The Writings and Prayers of St. John Gualbert

§ VI.

S. JOANNIS GUALBERTI

SCRIPTA ET PRECES.

THE WRITINGS AND PRAYERS OF ST. JOHN GUALBERT.

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Taken from:

Acta Sanctorum: Julii, (1867), tom. III, die 12, Com. Prae. §VI, pag. 307-312

https://archive.org/details/actasanctorum30unse/page/n352/mode/1up?view=theater

The translations are unofficial.

Marginalia included as {M: note }.

Redundant marginalia have been omitted.

[[ TRANSCRIPTION COMPLETE -- TRANSLATION IN PROGRESS ]]

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ON HIS WRITINGS:

{M: S. Joannes Gualbertus varia scripsisse fertur.} Sanctum nostrum varia scripsisse, quæ aut perierunt aut latent, colligo ex Andrea Januensi in Vita cap. 18, ubi sic habet : Collegit plurima sanctorum Patrum capitula, dicta, doctrinam et exhortationes, ex quibus adversus simoniam universos instruebat et armabat, quatenus illam non solum refugere, verum etiam possent impugnare.

{M: It is said that St. John Gualbert wrote various things.} Our saint wrote various things, some of which have either perished or remain hidden. I gather this from Andrew Januensis in the Vita,* ch. 18, where it has as follows: He collected of the holy Fathers numerous chapters, sayings, teachings, and exhortations, from which he instructed and armed everyone against simony, that they might not only escape it, but truly be able to fight it.

[*Vita sancti Iohannis Gualberti, by Andreas de Sancto Ambrosio Ianuensis]

Idem testatur Hieronymus Radiolensis libro de vita solit. cap. 17, his verbis: Joannes noster tum scito et gravi sermone, tum epistolis per amplam Italiam conscriptis, schismaticos, infideles, et pecunia corruptos reprehendebat et acriter damnabat, et pari modo domi forisque insectabatur.

The same is attested by Jerome Radiolensis in the book De Vita Solit.,* ch. 17, in these words: Our John, both in learned and weighty discourse, as well as in letters written throughout Italy, used to rebuke and severely condemn schismatics, infidels, and those corrupted by money, and in equal manner both at home and abroad he pursued them with hostile speech.

[*De vita solitaria ad eremitas cellarum Vallisumbrosae → On the Solitary Life for the Hermits of the Cells of Vallombrosa]

Quin imo Eudoxius Locatellus, apud Franchium lib. 7, pag. 165 cilatus, asserit, gloriosum Patrem S. Joannem divina virtute subito tantum acquisivisse scientiam, ut doctissimum sanctissimumque latinarum epistolarum librum composuerit. Nobis jam tantum duæ supersunt epistolæ. Prima ad Herimannum Volatrensem id est Volaterranum episcopum, quæ a B. Attone brevitatis ergo omissa, refertur a B. Andrea in. Vita num. 74. Altera, quam S. Pater jam morti propinquus de fraterna caritate dictavit, habetur apud eumdem B. Andream num. 112. Hæc pauca de illius scriptis ; nunc ad ejus preces pergimus.

Nay, still more, Eudoxius Locatellus, cited by Franchius in book 7, page 165, asserts that the glorious Father St. John, by divine virtue, acquired knowledge so suddenly that he composed a book of the most learned and holiest Latin letters. We now have only two letters remaining. The first one is addressed to Herimannus Volatrensis, that is, the bishop of Volterra, which is omitted for the sake of brevity by Bl. Atto and is recounted by Bl. Andrew in Vita num. 74. The other, dictated out of fraternal charity by the Holy Father now close to death, is found in the same Bl. Andrew's work, num. 112. These are a few remarks about his writings; now we proceed to his prayers.

ON HIS PRAYERS:

{M: Petitioni Vallumbrosanorum satisfacturi,} Anno 1698 D. Germanus Ruini sacrista Vallumbrosanus dedit ad Papebrochium litteras, quas hic præmitto, rescissis laudibus, quibus nos immerentes cumulat. Itaque in earum parte, quæ ad rem præsentem spectat, ita loquitur : Quoniam mei muneris est, antiqua Sanctorum nostri Ordinis Vallis-Umbrosæ gesta inquirere, et diligenter investigare ad Dei laudem ejusque servorum, operæ pretium duxi, accedente insuper beneplacito Reverendissimi P. Generalis D. Venantii Simi Tomani, circa vetustissimum Manuale manuscriptum, quo usus est S. Joannes Gualbertus abbas institutor, ejusque beati discipuli, Paternitati tuæ admodum Reverendæ aliquid sincere scribere. Hoc igitur sacrum Manuale, quod asservatur inter alias reliquias in sanctuario Vallis-Umbrosæ, uti videre est, et etiam vidit R. P. Mabilio monachus S. Benedicti, ut apparet ex suo Itinere Italico fol. 183, continet plures ac pias orationes et documenta, quæ licet sint forsan et aliorum sanctorum Patrum, tamen quia historice tenemus illas recitasse S. Joannem Gualbertum et dicta dedisse etiam documenta suis sociis, ut ex nostris Historicis apparet, ideo hæc sua eximia gesta, ne in umbris amplius delitescant, rogamus suppliciter, ut hoc breve spirituale exercitium orationum a me sincere collectum Theologi eximiæ Societatis tuæ in lucem istic edant ac benigne ad Acta Sanctorum inserant sive in annotationibus ad diem XII Julii ; de quo et gratias agemus singularissimas.

{M: To fulfill the request of the Vallombrosians,} In the year 1698, Dom Germanus Ruini, the sacristan of Vallombrosa, gave letters to Papebrochius, which I here present, omitting the praises which he undeservedly heaps upon us. Thus, in the portion relevant to the present matter, he speaks as follows : Since it is my duty to examine the ancient deeds of the Saints of our Vallumbrosan Order and to diligently explore them for the praise of God and His servants, I considered it worthwhile, with the additional approval of the Most Reverend Father General, Dom Venantius Simi Tomani, regarding the very ancient Manual manuscript used by Saint John Gualbert, the founder abbot, and his blessed disciples, to write something sincere to Your Most Reverend Fatherhood. Therefore, this sacred Manual, preserved among other relics in the sanctuary of Vallumbrosa, as you can see, and as Rev. Fr. Mabilio, a monk of St. Benedict, also witnessed in his Italian Journey fol. 183, contains numerous and devout prayers and documents, which may perhaps belong to other holy Fathers, nevertheless, because we historically hold that St. John Gualbert recited them and also gave these sayings and documents to his companions, as appears from our Historians, therefore, lest these his exceptional deeds remain hidden in obscurity any longer, we suppliantly request that this brief spiritual exercise of prayers, sincerely collected by me, be brought forth by the distinguished theologians of your Society into the light and benevolently inserted into the Acts of the Saints or in the annotations for the day of July 12; for which we will express our most singular gratitude.

