Page 19 - Music for Common Worship Compline

Notes from Common Worship: Night Prayer (Compline) inTraditional Language
The ancient office of Compline derives its name from a Latin word meaning ‘completion’ (completorium). It is above all a service of quietness and reflection before rest at the end of the day. It is most effective when the ending is indeed an ending, without additions, conversation or noise. If there is an address, or business to be done, it should come first. If the service is in church, those present depart in silence; if at home, they go quietly to bed.
Psalms. If it is desired to use an unchanging pattern of psalmody for Night Prayer, the psalms printed in the text are used. However, verses from other psalms may be used instead, particularly if Night Prayer is said daily – Saturday: as set; Sunday: Psalm 104; Monday: Psalm 86; Tuesday: Psalm 143; Wednesday: Psalm 31; Thursday: Psalm 16; Friday: Psalm 139.
Thanksgiving. Night Prayer may begin with the Prayer of Thanksgiving from Evening Prayer.
Gospel Reading. On suitable occasions, particularly Saturday night and before other festivals, the Gospel for the following day may be read before the Office.
Preparation. When the confession is being used, it may be replaced by another act of penitence. However, all that precedes ‘O God, make speed to save us’ may be omitted; this is particularly appropriate if Holy Communion has been celebrated in the evening.
Alleluia. The Alleluias included in the Easter form of the Responsory are for use from Easter Day until the Day of Pentecost, not at other times. The Alleluia following the opening versicles and responses is always used, except in Lent.
The Conclusion. The response in square brackets [ ] is normally used only if Holy Communion is to be celebrated the following morning.
Seasons. The hymn, the Scripture reading, the refrain to the Gospel Canticle, the Collect and the blessing may change seasonally and on Festivals.
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