Holy in marriage

Father, all-powerful and ever living God,
   we do well always and everywhere to give you thanks.
You created man in love to share your divine life.
We see his high destiny in the love of husband and wife,
   which bears the imprint of your own divine love.
Love is man’s origin,
   love is his constant calling,
   love is his fulfillment in heaven.
The love of man and woman
   is made holy in the sacrament of marriage,
   and becomes the mirror of your everlasting love.
Through Christ the choir of angels
   and all saints
   praise and worship your glory.
May our voices blend with theirs
   as we join in their unending hymn:
Holy, holy, holy…

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Glory to Christ

Church of Saint Jacob in Nisibis where Ephrem the Syrian ministered

I give you glory, O Christ, because you,
   the Only-begotten, the Lord of all,
   underwent the death of the Cross
   to free my sinful soul from the bonds of sin.
   What shall I give to you, O Lord,
   in return for all this kindness?
Glory to you, O Lord,
   for your love,
   for your mercy,
   for your patience.
Glory to you,
   for forgiving us all our sins,
   for coming to save our souls,
   for your incarnation in the Virgin’s womb.
Glory to you,
   for your bonds,
   for receiving the cut of the lash,
   for accepting mockery.
Glory to you,
   for your crucifixion,
   for your burial,
   for your resurrection.
Glory to you,
   for your resurrection,
   for being preached to men,
   for being taken up to heaven.
Glory to you
   who sit at the Father’s right hand
   and will return in glory.
Glory to you
   for willing that the sinner be saved
   through your great mercy and compassion.

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