The Litany of the Saints (Latin: Litaniae Sanctorum) is a formal prayer of the Roman Catholic Church as well as the Old Catholic Church, Anglo-Catholic communities, and Western Rite Orthodox communities. It is a prayer to the Triune God, which also includes invocations for the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary, the Angels and all the martyrs and saints upon whom Christianity was founded, and those recognised as saints through the subsequent history of the church. Following the invocation of the saints, the Litany concludes with a series of supplications to God to hear the prayers of the worshippers. It is most prominently sung during the Easter Vigil, All Saints' Day, and in the liturgy for conferring Holy Orders, the Consecration of a Virgin and reception of the perpetual vows of a religious or a diocesane hermit.

Catholic practice

Litany of the Saints is usually sung during ordination mass when the candidates to be ordained lay prostrate

The definitive version of the Roman Catholic Litany of the Saints is a Latin text published in the Roman Gradual.[1] The current edition was published in 1974,[2] and contains a statement of approval from the Congregation for Divine Worship issued 24 June 1972. The current edition of the Roman Gradual was updated in 1979 to include Neums from Ancient Manuscripts (ISBN 978-2852740440 in English (1985), ISBN 978-2-85274-094-5 in Latin).

The litany is published in five sections. The first contains a short series of invocations of God, beginning with a threefold Kyrie, followed by invocations of God the Father of Heaven, the Son who redeemed the world, the Holy Spirit, and the Holy Trinity.

The second section lists the saints who are to be included, given in the following order. Within each category, men are listed in chronological order, followed by women, also in chronological order. Distinctive names are given in brackets so the cantor knows which saint is intended,[clarification needed] but a directive notes that the bracketed names may be omitted when the Latin is sung. Additional saints, such as the patron of a place or the founder of a religious order, may be inserted in the appropriate place. The official list of recognized saints can be found in the Roman Martyrology.

Certain names are grouped together by the litany itself (e.g. Michael, Gabriel and Raphael; Francis and Dominic); in the list above, a semi-colon always indicates the next line of the litany. Some priests and religious who are also Doctors of the Church (Catherine of Siena, Teresa of Avila, Bernard of Clairvaux and Thomas Aquinas) are grouped with the "Priests and Religious", rather than with the "Bishops and Doctors". Strict chronological order is not followed in the case of the Jesuit, Francis Xavier (died 1552), who is placed after the founder of the Jesuits, Ignatius Loyola, who died in 1556.[3]

Part three of the litany is a series of petitions to Christ, the first 15 having the response, "free us O Lord", with a further 10 petitions ending "Have Mercy on us."

The fourth section includes a list of petitions ending te rogamus audi nos (we beseech you to hear us) from which the appropriate prayers can be chosen for a particular occasion, but always ending with petitions for the whole church, for the ministers of the Church, for the lay faithful and for all humanity. The rubrics printed before the litany indicate that other petitions “suitable to the occasion” and in the form proper to the Litany may be added “at the proper place”.

The final part of the litany consists of a brief invocation calling on Christ to hear the prayers, and a closing collect.

At the Easter Vigil

The Litany of Saints is used prominently at the Easter Vigil, the Mass celebrated on the night before Easter Day. At this Mass, adults who have chosen to become Catholic receive the Sacraments of Initiation in the form of Baptism, or simple Reception, with Confirmation and Holy Communion. Following the readings from Scripture and just before the actual rite of baptism or confirmation, the Litany of Saints is sung. Even if there is no-one to be baptized, the Litany may be sung for the blessing of holy water in the font. But if the font is not blessed (i.e. holy water is blessed in a simple container on the sanctuary), the Litany is not used.

The Litany given for the Easter Vigil in the Roman Missal[4][5] contains a shortened list of saints:

At Infant Baptisms

A severely abbreviated form of the litany is given in the official text for the Rite of Baptism of Children.[6] This consists only of the invocations of Mary Mother of God, St John the Baptist, St Joseph, St Peter and St Paul, and All holy men and women, with the addition of saints relevant to the circumstances of the baptism. In the rite the litany is immediately preceded by suggested or ad hoc prayers for the child(ren) being baptized and family members present, and immediately followed by a prayer of minor exorcism.

An extended form of the litany is also permitted for baptisms, beginning with a Kyrie, and followed by the same selection of saints used for the Easter Vigil (as listed above). The saints are followed by brief invocations of Christ and then petitions which include "Give new life to these chosen ones by the grace of baptism".

At the election of a pope

An expanded list is also specified in the ritual Ordo Rituum Conclavis for use during the conclave for the election of a new pope.[3][7] The additional saints are, in italics:

In other ceremonies

The Litany of Saints is also prescribed[3] for ordination (different saints are added corresponding to the different grades of ordained ministry), religious profession, the blessing of an abbot, and the dedication of churches and altars.[8]

In the Latin language version of the Litany, the names of one or more saints are chanted by a cantor or choir, and the congregants reply with either, Ora pro nobis (if one saint is addressed) or Orate pro nobis (using the plural imperative form of the verb, if more than one saint is addressed). Both responses translate to "Pray for us." However, it is permissible to personalize the Litany of Saints for a funeral rite or other Mass for the dead. When this was done during the Funeral of Pope John Paul II and recently the Funeral of Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI, the response was Ora[te] pro eo, or "Pray for him."[3][9]

A Vatican recommendation[10] issued in 1988 proposes that the Litany can be appropriately used for the beginning of the Mass of the First Sunday of Lent, to offer a distinguishing mark for the beginning of Lent.

The iBreviary website offers a text in English[11] of the full Litany of Saints expanded with many additional saints, drawn in part from the bespoke litanies for particular liturgical occasions. It includes a note that in ceremonies involving the Pope, the canonized Popes are moved from their usual place to form part of an expanded list of Popes prior to other bishops and doctors.

Origen Controversy

A commercially published setting of the Litany of Saints by John Becker includes the name of Origen among its additional saints. Although recognized[12] by Pope Benedict XVI as a significant theologian, Origen is not listed in the Roman Martyrology[13] and was anathematized in the year 553 for certain opinions he was alleged to have held.[14] Origen's inclusion in a published litany, albeit without the official sanction of Catholic authorities, has resulted in vigorous comment in the blogosphere.[15]

1974 Graduale Romanum text

The Latin text given below is the same as it appears in the 1974 version of the Roman Gradual.[2] The Litany is divided in five sections: Supplicatio ad Deum (Prayer to God), Invocatio Sanctorum (Invocation of Saints), Invocatio ad Christum (Invocation to Christ), Supplicatio pro Variis Necessitatibus (Prayer for Various Needs), and Conclusio (Conclusion).

