Table Blessing for the Feast of the Visitation, May 31
We remember today the visiting of Mary to her cousin Elizabeth and the wonderful prayer of the Magnificat.
Reading
Having begotten God in her womb, the Virgin hastened to Elizabeth, whose child understood the greeting and rejoiced with leapings as with songs, crying to the Mother of God:
Rejoice, O flower of unwithering stem!
Rejoice, O gift of an incorruptible fruit!
Rejoice, O fountain of the source of life, the lover of humanity!
Rejoice, O Mother of the Son of God the Father!
Rejoice, O field, a harvest of mercy!
Rejoice, O banquet, a feast of purity!
Rejoice, O flower, a meadow of delights!
Rejoice, O guide, the harbor of souls!
Rejoice, O acceptable incense of prayers!
Rejoice, O purification of the universe!
Rejoice, O goodness of God toward the dead!
Rejoice, O boldness of dead toward God!
Rejoice, O unwedded bride! (Akathist Hymn)
Responsory
Verse: When Elizabeth heard Mary's greeting, she said: Response: "Who am I that the mother of my Lord should come to me?"
The Lord's Prayer
Blessing
Blessed be you, God of mercy and compassion, for you inspired Mary, the humble maiden of Nazareth, to visit her cousin Elizabeth and to assist her in her earthly needs. Help us, that following Mary's example we may remain always open to the needs and sufferings of others. Strengthen us with the nourishment of this meal, and bring us one day to love's eternal feast in your kingdom. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.