1. Introduction
Soloists (SSTB) & Chorus
The grieving Mother stood
weeping by the Cross
where hung her Son.
2. Aria (Tenor)
Her spirit groaning,
saddened and grieving
a sword has pierced.
O how sad and afflicted
was that blessed
Mother of the Only-Begotten!
Who mourned and grieved
And trembled, when she saw
The punishment of her glorious son.
.
3. Duet (Soprano I & Soprano II)
Who is the man that would not weep
if he saw the Mother of Christ
in such torment?
Who could fail to feel sorrow
to regard the merciful Mother
grieving with her son?
4. Aria (Bass)
For the sins of His people
she saw Jesus in torment
and submitted to the scourge.
She saw her sweet offspring
forlorn in dying
as He yielded up His spirit.
5. Chorus & Recitative (Bass)
Ah, Mother, fountain of love,
to feel the force of grief
grant that I may mourn with you.
Grant that my heart may burn
in loving Christ, God,
that I may please Him.
6. Quartet (Soloists, SSTB)
Holy Mother, grant me
that I fix the wounds of the crucified
firmly to my heart.
Of your wounded son
who deigned to suffer for me
let me share the pain.
Let me truly weep with you,
grieve over the crucified,
as long as I live.
To stand by the cross,
willingly to join with you
in mourning I desire.
Virgin glorious among virgins,
be not now harsh with me,
make me to weep with you
7. Cavatina (Soprano II)
Let me bear Christ's death,
let me share his passion
And revere his blows.
Let me be wounded by his blows,
to be drunk with this cross
Out of love for your Son.
8. Aria (Soprano I) & Chorus
So fired and consumed with flames,
through you, Virgin, may I be defended,
in the day of judgement.
Let me be guarded by the cross,
strengthened by the death of Christ
cherished by grace.
9. Quartet (Solilist, SSTB) & Chorus
When the body shall die,
grant that my soul be given
the glory of Paradise.
10. Finale - Soloists & Chorus
For all eternity.
Amen.