Versicle

The versicle 'Exsultabunt Sancti in gloria' (the saints shall rejoice in glory) derives from Psalm 149:5. The response 'Laetabuntur in cubilibus suis' (they shall be joyful in their beds) suggests the peaceful rest of death for the just - the 'cubilia' are the tombs that become places of triumphant sleep until resurrection. The versicle-response structure embodies the dialogical nature of liturgy: one voice proclaims, another confirms. At Lauds, this exchange punctuates the transition from hymnody to the evangelical canticle (Benedictus). The exultation of the saints is not merely future hope but present reality in heaven: they already rejoice while we pray toward that joy.