercies,
They enlarged the treasure,
Ah! For us, in these gloomy days,
Let them intercede for us again.

Of these holy and pure tears
Let a single one fall on our hearts,
It will wash away our sins,
It will inflame our tepidness.

And it will soften the voice
Of the daughters of Sion
Now more worthy of singing Mary
In the month which bears her name!

Cantiques a Marie
Pour Le Mois de Marie
Les Livres des Enfants de Marie, 1850.
Translated by John P. Gross, 2009.

.Antiphon 1
In thee, O Lady, have I hoped. I will take control of my appetite with thy assistance.

Psalm 118F

How have I loved thy law, O Lady: it is forever in my sight. The abundance of thy sweetnesses has drawn my heart out of me: and my flesh hath wonderfully rejoiced in thee. How sweet to sinners are thy words, O Lady: above all melody thy refection is sweet to my mouth. Thy word is a light to my steps: and an ineffable illumination to my paths. How often have sinners of hell exasperated me, because I would not stray from thy charity: but in thee, O Lady, have I hoped.

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

Antiphon 1
In thee, O Lady, have I hoped. I will take control of my appetite with thy assistance.

Antiphon 2
I have loved thy way, O gracious Lady. Help me to eat less and live longer to praise and serve the Lord.

Psalm 118G

I have hated the unjust: and I have loved thy way, O gracious Lady. Help me, O Lady of the world, and I shall be saved: and I shall meditate the honor of thy commandments. Make me always stand in thy fear: and deliver me not up, O Virgin, to those who calumniate me. I am of thy own tongue: I am the least in thy family. Keep me, O Lady, from those who neglect the judgments of thy justice. Thou despisest all who depart from thy service: because their thought is unjust.

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

Antiphon 2
I have loved thy way, O gracious Lady. Help me to eat less and live longer to praise and serve the Lord.

Antiphon 3
O Lady, defend me against those who would sabotage my new eating regimen. Help me to refuse the fattening foods they offer.

Psalm 118H

Wonderful are thy testimonies, O kind Mother: and by thy words my heart is enlightened. All the rich of the people shall entreat thy countenance: and the daughters of kings shall praise thy face. The word of thy lips is burning exceedingly: He who shall make haste to come to thee, shall share in it. I am as a trembling reed before thee: hold me, Lady, under thy yoke, and I shall not be confounded. The dragons of hell attack thy servants above all others: but do thou, O Lady, defend us.

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

Antiphon 3
O Lady, defend me against those who would sabotage my new eating regimen. Help me to refuse the fattening foods they offer.

FIRST READING
Christ-oriented texts

SECOND READING
Mary-oriented texts

RESPONSORY

O Lady, I eat to feel better. Help me to find ways to obtain comfort without food.
- O Lady, I eat to feel better. Help me to find ways to obtain comfort without food.
Mother Mary, I want to honor God in my body.
- Help me to find ways to obtain comfort without food.
Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
- O Lady, I eat to feel better. Help me to find ways to obtain comfort without food.

CANTICLE TO MARY

Antiphon+
O Lady, thou hast brought about our redemption so that we may serve God in peace. Free me from the anxiety that causes me to overeat.

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

Canticle in Honor of Mary
The Psalter of the Blessed Virgin

Antiphon
O Lady, thou hast brought about our redemption so that we may serve God in peace. Free me from the anxiety that causes me to overeat.

INTERCESSIONS

O Mother of Perpetual Help, whom I honor today with my prayers, grant the petitions I have humbly placed before thee:

Let us ask our Heavenly Father for our daily bread:

CONCLUSION

Psalm 45

+ May God have mercy on us and bless us. Let thy grace, O Lady, ever protect me: let thy presence give light to my end.
- Amen.

Psalm 66

FRIDAY

Midmorning Prayer

+ O Lady, come to my assistance: and by the light of thy mercy enlighten me.

Psalm 69

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

HYMN

God's Son is born, His mother is a maid
Both after and beforn, as the prophecy said,
With ay;
A wonder-thing it is to see,
How maiden and mother one may be;
Was there never none but she,
Maid mother Mary.

This great Lord of heaven our servant is become,
Through Gabriel's steven¹, our kind hath taken on,
With ay;
A wonder-thing it is to see,
How lord and servant none but He,
Was there never none but He,
Born of maid Mary.

Two suns together they ought to shinë bright;
So did that fair lady when Jesu in her light²,
With ay;
A wonder-thing doth befall:
The Lord that broughtë free and thrall,
Is found in an ass's stall,
By His mother Mary.

The shepherds in their region they lookëd into heaven,
They see an angel coming down, that said with mildë steven¹,
With ay:
"Joy be to God Almight,
And peace in earth to man is dight³,
For God was born on Christmas night,
Of His mother Mary."

Three kings of great noblay⁴, when that Child was born,
To Him they took the ready way, and kneelëd Him beforn,
With ay;
These three kings came fro far,
Through leading of a star,
And offered Him gold, incense and myrrh,
And to His mother Mary.

1. Voice.
2. Alighted.
3. Prepared.
4. Rank.

Blessed Be That Lady Bright
English Traditional, Fifteenth Century

Antiphon 1
O Lady, I have cried out to thee with my whole heart. Accept my prayers and acts of self-denial for all the intentions of thy Immaculate heart.

Psalm 118I

I have cried out to thee with my whole heart, O Lady: mercifully deliver me from my necessities. Hear the voice of my groaning, O my Lady: teach me what is acceptable to thee at all times. Salvation is far from those who know thee not: but he who perseveres in thy service is far from perdition. Thy mercy rules all things: O Lady, in thy salvation quicken me. The beginning of thy words is truth at all times: and I have not forgotten thine immaculate law.