{M: edimus hic preces, quibus S. Joannes Gualbertus usus est.} Libenter humanissimi viri petitioni annuimus, et totius Ordinis, quem intime veneramur, desiderio satisfacturi hasce preces et documenta hic subjungimus. Igitur D. Germani Ruini ecgraphum sic habet :

{M: we publish here the prayers which St. John Gualbert used.} With pleasure, we favor the petition of the most humane man, and, in order to fulfill the desire of the entire Order, which we hold in the highest esteem, we hereby attach these prayers and documents. Therefore, Dom Germano Ruini has the ecgraphum as follows :

HIS PRAYERS:

Imitemur sanctam Ecclesiam, cujus et membra sumus.

Let us imitate the holy Church, of which we are also members.

Manuele pag. 1

Cum a somno evigilas, crucis signum ✠ in labiis impinge.

When from sleep thou keepest vigil*, strike the sign of the cross ✠ upon thy lips.

[*evigilas: to be wakeful, to watch throughout the night ; alternatively: "when... thou rise".]

Manuele pag. 1

Ego te toto corde et ore confiteor et adoro Patrem et Filium et Spiritum sanctum, trinum in personis et unum in substantia.

With all [my] heart and mouth, I confess and adore Thee, Father, Son, and Holy Ghost, three in persons and one in substance.

fol. 1

Oratio Dominicalis. Credo.

The Lord's Prayer. I believe.*

[*It is unclear to the editor (LG) if this is meant as a simple aspiration, to be prayed verbatim, or if it is an admonition to pray often the Pater & Credo.]

fol. 1

Ego Joannes credo et confiteor fidem, quam sancti apostoli prædicaverunt, et sancti Patres in quatuor conciliis confirmaverunt.

*I, John, believe and confess the faith which the holy apostles preached, and which the holy Fathers in four councils** did confirm.

[*In the Roman Breviary, it is related (in the sixth Lectio of Matins for St. John's feast) that "When death drew near . . . . he caused these words to be written on a paper which he wished should be buried with him"]

[**This expression (quatuor conciliis) refers to the Nicene, Constantinopolitan, Ephesian, and Chalcedonian Councils (of which there were 2, 4, 1, & 1 respectively), these being the first eight ecumenical councils and all of those which had occurred by the time of our Saint.]

Ex Breviario S. Joannis Gualberti Ms.

Invoco Patrem et Filium et Spiritum sanctum, ut sit super me signum crucis et defendat me a malis operibus. Signaculum sanctæ crucis sit super me diebus ac noctibus.

I invoke the Father and the Son and the Holy Ghost, that the sign of the cross may be upon me and defend me from evil works. May the seal of the holy cross be upon me day and night.

[While reciting this prayer, the editor (LG) humbly recommends making the Sign of the Cross thrice over, first at the Thrice Holy Name, then at "sign," and at "seal."]

Ex Breviario S. Joannis Gualberti Ms.

{M: Gratiarum actio pro divinis beneficiis.} Gratias tibi ago, infinita misericordia, Domine Deus omnipotens, qui me per aquam sacri baptismatis et renovationem sancti Spiritus ab originalibus vinculis expedisti. Gratias tibi ago, qui me in te credere recte fecisti, et tuorum me fidelium numero sociare dignatus es.

{M: Act of Thanks for divine benefits.} I give thanks to Thee, infinite mercy, Lord God almighty, Who freed me through the water of holy Baptism and the renewal of the Holy Ghost from the chains of original sin. I give thanks to Thee, Who made me to believe in Thee rightly and deigned to join me to the number of Thy faithful.

Ex Manuali fol. 2

Domine Deus omnipotens, æterne et ineffabilis sine fine atque initio, quem unum in Trinitate et trinum in unitate confitemur, te solum adoro, te laudo, te benedico, teque glorifico, tibique misericors et clemens gratias refero, qui me exutum nocte perfidiæ et erroris, participem fieri tribuisti gratiæ tuæ. Perfice, quæso, Domine, cœptum in me opus misericordiæ tuæ. Dona mihi tempus cogitare, loqui et agere quæ placita sunt tibi, et gratuita me ubique pietate custodiens, fac me indignum et miserum ad tuam pervenire visionem. Amen.

Lord God almighty, eternal and ineffable without end or beginning, Whom we confess as one in Trinity and three in unity, I adore Thee alone, I praise Thee, I bless Thee, and I glorify Thee, and I give thanks to Thee, merciful and clement, Who, having stripped me of the night of perfidy and error, granted me to become a participant of Thy grace. Complete, I pray, O Lord, the work of Thy mercy begun in me. Grant me the time to think, speak, and act what is pleasing to Thee, and, guarding me everywhere with Thy gratuitous tenderness, make me, though unworthy and wretched, attain to Thy vision. Amen.

Ex Manuali fol. 2

Gratias tibi ago, omnipotens Pater, qui me dignatus es in hac nocte custodire. Deprecor clementiam tuam, piissime Domine, ut concedas mihi diem venturum sic peragere in tuo sancto servitio, in humilitate et discretione, qualiter tibi complaceat servitus nostra ; et præsta mihi hodie cum summa patientia tibi gratum exhibere servitium.

I give thanks to Thee, almighty Father, who deigned to keep me this night. I beg Thy clemency, most compassionate Lord, that Thou may grant me to complete the day to come in Thy holy service, with humility and discretion, in such a manner that our service is pleasing to Thee; and grant me today to present Thee an acceptable service with the utmost patience.

Ex Manuali fol. 2

ORATIONES DIVERSÆ.

DIVERSE PRAYERS.

Pro sensuum custodia Oratio.

Prayer for custody of the senses.