Latin (original) English (translation)
I. Supplicatio ad Deum I. Prayer to God
A. A.
V.[16] Kýrie, eléison. V. Lord, have mercy.
R.[17] Kýrie, eléison. R. Lord, have mercy.
V. Christe, eléison. V. Christ, have mercy.
R. Christe, eléison. R. Christ, have mercy.
V. Kýrie, eléison. V. Lord, have mercy.
R. Kýrie, eléison. R. Lord, have mercy.
V. Christe, audi nos. V. Christ, hear us.
R. Christe, exaudi nos R. Christ, graciously hear us.
B. B.
V. Pater de cælis, Deus. V. O God the Father of heaven.
R. Miserére nobis. R. Have mercy upon us.
V. Fili, Redémptor mundi, Deus. V. O God the Son, Redeemer of the world.
R. Miserére nobis. R. Have mercy upon us.
V. Spíritus Sancte, Deus. V. O God the Holy Ghost.
R. Miserére nobis. R. Have mercy upon us.
V. Sancta Trínitas, unus Deus. V. O Holy Trinity, one God.
R. Miserére nobis. R. Have mercy upon us.
II. Invocatio Sanctorum II. Invocation of Saints
A. Virgo Maria et Angeli A. Virgin Mary and Angels
V. Sancta María. V. Holy Mary.
R. Ora pro nobis. R. Pray for us.
V. Sancta Dei Génitrix. V. Holy Mother of God.
R. Ora pro nobis. R. Pray for us.
V. Sancta Virgo vírginum. V. Holy Virgin of virgins.
R. Ora pro nobis. R. Pray for us.
V. Sancti Míchael, Gábriel et Ráphael. V. Saints Michael, Gabriel and Raphael.
R. Oráte pro nobis. R. Pray for us.
V. Omnes sancti Angeli. V. All the holy Angels.
R. Oráte pro nobis. R. Pray for us.
B. Patriárchæ et Prophétæ B. Patriarchs and Prophets.
V. Sancte Abraham. V. Saint Abraham.
R. Ora pro nobis. R. Pray for us.
V. Sancte Móyses. V. Saint Moses.
R. Ora pro nobis. R. Pray for us.
V. Sancte Elía. V. Saint Elijah.
R. Ora pro nobis. R. Pray for us.
V. Sancte Ioánnes Baptísta. V. Saint John the Baptist.
R. Ora pro nobis. R. Pray for us.
V. Sancte Ioseph. V. Saint Joseph.
R. Ora pro nobis. R. Pray for us.
V. Omnes sancti Patriárchæ et Prophétæ. V. All the holy Patriarchs and Prophets.
R. Oráte pro nobis. R. Pray for us.
C. Apóstoli et Discípuli C. Apostoles and Disciples
V. Sancti Petre et Paule. V. Saints Peter and Paul.
R. Oráte pro nobis. R. Pray for us.
V. Sancte Andréa. V. Saint Andrew.
R. Ora pro nobis. R. Pray for us.
V. Sancti Ioánnes et Iacóbe. V. Saints John and James.
R. Oráte pro nobis. R. Pray for us.
V. Sancte Thoma. V. Saint Thomas.
R. Ora pro nobis. R. Pray for us.
V. Sancte Matthǽe. V. Saint Matthew.
R. Ora pro nobis. R. Pray for us.
V. Omnes sancti Apóstoli. V. All the holy Apostles.
R. Oráte pro nobis. R. Pray for us.
V. Sancte Luca. V. Saint Luke.
R. Ora pro nobis. R. Pray for us.
V. Sancte Marce. V. Saint Mark.
R. Ora pro nobis. R. Pray for us.
V. Sancte Bárnaba. V. Saint Barnabas.
R. Ora pro nobis. R. Pray for us.
V. Sancta María Magdaléna. V. Saint Mary Magdalene.
R. Ora pro nobis. R. Pray for us.
V. Omnes sancti Discípuli Dómini. V. All the holy Disciples of the Lord.
R. Oráte pro nobis. R. Pray for us.
D. Martyres D. Martyrs
V. Sancte Stéphane. V. Saint Stephen.
R. Ora pro nobis. R. Pray for us.
V. Sancte Ignáti (Antiochéne). V. Saint Ignatius (of Antioch).
R. Ora pro nobis. R. Pray for us.
V. Sancte Polycárpe. V. Saint Polycarp.
R. Ora pro nobis. R. Pray for us.
V. Sancte Iustíne. V. Saint Justin.
R. Ora pro nobis. R. Pray for us.
V. Sancte Laurénti. V. Saint Lawrence.
R. Ora pro nobis. R. Pray for us.
V. Sancte Cypriáne. V. Saint Cyprian.
R. Ora pro nobis. R. Pray for us.
V. Sancte Bonifáti. V. Saint Boniface.
R. Ora pro nobis. R. Pray for us.
V. Sancte Stanisláe. V. Saint Stanislaus.
R. Ora pro nobis. R. Pray for us.
V. Sancte Thoma (Becket). V. Saint Thomas (Becket).
R. Ora pro nobis. R. Pray for us.
V. Sancti Ioánes (Fisher) et Thoma (More). V. Saints John (Fisher) and Thomas (More).
R. Oráte pro nobis. R. Pray for us.
V. Sancte Paule (Miki). V. Saint Paulo (Miki).
R. Ora pro nobis. R. Pray for us.
V. Sancti Ioánnes (de Brébeuf) et Isaac (Jogues). V. Saints Jean (de Brébeuf) and Isaac (Jogues).
R. Oráte pro nobis. R. Pray for us.
V. Sancte Petre (Chanel), V. Saint Peter (Chanel).
R. Ora pro nobis. R. Pray for us.
V. Sancte Cárole (Lwanga). V. Saint Charles (Lwanga).
R. Ora pro nobis. R. Pray for us.
V. Sanctæ Perpétua et Felícitas. V. Saints Perpetua and Felicity.
R. Oráte pro nobis. R. Pray for us.
V. Sancta Agnes. V. Saint Agnes.
R. Ora pro nobis. R. Pray for us.
V. Sancta María (Goretti). V. Saint Maria (Goretti).
R. Ora pro nobis. R. Pray for us.
V. Omnes sancti Mártyres. V. All the holy Martyrs.
R. Oráte pro nobis. R. Pray for us.
E. Episcopi et Doctores E. Bishops and Doctors
V. Sancti Leo et Gregóri. V. Saints Leo and Gregory.
R. Oráte pro nobis. R. Pray for us.
V. Sancte Ambrósi. V. Saint Ambrose.
R. Ora pro nobis. R. Pray for us.
V. Sancte Hierónyme. V. Saint Jerome.
R. Ora pro nobis. R. Pray for us.
V. Sancte Augustíne. V. Saint Augustine.
R. Ora pro nobis. R. Pray for us.
V. Sancte Athanási. V. Saint Athanasius.
R. Ora pro nobis. R. Pray for us.
V. Sancti Basíli et Gregóri (Nazianzéne). V. Saints Basil and Gregory (of Nazianzus).
R. Oráte pro nobis. R. Pray for us.
V. Sancte Ioánnes Chrysóstome. V. Saint John Chrysostom.
R. Ora pro nobis. R. Pray for us.
V. Sancte Martine. V. Saint Martin.
R. Ora pro nobis. R. Pray for us.
V. Sancte Patríci. V. Saint Patrick.
R. Ora pro nobis. R. Pray for us.
V. Sancti Cyrílle et Methódi. V. Saints Cyril and Methodius.
R. Oráte pro nobis. R. Pray for us.
V. Sancte Cárole (Borromeo). V. Saint Charles (Borromeo).
R. Ora pro nobis. R. Pray for us.
V. Sancte Francísque (de Sales). V. Saint Francis (de Sales).
R. Ora pro nobis. R. Pray for us.
V. Sancte Pie (Decime). V. Saint Pius (the Tenth).
R. Ora pro nobis. R. Pray for us.
F. Presbyteri et religiosi F. Priests and religious
V. Sancte Antóni. V. Saint Anthony.
R. Ora pro nobis. R. Pray for us.
V. Sancte Benedícte. V. Saint Benedict.
R. Ora pro nobis. R. Pray for us.
V. Sancte Bernárde. V. Saint Bernard.
R. Ora pro nobis. R. Pray for us.
V. Sancti Francísce et Domínice. V. Saints Francis and Dominic.
R. Oráte pro nobis. R. Pray for us.
V. Sancte Thoma (de Aquino). V. Saint Thomas (Aquinas).
R. Ora pro nobis. R. Pray for us.
V. Sancte Ignáti (de Loyola). V. Saint Ignatius (of Loyola).
R. Ora pro nobis. R. Pray for us.
V. Sancte Francísce (Xavier). V. Saint Francis (Xavier).
R. Ora pro nobis. R. Pray for us.
V. Sancte Vincénti (de Paul). V. Saint Vincent (de Paul).
R. Ora pro nobis. R. Pray for us.
V. Sancte Ioánnes María (Vianney). V. Saint John (Vianney).
R. Ora pro nobis. R. Pray for us.
V. Sancte Ioánnes (Bosco). V. Saint John (Bosco).
R. Ora pro nobis. R. Pray for us.
V. Sancta Catharína (Senensis). V. Saint Catherine (of Siena).
R. Ora pro nobis. R. Pray for us.
V. Sancta Terésia (de Ávila). V. Saint Teresa (of Avila).
R. Ora pro nobis. R. Pray for us.
V. Sancta Rosa (de Lima). V. Saint Rose (of Lima).
R. Ora pro nobis. R. Pray for us.
G. Laici G. Lay
V. Sancte Ludovíce. V. Saint Louis.
R. Ora pro nobis. R. Pray for us.
V. Sancta Mónica. V. Saint Monica.
R. Ora pro nobis. R. Pray for us.
V. Sancta Elísabeth (Hungariæ), V. Saint Elizabeth (of Hungary).
R. Ora pro nobis. R. Pray for us.
V. Omnes Sancti et Sanctæ Dei. V. All the Holy men and women.
R. Oráte pro nobis. R. Pray for us.
III. Invocato ad Christum III. Invocation to Christ
A. A.
V. Propítius esto. V. Lord, be merciful.
