Lent is upon us, a shift in liturgical seasons that brings us into a more solemn and penitential spirit. We wander through the “desert” with contrite hearts, longing for the Lord and His saving mercy, through Jesus Christ. The liturgy seeks to reflect this spirit, and with that, you’ll notice some changes in the music at Mass.

We will be using a different mass setting to mark a change in the season, but it should be one with which our parish is familiar. We have used this setting (The Mass of the Angels and Saints) throughout the last several years, and we will be posting a link for you to listen and refresh your memory. We will also incorporate chant when singing the Kyrie, Lord’s Prayer, and Agnus Dei. 

During Lent, we are called to contemplate the repentant nature of the season, which is why the triumphant Gloria is instead replaced by the penitential Kyrie Eleison: “Lord, have mercy.” We will not sing the Alleluia; in fact, the word “alleluia” is prohibited during Lent in any of the music. “Alleluia” is a Hebrew term meaning “Praise the Lord,” and the Gloria hearkens back to the chorus of angels praising God at the Nativity. These joyous songs are reserved for the glory of Easter, when you will hear them return. We will also change our acclamation for the Mystery of Faith, as we cry out “Save us, savior of the world.” We hope these changes illuminate the contemplative and repentant nature of Lent, as our hearts long for Christ’s mercy and the salvation he brings through the cross and resurrection.

You will also notice the same opening hymn each week. This is done with the intention setting the tone for our Lenten celebrations, as we meditate on the words and prayer of the song. Lord, we ask you to “send down your mercy to set us free” as you “lead [us] to the cross.” We hope that the music this Lent will serve to deepen your prayer and worship at mass as we journey together. 

In Christ, Josh Sarmiento and Marie Murray