Father, all-powerful and ever-living God,
we do well always and everywhere to give You thanks.
For You are glorified in the assembly of Your saints,
for in crowning their merits, You crown the gifts You have given them.
In their lives on earth, You give us an example;
In our communion with them, You give us their friendship;
In their prayer for the Church, You give us strength and protection.
This great company of witnesses spurs us on to victory,
to share their prize of everlasting glory,
through Jesus Christ our Lord....
we do well always and everywhere to give You thanks.
For You are glorified in the assembly of Your saints,
for in crowning their merits, You crown the gifts You have given them.
In their lives on earth, You give us an example;
In our communion with them, You give us their friendship;
In their prayer for the Church, You give us strength and protection.
This great company of witnesses spurs us on to victory,
to share their prize of everlasting glory,
through Jesus Christ our Lord....
(Preface I of Holy Men and Women)
