This week, we look at the Mass “propers,” which, as the name suggests, are proper texts for a specific occurrence. In the Roman Missal and the Lectionary, each Mass has specific prayers and texts that change depending on time of year or occasion, such as a sacrament.
The Lectionary propers you need to follow are the responsorial psalm, the Gospel acclamation refrain and verse, and the occasional sequence (a hymn sung before the Gospel acclamation). Use the assigned texts as much as possible, especially for the responsorial psalm, because it is part of the Scripture proclamation for that specific liturgy, contributing to the “lens” through which we encounter the paschal mystery. However, at times, you can use a “common psalm” that is more familiar to the assembly (see GIRM 61). Find these options in the Lectionary 173–174.
In the Roman Missal, pay attention to the entrance and Communion antiphons for each Mass. These are short scriptural texts that are sung or spoken at the opening procession and the distribution of Communion. Share on XIn the Roman Missal, pay attention to the entrance and Communion antiphons for each Mass. These are short scriptural texts that are sung or spoken at the opening procession and the distribution of Communion.
The General Instruction of the Roman Missal allows use of other texts (see GIRM 48 and 87), and many parishes take that option. But like the responsorial psalm, these antiphons give us a deeper insight into a specific celebration. If not singing these texts, at least use them to inspire your song choices.
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