Mecum esto [Domine] Sabaoth mane cum surrexero ; intende in me et guberna actus meos et verba mea et cogitationes meas. Custodi pedes meos, ne circumeant domum otiosi, sed stent in oratione. Custodi manus meas ; sint puræ, mundæ et elevatæ sine ira et disputatione. Custodi os meum, ne loquatur vana, ne fabuletur sæcularia, ne detraham proximo meo, ne invitem alios ad vanum eloquium ; sed semper sim promptus ad laudem, tardus ad iram. Custodi aures meas, ne audiant detractionem, nec mendacium, nec verbum otiosum ; sed aperiantur quotidie ad audiendum, verbum Dei, ut tota die transeam in tua voluntate. Custodi oculos meos, ne videant vanitatem. Dona mihi timorem tuum, Domine, cordis compunctionem, mentis humilitatem, conscientiæ puritatem, ut cœlum aspiciam, terram despiciam, peccata odiam, justitiamque diligam in sæcula sæculorum. Amen.

Be with me, [O Lord] of Hosts, in the morning when I rise; incline unto me and govern my actions and my words and my thoughts. Guard my feet, that they wander not in the house idle, but stand in prayer. Guard my hands; let them be pure, clean, and lifted up without wrath and dispute. Guard my mouth, that it speak not in vain, nor talk secularly, nor detract my neighbor, nor invite others to vain utterance; but always be ready to praise, slow to anger. Guard my ears, that they hear neither detraction, nor lies, nor idle words; but open them daily to hear the word of God, that I may traverse the whole day in Thy will. Guard my eyes, lest they look at vanity. Grant me, O Lord, Thy fear, compunction of heart, humility of mind, purity of conscience, that I may behold heaven, despise the earth, hate sin, and love righteousness forever and ever. Amen

Ex Manuali fol. 2

Oratio ad Jesum.

Prayer to Jesus.

{M: Oratio... pro vario hominum statu.} Pie exaudibilis Domine Jesu Christe, exaudi me indignissimum peccatorem per interventum et meritum beatae et gloriosæ semper Virginis Mariæ Genitricis tuæ et omnium civium supernorum. Ecclesiæ tuæ Catholicæ fidem auge. Pacem tribue Papæ N. et omni huic Congregationi, consanguineis quoque nostris et principibus Christianis atque tua mihi charitate conjunctis ; etiam sua nobis munera largientibus, persequentibus et calumniantibus nos, omnibus, qui pro nobis implorant nomen sanctum tuum, vel qui pro se nos miseros apud tuam clementiam supplicare voluerunt ; nobis quoque peccatoribus remissionem et indulgentiam omnium tribue peccatorum. Infirmis salutem, lapsis reparationem, navigantibus et iter agentibus, iter prosperum et salutis portum ; afflictis et tribulatis gaudium ; oppressis relevationem ; captivis, vinctis et peregrinis absolutionem et ad patriam reversionem propitius concede.

{M: Prayer for people in various states [of life].} Lord Jesus Christ, tender and worthy of being heard, hear me, an unworthy sinner, through the intervention and merit of the blessed and glorious Ever Virgin Mary, Mother of Thee and of all the citizens of heaven. Increase the faith of Thy Catholic Church. Grant peace to Pope N. and all this Congregation, to our kinsmen as well as to Christian princes, and to me, united with Thy charity; likewise to those who generously bestow their gifts upon us, persecute and calumniate us, all who invoke Thy holy name on our behalf, or who wish for us wretched ones to supplicate before Thy clemency on their behalf; to us sinners also grant the remission and forgiveness of all our sins. Health to the sick, restoration to the fallen, to the traveler and the sailor, a prosperous journey and safe harbor; to the afflicted and the troubled, joy; to the oppressed, relief; to captives, prisoners, and pilgrims, graciously grant them absolution and return them to their homeland.

Ex Manuali fol. 12.

Oratio.

A Prayer.

{M: Orationes pro diversis.} Universis gradibus, qui in fide sanctissimæ Trinitatis in Ecclesia tua catholica communiter continentur, miserere, clementissime Deus. Propitiare omnibus in quibuscumque necessatibus atque miseriis constitutis, et universo populo tuo Christiano, quem pretioso sanguine redemisti.

{M: Prayers for diverse people/things.} Have mercy, most merciful God, upon those in every position in Thy Catholic Church, who maintain in common the faith of the most Holy Trinity.  Propitiate all who are in necessities and miseries, and all Thy Christian people, whom Thou hast redeemed with Thy Precious Blood.

Ex Manuali fol. 18.

Oratio.

A Prayer.

Reple corda nostra fide, spe et charitate, obedientia et humilitate atque patientia, et fac nostrum rectorem secundum cor tuum, ut faciat voluntatem tuam ad salutem suam et nostram. Amen.

Fill our hearts with faith, hope and charity, obedience and humility as well as patience, and make our rector according to Thy Heart, that he may work Thy will to his salvation and ours. Amen.

Ex Manuali fol. 30.

Alia Oratio.

Another Prayer.

Tribue, Domine, quæsumus, omni sexui et universæ ætati atque conditioni Ordinis Christiani mandatorum tuorum custodiam et suorum omnium veniam delictorum, et nobis miserere. Amen.

Grant, O Lord, we beseech thee, to each sex and every age and condition of the Christian Order to keep Thy commandments, and forgive all their offenses, and have mercy on us. Amen.

Ex Manuali fol. 18.

ALIÆ QUÆDAM PIÆ ORATIONES.

SOME OTHER PIOUS PRAYERS.

Oratio pro contemplatione cœlestis patriæ.

Prayer for the contemplation of the heavenly homeland.

Admonet nos B. Apostolus dicens: Si consurrexistis cum Christo, quæ sursum sunt quærite, ubi Christus est in dextera Dei sedens. Et iterum : Nostra autem conversatio in cœlis est. Lugeamus in hoc calamitoso itinere, quamdiu exulamus a patria. Transcendamus contemplationis pennulis cuncta, quæ cœperunt ex tempore et cum tempore finiuntur, et ad illam totis desideriis patriam mente volitemus, ad quam in tempore pergitur, sed sine tempore vivitur. Ad accendenda igitur nostra desideria, hos quinque canamus spiritu et mente quotidie Psalmos : Sicut cervus desiderat ad fontes aquarum, ita desiderat, etc.; Judica me Deus et discerne causam, etc.; Te decet hymnus, etc.; Quam dilecta tabernacula tua, Domine virtutum, etc.; Voce mea ad Dominum clamavi, etc.

