Introit of Saint Agatha

Psalm 44:3

Let us all rejoice in the Lord, celebrating a festival in honour of blessed Agatha, Virgin and Martyr; at whose passion the Angels rejoice, and give praise to the Son of God. Ps. My heart hath uttered a good word; I speak my words to the King. Glory be to the Father.

Haydock

Verse 3. Beautiful. The corporal beauty of Christ may be problematical. H. — But justice is the truest beauty. S. Aug. — All admired his eloquence, (Lu. iv. 22. and Jo. vii. 46.) and innumerable converts were made, by the preaching of his word. S. Jer. — The young women here address the spouse. — Therefore, I say, (Rabbins) or “because” God hath chosen thee freely. Solomon was styled the beloved, (2 K. xii. 25.) and was highly favoured. Wisd. viii. 20. and 3 K. iv. 29. &c. But this was only a figure of Jesus Christ, (C.) whose hypostatical union was an effect of gratuitous predestination, (S. Aug. præd. xv.) though his other graces were merited. S. Chrys. Sa. C. — He was most excellent in all sorts of gifts. W.

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