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

Antiphon 1
O Lady, I have cried out to thee with my whole heart. Accept my prayers and acts of self-denial for all the intentions of thy Immaculate heart.

Antiphon 2
O Lady, approach to Our Lord to pray for me. For He is my healer. (Exodus 15:26)

Psalm 119

I cried to Our Lady when I was in trouble: and she heard me. Lady, deliver us from all evil: all the days of our life. Crush the head of our enemies: with the insuperable power of thy foot. As thy spirit hath rejoiced in God thy Savior: so do thou deign to pour true joy into my heart. Approach to Our Lord to pray for us: that by thee our sins may be blotted out.

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

Antiphon 2
O Lady, approach to Our Lord to pray for me. For He is my healer. (Exodus 15:26)

Antiphon 3
To thee I have raised mine eyes, O Mother of Christ: by whom comfort cometh to all flesh. "The Lord directs me, and nothing will be lacking to me." (Psalm 22, Sacred Scripture)

Psalm 120

To thee I have raised mine eyes, O Mother of Christ: by whom comfort cometh to all flesh. Bestow on us thy help and thy grace: in all our tribulations. Keep us, O Lady: lest we be caught in the snare of sinners. The pupil of thine eye neither slumbers nor sleeps: that we may always be kept under thy protection. The tongues of men and angels praise thee: and before thee every knee shall bow.

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

Antiphon 3
To thee I have raised mine eyes, O Mother of Christ: by whom comfort cometh to all flesh. "The Lord directs me, and nothing will be lacking to me." (Psalm 22, Sacred Scripture)

FIRST READING
Christ-oriented texts

SECOND READING
Mary-oriented texts

+ Let us embrace the footprints of Mary
- and cast ourselves at her blessed feet.

Psalm 14

FRIDAY

Midday Prayer

+ O Lady, come to my assistance: and by the light of thy mercy enlighten me.

Psalm 69

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

HYMN

Like the dawning of the morning,
On the mountains golden heights,
Like the breaking of the moonbeams
On the gloom of cloudy nights,
Like a secret told by angels
Getting known upon the earth,
Is the Mother's expectation
Of Messiah's speedy birth.

Thou wert happy, blessed Mother,
With the very bliss of heaven,
Since the angel's salutation
In thy raptured ear was given;
Since the Ave of that midnight
When thou wert anointed Queen,
Like a river over-flowing
Hath the grace within thee been.

On the mountains of Judea,
Like the chariot of the Lord,
Thou wert lifted in thy spirit
By the uncreated Word;
Gifts and graces flowed upon thee
In a sweet celestial strife
And the growing of thy Burden
Was the lightening of thy life.

And what wonders have been in thee
All the day and all the night,
While the angels fell before thee,
To adore the Light of Light.
While the glory of the Father
Hath been in thee as a home,
And the sceptre of creation
Hath been wielded in thy womb.

And the sweet strains of the Psalmist
Were a joy beyond control,
And the visions of the prophets
Burnt like transports in thy soul;
But the Burden that was growing,
And was felt so tenderly,
It was Heaven, it was Heaven,
Come before its time to thee.

Oh the feeling of thy Burden,
It was touch and taste and sight;
It was newer still and newer,
All those nine months, day and night.
Like a treasure unexhausted,
Like a vision uconfess’d,
Like a rapture unforgotten,
It lay ever at thy breast.

Every moment did that Burden
Press upon thee with new grace;
Happy Mother! Thou art longing
To behold the Saviour’s Face!
Oh his Human face and features
Must be passing sweet to see
Thou hast seen them, happy Mother!
Ah then, show them now to me.

Thou hast waited, Child of David,
And thy waiting now is o’er;
Thou hast seen Him, Blessed Mother,
And wilt see Him evermore!
O His Human Face and Features,
They were passing sweet to see;
Thou beholdest them this moment,
Mother, show them now to me.

"Our Lady's Expectation" by Fr Faber, 1849

Antiphon 1
O Lady, under thy leadership we shall go into the house of the Lord. Whoever comes to Him shall not hunger, and whoever believes in Him shall never thirst. (John: 6:35)

Psalm 121

I rejoiced in thee, O Queen of Heaven: because under thy leadership we shall go into the house of the Lord. Jerusalem the heavenly city: may we attain to the rewards of Mary. Obtain for us, O Lady, peace and pardon: and the victory over our enemies, and triumph. Strengthen and console our hearts: by the sweetness of thy piety. So, Lady, pour into us thy mercy: that we may devoutly die in the Lord.

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

Antiphon 1
O Lady, under thy leadership we shall go into the house of the Lord. Whoever comes to Him shall not hunger, and whoever believes in Him shall never thirst. (John: 6:35)

Antiphon 2
O Lady, let all our works be directed by thee. "I am prepared for anything, anywhere: either to be full or to be hungry, either to have abundance or to endure scarcity. Everything is possible in him who has strengthened me." (Philippians 4:12-13)

Psalm 122

To thee have I raised up mine eyes, O Queen: who reignest in Heaven. Let our help be in the power of thy name: let all our works be directed by thee. Blessed be thou in Heaven and on earth: in the sea and in all abysses. Blessed be thy fecundity: blessed be thy virginity and purity. Blessed be thy holy body: blessed be thy most holy soul.

