Little verses or sentences uttered by the officiating minister with corresponding replies or responses by the congregation. For example,
V. O Lord, open Thou our lips.
R. And our mouth shall show forth Thy praise.
This feature of Public Worship has prevailed in the Christian Church from the most ancient times, as we find it mentioned as early as A.D. 543 as being even then of ancient origin. This is with special reference to the Versicles after the Lord's Prayer in the Daily Offices, which have been called the SURSUM CORDA of the Daily services. (See RESPONSIVE SERVICES.)