Liturgy in the lens of Sacrosanctum Concilium…

The goal of this blog post is to look at the job of a music director through the lens of Sacrosanctum Concilium. My hope is to share some of what I consider when embarking on building a new program, my approach, and what I suggest.

As most Catholics understand, Vatican II allowed different variances or cultural practices within the new rite of the Novus Ordo Mass. The use of the vernacular languages of different regions being the most significant, but Sacrosanctum Concilium directly describes music within the liturgy. I reference all students and directors to read the document, because many Catholics have opinions on Vatican II... even though they might not know exactly what it says!

To clarify, Sacrosanctum Concilium specifically gives pride of place and primacy to Latin, the traditional music of the Catholic Church, the practice and fostering of Gregorian Chant, and the use of the pipe organ in the Latin Church. Pope Paul VI writes that the musical traditions of the Church have always been "intregal" to the practice of the liturgy and devotional life of Catholics, even above other art forms.

"The musical tradition of the universal Church is a treasure of inestimable value, greater even than that of any other art. The main reason for this pre-eminence is that, as sacred song united to the words, it forms a necessary or integral part of the solemn liturgy." Paragraph 112, Sacrosanctum Concilium

Because music is so core to our liturgies, it is important to uphold the traditions of our Church as our ancestral heritage. Though, this is not always common practice in the Novus Ordo. So, it is very important to create a vision for your parish with your pastor! A clear vision of these goals and ideals will create a bond of common mission between pastor, music director, and ministry volunteers & cantors. Remember, your mission as director is to lead those around you to a deeper understanding and participation of the liturgy!

"It [music] is an encounter between the soul and the universe that is way beyond anything that can be expressed in words alone. Our hearts and souls are what interact with God. Hence, when the liturgy is sung rather than spoken, we not only hear it with our ears, but feel it within us, and it becomes part of us." By Rev. David Justin Lynch , article [When You Sing, You Pray Twice of St. Cecilia Catholic Community ][1]

So here are 10 ideas to aid you in your pursuit!

1. Latin is for everyone-- even if they can't sing it. Chants can be sung beautifully during Holy Communion by a soloist or small group of capable singers, and can serve as a beautiful meditative time.
2. Organ should be used for all High Masses or Solemnities-- one of the easy ways to incorporate this would be the exclusive use of organ for weddings and funerals.
3. Incorporate English Catholic hymns that are "fan favorites!" This can offset the use of Latin and let the congregation know that you're not getting rid of their old songs, but establishing a differentiation between appropriate times for certain hymns versus others or chant.
4. Latin sung by children is one of the most beautiful ways to experience the traditional music. And children love the challenge and get excited to say they sing things in other languages!
5. Liturgical education doesn't have to only be preaching about the importance of traditional or Latin music... There should be a lot of spiritual growth and conversations happening in your ministry, and for all ages!
6. Using the Antiphons of the Mass, even if just the Communion Antiphon, will establish a sense of chant in your choir and congregation... even if you sing it in English!
7. Give your choir traditional sacred music to grow their musicianship. Incorporating Fauré's Pie Jesu from his Requiem, Mozart's Ave Verum Corpus, Handel's Messiah Hallelujah Chorus, can be great starters... but don't stop there! Explore polyphonic music on https://www.cpdl.org/wiki/ to find other works that can challenges your choirs. This will also distinguish differences between traditional hymns and moments of solemnity for the congregation.
8. I encourage parishes to have some type of Liturgy of the Hours during the year. Even if only before major holidays, or during Lent or Advent, it can help congregations attune their ear to the simple singing of chanted psalm tones.
9. Use Psalm tones for your Psalms and Mode Alleluias/ Gospel Acclamations! Another great simple way to encourage tradition and congregational singing.
10. Have fun with your cantors and choirs! Social events, Christmas pageants or shows, and so on… these extracurricular events can create an incredible bond between your members!

God bless you all and your ministries!