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

Antiphon 3
O Lady, be our defender and advocate before God. He loves the sojourner and gives him food as well as clothing. (Deuteronomy 10:18)

Psalm 123

Unless our Lady was in us: many dangers would have overtaken us. O Virgin, be our defender: and a propitious advocate before God. Show us, O Lady, thy mercy: and strengthen us in thy holy service. Let the holy angels bless thee in Heaven: let all men bless thee upon earth. Give not up to the beasts the souls of them that trust in thee: let not the mouths of them that sing to thee be closed.

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

Antiphon 3
O Lady, be our defender and advocate before God. He loves the sojourner and gives him food as well as clothing. (Deuteronomy 10:18)

FIRST READING
Christ-oriented texts

SECOND READING
Mary-oriented texts

+ Shining orbs adorn thy throne
- the morning stars glorify thee forever.

Psalm 23

FRIDAY

Midafternoon

+ O Lady, come to my assistance: and by the light of thy mercy enlighten me.

Psalm 69

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

HYMN

Look down, O Mother Mary,
From thy bright throne above;
Cast down upon thy children
One only glance of love;
And if a heart so tender
With pity flows not o'er,
Then turn away, O Mother,
And look on us no more.

Chorus:
Look down, O Mother Mary,
From thy bright throne above;
Cast down upon thy children
One only glance of love.

See how, ungrateful sinners,
We stand before thy Son;
His loving heart upbraids us
The evil we have done.
But if thou wilt appease Him,
Speak for us but one word;
For thus thou canst obtain us
The pardon of our Lord. Chorus

O Mary, dearest Mother,
If thou wouldst have us live,
Say that we are thy children,
And Jesus will forgive.
Our sins make us unworthy
That title still to bear,
But thou art still our Mother;
Then show a mother's care. Chorus

Alfonso M. de Liguori, 1913

Antiphon 1
Our Lady will help thee in the day of thy trouble. She will nourish thee with the food of angels. (Wisdom 16:20)

Psalm 124

Those who trust in thee, O Mother of God: shall not fear at the face of the enemy. Rejoice and exult, all ye who love her: because she will help thee in the day of thy trouble. Be mindful of thy tender mercies, O Lady: and relieve us in the pilgrimage of our sojourning. Turn thine amiable countenance towards us: confound and destroy all our enemies. Blessed be all the works of thy hands, O Lady: blessed be all thy holy miracles.

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

Antiphon 1
Our Lady will help thee in the day of thy trouble. She will nourish thee with the food of angels. (Wisdom 16:20)

Antiphon 2
O Lady, those who love thee will be blessed by God. "Do not be anxious about thy life, as to what thou will eat, nor about thy body, as to what thou will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothing?" (Matthew 6:25)

Psalm 125

When thou shalt turn thy most serene countenance upon us: thou shalt rejoice us, O virginal Mother of God. Blessed be thou, O treasury of Christ: above all women upon earth. Blessed be thy glorious name: which the mouth of the Lord hath wonderfully named. Let not thy praise fail from our lips: nor thy charity from our hearts. Those who love thee will be blessed by God: and those who wish to love thee, will not be defrauded of their confidence.

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

Antiphon 3
O Lady, build us up by thy grace and thy power: that we may remain firm forever. Strengthen my willpower to resist food when I am not hungry.

Psalm 126

Unless, O Lady, thou shalt build the house of our heart: its edifice shall not remain. Build us up by thy grace and thy power: that we may remain firm forever. Blessed be thy word: and blessed be all the words of thy lips. Let them be blessed by God, who shall bless thee: and let them be reckoned in the number of the just. Bless, O Lady, them that bless thee: and never turn thy gracious countenance away from them.

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

Antiphon 3
O Lady, build us up by thy grace and thy power: that we may remain firm forever. Strengthen my willpower to resist food when I am not hungry.

FIRST READING
Christ-oriented texts

SECOND READING
Mary-oriented texts

+ Blessed be thou, O Lady
- to the uttermost ends of the earth.

Psalm 27

FRIDAY

Evening Prayer

+ O Lady, come to my assistance: and by the light of thy mercy enlighten me.

Psalm 69

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

HYMN

Gabriel to Mary went
A mighty message bare he;
Deep in awe the Maiden bent
To hear the first Hail
Mary. He spoke as soft as summer air;
'Hail first among the pure and fair!
Thou undefiled
Shall bear a Child
All glorious
Salvation is thro' Him
By thee He comes victorious
O queen of Seraphim.'

'How shall this befall?' she quoth,
'For man hath never known me.
Can I break my plighted troth
That none but God shall own me?'
The Angel said: 'O Maid believe,
The Holy Ghost shall this achieve.
So be not sad,
But wholly glad,
For surely
Thy maidenhood so white
Shall shine for ever purely
By God's especial might!

Here the Maid of David's blood
Spoke out in answer lowly:
'I am but the slave of God
Omnipotent and holy.
To thee O high ambassador,
On whom such secrets He doth pour,
I do consent,
Right well content
To hold me
For ever by His word.
O Gabriel! behold me
The handmaid of the Lord!'

Maiden Mother of us all,
Who by thy Son sublimely
Brought the peace that Adam's fall
Once banished untimely:
Implore that Strong and Holy One
That until this our day is done,
His gentleness
To our excess
Indulgent,
May check us when we roam,
And in thy name effulgent
From exile call us home!

Anonymous 13th or 14th Century Latin

Antiphon 1
O Lady, turn thou thy mercy toward us: and be gracious to thy servants. Help me to replace negative feelings of failure with positive thoughts of success.

