Fr. Scott A. Haynes
Hermannus Contractus (1013–1054) is believed to have authored the hymn Alma Redemptoris Mater based on the writings of Saints Fulgentius, Epiphanius, and Irenaeus of Lyon. It is mentioned in The Prioress's Tale, one of Geoffrey Chaucer's Canterbury Tales. Traditionally, it is recited at the end of the canonical hours only from the first Sunday in Advent until the Feast of the Purification (2 February).
Latin Text
Alma Redemptoris Mater, quae pervia caeli porta manes,
et stella maris, succurre cadenti surgere qui curat populo:
Tu quae genuisti, natura mirante, tuum sanctum Genitorem:
Virgo prius ac posterius, Gabrielis ab ore sumens illud Ave, peccatorum miserere.
English Translation
Loving Mother of the Redeemer, who remains the gate by which we mortals enter heaven,
and star of the sea, help your fallen people who strive to rise:
You who gave birth, amazing nature, to your sacred Creator:
Virgin prior and following, taking from the mouth of Gabriel that Hail! have mercy on our sins.
Record Label: Sony Classical
Ensemble: St. Cecilia Choir, Chicago
Conductor: Rev. Scott A. Haynes
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