Ode on the Mass from the Offertory to the Secret

The catechumens being dismissed, the offertory now begins
A veiled subdeacon brings the chalice, as the choir starts to sing
Taking the host on the paten, the priest offers it to the holy Father
Before placing it on the corporal, as deacons pour wine and water
Remembering the mystery, exchange between human and divine
He beseeches the Lord's clemency, as he offers the chalice of wine
Prays the sacrifice be acceptable, asks a blessing of the Paraclete
As St Michael watches, incenses the host, altar and royal seat[1]
Standing on the epistle side, the deacon incenses the priest
Next the deacons, choir, servers, laity, from greatest to least
Washing his hands among the innocent, a clean heart the priest confesses
That the offering bring honor and salvation, the Trinity he addresses
Kissing the altar, he turns to the people and asks for their prayers
For the sacrifice is offered by all, is his own as much as it is theirs
Inaudibly the secret is said, which brings the offertory to an end
The moment is drawing close, when the Son of God from heaven descends

[1] The cross

© Lactantius 2006