by Sr Fidelis
Keep us while we sleep, that we may watch with Christ and rest in peace. (Compline antiphon)
3) Gospel Canticle (in Latin) Psalmody The Compline Canticle is the Song of Simeon, taken from Luke 2: 29-32. God had revealed to Simeon that he would see the Messiah before he died. As Jesus was brought by his parents to the temple for the presentation of their firstborn son, Simeon recognized who Jesus was. He took the infant in his arms and recited the words: Sovereign Lord, as you have promised, you now dismiss your servant in peace. For my eyes have seen your salvation, which you have prepared in the sight of all people, a light for revelation to the Gentiles and for glory to your people Israel. The Canticle is introduced by an antiphon, which is repeated again after the Doxology verse.
4) Closing Prayers (in Latin, Greek and English) Prayers The ending prayers for each Chant Office consist of: Kyrie eleison Christe eleison, Kyrie eleison (Lord have mercy, Christ have mercy, Lord have mercy). These are the only Greek words used in the Office. Pater Noster — The Lord’s Prayer is intoned, then the remainder is prayed in silence, until the closing phrase which is chanted aloud. This is an ancient tradition that comes from the early centuries of the Christian era when Rome was persecuting the church and only baptized Christians knew the Lord’s Prayer. By publicly reciting only the first and last lines, the persecuted Christians believed they were preserving the secrets of the Christian faith. The closing prayers continue with a final collect and a benediction, or prayer for blessing.