Everything you wanted to know

Do we really need to sing so much?

Official liturgical guidelines state singing as the norm for the liturgy. The gospel account of the Last Supper relates the apostles joined in song. Many parts of the Mass, e.g., the Gloria, the psalms, the Holy, Holy, Holy, are in fact songs. Not to sing them and the other acclamations would be like reciting a Christmas carol or the National Anthem. The Eucharist is a celebration of salvation; singing is natural at celebrations. Singing gets us out of ourselves and expresses and fosters our unity as members of the body of Christ. It joins us together in prayer. Most of the songs are beautiful prayers. If we are singing, we are joined in prayer with our sisters and brothers. Song adds life and enthusiasm to the celebration. It involves all the people in prayer and should not be taken over by any choir, soloist, or music group.

One of the most challenging but crucial times for all to be singing is at Communion. Singing then reminds us that we are not coming to the Lord in isolation, but as members of the body of Christ joined to the head and the other members.

Everything you ever wanted to know But thought you should already know, so didn't ask
By Fr. Ron Luka, CFM

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