In the vast treasury of Catholic prayer, the Trisagion holds a unique and ancient place!
Often called the “Thrice Holy,” this hymn is a powerful invocation of God’s holiness and a profound expression of our faith. Its origins trace back to the earliest centuries of Christianity, embodying a rich tradition of worship.
The Trisagion is simple yet profound: “Holy God, Holy Mighty One, Holy Immortal, have mercy on us.” While today it is most commonly associated with Eastern Catholic liturgies, it has found its place in the Latin Church as well, especially during the solemn liturgies of Good Friday. This prayer has inspired countless devotions, such as the Chaplet of the Divine Mercy and the Trinitarian rosary, making it a cornerstone of Catholic spirituality.
What makes the Trisagion particularly remarkable is its early association with the veneration of saints. Archaeologists recently uncovered the “Frankfurt Silver Inscription,” a 3rd-century Christian amulet that includes the Trisagion alongside a reference to Saint Titus. This artifact reveals that even within two centuries of Christ’s death, the Trisagion was used not only to praise God but also to honor His holy ones, marking an early and significant practice of saintly devotion!
Rooted in Scripture, the hymn echoes the angelic chorus in Isaiah’s vision: “Holy, holy, holy is the Lord of hosts” (Isaiah 6:3). It is both a reminder of God’s majesty and a plea for His mercy. For centuries, this prayer has invited Christians to reflect on the mystery of the Trinity and God’s boundless love for humanity.
The Trisagion’s enduring appeal lies in its universality. Whether recited during the Liturgy of the Hours, prayed privately or chanted in liturgical ceremonies, it unites the faithful in adoration of the Triune God.
As you pray the Trisagion, consider that through this hymn, we join with angels and saints in declaring the holiness of God, just as Christians have done for nearly two millennia!
The Trisagion Prayer
Latin
Sanctus Deus, Sanctus Fortis, Sanctus Immortalis, miserere nobis.
English
Holy God, Holy Mighty, Holy Immortal, have mercy on us.
Photo credit: Public Domain via Wikimedia Commons
