Ladainha de Todos os Santos
Paróquia Santo Antonio de Portão
A Litany of Saints: A Call for Divine Intercession
The song 'Ladainha de Todos os Santos' by Paróquia Santo Antonio de Portão is a profound and reverent invocation of the saints, seeking their intercession and blessings. The repeated phrases 'Kyrie eleison' and 'Christe eleison' are Greek for 'Lord, have mercy' and 'Christ, have mercy,' respectively. These phrases set a tone of humility and supplication, acknowledging human frailty and the need for divine mercy. This liturgical chant is deeply rooted in Christian tradition, particularly within the Catholic Church, where litanies are used to invoke the saints' aid and protection.
The song meticulously lists various saints, from well-known figures like Saint Mary, the Mother of God, and Saint Michael, to more specific saints such as Saint Perpetua and Felicity, and Saint Dulce dos Pobres. Each saint is either asked to 'rogai por nós' (pray for us) or 'intercedei por nós' (intercede for us), highlighting the belief in the saints' ongoing spiritual presence and their ability to intercede on behalf of the faithful. This enumeration of saints serves not only as a reminder of their exemplary lives but also as a call for their guidance and support in the believers' spiritual journey.
The latter part of the song shifts focus to direct petitions to the Lord, asking for deliverance from evil, sin, and eternal death. It also seeks blessings for the Church and its members, emphasizing themes of protection, sanctification, and mercy. The repeated plea 'ouvi-nos Senhor' (hear us, Lord) underscores the earnestness of these requests. This litany is a powerful expression of communal prayer, reflecting a deep sense of faith and reliance on divine grace and the intercession of the saints.