| BEFORE Translation of Pope Leo XIII’s prayer prior to 1962 | AFTER Translation of Pope Leo XIII’s prayer after 1962 |
| May God rebuke him, we humbly pray, and do thou, O Prince of the heavenly hosts, by the power of God, thrust into hell Satan, and all the evil spirits, who prowl about the world seeking the ruin of souls. | May God rebuke him, we humbly pray, and do you, O Prince of the heavenly host, by the power of God, cast into hell Satan and all the evil spirits who prowl about the world seeking the ruin of souls. |
Innocuous
Egregious
Why is this change important?
The original version composed by Pope Leo XIII, translated from Latin to English, was recited after all low masses prior to Vatican II. This version used “thrust into hell” vs “cast into hell”. “Thrust” means to push or drive with force; often used when referring to swords. “Cast”, on the other hand, means to throw something; typically used for lighter objects. Changing “thrust” to “cast” minimizes our both our request of St. Michael and the true evil of the Satan. We believe Pope Leo XIII’s intent has been diluted with the modern translation.
Additional Notes
Prior to Vatican II this prayer was recited after all low masses. This practice ceased after Vatican II and has resurfaced as an optional practice in some parishes after mass.