By
Sari Althoff
Lent is just around the corner - 40 days set aside for reflection, quiet, and reconnecting with God. Just as we are called to fast and abstain from certain things in Lent as an act of penance and self-discipline, the liturgy, too, undergoes a kind of "fasting." You might notice certain elements of the Mass set aside or changed this season. What might these elements be, and why are they changed?
The General Instruction of the Roman Missal (GIRM) instructs us to keep the music simple during Lent. This broad guideline allows for different interpretations, so if you attend different churches during this season, you may notice varying approaches. Some parishes reduce the use of instruments, incorporate more a cappella singing, rely solely on the organ, or use smaller choirs. Regardless of the method, the key is that the music should feel different, signaling a shift in the liturgical season.
At Saint Patrick Church, we often refrain from using drums and limit instrumental-only music, allowing the human voice to take center stage in our worship. GIRM #313 states:
“In Lent, the playing of the organ and musical instruments is allowed only to support the singing. Exceptions are Laetare Sunday, solemnities, and feasts.”
This intentional simplicity in our music draws us into a deeper, more prayerful experience during Mass.
To further emphasize the voice, we will sing some Mass parts a cappella. What a powerful moment when our praises rise together, united as one voice! Take a moment to listen during these parts of the liturgy - you may find yourself experiencing truly sacred and heavenly moments in prayer.
Lent is also an ideal time to incorporate Gregorian chant, as the season calls us to “strip away” excess and lead with our voices rather than our instruments. Some ancient languages will be heard in our liturgy, including:
· Kyrie eleison (Lord, have mercy) – Greek
· Sanctus (Holy, Holy, Holy) – Latin
· Agnus Dei (Lamb of God) – Latin
Singing in these languages honors the deep roots of our Catholic tradition, connecting us with generations of believers across time and culture - how incredible is that? It also aligns with GIRM #41, which states that chant “holds pride of place” in the Roman liturgy.
One of the most noticeable musical changes is the omission of the Gloria and Alleluia. By removing these elements, the Church returns in spirit to a time when the people of God were in exile, waiting for the Messiah to come and save them. During Lent, our focus is on repentance, not rejoicing. Then, when Easter arrives, we will sing the Gloria and Alleluia with renewed joy and deeper appreciation - because we have spent time longing for them.
Ultimately, the Church gives us these guidelines for a reason: to help Easter feel like Easter. If you find yourself missing certain musical elements during Lent, that’s a good thing - that longing is part of the journey!
So as we move through this sacred season, take notice of the silence, the simplicity, and the solemnity. Let the absence of certain musical elements deepen your appreciation for the feast to come. And when Easter morning finally arrives, let us rejoice all the more fully - He is Risen!
Saint Patrick Parish's mission is to joyfully proclaim, share, and celebrate the love and mercy of Jesus Christ through Word, Sacraments, prayer, and ministry.
