Mary's hymn

"It is an excellent and fruitful custom of holy Church
that we should sing Mary’s hymn at the time of evening prayer.

"By meditating upon the incarnation,
our devotion is kindled,
and by remembering the example of God’s Mother,
we are encouraged to lead a life of virtue.

"Such virtues are best achieved in the evening.

"We are weary
after the day’s work
and worn out
by our distractions.

"The time for rest is near,
and our minds are ready
for contemplation."


from a sermon
by St Bede the Venerable
in today's Office of the Readings