R. Líbera nos, Dómine. R. Lord, save your people.
V. Ab omni malo. V. From all evil.
R. Líbera nos, Dómine. R. Lord, save your people.
V. Ab omni peccáto. V. From all deadly sin.
R. Líbera nos, Dómine. R. Lord, save your people.
V. Ab insídiis diaboli. V. From the snares of the devil.
R. Líbera nos, Dómine. R. Lord, save your people.
V. Ab ira, et ódio, et omni mala voluntáte. V. From anger, and hatred, and all ill-will.
R. Líbera nos, Dómine. R. Lord, save your people.
V. A morte perpetua. V. From everlasting damnation.
R. Líbera nos, Dómine. R. Lord, save your people.
V. Per incarnatiónem tuam, V. By your Incarnation.
R. Líbera nos, Dómine. R. Lord, save your people.
V. Per nativitátem tuam. V. By your Birth.
R. Líbera nos, Dómine. R. Lord, save your people.
V. Per baptísmum et sanctum ieiúnium tuum. V. By your Baptism and holy Fasting.
R. Líbera nos, Dómine. R. Lord, save your people.
V. Per crucem et passiónem tuam. V. By your Cross and Passion.
R. Líbera nos, Dómine. R. Lord, save your people.
V. Per mortem et sepultúram tuam. V. By your Death and Burial.
R. Líbera nos, Dómine. R. Lord, save your people.
V. Per sanctam resurrectiónem tuam. V. By your holy Resurrection.
R. Líbera nos, Dómine. R. Lord, save your people.
V. Per admirábilem ascensiónem tuam. V. By your wonderful Ascension.
R. Líbera nos, Dómine. R. Lord, save your people.
V. Per effusiónem Spíritus Sancti. V. By the coming of the Holy Spirit.
R. Líbera nos, Dómine. R. Lord, save your people.
V. Per gloriósum advéntum tuum. V. On the day of judgement.
R. Líbera nos, Dómine. R. Lord, save your people.
B. B.
V. Christe, Fili Dei vivi. V. Christ, Son of the living God.
R. Miserére nobis. R. Have mercy on us.
V. Qui in hunc mundum venísti. V. You came into this world.
R. Miserére nobis. R. Have mercy on us.
V. Qui in cruce pependísti. V. You suffered for us on the cross.
R. Miserére nobis. R. Have mercy on us.
V. Qui mortem propter nos accepísti. V. You died to save us.
R. Miserére nobis. R. Have mercy on us.
V. Qui in sepúlcro iacuísti. V. You lay in the tomb.
R. Miserére nobis. R. Have mercy on us.
V. Qui a mórtuis resurrexísti. V. You rose from the dead.
R. Miserére nobis. R. Have mercy on us.
V. Qui in cælos ascendísti. V. You ascended to heaven.
R. Miserére nobis. R. Have mercy on us.
V. Qui Spíritum Sanctum in Apóstolos misísti. V. You sent the Holy Spirit upon Your apostles.
R. Miserére nobis. R. Have mercy on us.
V. Qui sedes ad déxteram Patris. V. You are seated at the right hand of the Father.
R. Miserére nobis. R. Have mercy on us.
V. Qui ventúrus es iudicáre vivos et mórtuos. V. You will come again to judge the living and the dead.
R. Miserére nobis. R. Have mercy on us.
IV. Supplicatio pro Variis Necessitatibus IV. Prayer for Various Needs
A. A.
V. Ut nobis parcas. V. Lord, be merciful to us.
R. Te rogamus, audi nos. R. Lord, hear our prayer.
V. Ut ad veram pæniténtiam nos perdúcere dignéris. V. That it may please thee to give us repentance.
R. Te rogamus, audi nos. R. Lord, hear our prayer.
V. Ut ómnibus benefactóribus nostris sempitérna bona retríbuas. V. That it may please thee to bestow on all our benefactors thine everlasting benefits.
R. Te rogamus, audi nos. R. Lord, hear our prayer.
V. Ut fructus terræ dare et conserváre dignéris. V. That it may please thee to give and preserve to our use the kindly fruits of the earth.
R. Te rogamus, audi nos. R. Lord, hear our prayer.
V. Ut nobis indulgeas. V. That it may please thee to pity and pardon us.
R. Te rogamus, audi nos. R. Lord, hear our prayer.
V. Ut mentes nostras ad cæléstia desidéria érigas. V. That it may please thee to endue our hearts with heavenly desires.
R. Te rogamus, audi nos. R. Lord, hear our prayer.
V. Ut ánimas nostras, fratrum, propinquórum et benefactórum nostrórum ab ætérna damnatióne erípias. V. That it may please thee to deliver from eternal damnation our souls, and those of our brethren, kindred, and benefactors.
R. Te rogamus, audi nos. R. Lord, hear our prayer.
V. Ut ómnibus fidélibus defúnctis réquiem ætérnam donáre dignéris. V. That it may please thee to bestow upon all thy faithful departed rest eternal.
R. Te rogamus, audi nos. R. Lord, hear our prayer.
V. Ut mundum a peste, fame et bello serváre dignéris. V. That it may please thee to keep us safe from disease, hunger, and war.
R. Te rogamus, audi nos. R. Lord, hear our prayer.
V. Ut cunctis pópulis pacem et veram concórdiam donáre dignéris. V. That it may please thee to bestow on all the people true peace and concord.
R. Te rogamus, audi nos. R. Lord, hear our prayer.
Precationes sequentes semper cantantur: The following are always sung:
V. Ut Ecclésiam tuam sanctam régere et conserváre dignéris. V. That it may please thee to rule and govern thy holy Church.
R. Te rogamus, audi nos. R. Lord, hear our prayer.
V. Ut domnum Apostólicum et omnes ecclesiásticos órdines in sancta religióne conservare dignéris. V. That it may please thee to preserve the Apostolic Lord, and to keep all orders of the Church in thy sacred religion.
R. Te rogamus, audi nos. R. Lord, hear our prayer.
V. Ut omnibus in Christum credéntibus unitátem largíri dignéris. V. That it may please thee to give all believers unity in Christ.
R. Te rogamus, audi nos. R. Lord, hear our prayer.
V. Ut omnes hómines ad Evangélii lumen perdúcere digneris. V. That it may please thee that all men be led to the light of the Gospel.
R. Te rogamus, audi nos. R. Lord, hear our prayer.
V. Conclusio V. Conclusion
A. A.
V. Christe, audi nos. V. O Christ, hear us.
R. Christe, audi nos. R. O Christ, hear us.
V. Christe, exáudi nos. V. O Christ, graciously hear us.
R. Christe, exáudi nos. R. O Christ, graciously hear us.
B. B.
V. Agnus Dei, qui tollis peccáta mundi. V. O Lamb of God, that takest away the sins of the world.
R. Miserére nobis. R. Have mercy upon us.
V. Agnus Dei, qui tollis peccáta mundi. V. O Lamb of God, that takest away the sins of the world.
R. Miserére nobis. R. Have mercy upon us.
V. Agnus Dei, qui tollis peccáta mundi. V. O Lamb of God, that takest away the sins of the world.
R. Miserére nobis. R. Have mercy upon us.
V. Christe, audi nos. V. O Christ, hear us.
R. Christe, audi nos. R. O Christ, hear us.
V. Christe, exáudi nos. V. O Christ, graciously hear us.
R. Christe, exáudi nos. R. O Christ, graciously hear us.
V. Kýrie, eléison. V. Lord, have mercy upon us.
R. Christe, eléison. Kýrie, eléison. R. Christ, have mercy upon us. Lord, have mercy upon us.
Oratio Prayer
V. Deus, refúgium nostrum et virtus, adésto piis Ecclésiæ tuæ précibus, auctor ipse pietátis, et præsta, ut, quod fidéliter pétimus, efficáciter consequámur. Per Christum Dóminum nostrum. V. O God, our refuge and our strength, hear the prayers of your Church, for you yourself are the source of all devotion, and grant, we pray, that what we ask in faith we may truly obtain. Through Christ our Lord.
R. Amen R. Amen
Vel: or:
V. Deus, qui nos cónspicis ex nostra infirmitáte defícere, ad amórem tui nóminis nos misericórditer per sanctórum tuórum exémpla restáura. Per Christum Dóminum nostrum. V. O God, who see that in our weakness we fail, mercifully restore us to your love by the example of your Saints. Through Christ our Lord.
R. Amen R. Amen