The Blessed Apostle admonishes us, saying: "if you be risen with Christ, seek the things that are above; where Christ is sitting on the right hand of God" (Col.iii.1). And again: "But our conversation is in heaven" (Phil.iii.20). Let us lament in this calamitous journey, as long as we are exiles from our homeland. Let us transcend, with the wings of contemplation, all things that have begun in time and are finished with time, and with all our desires, let us fly in our minds to that homeland, to which in time we hasten, but in which we live without time. To kindle our desires, therefore, let us sing, with spirit and mind, these five Psalms: "Even as the hart desireth after the fountains of waters, so doth [my soul] desire," etc. (xli.2); "Judge me, O God, and discern [my] cause," etc. (xlii.1); "An hymn, [O God,] becometh thee," etc. (lxiv.2); "How beloved are thy tabernacles, O Lord of hosts," etc. (lxxxiii.2); "With my voice I have cried to the Lord," etc. (lxxvi.2)

Ex Manuali fol. 4.

Post orationem Dominicam isti Psalmi sunt suppliciter decantandi. Hi etiam in tribulatione mentem consolantur et sublevant : Usquequo, Domine, oblivisceris me in finem, etc.; Deus Deus meus aspice* in me, etc.; Deus in nomine tuo salvum me fac, etc.; Miserere mei Deus, quoniam conculcavit me homo, etc.; Deus in adjutorium meum intende, etc.; Eripe me, Domine, ab homine malo, etc.; Domine Deus salutis meæ, etc.

After the Lord's Prayer, these Psalms are to be suppliantly sung. These also console and lift the mind in tribulation : "How long, O Lord, wilt thou forget me unto the end," etc. (xii.1); "God my God, look upon me*" etc. (xxi.2); "O God, save me in thy name," etc. (liii.3); "Have mercy on me, O God, because man hath trodden upon me," etc. (lv.2); "O God, intend unto my help," etc. (lxix.2); "Deliver me, O Lord, from the evil man," etc. (cxxxix.2); "O Lord the God of my salvation," etc. (lxxxvii.2).

[*The editor (LG) could not find aspice (look/gaze on/at, see, observe, etc.) in any Latin edition; rather it reads respice (look back at; gaze at; consider; respect, etc.).]

Ex Manuali fol. 4.

Post modulationem Psalmorum Oratio.

Prayer after the chanting of the Psalms.

Liberator animarum et mundi redemptor Jesu Christe, Domine Deus æterne, Rex immortalis, supplico ego peccator immensam clementiam tuam, ut per modulationem psalmorum, quos ego míser indignus cantavi, liberes animam meam de peccato, et abstollas cor meum de malis et pravis et perfidis cogitationibus, et auferas corpus meum a servitute peccati, et repellas a me carnales concupiscentias, et eripias me de omni impedimento sathanæ et ministrorum ejus visibilium atque invisibilium et infidelium tuorum, qui quærunt impedire animam meam.

Redeemer of souls and savior of the world, Jesus Christ, Lord God eternal, King immortal, I, a sinner, supplicate Thine immense clemency, that through the singing of the psalms, which I, wretched and unworthy, have sung, Thou mayst free my soul from sin, and lift my heart from evil and perverse and perfidious thoughts, and remove my body from the slavery of sin, and repel from me the carnal concupiscences, and rescue me from every impediment of Satan and his servants, both visible and invisible, and from Thine unfaithful ones who seek to impede my soul.

Ex Manuali fol. 32.

Oratio pro defunctis.

Prayer for the dead.

Ne reputes, piissime Deus, peccata quiescentium fratrum meorum, vel eorum, qui mihi conjuncti tua charitate extiterunt, ut his, atque omnibus in tua fide defunctis digneris propitius æternam concedere requiem. Amen.

Count not, most compassionate God, the sins of my resting brethren, nor of those who have stood joined to me in Thy charity, so that to them and to all who have died in Thy faith, Thou mayst propitiously deign to grant eternal rest. Amen.

Ex Manuali fol. 20.

In tentatione immundorum spirituum consolatio.

Consolation in the temptation of unclean spirits.

Consolatur nos in tentationibus dæmoniacis egregius Prædicator dicens : Fidelis autem Deus, qui non patietur vos tentari supra quam potestis, sed faciet cum tentatione etiam exitum, ut possitis sustinere. Quo circa sciendum est, quia judicii occulti mensura est, et quando tentationis procella prosiliat, et quando quiescat. Certe, Euangelio attestante, diabolus nec manere in obsesso homine potuit, nec minus invadere bruta animalia non jussus præsumpsit. Quando ergo sua sponte nocere factis ad Dei imaginem hominibus auderet, cui si potestas summa licentiam non præberet grassari, nec in porcos valeret ire ? Nullo modo ambigendum est permissu æquissimi Judicis in electos ad tempus diabolum tentandi accipere potestatem, sed misericorditer Judex concedit, quod crudeliter hostis cuperet. Hinc est, quod fideli famulo de eodem Dominus dicit : Non quasi crudelis suscitabo eum. Hinc Esaias tentationibus fatigatam fidelem animam blandis consolationibus refovet dicens : Dixit Dominus Deus tuus ; ad punctum in modico dereliqui te, et in miserationibus magnis congregabo te. Item ibi : Abscondi faciem meam parumper a te, et in misericordia sempiterna misertus sum tui.

In demonic temptations, the singular Preacher consoles us, saying: "But God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above what you are able, but will also provide with the temptation an escape, that you may be able to sustain it" (cf. I Cor.x.13). About which it should be known, that the measure of the tempest of temptation, and when it surges, and when it ceases, is a hidden judgement. Certainly, as the Gospel attests, the devil could neither remain in an obsessed man nor even presume to invade brute animals without having been commanded. When therefore would he, who could not even depart into pigs if the supreme power did not supply license to prowl, dare, of his own accord, to harm humans made in the image of God? There is no doubt that by permission of the most just Judge, the devil is allowed to have power to tempt the elect for a time, but mercifully does the Judge grant what the cruel enemy would desire. Hence it is that the Lord says to his faithful servant about this: "I will not stir him up, like one that is cruel" (Job.xli.1). Hence Isaiah refreshes the faithful soul wearied by temptations with gentle consolations, saying: "The Lord thy God says; for a moment, a little while have I forsaken thee, and in great mercies will I gather thee" (cf. Is.liv.6b-7). Again there: "I hid my face a little while from thee, and in mercy everlasting have I had mercy on thee" (8b).

