The Mass began, and proceeded to the "Sursum corda"—"Lift up your hearts!"—when the celebrant stood facing the congregation with extended arms, and all responded: "We lift them up unto the Lord."
But then, instead of proceeding with the accustomed invocation, he raised his hands high above his head, with the palms towards the congregation, and in a loud, stern voice exclaimed—
"Cursed is the unfruitful field!"
"Amen."
"Cursed is the barren tree!"
"Amen."
"Cursed is the empty house!"
"Amen."
"Cursed is the fishless lake!"
"Amen."