About
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What is Sacred Music and why does it matter?
“Sacred music, being a complementary part of the solemn liturgy, participates in the general scope of the liturgy, which is the glory of God and the sanctification and edification of the faithful. It contributes to the decorum and the splendor of the ecclesiastical ceremonies, and since its principal office is to clothe with suitable melody the liturgical text proposed for the understanding of the faithful, its proper aim is to add greater efficacy to the text, in order that through it the faithful may be the more easily moved to devotion and better disposed for the reception of the fruits of grace belonging to the celebration of the most holy mysteries.”1
“The musical tradition of the universal Church is a treasure of inestimable value, greater even than that of any other art. The main reason for this pre-eminence is that, as sacred song united to the words, it forms a necessary or integral part of the solemn liturgy.”2
"Particular law remaining in force, the use of the Latin language is to be preserved in the Latin rites."3
“The Church acknowledges Gregorian chant as specially suited to the Roman liturgy: therefore, other things being equal, it should be given pride of place in liturgical services. But other kinds of sacred music, especially polyphony, are by no means excluded from liturgical celebrations, so long as they accord with the spirit of the liturgical action, as laid down in Art. 30.”4
At Our Lady of Prompt Succor Catholic Church, we strive with utmost effort to maintain the beauty and integrity of the Mass. Much of the Ordinary of the Mass is chanted in Latin, and the propers of each Mass are chanted as well. We are always looking for members to join us in song to praise the Majesty of God in the Most Holy Sacrifice. If you are interested, please get in touch with the music director. Thank you and God bless!
1. Tra Le Sollecitudini, Instruction on Sacred Music – St. Pius X
2. Sacrosanctum Concilium, Art. 112, Vatican Council II
3. Sacrosanctum Concilium, Art. 36, Vatican Council II
4. Sacrosanctum Concilium, Art. 116, Vatican Council II