{M: et quinam psalmi in ea recitandi,}

{M: and which psalms to recite in it [i.e. temptation],}

Cum ergo in tentationem ad tempus incidimus, priusquam in delectationis aut pravi consensus labamur voraginem, clamemus medullitus*, clamemus valenter hos decantando Psalmos : Usquequo, Domine, oblivisceris me in finem. Ps. Deus Deus [meus], respice in me, quare me dereliquisti. Ps. Deus, in nomine tuo salvum me fac. Ps. Miserere mei, Deus, quoniam conculcavit me homo. Ps. Domine Deus salutis meæ. Ps. Deus, in adjutorium meum intende. Ps. Eripe me, Domine, ab homine malo.

When therefore we fall into temptation for a time, before we sink into the abyss of delight or perverse consent, let us cry out from the depths of our hearts, let us cry out vigorously, chanting these Psalms: "How long, O Lord, wilt Thou forget me unto the end?" (xii:2). Ps. "God [my] God have respect to me, why hast Thou forsaken me?" (xxi:2). Ps. "O God, save me in Thy name" (liii.3). Ps. "Have mercy on me, O God, because man hath trodden upon me" (lv.2). Ps. "O Lord the God of my salvation" (lxxxvii.2). Ps. "O God, intend unto my help" (lxix.2). Ps. "Deliver me, O Lord, from the evil man" (cxxxix.2).

[*medullitus : inwardly, from depths of heart/mind; from the marrow.]

Ex Manuali fol. 7.

Ad S. Crucem Oratio.

Prayer to the Holy Cross.

Adesto familiæ tuæ, clemens et misericors Deus, ut in adversis et prosperis preces exaudias, et nefas adversariorum per auxilium S. Crucis, quia in te passus est Salvator mundi, digneris conterere, ut portum salutis valeant apprehendere. Per Dominum nostrum Jesum Christum, etc.

Be present to Thy family, O clement and merciful God, that in adversity and prosperity Thou hear [our] prayers, and, through the help of the Holy Cross, upon which didst suffer the Savior of the world, deign to crush the wickedness of our enemies, that they may have strength to reach the port of salvation. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, etc.

Ex Manuali fol. 47.

Invoco Patrem et Filium et Spiritum sanctum, ut sit super me signum Crucis et defendat me a malis operibus ; signaculum S. Crucis sit super me diebus ac noctibus.

I invoke the Father and the Son and the Holy Ghost, that the sign of the Cross may be upon me and defend me from evil works; may the seal of the Holy Cross be upon me day and night.

Ex Breviario Ms. S. Joanni Gualberti prope finem.

*Crucem tuam adoramus, Domine, et sanctam resurrectionem tuam laudamus et glorificamus. Ecce enim propter crucem venit gaudium in universo mundo.

We adore Thy Cross, O Lord, and Thy holy resurrection we praise and glorify. For behold by the cross joy has come into the whole world.

[*This prayer is an antiphon which may be used on Good Friday, as seen here. A nearly identical Antiphon is also used, simply replacing crucem (cross) with lignum (wood [of the cross]), as here.]

Ex Manuali fol. 48.

Pro conservatione Congregationis Oratio.

Prayer for the preservation of the Congretation.

Ne des, clementissime Deus, hanc Congregationem in dispersionem, sed conserva eam propter nomen sanctum tuum.

Order not, O clement God, this Congregation into dispersion, but preserve it for the sake of Thy holy name.

Ex Manuali fol. 31.

Oratio.

A Prayer.

{M: pro... benefactoribus} Exaudi me, clemens et benigne Deus, pro universis fidelibus tuis, qui nobis eleemosynas suas dederunt, nec aspicias, Domine, peccata mea, sed fidem illorum, qui nobis in fidem tui nominis largiti sunt bona temporalia ; et tu, Deus, remunerator omnium bonorum, retribuere illis digneris pro parvis magna et pro terrenis promissa sempiterna, Salvator mundi, qui vivis et regnas in secula seculorum. Amen.

{M: for benefactors} Hear me, O clement and kindly God, for all of Thy faithful, who have given us their alms; look not, O Lord, upon my sins, but upon the faith of those who, in the faith of Thy name, have lavished temporal goods upon us; and Thee, O God, the remunerator of all goods, deign to requite them for the small with the great, and for earthly, with eternal promises, Savior of the world, who liveth and reigneth forever and ever. Amen.

Ex Manuali fol. 3.

Oratio.

A Prayer.

{M: pro... vario hominum genere.} Miserere omnibus catholicis tam vivis quam defunctis, et aversos a via veritatis dignare ad te convertere, ut te toto corde requirant. Et æterna protectione omnes conserva, ut nullis tentationibus a te separentur. Et præsta ut mortuis prosit hæc oratio servi tui ad emundationem delictorum seu levigamentum pœnarum. Tu, Deus magne et terribilis, misericors et amator hominum ; Tu scis quidquid singulis expediat, obsecramus clementiam tuam, Domine, ut juxta voluntatem tuam fiat nobis omnibus tam vivis quam et fidelibus defunctis, Salvator mundi, qui vivis et regnas, etc.

{M: for various sorts of people.} Have mercy on all Catholics, both the living and the dead, and deign to convert back to Thee those who have strayed from the path of truth, so that they might seek Thee with all their heart. And preserve all with eternal protection, so that no temptations may separate them from Thee. And grant that this prayer of Thy servant may benefit the dead, for the cleansing of faults or the alleviation of punishments. Thou, O God, great and terrible, merciful and lover of mankind; Thou knowest what is expedient for each; we beseech Thy clemency, O Lord, that according to Thy will it may be done for all of us, both the living and the faithful dead, Savior of the world, who liveth and reigneth, etc.

Ex Manuali fol. 31.

Oratio pro Gratiarum actione.

Prayer for an act of Thanks.

