sursum

Sursum is a Latin word meaning "upward" or "lifted up." It is most commonly encountered as part of the phrase "Sursum corda," which translates to "Lift up your hearts." This phrase is a liturgical invocation used in various Christian traditions, particularly in the Eucharist or Holy Communion. It serves as a call to prepare the congregation for the central act of worship, encouraging them to raise their thoughts and affections to God. The response to "Sursum corda" is typically "Habemus ad Dominum," meaning "We have them [our hearts] lifted up to the Lord." Beyond its religious context, "sursum" can be used in more general terms to suggest an upward movement or aspiration, though this usage is less frequent. The word's etymology traces back to the Latin verb "surrigere," meaning to raise up.