Sunday, December 5, 2010

Je Suis L'Immaculee Conception




"I am the Immaculate Conception"


These words, spoken on March 25, 1858, the Marian Feast of the Annunciation to St. Bernadette Soubirous of Lourdes, France changed the course of history forever.

Here are a couple of musical scores by Franz Biebl and Josquin des Pres in honor of Mary Mother of the True God Immaculately Conceived:

Josquin des Pres (c. 1440-1521) Missa Mater Patris

The lyrics to Josquin's Ave Maria comprises one of the most touching hymns to Our Lady.

Hail Mary, full of grace,
The Lord is with thee, gentle Virgin.
Hail, thou whose Conception,
Full of solemn joy,
Fills heaven and earth
With new gladness.
Hail, thou whose Nativity
Became our great celebration,
As the light-bringing rising light
Coming before the true sun.
Hail, blessed humility,
Fertility without man,
Whose Annunciation
Was our salvation.
Hail, true virginity,
Immaculate chastity,
Whose Purification
Was our cleansing.
Hail, glorious one
In all angelic virtures,
Whose Assumption
Was our glorification.
O Mother of God,
Remember me.
Amen.

No comments: