IMPROPERIA
(The Reproaches)

[The presiding minister chants or recites]

 Thus says the Lord:
"What have I done to you, O my people,
And wherein have I offended you?
Answer me.
For I have raised you up out of the prison house of sin and death,
And you have delivered up your Redeemer to be scourged.
 For I have redeemed you from the house of bondage,
And you have nailed your Savior to the cross.
O my people!"

[The congregation responds]

Holy Lord God,
Holy and mighty God,
Holy and most merciful Redeemer;
God eternal, leave us not to bitter death.
O Lord, have mercy!

[The minister continues]

Thus says the Lord:
"What have I done to you, O my people,
And wherein have I offended you?
Answer me.
For I have conquered all your foes,
And you have given me over and delivered me to those who persecute me.
For I have fed you with my Word and refreshed you with living water,
And you have given me gall and vinegar to drink.
O my people!"

[The congregation responds]

 Holy Lord God,
Holy and mighty God,
Holy and most merciful Redeemer;
God eternal, allow us not to lose hope in the face of death and hell.
O Lord, have mercy!