Psalm 127

Blessed are all they who fear our Lady: and blessed are all they who know how to do thy will and thy good pleasure. Blessed are the father and mother who have begotten thee: whose memory shall abide forever. Blessed is the womb that bore thee: and blessed are the breasts that nourished thee. Turn thou thy mercy toward us: and be gracious to thy servants. Look upon us and behold our shame: take away from us all our iniquities.

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

Antiphon 1
O Lady, turn thou thy mercy toward us: and be gracious to thy servants. Help me to replace negative feelings of failure with positive thoughts of success.

Antiphon 2
O Lady, obtain for us pardon for our sins: let it be given to us by the grace of the Holy Spirit. "For the kingdom of God is not food and drink, but rather justice and peace and joy, in the Holy Spirit." (Romans 14:17)

Psalm 128

My enemies have often troubled me from my youth up: deliver me, O Lady, and vindicate my cause from them. Give them not power over my soul: keep my interior and my exterior. Obtain for us pardon for our sins: let it be given to us by the grace of the Holy Spirit. Make us do penance worthily and praiseworthily: that we may come to God by a blessed end. Show us then with a gracious and serene countenance: the glorious fruit of thy womb.

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

Antiphon 3
O Lady, I will win the weight loss battle because thou art with me.

Psalm 129

Out of the depths I have cried to thee, O Lady: Lady, hear my prayer. Let thine ears be attentive: to the voice of praise and of thy glorification. Deliver me from the hand of my adversaries: confound their plans and their attempts against me. Deliver me in the evil day: and in the day of death forget not my soul. Lead me unto the harbor of salvation: may my name be written among the just.

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

Antiphon 3
O Lady, I will win the weight loss battle because thou art with me.

FIRST READING
Christ-oriented texts

SECOND READING
Mary-oriented texts

RESPONSORY

O Lady, help me to accept temporary setbacks and reapply myself with renewed vigor.
- O Lady, help me to accept temporary setbacks and reapply myself with renewed vigor.
Mother Mary, I want to honor God in my body.
- help me to reapply myself with renewed vigor.
Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
- O Lady, help me to accept temporary setbacks and reapply myself with renewed vigor.

CANTICLE TO MARY

Antiphon+
He who is mighty has done great things to me: by Mary His Mother. She refreshes my soul and restores my body.

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

Canticle in Honor of Mary
The Psalter of the Blessed Virgin

Antiphon
He who is mighty has done great things to me: by Mary His Mother. She refreshes my soul and restores my body.

INTERCESSIONS

O Mother of Perpetual Help, whom I honor today with my prayers, grant the petitions I have humbly placed before thee:

Let us ask our Heavenly Father for our daily bread:

CONCLUSION

Psalm 38

I ask this through Jesus Christ, thy Son, who lives and reigns with the Father and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever.

+ May God have mercy on us and bless us. Let thy grace, O Lady, ever protect me: let thy presence give light to my end.
- Amen.

Psalm 66

FRIDAY

Night Prayer

+ O Lady, come to my assistance: and by the light of thy mercy enlighten me.

Psalm 69

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

Examination of Conscience
Followed by an Act of Contrition:

Psalm 37

HYMN

Mary, that Mother mild,
Sped, with her heav’nly Child,
To-day from Bethlehem
Unto Hierusalem:
She to the temple there
Babe Jesus needs must bear;

Would at the Law’s behest,
Present her first-born blest,
And to the priest full fain
There offer turtles twain,
And thus redeem thereby
The world’s Redeemer high.

Hard by, at God’s command,
Good Symëon did stand
The old man fondly press’d
The Infant to his breast,—
The Christ expected long,
The burthen of his song.

“Lord, suffer now thy thrall
To fare in peace withal,
For why mine eyes have seen
My Saviour Christ,— I mean,
The Gentiles’ candle bright,
And Israel’s delight.

Set is this Child divine
A stumbling-block and sign,
For fall and rise again
Of many a Jew, certain:
And, Mother, for thy part,
A sword shall pierce thine heart.”

A prophetess then came,
And Anna was her name:
Of Mary’s gentle Boy,
Spake she with holy joy;—
E’en so, Christ-child, draw near,
Our souls in such-wise cheer.

Köln Gesangbuch, 1623

Antiphon 1
Bless us, O Lady, and strengthen us in thy grace: that by thee we may be presented before the sight of the Lord. He has food to eat which we do not know. (Matthew 4:32)

Psalm 130

Lady, my heart hath not been exalted: nor have mine eyes been lifted up. The Lord hath blessed thee in His power: who by thee hath reduced to naught our enemies. Blessed be He who hath sanctified thee: and who hath brought thee forth pure from thy mother's womb. Blessed be He who hath overshadowed thee: and by His grace hath given thee fecundity. Bless us, O Lady, and strengthen us in thy grace: that by thee we may be presented before the sight of the Lord.

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

Antiphon 1
Bless us, O Lady, and strengthen us in thy grace: that by thee we may be presented before the sight of the Lord. He has food to eat which we do not know. (Matthew 4:32)

FIRST READING
Christ-oriented texts

SECOND READING
Mary-oriented texts

RESPONSORY

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
- When my spirit shall go forth, Lady, let it be commended to thee.

Psalm 145

Antiphon
+ I will praise thee, O Lady, because by thee the Lord has been rendered favorable unto me. He will satisfy my hunger with good things.

Canticle in Honor of Mary
The Psalter of the Blessed Virgin

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

Antiphon
I will praise thee, O Lady, because by thee the Lord has been rendered favorable unto me. He will satisfy my hunger with good things.

CONCLUSION

Psalm 40

I ask this through Jesus Christ, thy Son, who lives and reigns with the Father and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever.

