English translation of
Attende Domine
Hear us, O Lord, and have mercy, because we have sinned against Thee.
Hear us, O Lord, and have mercy, because we have sinned against Thee.
To Thee, highest King,
Redeemer of all,
do we lift up our eyes
in weeping:
Hear, O Christ, the prayers
of your servants.
Hear us, O Lord, and have mercy, because we have sinned against Thee.
Right hand of the Father,
corner-stone,
way of salvation,
gate of heaven,
wash away our
stains of sin.
Hear us, O Lord, and have mercy, because we have sinned against Thee.
We beseech Thee, God,
in Thy great majesty:
Hear our groans
with Thy holy ears:
calmly forgive
our crimes.
Hear us, O Lord, and have mercy, because we have sinned against Thee.
To Thee we confess
our sins admitted
with a contrite heart
We reveal the things hidden:
By Thy kindness, O Redeemer,
overlook them.
Hear us, O Lord, and have mercy, because we have sinned against Thee.
The Innocent, seized,
not refusing to be led;
condemned by false witnesses
because of impious men
O Christ, keep safe those
whom Thou hast redeemed.
Hear us, O Lord, and have mercy, because we have sinned against Thee.
Click here for the Latin lyrics.
This is a Lenten hymn, calling on God to have mercy on us, who have been redeemed at such a great price. This chant is very simple, something that can be sung by a congregation without organ accompaniment -- convenient for a Lenten hymn. The Church does not want us to rejoice during Lent, so she silences the church organs for the duration of the holy season.
This hymn can be used at any time, but Lent is by far the most popular time this chant is used.
Return to Gregorian Chant Lyrics page