Gratias tibi ago, infinita misericordia, Domine Deus omnipotens, teque laudo et glorifico, qui me de æternæ mortis interitu, de pœnis ; et hujus carnis cruciatibus, in quo affligi dignus sum, hactenus liberasti. Tibi ago laudes et gratias, qui me de multis mortibus, de multis οpprobriis, calamitatibus et miseriis, de immanissimis diaboli laqueis, de immundis desideriis exemptum disruptis vinculis, quibus tenebar adstrictus, perducere dignatus es ad servitium tuum. Tibi ago laudes et gratias, qui me eripiens a jurgiorum procellis, das mihi servorum tuorum perfrui charitate. Quæso, Domine Deus meus, qui mihi usque ad præsentem horam, tuam misericordiam impendere dignatus es, dona mihi, toto corde, tota anima, totis viribus meis exquirere faciem tuam semper, et perduc me misericors ad tam suavissimam visionem. Amen.

I give thanks to Thee, O infinite mercy, Lord God Almighty, and Thee I praise and glorify, Who have thus far delivered me from the destruction of eternal death, from punishments, and from the torments of this flesh, in which I deserve to be afflicted. To Thee I offer praise and thanks, Who have deigned to free me from many deaths, from many opprobria, calamities, and miseries, from the most savage snares of the devil, and from foul desires, breaking the chains with which I was bound, and leading me into Thy service. To Thee I offer praise and thanks, Who, rescuing me from the storms of strife, grant me to enjoy the charity of Thy servants. I beseech Thee, O Lord my God, Who have deigned to bestow Thy mercy upon me up to this present hour, grant me with all my heart, all my soul, and all my strength to seek Thy face always, and mercifully lead me to that most sweet vision. Amen

Ex Manuali fol. 2.

Oratio ad B. Virginem Mariam.

Prayer to the Blessed Virgin Mary.

{M: ...ad Deiparam,} Te supplico, Virgo sancta Maria, mater Christi immaculata, puerpera, stella maris splendida, regina cœlorum digna, aula Dei munda, porta Christi conclusa, in mulieribus benedicta, super cœlos exaltata. Genitrix Christi, apud Filium tuum Dominum pro peccatis meis intervenire digneris. Nullus est enim in creaturis dignior te, quia ipse, qui creavit te, ex te natus est, et perinde nullum libentius exaudit, quam te. Sub tuis ergo visceribus confugio. Amen.

{M: to the God-bearer,} Thee I supplicate, Holy Virgin Mary, Immaculate Mother of Christ, Childbearer, Splendid Star of the Sea, Worthy Queen of Heaven, Pure Temple of God, Closed Gate of Christ, blessed among women, exalted above the heavens. Mother of Christ, deign to intercede for my sins before thy Son, the Lord. There is none among creatures more worthy than thee, because He who created thee was born of thee, and thus none is more readily heard than thee. Under thy womb, therefore, I take refuge. Amen.

Ex Manuali fol. 27.

Ad S. Michaëlem Archangelum.

To St. Michael the Archangel.

Obsecro te, gloriosissime Michael princeps exercitus angelorum, quem Jesus Dominus noster ideo voluit mortalibus manifestum fieri, ut quos ille de sub jugo dæmoniacæ servitutis, sanguinem suum fundendo eripuit, Tu eos ab illius insidiis angelica potestate protegas et virtute orationis defendas. Funde pro me quotidie preces tuas, ut donet mihi Dominus contra vulneratum superbum humilitatis fortissima arma, quibus et illi fortiter resistere valeam, et Domino nostro suppliciter obedire, et societatem Angelicæ beatitudinis, quam ille superbiendo perdidit, dignis ego obediendo operibus apprehendere valeam. Amen.

I beseech thee, most glorious Michael, prince of the army of angels, whom Jesus our Lord wished to be made manifest to mortals for this reason, that those whom He rescued from the yoke of demoniac servitude by shedding His blood, thou might protect them from the snares of the devil with angelic power and defend them with the strength of thy prayer. Pour forth for me daily thy prayers, that the Lord may grant me, against the distressed proud one, the strongest arms of humility, by which I may be able to resist him bravely, obey our Lord humbly, and, by worthy works of obedience, be able to cling strongly to the fellowship of Angelic beatitude, which that one lost through pride. Amen

Ex Manuali fol. 27.

Ad Sanctos Angelos custodes.

To the Holy guardian Angels.

Adsit, quæso, mihi beatorum Angelorum tuorum pia custodia ; et præsta, ut apud te pro me indignissimo Sanctorum tuorum agmina intercedant.

May the loving protection of Thy blessed Angels be present to me, I pray; and grant that, before Thee, on my behalf, the flock of Thy Saints may intercede.

Ex Manuali fol. 13.

Alia oratio.

Another prayer.

{M: ad... Angelos... defensores,} Angelum tuum sanctum nobis hic et ubique largire custodem et defensorem. Mutuam discordantibus charitatem, Infidelibus veram fidem, Defunctis parentibus et omnibus in fide quiescentibus indulgentiam tribue delictorum.

{M: to the defending Angels,} Grant to us here and everywhere Thy holy Angel as a guardian and defender. Bestow mutual charity on the discordant, true faith on the Infidels, and forgiveness of sins on our Deceased parents and all who rest in faith.

Ex Manuali fol. 13.

Ad Apostolos Christique discipulos.

To the Apostles and disciples of Christ.

Omnes Apostoli cum omnibus discipulis discipulabusque Domini mei Jesu Christi, orate pro me, ut abstrahat me Dominus a mundo, sicut abstraxit vos, et donet mihi sequi vestigia sua vel in extremo agmine nostro. Amen.

All Apostles with all disciples and female disciples of my Lord Jesus Christ, pray for me, that the Lord may carry* me away from the world, as He carried you away, and grant me to follow in His footsteps, even to the end of our march. Amen.

*Abstraho: to drag away from; to carry off to execution.

Ex Manuali fol. 29.

Ad Confessores.

To Confessors.

Obsecro vos, beatissimi confessores Christi atque Doctores : Cypriane, Basili, Gregori, Athanasi, Eusebi, Ambrosi, Augustine, Hieronyme, Leo, Germane, Ysidore, dignamini intercedere pro me peccatore, ut concedat mihi Dominus servare, quæ docuistis, et in vestro me faciat consortio gratulari.

