Updated: November 19, 2020
Dignus est Agnus
As the church is preparing to begin a new liturgical year with the First Sunday of Advent on November 29th, the current liturgical year comes to a close with the Solemnity of Christ the King. The Introit for this day begins - Dignus est Agnus, qui occisus est - which translates 'Worthy is the Lamb that was slain.' This profound expression of faith is beautiful in its Latin chant form, and has also been set by several composers, with the most notable version being the closing movement of Handel's Messiah.
While this piece is not practical for liturgical use due its length, Handel's version captures the majesty and glory that is fitting of this Solemnity, and perhaps most importantly, is faithful to the Latin text in the English translation.
Worthy is the Lamb that was slain,
and hath redeemed us to God by his blood,
to receive power, and riches, and wisdom,
and strength, and honor, and glory, and blessing.
Blessing and honor, glory and power
be unto him that sitteth upon the throne,
and unto the Lamb forever and ever. Amen.
Thanks for listening!
Jerry Kavinski, M.M., Director of the St. Catherine of Siena Choir
Live-streamed Mass for the Feast of the Annunciation - Available for Viewing
With the suspension of public masses in both the Diocese of Arlington and the Archdiocese of Washington, opportunities to participate in a spiritual communion through events such as this are so important, as they provide connection to our faith through spoken liturgy and sacred music.
Iustorum Animae
Iustorum animae in manu Dei sunt,
et non tanget illos tormentum malitiae.
Visi sunt oculis insipientium mori;
illi autem sunt in pace, alleluia.
The souls of the just are in the hand of God,
and the torment of malice shall not touch them.
They seemed, in the eyes of the foolish, to be dead;
but they are at peace, alleluia.
