The Word, coming forth from on high, yet not leaving the Father's right hand, going out to His own work, came to the evening of life. About to be handed over to His enemies by a disciple unto death, He first gave Himself to His disciples in the food of life. To them, under a twofold appearance, He gave His flesh and His blood, that He might feed the whole man of twofold substance. Being born, He gave Himself as a companion; feasting together, He gave Himself as nourishment; dying, He gave Himself as a ransom; reigning, He gives Himself as a reward. O saving Victim, who openest the gate of heaven: hostile wars press hard; give strength, bring aid. To the Lord, one and three, be everlasting glory, who grants us life without end in our homeland. Amen.