Lent is a period where we see even the sacred music of the Church change to a simpler, less adorned style.  The priests' purple vestments reflect the nature of this penitential season.  The sanctuary is also quite bare.  To this end there will be more silence in the liturgy than usual, and the instruments will be used only in support of the singing.  As a Parish we will sing the simpler Agnus Dei (Lamb of God) in Latin and the Holy, Holy, Holy (Sanctus) in either English or Latin, both of which come from the simple Chant Mass in our Breaking Bread hymnal. (see links below).  The Kyrie will also be sung throughout the entire season.  The Gloria will not be sung so that we may more greatly anticipate its return at the Mass of the Lord's Supper.  No Alleluias in either hymns or the Gospel Acclamation, again representing a fast from our use of them throughout the rest of the year.   The Our Father will continue to be recited.  At some masses, there will not be a recessional hymn.   Entrance and Communion antiphons, if employed, will be mostly a cappella.  The 4th Sunday of Lent known as Laetare Sunday will be an exception to the sparseness, a day of celebration where livelier music and decorations at the altar will indicate we have passed the halfway point of Lent and are nearing Easter Sunday.

May this season of simplicity bear much fruit for us all.

Jen Runge
Director of Sacred Music, POTHE