+ Intercede for me, O Lady, with thy Christ: neither do thou forsake me in death or in life.
- Amen.

Psalms 83

SATURDAY

Morning Prayer

+ O Lady, come to my assistance: and by the light of thy mercy enlighten me.

Psalm 69

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

HYMN

Today the Angels,
Glorious Spirits,
Sing thy praises,
O Queen of heaven.

Chorus:
Let us sing, Let us sing,
On this day of happiness:
Glory, Triumph, Honor!

Our soul in exile,
On this sad sojourn
Immaculate Virgin,
Offers thee its love. Chorus

O Future Mother
Of the Divine Savior,
Sweet creature,
Become our Sister. Chorus

Ah! Come quickly,
Bring about our healing,
Destroy the poison
Of the first Eve. Chorus

Thy heart, tender Mother,
Flower of humility,
Is the sanctuary
Of the Trinity. Chorus

Cantiques a Marie
Sur L'Air: Allemand, Part One
Les Livres des Enfants de Marie, 1850.
Translated by John P. Gross, 2009.

Antiphon 1
O Lady, fill us with the grace of the Holy Spirit. My body is His temple.

Psalm 131

Be mindful, O Lady, of David: and of all who invoke thy name. Give us confidence in thy name: and let our adversaries be confounded. Console us in the land of our pilgrimage: and relieve our poverty. Give us, O holy Virgin, the bread of tears: and sorrow for our sins in the land of our sojourning. Make the Blessed Fruit of thy womb propitious to us: that we may be filled with the grace of the Holy Spirit.

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

Antiphon 1
O Lady, fill us with the grace of the Holy Spirit. My body is His temple.

Antiphon 2
O Lady, they who seek thy help find grace with God. Give me the grace to eat like a thin person.

Psalm 132

Behold how good and how pleasant, O Mary, it is: to love thy name. Thy name is as oil poured out, and as an aromatic fragrance: to those who love it. How great is the multitude of thy sweetness, O Lady: which thou hast prepared for those who love and hope in thee. Be a refuge to the poor in tribulation: because thou art a staff to the poor and wretched. Let them, I beseech thee, find grace with God: who invoke thy help in their needs.

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

Antiphon 2
O Lady, they who seek thy help find grace with God. Give me the grace to eat like a thin person.

Antiphon 3
O Lady, thou consoles us and brightens our spirits. Help me to cope with cravings when I feel depressed.

Psalm 133

Behold now, bless ye the Lady: all ye who hope in her holy name. Rejoice with a great joy, thou who exalt and glorify her: because thou will be rejoiced by the plentifulness of her consolations. Behold now with an overflowing bounty she will come down upon thee: to console and to make glad thy hearts. Bless her, all her servants: and let her memory be the desire of thy soul. Bless her, all ye angels and saints of God: praise her wonders forever.

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

Antiphon 3
O Lady, thou consoles us and brightens our spirits. Help me to cope with cravings when I feel depressed.

FIRST READING
Christ-oriented texts

SECOND READING
Mary-oriented texts

RESPONSORY

O Lady, I have ignored God and replaced Him with a food addiction that leaves me unsatisfied and out of control. Help me to give up my addiction and enter into a loving relationship with Him.
- O Lady, I have ignored God and replaced Him with a food addiction that leaves me unsatisfied and out of control. Help me to give up my addiction and enter into a loving relationship with Him.
Mother Mary, I want to honor God in my body.
- Help me to give up my addiction and enter into a loving relationship with Him.
Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
- O Lady, I have ignored God and replaced Him with a food addiction that leaves me unsatisfied and out of control. Help me to give up my addiction and enter into a loving relationship with Him.

CANTICLE TO MARY

Antiphon+
O Lady, thou hast brought about our redemption so that we may serve God in peace. Free me from the anxiety that causes me to overeat.

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

Canticle in Honor of Mary
The Psalter of the Blessed Virgin

Antiphon
O Lady, thou hast brought about our redemption so that we may serve God in peace. Free me from the anxiety that causes me to overeat.

INTERCESSIONS

O Mother of Perpetual Help, whom I honor today with my prayers, grant the petitions I have humbly placed before thee:

Let us ask our Heavenly Father for our daily bread:

CONCLUSION

Psalm 45

+ May God have mercy on us and bless us. Let thy grace, O Lady, ever protect me: let thy presence give light to my end.
- Amen.

Psalm 66

SATURDAY

Midmorning Prayer

+ O Lady, come to my assistance: and by the light of thy mercy enlighten me.

Psalm 69

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

HYMN

She flew toward heaven, sing the new hymn,
Angels of the living God, touch thy harps of gold!
With thy wings of fire like sails before her,
Oh! Sing, full of love to thy immortal Queen;
Toward thee she has taken flight.

Under her triumphant feet a light mist
Floats, boasting a weight so light.
Mary with splendor abandons the earth;
Thus the ineffable mystery of her destiny
Is understood and is brought to its inevitable conclusion.

August Virgin, at the sound of thy name, in a troubled soul
Is reborn faith, desire and love;
The orphan blesses thee, the mourning widow,
Implores thee while sighing near the dark mausoleum
When the night comes, when day breaks.

Among the verdant bushes, under savage thorns
thy image is a blessing to the pious pilgrims.
White star of the seas, when the storm rages,
The boat lost on the waves without shore
Pleads from thee a serene sky.

To the prophets filled with emotion,
God has thee appear,
Like a sweet sound resounding from afar;
Before we were born Israel came to know thee;
For those men filled with anticipation of the times to come
Spoke of thee to give them fair warning.

