Liturgical Music

Music at our parish Masses is an important part of our prayer and influences the quality of their experience of the Eucharist. Warm hospitality, thoughtful preaching, and good music are regularly cited by parishioners around the world as the most important features of an effective liturgy. And music is not what the choir, cantor, or accompanist do, but that to which the whole worshipping community contributes by singing, moving, and even clapping their hands in praise and thanksgiving.

I love to see and hear the congregation singing. I love to sing myself! When I am not the presider, you may see me join the choir to sing a hymn or two. At times you may see me using my hands in order to encourage more or louder participation. Often, I look at the children and I notice that they are not paying attention to the music. I try to invite them to sing along, to do their part. Singing is not just something that adults must do. I expect parents to teach and give example to their children regarding participation in music in the liturgies.

Of course, the choirs and music leaders must do their part. They must prepare and practice. Leaders of music must consider many details as they prepare: Scripture readings, liturgical season, special solemnities, ordinary Mass parts (e.g. Gloria; Alleluia; Holy, Holy; Acclamation; Amen; Lamb of God), etc. They must choose an Entrance Hymn that uplifts and unites the assembly. The Presentation Hymn must prepare the congregation to pray the Eucharistic Prayer. The Communion Hymn helps the congregation to praise God as she receives the Body and Blood of Christ. The Recessional Hymn helps send people forth to live their faith with joy.

Liturgical music belongs to the whole parish congregation and the choir or music leader is charged with leadership. The music does not belong solely to the leader or the choir. While the leader needs to be trained, he or she must not look at the congregation as ignorant about church music. Leaders must know something of the history of liturgical music. Leaders must be knowledgeable about the participants, including children, adolescents, adults, and elders. Leaders must animate every sector of the community. Leaders must not impose their own desires upon the community.

"I will sing to the LORD as long as I live;

I will sing praise to my God while I have my being.” (Ps 104:33-34)