Traditionalist Catholic practice

In the late 1960s, Roman Catholic liturgical texts were changed according to the directives of Sacrosanctum Concilium, a key document of the Second Vatican Council. The texts in use immediately prior to the Council, those of 1962, may still be used today by priests of the Latin Church, freely if celebrating without the people, under the conditions indicated in article 5 of the 2007 motu proprio Summorum Pontificum if with the people.

The form of the litany in use prior to the Council is given in the Roman Ritual, published in a Latin-English edition in 1952.[18] The Catholic Encyclopedia article available online[19] entirely reflects pre-Vatican II usage.

This Litany of the Saints begins with a threefold Kyrie, followed (as in the current version) by invocations of God the Father of Heaven, the Son who redeemed the world, the Holy Spirit, and the Holy Trinity. The names of the saints follow:

The litany then twice pleads with God to be merciful, and this is followed by 21 invocations for which the response is Libera nos, Domine ("O Lord, deliver us"), then 17 petitions with the response Te rogamus, audi nos ("We beseech thee, hear us"). The final part of the litany consists of seven invocations of Christ, the first three under the title "Lamb of God".

Indulgence

The 2004 Enchiridion Indulgentiarum grants the partial indulgence to the faithfuls of Christ who piously pray the litanies.[20]

Pre-Vatican II text

The Latin text given below is the same as that published by Weller[18] but the English text differs. Weller does not include Psalm 69 and the text which follows below.

