O Sanctissima
This Marian hymn is from around the 18th century. This particular version, by the Cathedral Singers of Richard Proulx, is highly abridged of the original. The three beautiful paintings are 'The Annunciation' (Francesco de Mura), 'The Song of the Angels' (William Bouguereau), and 'The Annunciation' (supposedly Andrea del Sarto, but I have my doubts). The lyrics of this version and the rough English translation are as follows: O sanctissima, O piissima, Dulcis Virgo Maria! Mater amata, Intemerata: Ora, ora pro nobis! Tua guadia Et suspiria Juvent nos, O Maria! In te speramus, Ad te clamamus, Ora, ora pro nobis! O most holy one, O most lowly one, Loving virgin, Mary! Mother of tender love, Queen of the heavens above, Pray for us here below! Virgin ever fair, hear our fervent prayer, Look upon us, Mary! Bring to us your treasure, grace beyond measure; Pray for us here below!
