ATTENDE DOMINE

This handwritten sheet brings together two deeply moving pieces of the Church's liturgical life, each serving a distinct moment of solemn petition. The first is "Attende Domine," a classic Latin chant traditionally sung during the season of Lent. Its refrain—"Hear us, O Lord, and have mercy, for we have sinned against thee"—sets a tone of profound repentance. In the choir loft, this piece is often used as an entrance or offertory hymn during Lenten Masses, guiding the congregation into a spirit of reflection and sorrow for sin. The verses, sung to a simple, flowing solfa melody, call upon Christ the Redeemer to wash away our offenses and hear our weeping prayers.

The second piece on the page, "For Saints of God," shifts our focus to the rites of Christian burial. Set to the familiar "Old 100th" tune (as noted on the score), this text is the traditional Subvenite responsory sung as a soul is commended to God. The cantor's verses call upon the angels and saints to come to the aid of the departed, while the choir and congregation respond with the comforting plea: "Receive his soul and present him to God the Most High." Together, these two pieces offer choirs a practical and beautiful resource for both the penitential journey of Lent and the tender, hopeful farewell of a funeral liturgy.