Latin and Greek (original) English (translation)
V.[16] Kyrie, eléison. V. Lord, have mercy.
R.[17] Christe, eléison. R. Christ, have mercy.
V. Kyrie, eléison. V. Lord, have mercy.
V. Christe, audi nos. V. O Christ, hear us.
R. Christe, exáudi nos. R. O Christ, graciously hear us.
V. Pater de cælis, Deus. V. O God the Father of heaven.
R. Miserére nobis. R. Have mercy upon us.
V. Fili, Redémptor mundi, Deus. V. O God the Son, Redeemer of the world.
R. Miserére nobis. R. Have mercy upon us.
V. Spíritus Sancte, Deus. V. O God the Holy Ghost.
R. Miserére nobis. R. Have mercy upon us.
V. Sancta Trínitas, unus Deus. V. O Holy Trinity, one God.
R. Miserére nobis. R. Have mercy upon us.
V. Sancta María. V. Holy Mary.
R. Ora pro nobis. R. Pray for us.
V. Sancta Dei Génitrix. V. Holy Mother of God.
R. Ora pro nobis. R. Pray for us.
V. Sancta Virgo vírginum. V. Holy Virgin of virgins.
R. Ora pro nobis. R. Pray for us.
V. Sancte Michael. V. Saint Michael.
R. Ora pro nobis. R. Pray for us.
V. Sancte Gabriel. V. Saint Gabriel.
R. Ora pro nobis. R. Pray for us.
V. Sancte Raphael. V. Saint Raphael.
R. Ora pro nobis. R. Pray for us.
V. Omnes sancti Angeli et Archangeli. V. All ye holy Angels and Archangels.
R. Orate pro nobis. R. Pray for us.
V. Omnes sancti beatórum Spírituum ordines. V. All ye holy orders of blessed Spirits.
R. Orate pro nobis. R. Pray for us.
V. Sancte Joánnes Baptista. V. Saint John the Baptist.
R. Ora pro nobis. R. Pray for us.
V. Sancte Josephe. V. Saint Joseph.
R. Ora pro nobis. R. Pray for us.
V. Omnes sancti Patriárchæ et Prophetæ. V. All ye holy Patriarchs and Prophets.
R. Orate pro nobis. R. Pray for us.
V. Sancte Petre. V. Saint Peter.
R. Ora pro nobis. R. Pray for us.
V. Sancte Paule. V. Saint Paul.
R. Ora pro nobis. R. Pray for us.
V. Sancte Andrea. V. Saint Andrew.
R. Ora pro nobis. R. Pray for us.
V. Sancte Jacobe. V. Saint James.
R. Ora pro nobis. R. Pray for us.
V. Sancte Joánnes. V. Saint John.
R. Ora pro nobis. R. Pray for us.
V. Sancte Thoma. V. Saint Thomas.
R. Ora pro nobis. R. Pray for us.
V. Sancte Jacobe. V. Saint James.
R. Ora pro nobis. R. Pray for us.
V. Sancte Philippe. V. Saint Philip.
R. Ora pro nobis. R. Pray for us.
V. Sancte Bartholomæe. V. Saint Bartholomew.
R. Ora pro nobis. R. Pray for us.
V. Sancte Matthæe. V. Saint Matthew.
R. Ora pro nobis. R. Pray for us.
V. Sancte Simon. V. Saint Simon.
R. Ora pro nobis. R. Pray for us.
V. Sancte Thaddæe. V. Saint Jude.
R. Ora pro nobis. R. Pray for us.
V. Sancte Matthia. V. Saint Matthias.
R. Ora pro nobis. R. Pray for us.
V. Sancte Barnaba. V. Saint Barnabas.
R. Ora pro nobis. R. Pray for us.
V. Sancte Luca. V. Saint Luke.
R. Ora pro nobis. R. Pray for us.
V. Sancte Marce. V. Saint Mark.
R. Ora pro nobis. R. Pray for us.
V. Omnes sancti Apóstoli et Evangelistæ. V. All ye holy Apostles and Evangelists.
R. Orate pro nobis. R. Pray for us.
V. Omnes sancti Discípuli Dómini. V. All ye holy Disciples of the Lord.
R. Orate pro nobis. R. Pray for us.
V. Omnes sancti Innocéntes. V. All ye Holy Innocents.
R. Orate pro nobis. R. Pray for us.
V. Sancte Stephane. V. Saint Stephen.
R. Ora pro nobis. R. Pray for us.
V. Sancte Laurénti. V. Saint Lawrence.
R. Ora pro nobis. R. Pray for us.
V. Sancte Vincenti. V. Saint Vincent.
R. Ora pro nobis. R. Pray for us.
V. Sancti Fabiane et Sebastiane. V. Saint Fabian and Saint Sebastian.
R. Orate pro nobis. R. Pray for us.
V. Sancti Joánnes et Paule. V. Saint John and Saint Paul.
R. Orate pro nobis. R. Pray for us.
V. Sancti Cosma et Damiane. V. Saint Cosmas and Saint Damian.
R. Orate pro nobis. R. Pray for us.
V. Sancti Gervasi et Protasi. V. Saint Gervasius and Saint Protasius.
R. Orate pro nobis. R. Pray for us.
V. Omnes sancti Mártyres. V. All ye holy Martyrs.
R. Orate pro nobis. R. Pray for us.
V. Sancte Silvester. V. Saint Sylvester.
R. Ora pro nobis. R. Pray for us.
V. Sancte Gregóri. V. Saint Gregory.
R. Ora pro nobis. R. Pray for us.
V. Sancte Ambrósi. V. Saint Ambrose.
R. Ora pro nobis. R. Pray for us.
V. Sancte Augustine. V. Saint Augustine.
R. Ora pro nobis. R. Pray for us.
V. Sancte Hieronyme. V. Saint Jerome.
R. Ora pro nobis. R. Pray for us.
V. Sancte Martine. V. Saint Martin.
R. Ora pro nobis. R. Pray for us.
V. Sancte Nicolaë. V. Saint Nicholas.
R. Ora pro nobis. R. Pray for us.
V. Omnes sancti Pontifices et Confessores. V. All ye holy Bishops and Confessors.
R. Orate pro nobis. R. Pray for us.
V. Omnes sancti Doctores. V. All ye holy Doctors.
R. Orate pro nobis. R. Pray for us.
V. Sancte Antoni. V. Saint Anthony.
R. Ora pro nobis. R. Pray for us.
V. Sancte Benedicte. V. Saint Benedict.
R. Ora pro nobis. R. Pray for us.
V. Sancte Bernarde. V. Saint Bernard.
R. Ora pro nobis. R. Pray for us.
V. Sancte Dominice. V. Saint Dominic.
R. Ora pro nobis. R. Pray for us.
V. Sancte Francisce. V. Saint Francis.
R. Ora pro nobis. R. Pray for us.
V. Omnes sancti Sacerdótes et Levitæ. V. All ye holy Priests and Levites.
R. Orate pro nobis. R. Pray for us.
V. Omnes sancti Monachi et Eremitæ. V. All ye holy Monks and Hermits.
R. Orate pro nobis. R. Pray for us.
V. Sancta María Magdalena. V. Saint Mary Magdalene.
R. Ora pro nobis. R. Pray for us.
V. Sancta Agatha. V. Saint Agatha.
R. Ora pro nobis. R. Pray for us.
V. Sancta Lucia. V. Saint Lucy.
R. Ora pro nobis. R. Pray for us.
V. Sancta Agnes. V. Saint Agnes.
R. Ora pro nobis. R. Pray for us.
V. Sancta Cæcilia. V. Saint Cecilia.
R. Ora pro nobis. R. Pray for us.
V. Sancta Catharina. V. Saint Catherine.
R. Ora pro nobis. R. Pray for us.
V. Sancta Anastasia. V. Saint Anastasia.
R. Ora pro nobis. R. Pray for us.
V. Omnes sanctæ Vírgines et Víduæ. V. All ye holy Virgins and Widows.
R. Orate pro nobis. R. Pray for us.
V. Omnes Sancti et Sanctæ Dei. V. All ye Holy, Righteous, and Elect of God.
R. Intercédite pro nobis. R. Intercede for us.
V. Propitius esto. V. Be thou merciful.
R. Parce nobis, Dómine. R. Spare us, Lord.
V. Propitius esto. V. Be thou merciful.
R. Exáudi nos, Dómine. R. Graciously hear us, Lord.
V. Ab omni malo. V. From all evil.
R. Líbera nos, Dómine. R. Good Lord, deliver us.
V. Ab omni peccáto. V. From all deadly sin.
R. Líbera nos, Dómine. R. Good Lord, deliver us.
V. Ab ira tua. V. From thine anger.
R. Líbera nos, Dómine. R. Good Lord, deliver us.
V. A subitanea et improvisa morte. V. From sudden and unrepentant death.
R. Líbera nos, Dómine. R. Good Lord, deliver us.
V. Ab insídiis diaboli. V. From the crafts and assaults of the devil.
R. Líbera nos, Dómine. R. Good Lord, deliver us.
V. Ab ira, et ódio, et omni mala voluntáte. V. From anger, and hatred, and all uncharitableness.
R. Líbera nos, Dómine. R. Good Lord, deliver us.
V. A spíritu fornicatiónis. V. From the spirit of fornication.
R. Líbera nos, Domine. R. Good Lord, deliver us.
V. A fulgure et tempestáte. V. From lightning and tempest.
R. Líbera nos, Dómine. R. Good Lord, deliver us.
V. A flagello terræmotus. V. From the peril of earthquake, fire, and flood.
R. Líbera nos, Dómine. R. Good Lord, deliver us.
V. A peste, fame et bello. V. From pestilence, famine, and battle.
R. Líbera nos, Dómine. R. Good Lord, deliver us.
V. A morte perpetua. V. From everlasting damnation.
R. Líbera nos, Dómine. R. Good Lord, deliver us.
V. Per mystérium sanctæ Incarnatiónis tuæ. V. By the mystery of thy Holy Incarnation.
R. Líbera nos, Dómine. R. Good Lord, deliver us.
