of my own nothingness, with the adoration of Latria. Without limit I submit myself to so great a majesty, and I render it all the reverence and honour I am able.
2. I am also content, most content, to be nothing, and capable of nothing, unless it come from thee. And indeed I would neither be, nor be able to do, any thing except in dependence on thee.
3. I therefore invite and invoke the most holy Virgin, the blessed spirits, and all the court of heaven, nay, all creatures whatsoever, to acknowledge, reverence, and adore, with me, so great a majesty; and in company with them, I now confess and adore thee. Moreover, in this act of mine I offer to thee all other adorations and acts of worship which have been hitherto, or ought to have been made to thee. Thus collected and bound up together, I offer and dedicate them all to thee.
4. Lastly, O my God, I consecrate all things whatsoever to thee, who art the absolute Lord of all. And, in particular, I offer and devote to thee each of my thoughts, words, and works, both interior and exterior. One thing only I implore of thee, that thy beloved will may be most perfectly fulfilled in me, by which thou hast created me, and called me to serve thee. Amen.
VI.
Act of Praise and Gratulation
Praise the Lord, all ye nations.[1]
The praise that is given to God consists, as we learn from Holy Scripture, in every act of virtue, whether of the heart or lips, or manifested outwardly in deed, which is done to display the excellence of the divine power . And gratulation is an act of joy felt at the good of another, which he has already obtained, and has in possession.
1. By the help of thy grace, then, O Lord, I now desire to call forth these acts; and to excite my heart by saying, from my inmost soul: My most glorious God and Lord, with joy of heart I declare, proclaim, publish, and make known to the whole world, as far as I know and am able, thy inestimable greatness, excellence, and magnificence; that thou art with out end or limit, unchangeable, and everlasting; most
- ↑ Psal. cxv. i.
