A reading from the book of Wisdom.

That night had been foretold to our ancestors,

so that, once they saw what kind of oaths they had put their trust in,
they would joyfully take courage.

This was the expectation of your people,

the saving of the virtuous and the ruin of their enemies;

for by the same act with which you took vengeance on our foes,
you made us glorious by calling us to you.

The devout children of worthy parents offered sacrifice in secret
and this divine pact they struck with one accord:

that the saints would share the same blessings and dangers alike.

The Word of God Recorded in the book of Wisdom.

R: Happy the people who are chosen to be God’s own.

Ring out your joy to the Creator, O you just;

for praise is fitting for loyal hearts.

They are happy whose God is the Creator,

the people God has chosen.

R: Happy the people who are chosen to be God’s own.

The Creator looks on those who stand in reverence,

on those who hope in God’s love,

To rescue their souls from death,

to keep them alive in famine.

R: Happy the people who are chosen to be God’s own.

Our souls are waiting for God,

our help and our shield.

May Your love be upon us, O God,

as we place all our hope in You.

R: Happy the people who are chosen to be God’s own.