I beseech ye, blessed confessors of Christ together with the Doctors: Cyprian, Basil, Gregory, Athanasius, Eusebius, Ambrose, Augustine, Jerome, Leo, Germanus, Isidore, deign to intercede for me, a sinner, that the Lord may grant me to keep what ye have taught and cause me to rejoice in your company.

Ex Manuali fol. 30.

Ad S. Benedictum Abbatem.

To St. Benedict, Abbot.

Obsecro te, beatissime Benedicte, dilecte Dei, intercede pro me servo tuo, et omni sancta hac tua Congregatione et pro universis sub tuo magisterio militantibus, simul et pro omni populo Christiano, ut purget Dominus cor et actus a cunctis vitiis. Tribuat mihi servare cuncta, quæ præcepit et custodire sanctæ regulæ tramitem, quem me servaturum spopondi.

I beseech thee, most blessed Benedict, beloved of God, intercede for me, thy servant, and for all this thy holy Congregation, and for all those fighting under thy guidance, as well as for all Christian people, that the Lord may purify our hearts and actions from all vices. May He grant me to observe all that He has commanded and to keep the path of the holy Rule, which I have promised to observe.

Ex Manuali fol. 29.

Pro benedictione cellarum monachorum Orationes.

Prayers for the blessing of the cells of the monks.

Benedic, Domine, quæsumus, cellulam istam, ut qui in umbra alarum tuarum speramus, ab omnibus insidiis dæmonum virtutis tuæ potentia tueamur.

"Bless, O Lord, we beseech Thee, this cell, that we who hope in the shadow of Thy wings, may be protected from all the snares of the demons by the power of Thy strength."

Ex Manuali fol. 21. 

Huic cellulæ, quæsumus, Domine, præsens adesto, ut caterva dæmonum conterrita effugetur. Per Dominum nostrum Jesum Christum, etc.

Be present, O Lord, we beseech Thee, in this cell, that the host of demons, terrified, may be driven away. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, etc.

Ex Manuali fol. 21.

Deus, quem nec spatia dilatant, nec brevitas locorum angustat, hanc cellulam, quæsumus, præsentiæ tuæ luce perfunde, ut tenebrarum auctor confusus abscedat. Per Dominum nostrum Jesum Christum, etc.

O God, Whom neither the expanses enlarge nor the narrowness of places confine, we beseech Thee, flood this cell with the light of Thy presence, that the author of darkness, confounded, may depart. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, etc.

Ex Manuali fol. 21.

Pro Silentio.

For Silence.

{M: ...admonitio...} Scriptum est, affirmante Apostolo, quia vita et mors in manu linguæ. Et iterum : Linguam nullus hominum domare potest. Quod ergo domare non potest purus homo, rogemus ut domet Deus et homo. Ergo ad obtinendam virtutem discreti silentii, supplici devotione hos canamus Domino psalmos : Verba mea auribus percipe, Domine. Ps. Dixi custodiam vias meas, ut non delinquam in lingua mea. Ps. Domine, clamavi ad te, exaudi me, etc.

{M: admonition} It is written (Prov.xviii.21), as the Apostle* affirms, that life and death are in the power of the tongue. And again: No man can tame the tongue (Jm.iii.8). Therefore, what a pure man cannot tame, let us pray that God and man may tame. Therefore, to obtain the virtue of discreet silence, with suppliant devotion, let us chant these psalms to the Lord : Receive, O Lord, my words with thine ears (Ps.v.2). Ps. I have said, I will keep my ways, that I offend not in my tongue (xxxviii.2). Ps. Lord, I have cried to thee, hear me (cxl.1), etc.

[*Peter? (cf. I Pt.iii.10)]

Ex Manuali fol. 12.

Oratio ad Patrem.

Prayer to the Father.

{M: ad SS. Trinitatem...} Deus ineffabilis, institutor omnium rerum, et Domini nostri Jesu Christi Pater, qui eumdem dilectum Filium de sinu tuo misisti ad publicum nostrum suscipere nostram vitam, ut nobis donaret suam, essetque perfectus Deus ex te Patre, et perfectus homo ex matre, totus Deus et totus homo ; unus idemque Christus, pastor et ovis, temporaliter mortuus, tecum in æternum vivens. Et nobis dixit : Quodcumque petieritis Patrem in nomine meo, dabit vobis. Obsecro te, ut des mihi cum eodem Filio tuo te in omnibus benedicere et glorificare ; quia quorum est una substantia, unum et datum. Des etiam mihi per illum et cum illo peccatorum omnium veniam, et mandatorum tuorum custodiam ; dilectionem tuam et fraternum amorem ; contra diabolum fortia arma, et erga fratres perfectam charitatem. Amen.

{M: to the Most Holy Trinity...}

Ex Manuali fol. 3.

Ad Filium.

To the Son.

Miserere, Domine, miserere, Christe, ut sanctam voluntatem tuam doceas me, ut in charitate tua enutrias me. Tu misericordia mea, miserere mihi, ut bene rogem te. Miserere, Domine, miserere, Christe, ut dignum me facias exaudiri. Miserere, Domine, miserere, Christe, ut credam in te. Miserere, Domine, miserere, Christe, ut cognoscam te, ut sperem in te, et ut diligam te, ut anima mea vivat in te. Amen.

Ex Manuali fol. 34.

Ad Spiritum sanctum.

To the Holy Ghost.

Miserere, Spiritus paraclitus, consolatio mea, illuminatio mea ; miserere, Domine Deus.

Have mercy, Spirit Paraclete, my consolation, my illumination; have mercy, Lord God.

Ex Manuali fol. 34.

Oratio præparatoria ad S. Domini Pascha.

Preparatory Prayer for the Holy Pasch of the Lord.

Donet mihi Dominus Deus timorem et pœnitentiam, spem et amorem ; auferat a me fermentum malitiæ et nequitiæ, et donet mihi continue celebrare Pascha suum in azymis sinceritatis et veritatis.

Ex Manuali fol. 2.

Ad accipiendum Corpus et Sanguinem Domini Oratio.

Prayer at the reception of the Body and Blood of the Lord.

Domine sancte Pater, omnipotens æterne Deus, da mihi Corpus et Sanguinem Filii tui Domini nostri Jesu Christi ita sumere, ut merear per hoc remissionem peccatorum accipere, et tuo sancto Spiritu repleri : quia tu es Deus, et præter te non est alius, cujus gloriosum nomen permanet in secula seculorum. Amen.