Here below however, always ready to suffer,
Thou lived in exile, under the cross thou shivered.
How many tears did thy sublime victory cost thee?
But thy feet finally crushed the dragon's head
And heaven opened to thee its gates.

Let us sing! Let a pure incense be lit and rise
Like a swirling cloud of gold over the altar;
Let us embrace in the flowers and the crimson and the silk
Mary is finally Queen, let us sing, let us sing with joy
Throughout time, throughout eternity.

Cantiques a Marie
L'Assomption
Les Livres des Enfants de Marie, 1850
Translated by John P. Gross, 2009.

Antiphon 1
O Lady, those who approach thee in a prayerful attitude find sweetness and the rest of peace. Help me to reduce the stress in my life that leads to overeating.

Psalm 134

Praise the name of the Lord: bless the name of Mary, His Mother. Be diligent in prayer to Mary: and she will raise up for thee eternal delights. Let us come to her in a contrite soul: and sinful cupidity will not besiege us. He who thinks of her in tranquility of mind: shall find sweetness and the rest of peace. Let us breathe forth our souls to her in our end: and she will lay open to us the courts of them that triumph.

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

Antiphon 1
O Lady, those who approach thee in a prayerful attitude find sweetness and the rest of peace. Help me to reduce the stress in my life that leads to overeating.

Antiphon 2
O Lady, obtain for us the friendship of Jesus Christ. He, rather than food, is my friend and comforter.

Psalm 135

Give praise to the Lord, for He is good: because by His most sweet Mother, the Virgin Mary, mercy is given to us. Obtain for us, O Lady, the friendship of Jesus Christ: and keep us lest we should lose our innocence. Repress our enemy by thy command: lest he should destroy in us the virtue of charity. Illumine our ways and our paths: that we may know what is pleasing to God. Preserve in us what is naturally good: and may good graces be multiplied in us.

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

Antiphon 2
O Lady, obtain for us the friendship of Jesus Christ. He, rather than food, is my friend and comforter.

Antiphon 3
O Lady, through thy Son health is bestowed. He is the devine physician. “The healthy have no need of a doctor, but those who have maladies do. For I came not to call the just, but sinners.” (Mark: 2:17)

Psalm 136

On the rivers of Babylon the Hebrews wept: but let us weep over our sins. Let us cry out humbly to the Virgin and Mother: let us offer her our plaints and our sighs. There is no propitiation to be found without her: nor salvation apart from her fruit. By her, sins are purged away: and by her fruit, souls are made white. By her is made satisfaction for sins; by her fruit health is bestowed.

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

FIRST READING
Christ-oriented texts

SECOND READING
Mary-oriented texts

+ Let us embrace the footprints of Mary
- and cast ourselves at her blessed feet.

Psalm 14

SATURDAY

Midday Prayer

+ O Lady, come to my assistance: and by the light of thy mercy enlighten me.

Psalm 69

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

HYMN

O immaculate virgin,
O lily of the valley,
Flower which would cause
Our flowers to lose their color,
Virgin and innocent mother
Star in the clouds,
We are on our knees:
Pray, pray for us!

Fountain to quenche our thirst,
As on the waves of the river,
Where each day one drinks
The pure water of love;
Ark of the Covenant,
Dawn of innocense,
We are on our knees:
Pray, pray for us!

Perfume, efficacious spring
Of dew and grace,
Dazzling mirror,
Caressing refuge,
Ineffable patron
who pleads and pardons.
We are on our knees:
Pray, pray for us!

Blessed Dawn,
Undefined light,
Reflecting perl so beautiful.
Sweet and chaste torch,
Sovereign of glory,
Lamp of gold, ivory tower,
We are on our knees:
Pray, pray for us!

Pray for us, Mary,
For us with the pleading heart,
Vase filled with honey,
Star and gate of heaven,
Star which brightens us
With its protecting rays,
We are on our knees:
Pray, pray for us!

Pray for us, for our soul
Trembles like a flame
In this dark desert
Where the crowd gets lost,
In this shadow we follow
that one calls life;
We are on our knees:
Pray, pray for us!

O virgin amiable and pure
The incense of nature
Touches thy heart less
Than a single cry of sadness;
Smile, therefore, O mother,
On the tears of the earth,
We are on our knees:
Pray, pray for us!

Cantiques a Marie
Priez Pour Nous
Les Livres des Enfants de Marie, 1850.
Translated by John P. Gross, 2009.

Antiphon 1
O Lady, deliver me from all temptations. Help me to love God more than food.

Psalm 139

Deliver me, O Lady, from all evil: and from the infernal enemy defend me. Against me he hath drawn his bow: and in his craftiness he hath laid snares for me. Restrain his evil power: and powerfully crush his craft. Turn back his iniquity on his own head: and let him speedily fall into the pit which he hath made. But we will rejoice in thy service: and we will glory in thy praise.

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

Antiphon 1
O Lady, deliver me from all temptations. Help me to love God more than food.

Antiphon 2
O Lady, thou art our model of submission to the Father's will. Help me to do the Father's will and enjoy all things, including food, in moderation.

Psalm 140

O Lady, I have cried to thee, hear me: incline unto my prayer and to my supplication. Let my supplication be directed as incense before thy face: both in the time of the evening sacrifice and in the morning. Let not my heart turn aside into spiteful words: and let not the thought of wickedness upset my mind. Make me submissive to the good pleasure of thy heart: and let me be conformed to thy actions. With the sword of understanding pierce my heart: and with the dart of charity inflame my mind.

