The last - and extra-canonical - Magnificat antiphon (see my setting of Advent Antiphon 1, O Sapientia, for a note on the Mag. antiphons). The text was used at Salisbury on 23 December, and still is in use by the Norbertine order. I find it the most beautiful of the antiphons, and this simple setting would make a suitable brief anthem at a carol concert or Christmas service (best in its intended place, preceding or succeeding a setting of the Magnificat). My translation: O Virgin of virgins,how can this thing be? Since time began there was never one like you, nor shall be ever after. Daughters of Jerusalem, why do you marvel at me? Divine is the mystery before you, and which you adore.