ORATIO XXXI PRO SACERDOTE CELEBRATURO.
Trembling at the Altar
The priest approaches God's altar with a conscience that trembles, yet finds firm footing in divine mercy.
I come to your altar trembling in conscience, almighty God, yet I am held firm in confidence by the mercy of your loving kindness.
The Dread of Withdrawal
Though always unworthy to offer sacrifice, the priest fears that withdrawing would bring the graver condemnation of disobedience.
And though I am always found unworthy to celebrate the sacrifices for you, yet if I withdraw, I fear being condemned for disobedience.
A Plea for Purified Speech
The priest asks the Father to look with compassion and to purify the inner mouths of his heart.
For this reason, most holy Father, deign to look upon me with fatherly compassion and a calm countenance, and meanwhile to purify the mouths of my heart.
Entrusting the Mysteries to Prayer
Burdened by sin, the priest asks that the mysteries about to be consecrated be made acceptable through the intercession of his prayers.
And if I am burdened by the weight of my sins and guilt, let the mysteries to be consecrated, I pray you, Lord, be pleasing to you through the plea of my prayers.
Closing Doxology
The prayer concludes with the customary closing formula through Christ our Lord.
Through our Lord, etc.
Read the original Latin
Conscientia quidem trepidus, omnipotens Deus, ad altare tuum accedo, sed ad fiduciam de tuae pietatis misericordia retineor. Et licet ad celebranda tibi sacrificia semper inveniar indignus; tamen si recedo, vereor de inobedientia condemnari. Pro qua re dignare me, piissime Pater, paterna pietate ac placato vultu respicere, et cordis mei interim ora purgare. Et si ego pondere peccatorum meorum ac reatu constringor; mearum tamen precum obtentu, tibi sint, quaeso Domine, in omnibus placita mysteria consecranda. Per Dominum nostrum, etc.
Orationes sive Meditationes — Collection for Princess Adeliza of Normandy companion
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