Many opportunities present themselves as we prepare for the latest edition of the Roman Missal, This is a period when we have new texts with which to become familiar, while some will mourn the loss of familiar prayers. As we study and pray with these new words and reflect on their meaning, we can also review and evaluate current habits and practices.
With congregational singing now more the norm than the exception, this is a good time to consider if we are singing what the very nature of the rite requires. Perhaps during the first year with the new missal, we can review what we are doing about music at liturgy. When we talk about sung liturgy, we often think first of the hymns and songs which the whole assembly sings. The new missal reminds us that sung liturgy looks first at dialogues, acclamations and psalms.
Since the celebration of Mass by its nature has a “communitarian” character, both the dialogues between the Priest and the assembled faithful, and the acclamations are of great significance; for they are not simply outward signs of communal celebration but foster and bring about communion between Priest and people. (GIRM 35)
…in the choosing of the parts actually to be sung, preference is to be given to those that are of greater importance and especially to those which are to be sung by the Priest of the Deacon or a reader, with the people replying, or by the Priest and people together. (GIRM 40)
The Preface dialogue is a good starting point for priests. If you sing from the heart, if you engage the people and ensure that this dialogue is prayer and not performance, then the notes will look after themselves. It is the words that are primary. Sing this dialogue, so that all will know that the text matters, not my voice. Start at a pitch that you are comfortable with and allow the words to ride on your voice, natural and effortless. Don't let the notes slow you down. There are internet resources that you can sing along with:
The willingness of the priest to engage the assembly in a sung dialogue will encourage us to re-discover that the voice is the first and primary instrument. It will remind all that singing God's praise is not reserved to those who are musically gifted. Your parish musicians can provide some coaching (and coaxing). Just ask!
Bill Targett
Office of Formation for Discipleship