V. Per advéntum tuum. V. By thine Advent.
R. Líbera nos, Dómine. R. Good Lord, deliver us.
V. Per nativitátem tuam. V. By thy Nativity.
R. Líbera nos, Dómine. R. Good Lord, deliver us.
V. Per baptismum et sanctum jejunium tuum. V. By thy Baptism and holy Fasting.
R. Líbera nos, Dómine. R. Good Lord, deliver us.
V. Per crucem et passiónem tuam. V. By thy Cross and Passion.
R. Líbera nos, Dómine. R. Good Lord, deliver us.
V. Per mortem et sepultúram tuam. V. By thy precious Death and Burial.
R. Líbera nos, Dómine. R. Good Lord, deliver us.
V. Per sanctam resurrectiónem tuam. V. By thy holy Resurrection.
R. Líbera nos, Dómine. R. Good Lord, deliver us.
V. Per admirábilem ascensiónem tuam. V. By thy glorious Ascension.
R. Líbera nos, Dómine. R. Good Lord, deliver us.
V. Per advéntum Spíritus Sancti Paracliti. V. By the coming of the Holy Spirit, the Comforter.
R. Líbera nos, Dómine. R. Good Lord, deliver us.
V. In die judícii. V. In the day of Judgement.
R. Líbera nos, Dómine. R. Good Lord, deliver us.
V. Peccatóres. V. Even though we be sinners.
R. Te rogamus, audi nos. R. We beseech thee to hear us, Lord.
V. Ut nobis parcas. V. That it may please thee to spare us.
R. Te rogamus, audi nos. R. We beseech thee to hear us, Lord.
V. Ut nobis indulgeas. V. That it may please thee to pity and pardon us.
R. Te rogamus, audi nos. R. We beseech thee to hear us, Lord.
V. Ut ad veram pœniténtiam nos perducere dignéris. V. That it may please thee to give us true repentance.
R. Te rogamus, audi nos. R. We beseech thee to hear us, Lord.
V. Ut Ecclésiam tuam sanctam regere et conservare dignéris. V. That it may please thee to rule and govern thy holy Church.
R. Te rogamus, audi nos. R. We beseech thee to hear us, Lord.
V. Ut domnum Apostolicum et omnes ecclesiásticos ordines in sancta religióne conservare dignéris. V. That it may please thee to preserve the Apostolic Lord, and to keep all orders of the Church in thy sacred religion.
R. Te rogamus, audi nos. R. We beseech thee to hear us, Lord.
V. Ut inimícos sanctæ Ecclésiæ humiliare dignéris. V. That it may please thee to overthrow the enemies of thy holy Church.
R. Te rogamus, audi nos. R. We beseech thee to hear us, Lord.
V. Ut régibus et princípibus christiánis pacem et veram concordiam donare dignéris. V. That it may please thee to bestow on all Christian kings and princes true peace and concord.
R. Te rogamus, audi nos. R. We beseech thee to hear us, Lord.
V. Ut cuncto pópulo christiáno pacem et unitátem largiri dignéris. V. That it may please thee to give to all Christian nations both peace and unity.
R. Te rogamus, audi nos. R. We beseech thee to hear us, Lord.
V. Ut omnes errántes ad unitátem Ecclésiæ revocare, et infidéles univérsos ad Evangélii lumen perducere dignéris. V. That it may please thee to restore unity to thy Church, and to lead all unbelievers into the light of thy holy Gospel.
R. Te rogamus, audi nos. R. We beseech thee to hear us, Lord.
V. Ut nosmetípsos in tuo sancto servítio confortare et conservare dignéris. V. That it may please thee to strengthen and preserve us in true worshipping of thee.
R. Te rogamus, audi nos. R. We beseech thee to hear us, Lord.
V. Ut mentes nostras ad cæléstia desidéria erigas. V. That it may please thee to endue our hearts with heavenly desires.
R. Te rogamus, audi nos. R. We beseech thee to hear us, Lord.
V. Ut ómnibus benefactóribus nostris sempitérna bona retríbuas. V. That it may please thee to bestow on all our benefactors thine everlasting benefits.
R. Te rogamus, audi nos. R. We beseech thee to hear us, Lord.
V. Ut ánimas nostras, fratrum, propinquorum et benefactórum nostrórum ab ætérna damnatióne erípias. V. That it may please thee to deliver from eternal damnation our souls, and those of our brethren, kindred, and benefactors.
R. Te rogamus, audi nos. R. We beseech thee to hear us, Lord.
V. Ut fructus terræ dare et conservare dignéris. V. That it may please thee to give and preserve to our use the kindly fruits of the earth.
R. Te rogamus, audi nos. R. We beseech thee to hear us, Lord.
V. Ut ómnibus fidelibus defunctis réquiem ætérnam donare dignéris. V. That it may please thee to bestow upon all thy faithful departed rest eternal.
R. Te rogamus, audi nos. R. We beseech thee to hear us, Lord.
V. Ut nos exáudire dignéris. V. That it may please thee graciously to hear our prayer.
R. Te rogamus, audi nos. R. We beseech thee to hear us, Lord.
V. Fili Dei. V. O Son of God.
R. Te rogamus, audi nos. R. We beseech thee to hear us, Lord.
V. Agnus Dei, qui tollis peccáta mundi. V. O Lamb of God, that takest away the sins of the world.
R. Parce nobis, Dómine. R. Spare us, Lord.
V. Agnus Dei, qui tollis peccáta mundi. V. O Lamb of God, that takest away the sins of the world.
R. Exáudi nos, Dómine. R. Graciously hear us, Lord.
V. Agnus Dei, qui tollis peccáta mundi. V. O Lamb of God, that takest away the sins of the world.
R. Miserére nobis. R. Have mercy upon us.
V. Christe, audi nos. V. O Christ, hear us.
R. Christe, exáudi nos. R. O Christ, graciously hear us.
V. Kyrie, eléison. V. Lord, have mercy upon us.
R. Christe, eléison. Kyrie, eléison. R. Christ, have mercy upon us. Lord, have mercy upon us.
Pater noster. (secréto usque ad) Our Father (which words are said aloud, and the rest secretly to):
V. Et ne nos indúcas in tentatiónem. V. And lead us not into temptation.
R. Sed líbera nos a malo. R. …But deliver us from evil.
Psalmus 69. Deus, in adjutórium Psalm 69. Deus, in adjutórium
1 Deus, in adjutórium meum inténde: * Dómine ad adjuvándum me festína. 1 Haste thee, O God, to deliver me; * make haste to help me, O LORD.
2 Confundántur et revereántur, qui quærunt ánimam meam. * Avertántur retrórsum, et erubéscant, qui volunt mihi mala. 2 Let them be ashamed and confounded that seek after my soul; * let them be turned backward and put to confusion that wish me evil.
3 Avertántur statim erubescéntes, * qui dicunt mihi : Euge, euge. 3 Let them for their reward be soon brought to shame, * that cry over me, There! there!
4 Exsúltent et læténtur in te omnes qui quærunt te, * et dicant semper : Magnificétur Dóminus : qui díligunt salutáre tuum. 4 But let all those that seek thee be joyful and glad in thee: * and let all such as delight in thy salvation say always, The LORD be praised.
5 Ego vero egénus, et pauper sum : * Deus, ádjuva me. 5 As for me, I am poor and in misery: * haste thee unto me, O God.
6 Adjútor meus, et liberátor meus es tu : * Dómine, ne moréris. 6 Thou art my helper, and my redeemer: * O LORD, make no long tarrying.
7 Glória Patri, et Fílio, et Spirítui Sancto. 7 Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost.
8 Sicut erat in princípio, et nunc, et semper, * et in sæcula sæculórum. Amen. 8 As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.
V. Salvos fac servos tuos. V. O God, save thy servants.
R. Deus meus, sperántes in te. R. That put their trust in thee.
V. Esto nobis, Dómine, turris fortitúdinis. V. Be unto us, O LORD, a tower of strength.
R. A fácie inimíci. R. From the face of the enemy.
V. Nihil profíciat inimícus in nobis. V. Let the enemy prevail nothing against us.
R. Et fílius iniquitátis non appónat nocére nobis. R. Nor the son of wickedness approach to afflict us.
V. Dómine, non secúndum peccáta nostra fácias nobis. V. O LORD, deal not with us after our sins.