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

Antiphon 2
O Lady, thou art our model of submission to the Father's will. Help me to do the Father's will and enjoy all things, including food, in moderation.

Antiphon 3
O Lady, lead my soul out of prison that it may praise thee and sing to the mighty God forever. Help me to break free of my obsession with food that has kept me a prisoner of my own appetite.

Psalm 141

With my voice I have cried to Our Lady: I have humbly entreated her. I have poured out my tears in her sight: and I have set before her my grief. The enemy lieth in wait for my heel: he has spread his net before me. Help me, O Lady, lest I fall before him: let him be crushed beneath my feet. Lead my soul out of prison: that it may praise thee and sing to the mighty God forever.

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

FIRST READING
Christ-oriented texts

SECOND READING
Mary-oriented texts

+ Shining orbs adorn thy throne
- the morning stars glorify thee forever.

Psalm 23

SATURDAY

Midafternoon

+ O Lady, come to my assistance: and by the light of thy mercy enlighten me.

Psalm 69

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

HYMN

A Babe is born in Bethlehem,
Bethlehem,
Therefore rejoice, Jerusalem.
Hallelujah! Hallelujah!

Within a manger He doth lie,
He doth lie,
Whose throne is set above the sky.
Hallelujah! Hallelujah!

Stillness was all the manger round;
Manger round,
The creatures its Creator found.
Hallelujah! Hallelujah!

The wise men came, led by the star,
By the star,
Gold, myrrh, and incense brought from far.
Hallelujah! Hallelujah!

His mother is the Virgin mild,
Virgin mild,
And He is the Father’s only child.
Hallelujah! Hallelujah!

The serpent’s wound He beareth not,
Beareth not,
Yet takes our blood, and shares our lot.
Hallelujah! Hallelujah!

Out human flock He enters in,
Enters in,
But bears no single taint of sin.
Hallelujah! Hallelujah!

To fallen man Himself He bowed,
He bowed,
That he might lift us up to God.
Hallelujah! Hallelujah!

On this most blessed Jubilee,
Jubilee,
All glory be, O God, to Thee.
Hallelujah! Hallelujah!

O Holy Three, we Thee adore,
Thee Adore,
This day, henceforth, for ever more.
Hallelujah! Hallelujah!

14th Century Latin Hymn
Puer Natus in Bethlehem

Antiphon 1
O Lady, send forth thy light and grace and repair my life. Abusing my body with too much food has left me broken. With thy help I will be made new again.

Psalm 142

O Lady, hear my prayer: incline thine ear to my supplication. The spiteful enemy hath persecuted my life: he hath cast on to the ground my ways. He hath blackened me with his darkness: and my spirit is exceedingly troubled. Turn not thy face away from me: that I may not fall together with them that tumble into the abyss. Send forth thy light and thy grace: and repair anew my life and my conscience.

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

Antiphon 1
O Lady, send forth thy light and grace and repair my life. Abusing my body with too much food has left me broken. With thy help I will be made new again.

Antiphon 2
O Lady, raise up from earthly things our affection and kindle in our hearts the longing for heavenly things. Help me to make God, not food, the focus of my life.

Psalm 143

Blessed be thou, O Lady, who teachest thy servants to fight: and strengthenest them against the enemy. With thy lightnings and thy brightness scatter him: send forth thy darts, that thou mayest confound him. Glorify from on high thy hand: and let thy servants sing thy praise and thy glory. Raise up from earthly things our affection: from these eternal delights refresh our interior. Kindle in our hearts the longing for heavenly things: and deign to refresh us with the joys of Paradise.

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

Antiphon 2
O Lady, raise up from earthly things our affection and kindle in our hearts the longing for heavenly things. Help me to make God, not food, the focus of my life.

Antiphon 3
O Lady: send us food and delightful nourishment. "You seek me, not because you have seen signs, but because you have eaten from the bread and were satisfied." (John: 6:26)

Psalm 144

I will exalt thee, O Mother of the Son of God: and every day I will sing thy praises. Generations and peoples will praise thy works: and the islands shall expect thy mercy. The angels will utter the abundance of thy sweetness: and the saints will pronounce thy sweetness. Our eyes hope in thee, O Lady: send us food and delightful nourishment. My tongue shall speak thy praise: and I will bless thee for ever and 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 forever. Amen.

Antiphon 3
O Lady: send us food and delightful nourishment. "You seek me, not because you have seen signs, but because you have eaten from the bread and were satisfied." (John: 6:26)

FIRST READING
Christ-oriented texts

SECOND READING
Mary-oriented texts

+ Blessed be thou, O Lady
- to the uttermost ends of the earth.

Psalm 27

SATURDAY

Evening Prayer

+ O Lady, come to my assistance: and by the light of thy mercy enlighten me.

Psalm 69

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

HYMN

Virgin very powerful,
One look from thee
On the floating soul
Strengthens its faith.

Chorus:
Let us sing, Let us sing,
On this day of happiness:
Glory, Triumph, Honor!

Mother of Suffering,
Teach us how
Blessed Hope
Consoles the dying. Chorus

Angel who protects us
From infirmity
Tell us the mystery
Of thy charity. Chorus

Without thee, Holy Virgin,
In the presence of the Lord,
Who would plead the case
Of the poor sinner? Chorus

Without thee...
A boat without sails,
Without a friendly pilot,
A sky without stars,
To guide us there. Chorus

Ah! Pour on our souls,
On this happy day
The burning flames
Of thy holy love. Chorus

Cantiques a Marie
Sur L'Air: Allemand, Part Two
Les Livres des Enfants de Marie, 1850.
Translated by John P. Gross, 2009.

