_The 'Magnificat.'_
The _Magnificat_ is the first Canticle of the New Testament and the
most magnificent Canticle of Holy Scripture. It presents us with most
sublime ideas of the greatness of God, and is sung on solemn
festivals, whilst Priests stand and incense the Altar.
We recite the _Magnificat_ to thank God for all the graces bestowed
upon the Most Holy Virgin. It is the only work she ever composed, and
contains mysteries far surpassing our understanding. Hence this
proverb was familiar amongst the ancient authors when they spoke of
one who meddled with things beyond his capacity; such a one would
_correct the Magnificat._
The Blessed Juliana had a special affection for this Canticle.
Speaking of it one day to the Superior of a convent, she declared that
she would not sacrifice the sweetness she experienced in reciting it
for all the gold that the convent could contain. She repeated it nine
times a day, in memory of the nine months that the Most Holy Virgin
bore the Redeemer of the world in her womb; and she desired ardently
that all would follow her example, believing it impossible that Mary
would not hear those who share in the joy she manifests in this
Canticle.
Cardinal J. de Vitry, in the life of Ste. Marie de Ogniez, relates
that when this Saint was near death, and was singing the _Magnificat_,
the Mother of God appeared to her and told her to receive Extreme
Unction, and she remained by her bedside in company with her Divine
Son until the Saint expired.
St. Anselm relates of himself that when he was afflicted with various
infirmities, which occasioned him the most acute suffering, he was
perfectly cured by reciting the _Magnificat._
_Prayer._--August Mother of God, you are the Queen of Mercy, and I am
the most miserable of sinners, and consequently your subject. You
should then have greater compassion for me than for anyone less
sinful. _Eia ergo advocata nostra, illos tuos misericordes oculos ad
nos converte._
O, our refuge and our advocate, turn one look of mercy towards us;
interest yourself in our behalf; be moved to compassion for our evils,
and obtain their cure. Deliver us from our miseries, and we shall
never cease to sing the hymn of praise to your mercy, of which we have
experienced the salutary effects. Amen.
_Ejaculation._--Pray for me, O Mother of Grace, O Mother of Mercy!
_Practice._--Whilst you fulfil the duties of your state in imitation
of Martha, endeavour to have your mind and heart turned to Jesus as
Mary had.