R. Neque secúndum iniquitátes nostras retríbuas nobis. R. Neither reward us according to our iniquities.
V. Orémus pro Pontifice nostro (Nomen). V. Let us pray for our Pope (Name).
R. Dóminus consérvet eum, et vivíficet eum, et beátum fáciat eum in terra, et non tradat eum in ánimam inimicórum ejus. R. The Lord preserve him and keep him alive, that he may be blessed upon earth; and deliver not thou him into the will of his enemies.
(Vacante Apostolica Sede, Versus cum suo Responsorio præteritur.) (If the Holy See is vacant, the above Versicle with its Response is omitted.)
V. Orémus pro benefactóribus nostris. V. Let us pray for our benefactors.
R. Retribúere dignáre, Dómine, ómnibus, nobis bona faciéntibus propter nomen tuum, vitam ætérnam. Amen. R. Vouchsafe, O Lord, for thy Name's sake, to reward with eternal life all them that do us good. Amen.
V. Orémus pro fidelibus defunctis. V. Let us pray for the faithful departed.
R. Réquiem ætérnam dona eis, Dómine, et lux perpétua luceat eis. R. Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord; and let perpetual light shine upon them.
V. Requiéscant in pace. V. May they rest in peace.
R. Amen. R. Amen.
V. Pro frátribus nostris abséntibus. V. Let us pray for our absent brethren.
R. Salvos fac servos tuos, Deus meus, sperántes in te. R. Save thy servants, O my God, that put their trust in thee.
V. Mitte eis, Dómine, auxílium de sancto. V. Send them help, O LORD, from thy holy place.
R. Et de Sion tuere eos. R. And from Zion deliver them.
V. Dómine, exáudi oratiónem meam. V. O LORD, hear my prayer.
R. Et clamor meus ad te véniat. R. And let my cry come unto thee.
V. Dóminus vobíscum. V. The Lord be with you.
R. Et cum spíritu tuo. R. And with thy spirit.
Oremus. (Oratio) Let us pray. (Collects)
Deus, cui proprium est miseréri semper et parcere : súscipe deprecatiónem nostram; ut nos, et omnes fámulos tuos, quos delictórum catena constringit, miserátio tuæ pietátis clementer absolvat. O God, whose nature and property is ever to have mercy and to forgive : receive our humble petitions; and though we be tied and bound by the chain of our sins, yet let the pitifulness of thy great mercy loose us.
Exáudi, quæsumus, Dómine, supplícium preces, et confiténtium tibi parce peccátis : ut páriter nobis indulgéntiam tríbuas benignus et pacem. We beseech thee, O LORD, mercifully to hear the prayers of thy humble servants, and to forgive the sins of them that confess the same unto thee : that they may obtain of thy loving-kindness pardon and peace.
Ineffábilem nobis, Dómine, misericórdiam tuam clementer osténde : ut simul nos et a peccátis ómnibus exuas, et a pœnis, quas pro his meremur, erípias. O Lord, we pray thee, shew forth upon us thy servants the abundance of thy unspeakable mercy : that we may be delivered from the chain of our sins, and from the punishment which for the same we have most righteously deserved.
Deus, qui culpa offenderis, pœniténtia placaris : preces pópuli tui supplicántis propítius réspice; et flagélla tuæ iracúndiæ, quæ pro peccátis nostris meremur, averte. O God, who art wroth with them that sin against thee, and sparest them that are penitent : we beseech thee to hear the prayers of thy people that call upon thee; that we, which have most justly deserved the scourges of thine anger, may by thy great mercy be delivered from the same.
(If the Holy See is vacant, the following Collect is omitted.) (If the Holy See is vacant, the following Collect is omitted.)
Omnípotens sempiterne Deus, miserére famulo tuo Pontifici nostro (Nomen), et dírige eum secúndum tuam cleméntiam in viam salútis ætérnæ : ut, te donante, tibi placita cupiat, et tota virtúte perfíciat. Almighty and everlasting God, we beseech thee to have compassion upon (Name), our Pope, and by thy mercy govern him in the way of everlasting life : that, being endued with thy grace, he may ever seek those things that are pleasing unto thee, and with his whole strength perform the same.
Deus, a quo sancta desidéria, recta consília et justa sunt ópera : da servis tuis illam, quam mundus dare non potest, pacem; ut et corda nostra mandátis tuis dedita, et, hóstium subláta formidine, témpora sint, tua protectióne, tranquilla. O God, from whom all holy desires, all good counsels, and all just works do proceed : give unto thy servants that peace which the world cannot give; that our hearts may be set to obey thy commandments, and also that by thee we being defended from the fear of our enemies may pass our time in rest and quietness.
Ure igne Sancti Spíritus renes nostros et cor nostrum, Dómine : ut tibi casto corpore serviamus, et mundo corde placeámus. Grant, O Lord, we pray thee, that the fire of thy Holy Ghost may in such wise cleanse our reins and our hearts : that we serving thee in pureness both of body and soul may be found an acceptable people in thy sight.
Fidélium, Deus, ómnium conditor et redemptor, animábus famulórum famularumque tuárum remissiónem cunctórum tríbue peccatórum : ut indulgéntiam, quam semper optavérunt, piis supplicatiónibus consequántur. O God, the Creator and Redeemer of all them that believe : grant unto the souls of thy servants and handmaidens the remission of all their sins; that, as they have ever desired thy merciful pardon, so by the supplications of their brethren they may receive the same.
Actiónes nostras, quæsumus, Dómine, aspirándo prævéni et adjuvándo proséquere : ut cuncta nostra orátio et operátio a te semper incipiat et per te cœpta finiátur. Prevent us, O LORD, in all our doings with thy most gracious favour, and further us with thy continual help : that in all our works begun, continued, and ended in thee, we may glorify thy holy Name, and finally by thy mercy obtain everlasting life.
Omnípotens sempiterne Deus, qui vivórum domináris simul et mortuórum, ómniumque miseréris quos tuos fide et ópere futuros esse prænoscis : te supplices exorámus; ut, pro quibus effúndere preces decrevimus, quosque vel præsens sæculum adhuc in carne retinet vel futúrum jam exutos corpore suscépit, intercedéntibus ómnibus Sanctis tuis, pietátis tuæ cleméntia, ómnium delictórum suórum véniam consequántur. Per Dóminum nostrum Jesum Christum, Fílium tuum, qui tecum vivit et regnat in unitáte Spíritus Sancti, Deus, per ómnia sæcula sæculórum. Almighty and everlasting God, who hast dominion both of the quick and the dead, who likewise hast mercy upon all men, whom by reason of their faith and works thou hast foreknown : we commend unto thee all those for whom we now do offer our prayers, whether in this world they still be held in the bonds of the flesh, or being delivered therefrom have passed into that which is to come; beseeching thee that at the intercession of all thy Saints they may of thy bountiful goodness obtain the remission of all their sins. Through our LORD, Jesus Christ thy Son, Who liveth and reigneth with thee in the unity of the Holy Ghost, God, world without end.
R. Amen. R. Amen.
V. Dóminus vobíscum. V. The LORD be with you.
R. Et cum spíritu tuo. R. And with thy spirit.
V. Exáudiat nos omnípotens et miséricors Dóminus. V. May the Almighty and Merciful Lord graciously hear us.
R. Amen. R. Amen.
V. Et fidélium ánimæ † per misericórdiam Dei requiéscant in pace. V. And may the souls of the faithful departed, † through the mercy of God, rest in peace.
R. Amen. R. Amen.

