Sunday, January 5, 2014

Compline During Epiphanytide

One of the unique features of the Dominican Rite of Office is the variability of antiphons at Compline during various seasons and on certain feasts.  This is particularly true during the seasons of Lent, Passiontide, Paschaltide, Ascensiontide, and through out the octave of Pentecost, when the hymn, Little Chapter, and responses change.




Throughout the season of the Epiphany (from the 1st Vespers of the Epiphany of the Lord until January 13th inclusive, the following two (2) antiphons are used at Compline each day.

The antiphon to the Psalms is:
Light from light, you have manifested yourself, O Christ.  The wise men offer gifts to you, alleluia, alleluia, alleluia.
The Psalms of Sunday are always prayed at Compline during this time, even on the feast of a Saint.

The antiphon at the Nunc dimittis is:
Alleluia.  All those from Sheba shall come, alleluia; they shall bring gold and frankincense, alleluia, alleluia.