70. Saint Peter and Saint Paul

It is no earthly summer's ray
That sheds this golden brightness round,
Crowning with heavenly light the day
The Princes of the Church were crowned.

The blessed seer to whom was given
The hearts of men to teach and school,
And he who keeps the keys of heaven
For those on earth that own his rule, —

Fathers of mighty Rome, whose Avord
Shall pass the doom of life or death.
By humble cross and bleeding sword
Well have they won their laurel wreath.

O happy Rome, made holy now
By these two martyrs' glorious blood.
Earth's best and fairest cities bow.
By thy superior claims subdued.

For thou alone art worth them all,
City of martyrs! thou alone
Canst cheer our pilgrim hearts, and call
The Saviour's sheep to Peter's throne.

All honor, power, and praise be given
To Him who reigns in bliss on high,
For endless, endless years in heaven,
One only God in Trinity!
Amen.
From the Breviary, " Decora lux seternitatis auream*"