Footnotes and references

  1. ^ Catholic Church; Abbaye Saint-Pierre de Solesmes (1979). Graduale Romanum. Paraclete Pr. pp. 831–837. ISBN 978-2-85274-094-5. Retrieved 28 October 2012.
  2. ^ a b "Graduale Romanum" (PDF).
  3. ^ a b c d The Litany of Saints in the Liturgy, William Fitzgerald, O. Praem., Adoremus November 2008, accessed 3 November 2021
  4. ^ The Roman Missal: English Translation according to the Third Typical Edition, version for England & Wales, Scotland and Australia, published by Catholic Truth Society, 2010, translated from the 2002 Latin edition of the Roman Missal as amended in 2008; rubrics at page 405; litany at page 406.
  5. ^ ICEL extract for singing the Litany at the Easter Vigil, accessed 8 October 2012
  6. ^ The Rite of Baptism of Children, version for England & Wales, Scotland and Ireland, published by Burns & Oates, 1992, based on the 1969 English translation of the rite by ICEL as amended 1984; short litany at page 20; extended litany at pages 165-166.
  7. ^ Ordo rituum Conclavis. Libreria Editrice Vaticana. 2000. ISBN 978-88-209-6943-1. Retrieved 28 October 2012.
  8. ^ Rite of Dedication of a Church and an Altar, 1978, ICEL
  9. ^ Body Theology: Litany of the Saints, accessed 28 October 2012
  10. ^ Circular Letter Concerning the Preparation and Celebration of the Easter Feasts (paragraph 23), Congregation for Divine Worship, 20 February 1988, accessed 28 October 2012
  11. ^ iBreviary Litany of Saints, accessed 28 October 2012
  12. ^ General Audience of 25 April 2007 - Origen's Life and Work; General Audience Address of 2 May 2007 - Origen's Thought; both accessed 28 October 2012
  13. ^ Martyrologium Romanum, 2004, Vatican Press (Typis Vaticanis)
  14. ^ Medieval Sourcebook: Fifth Ecumenical Council: Constantinople II, 553
  15. ^ Origen in Litany of Saints - thread on Catholic Answers Forum accessed 28 October 2012; Litany of Saints - thread on Musica Sacra Forum accessed 28 October 2012; Origen - Litany of the Saints? - thread on Defenders of the Catholic Faith Forum accessed 28 October 2012
  16. ^ a b "versus" (verse, sung by the priest)
  17. ^ a b "responsum" (the response, sung by the congregation).
  18. ^ a b The Roman Ritual in Latin and English with Rubrics and Plainchant Notation. Translated and edited by Philip T. Weller. Volume II: Christian Burial, Exorcism, Reserved Blessings, etc. Originally published 1952 by The Bruce Publishing Company, Milwaukee. Reprinted 2007 by Preserving Christian Publications Inc., New York. The Litany is on pages 453-457.
  19. ^ Litany of the Saints from the Catholic Encyclopedia accessed 28 October 2012
  20. ^ Enchiridion Indulgentiarum.quarto editur, Concessiones, 22 2°
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