Antiphon 1
O Lady, I will glorify thee as long as I live. Every time I control an urge to overeat I imagine that I am offering thee a rose in gratitude for thy loving assistance.

Psalm 145

My soul, praise Our Lady: I will glorify her as long as I live. Never cease from her praises: and think of her every moment. When my spirit shall go forth, Lady, let it be commended to thee: and in the unknown land be thou its guide. Let not past sins trouble it: nor let it be disturbed by the meeting with the malignant one. Lead it to the harbor of salvation: there let it await securely the coming of the Redeemer.

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

Antiphon 1
O Lady, I will glorify thee as long as I live. Every time I control an urge to overeat I imagine that I am offering thee a rose in gratitude for thy loving assistance.

Antiphon 2
Our praise of the Lady is pleasant and beautiful because she heals the broken-hearted. I place in her hands all the sadness that makes me overeat.

Psalm 146

Praise the Lady, for a psalm is good: let the praise of her be pleasant and beautiful. For she heals the broken-hearted: and she refreshes them with the ointment of piety. Great is her power: and her clemency has no end. Sing to her in jubilation: and in her praise sing a psalm to her. Those who hope in the Lord are a good pleasure to her: and those who hope in her mercy.

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

Antiphon 2
Our praise of the Lady is pleasant and beautiful because she heals the broken-hearted. I place in her hands all the sadness that makes me overeat.

Antiphon 3
O Lady, thy grace nourishes us. Fill me with the love of the Lord and I will be forever satisfied.

Psalm 147

Praise, O Jerusalem, Our Lady: glorify her also, O Sion. For she buildeth up thy walls: and blesseth thy sons. Let her grace nourish thee: let her give peace to thy borders. The Most High hath sent forth His Word: and His power hath overshadowed her. Let us raise our hearts and hands up to her: that we may feel her influence.

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

Antiphon 3
O Lady, thy grace nourishes us. Fill me with the love of the Lord and I will be forever satisfied.

FIRST READING
Christ-oriented texts

SECOND READING
Mary-oriented texts

RESPONSORY

O Lady, conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to thee.
- O Lady, conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to thee.
Mother Mary, I want to honor God in my body.
- pray for us who have recourse to thee.
Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
- O Lady, conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to thee.

CANTICLE TO MARY

Antiphon+
Exalt and praise Mary, O Sion and Jerusalem: for she is great amongst the ladies of Israel. She will help me to seek rest in God's love.

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

Canticle in Honor of Mary
The Psalter of the Blessed Virgin

Antiphon
Exalt and praise Mary, O Sion and Jerusalem: for she is great amongst the ladies of Israel. She will help me to seek rest in God's love.

INTERCESSIONS

O Mother of Perpetual Help, whom I honor today with my prayers, grant the petitions I have humbly placed before thee:

Let us ask our Heavenly Father for our daily bread:

CONCLUSION

Psalm 38

I ask this through Jesus Christ, thy Son, who lives and reigns with the Father and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever.

+ May God have mercy on us and bless us. Let thy grace, O Lady, ever protect me: let thy presence give light to my end.
- Amen.

Psalm 66

SATURDAY

Night Prayer

+ O Lady, come to my assistance: and by the light of thy mercy enlighten me.

Psalm 69

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

Examination of Conscience
Followed by an Act of Contrition:

Psalm 37

HYMN

Praise we the Lord this day,
this day so long foretold,
whose promise shone with cheering ray
on waiting saints of old.

The prophet gave the sign
for faithful men to read:
a virgin born of David's line
shall bear the promised seed.

Ask not how this should be,
but worship and adore,
like her whom heaven's Majesty
came down to shadow o'er.

Meekly she bowed her head
to hear the gracious word,
Mary, the pure and lowly maid,
the favored of the Lord.

Blessed shall be her name
in all the Church on earth,
through whom that wondrous mercy came,
the incarnate Savior's birth.

Jesus, the Virgin's Son,
we praise thee and adore,
who art with God the Father one
and Spirit evermore.

Hymns for the Festivals, 1846

Antiphon 1
O Lady, we praise thee in the heavens and glorify thee in the highest. Thou hast restored my relationship to God, renewed my life, and given me control over my appetite.

Psalm 148

Let us praise Our Lady in the heavens: glorify her in the highest. Praise her, all ye men and beasts: birds of the air, and fishes of the sea. Praise her, sun and moon: stars, and the orbs of the planets. Praise her, Cherubim and Seraphim: thrones and dominations and powers. Praise her, all ye legions of angels: praise her all order of heavenly dwellers.

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

Antiphon 1
O Lady, we praise thee in the heavens and glorify thee in the highest. Thou hast restored my relationship to God, renewed my life, and given me control over my appetite.

FIRST READING
Christ-oriented texts

SECOND READING
Mary-oriented texts

RESPONSORY

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
- When my spirit shall go forth, Lady, let it be commended to thee.

Psalm 145

Antiphon
+ I will praise thee, O Lady, because by thee the Lord has been rendered favorable unto me. He will satisfy my hunger with good things.

Canticle in Honor of Mary
The Psalter of the Blessed Virgin

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

Antiphon
I will praise thee, O Lady, because by thee the Lord has been rendered favorable unto me. He will satisfy my hunger with good things.

CONCLUSION

Psalm 40

I ask this through Jesus Christ, thy Son, who lives and reigns with the Father and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever.

+ Intercede for me, O Lady, with thy Christ: neither do thou forsake me in death or in life.
- Amen.

Psalms 83

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