Ex Breviario Ms. S. Joannis Gualberti fol. 1.

Post S. Communionem Oratio.

Prayer after Holy Communion.

Tibi, Domine, ago laudes et gratias. Custodi, Domine, in me immaculatam fidem. Tibi inclino cervicem. Tibi genua flecto. Te Dominum meum, cum sis unus in S. Trinitate, confiteor. Erue me de periculis. Tuere me in omnibus causis. Erige me jacentem, et ea, quæ explere non possum, quasi sint postulata, concede. Amen.

Ex Manuali fol. 9.

Talem me perpetua defensione concede servare, qualem me fieri per aquam regenerationis, Creator altissime, præstitisti, quia tua gratia redemptus sum.

Ex Manuali fol...., prope finem.

{M: Quænam preces recitandæ sint ante somnum} Post decursum vero totius diei spatium cum [ad] lectulos venimus dormitum, votis omnibus rogemus Dominum cum Propheta dicentes : Illumina oculos meos, ne umquam obdormiam in morte. Neque enim melius mortuo dormit, qui a vespere usque ab mane obturato ore in laudem Creatoris, non tam somno, quam lethargia depressus, resupinus stertit in lectulo. Verum quia contra naturam est, insomnem vivere hominem, illum rogemus dormituri, qui non dormitavit neque dormiet, ut satisfaciamus dormientes non voluntati sed necessitati. Canamus propterea coram lectulo Psalmum VI : Domine, ne in ira tua arguas me. Congruit enim et rei et tempori. Possunt tamen continuare, sicut placet et non cedit pigritiæ, Psalmum XII : Usquequo Domine oblivisceris me in finem ; et Ps. Levavi oculos meos in montes.

{M: What prayers to be recited before sleep}

Ex Manuali fol. 20.

A facie impiorum, quesumus Domine, sub umbra alarum tuarum nos protege, ut ad laudem tui nominis resurrecturi, te super nos vigilante, securi dormiamus. Per Dominum nostrum Jesum Christum, etc.

Ex Manuali fol. 21.

Oratio pro patre et matre et omni parentela,

Prayer for father and mother and all relatives,

Dominator Domine, Deus omnipotens, qui mirabiliter cuncta condidisti et tua dispositione creasti omnia ; quia præcepisti dilectionem et honorem circa patrem et matrem exhibere, exaudi me misericors Deus clamantem ad te pro genitore meo et genitrice mea.

{M: Quinam psalmi canendi in tribulatione, et post liberationem ex illa.} Optimum Domino quinque Psalmorum propter tribulationem de percepto gaudio sacrificium. Ps. Exaltabo te, Domine, quoniam suscepisti me. Ps. Benedicam Dominum in omni tempore. Ps. Jubilate Deo omnis terra, psalmum dicite nomini ejus. Ps. Nisi quia Dominus erat in nobis, dicat nunc Israel. Ps. Confitebor tibi, Domine, in toto corde meo, quoniam exaudisti verba auris mei. Igitur cum pius Dominus dixisset : Invoca me in die tribulationis, et eripiam te ; pro ipsa ereptione quærens a nobis laudis debitum, subjunxit statim : Et honorificabis me. Ergo cum in tentationes varias inciderimus, vel falsorum fratrum, vel sævientium dæmonum, contra hostes illos divini verbi jacula intorquentes, cum illos defecisse et nos convaluisse viderimus, mox pura nostri cordis intentione oculos manusque levantes ad cœlum in voce laudis et confessionis benedicamus illi, qui misit de cœlo et liberavit nos et dedit in opprobrium conculcantes nos ; dicamus illi concordante corde et ore Ps. Exaltabo te, Domine, quoniam suscepisti me, etc.

{M: Which psalms to sing in tribulation, and after liberation from it.}

Ex Manuali fol. 9.

{M: Instructio pio oratione matutina.} Docent nos SS. Prophetæ suis imitabilibus exemplis prævenire faciem Domini mane orationibus nostris. Et David quidem : Et mane oratio mea preveniet te. Esaias autem sic : Anima mea desideravit te in nocte, sed et spiritu meo in præcordiis meis de mane vigilabo ad te. Cum his ergo tribus congruentissimis Psalmis vigilet ad Dominum mane et spiritus noster, oremusque in ortu surgentis auroræ, ut a luce prima in vesperum sint oculi ejus super nos, et aures ejus in preces nostras, nostrosque dirigat gressus in viam pacis, ut absque errorum scandalo gradientes, non dominetur nostri omnis injustitia. Hos ergo canamus in ipso diei initio Psalmos : Ps. Verba mea auribus percipe, Domine. Ps. Clamavi in toto corde meo, exaudi me, Domine. Ps. Domine, exaudi orationem meam, auribus percipe obsecrationem meam, etc. Oratio Dominica. Credo. Symbolum S. Athanasii : Quicumque vult salvus esse. Litaniæ, etc. Et quidam versiculi ex Psalmis cum canticis, etc. Finit.

{M: Pious instruction on morning prayer.}

{M: Quid notandum circa has preces.} An prædictæ preces sint sancti Joannis Gualberti autographæ, an ab eo collectæ ac ab altero descriptæ, aut ab illo tantum usurpatæ, hactenus me latet. Saltem ob antiquitatem et sanctissimi Viri usum nobis sunt venerandæ. Si mihi Manuale istud videre contigisset, facile potuissem discernere, an sit Sancti nostri autographum, cum characterem, propria ejus manu expressum, et instrumento anni 1072 subnotatum, invenerim apud Franchium lib. 12, pag. 489. Non ingratum fore arbitror, si paleophilis hanc subscriptionem hic exhibeam.

{M: What to note about these prayers.} Whether the above prayers are autographs of Saint John Gualbert, whether they were collected by him and transcribed by another, or they were merely used by him, remains unknown to me. At the least, they are venerable to us due to their antiquity and use by the most holy Man. If I had been able to see this Manual, I would have easily been able to discern whether it is the autograph of our Saint, since I found the mark, expressed in his own hand, and the document subscribed the year 1072, in Franchium bk. 12, pag. 489. I do not think it would be ungrateful to present this subscription here to paleographers.