This is not a test.

But.......I do like use the Socratic method of asking questions when teaching, learning or just clarifying my thoughts.

Consider the questions in italics that follow. It’s not a test. Think of it as a means of shifting the focus from where you’ve been and what you’ve been doing to participating in liturgy

(The work of the people. )

Did you notice a change in music last week?

What do you remember?

Did you find any of the music to be familiar?

Last Sunday was the first Sunday of Lent. This brought about several changes in the liturgy as well as the music.

At St. Mary’s we replace the processional hymn with instrumental music during lent. The leader of song proclaims the entrance antiphon (today’s will be taken from psalm 25) and concludes with “Please rise.”

How would you describe this music?

Do you recognize it?

During lent the Gloria is eliminated. At St. Mary’s we underscore this change and the penitential aspect of lent by singing the Kyrie. The setting we use was written by Mary Haugen.  It is also what I play and improvise on during the procession.

During lent we chant the prayer of the faithful. One of the singers chants the intercession to which another responds, “Lord have mercy.” Please repeat this when the leader of song lifts his or her hands.

We will repeat "God of Mercy" at the offertory and change the communion song to Transfigure Us, O Lord, to reflect today's gospel.

Finally we have returned to the mass of Christ the Savior for the Sanctus, Memorial Acclamation, Great amen and Lamb of God. Your wonderful participation in these “mass parts” affirms the investment St. Mary’s has put into its’ worship and music. It is why I often end these articles saying:

Blessed to be at St. Mary’s,

Bruce