Ave Verum Corpus
Hail, true body,
born of the Virgin Mary:
Truly suffered,
died on the cross for mankind:
From who pierced side
flowed water and blood!
Be for us a foretaste
of death in the last hour!
O gentle Jesus!
O holy Jesus!
O Jesus, Son of Mary!
Click here for the Latin lyrics.
This hymn is short but sincere in expressing love for Our Lord in the Blessed Sacrament, the same Jesus born of the Virgin Mary. It is often used for a Benediction hymn. It makes a reference to a verse in the Vidi Aquam, "I saw water coming forth from the temple on the right side, alleluia:". When Our Lord's side was pierced on Calvary, blood and water flowed from His open side, from which was born the Church, His bride. Just as Adam's bride was taken from his side, so also the New Adam, Christ.
This is found on the following CD(s):
Chant Compendium 1, and
Chant Compendium 2.
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