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THE PRIESTLY OFFICE by GREGORY OF NAZIANZUS

First Line: IN SERVICE O'ER THE MYSTIC FEAST I STAND
Last Line: OF THEIR DEFILEMENT, AND AGAIN MADE BRIGHT.

IN service o'er the Mystic Feast I stand;
I cleanse Thy victim-flock, and bring them near
In holiest wise, and by a bloodless rite.
O fire of Love! O gushing Fount of Light!
(As best I know, who need Thy pitying Hand)
Dread office this, bemired souls to clear
Of their defilement, and again made bright.



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