Sunday, December 27, 2015

The Holy Family of Jesus, Mary & Joseph

27 December 2015

Entrance Of the Father's love begotten
Penitential Rite St Gabriel (mtgf)
Gloria Christmas Gloria (Paul Gibson)
Psalm 83 They are happy (mtgf)
Gospel Acclamation Salisbury Alleluia (Christopher Walker)
Preparation of Gifts Carol at Bethlehem Cave (Spanish arr. Walker)
Eucharistic Acclamations Creation (Marty Haugen)
Lamb of God Christmas (Ebeling arr.mtgf)
Communion Antiphon Behold our God (mtgf)
Communion Jesus the word (French)
Final See amid the winter's snow

Of the Father's love begotten we have not done before - though it is one of my favourite Christmas songs. Such a generous melody.

We used the optional year C readings. One of the differences in the 2nd edition of the Lectionary of 1983/84? was the addition of sets of readings for Years B & C for a number of Solemnities and Feasts of the Lord. Today it reminds us among other things that there is much to be said about families.

Nativity of the Lord - Day Mass

25 December 2015

Entrance Once in royal David's city
Penitential Rite St Gabriel (mtgf)
Gloria Christmas Gloria (Paul Gibson)
Psalm 97 All the ends of the earth (mtgf)
Gospel Acclamation Salisbury Alleluia (Christopher Walker)
Preparation of Gifts Sing we the virgin Mary (arr. mtgf)
Eucharistic Acclamations Creation (Marty Haugen)
Lamb of God Christmas (Ebeling arr.mtgf)
Communion Antiphon All the ends (mtgf)
Communion Away in a manger
Final O little town of Bethlehem

Again the chapel was full and people sang well. As all the musicians had also been at Mass at midnight it is important to recognise that for the majority of the congregation this is their first Mass of Christmas and keep the energy levels up.

Nativity of the Lord - Mass during the Night

25 December 2015

Carol Once in royal David's city
Choir On Jordan's bank (Monteverdi)
Carol While shepherds watched
Choir Peace Child (Bernadette Farrell)
Carol O little town of Bethlehem
Choir In the bleak midwinter (Holst)

Entrance O come all ye faithful
Penitential Rite St Gabriel (mtgf)
Gloria Christmas (Paul Gibson)
Psalm 95 Today a Saviour has been born (Bernadette Farrell)
Gospel Acclamation Salisbury Alleluia (Christopher Walker)
Profession of Faith Credo III -
Et incarnatus (Josquin)
Preparation of Gifts What shall we give (Catalan arr. Dean)
Eucharistic Acclamations Creation (Marty Haugen)
Lamb of God Christmas (mtgf)
Communion Antiphon The Word became flesh (mtgf)
Communion Night of Silence/ Silent Night (Daniel Kantor)
Final Hark the herald angels

We learnt the lessons of last year and restored the readings and ended with a 'choir carol'. Both things are practical and about stamina. Continuous music beforehand, even with variety, is a little exhausting - so the readings provide a break (and, of course, have a value in themselves!). Finishing with an unaccompanied carol before the beginning of Mass allows for our organist to get to the organ. It was good to repeat Peace child from the carol service, The Monteverdi was i part suggested by our violinist being there. It is an adaptation of one his hymn settings from Selva morale e spirituale. To be honest the English text does not fit well - the mis accents are not interesting verbal syncopations.

We again repeated Credo III with the inserted Josquin. After a moment's hesitation the genuflection worked and though people were singing it is hard to gauge how well it is known to what is a 40%, I would guess, unfamiliar or annual congregation. I do need to make a note to include the responses as they were definitely uncertain.

Monday, December 21, 2015

4th Sunday of Advent

20 December 2015

Entrance Longing, trusting (mtgf)
Penitential Rite Kyrie 'Orbis factor'
Psalm 79 God of hosts (mtgf)
Gospel Acclamation Helmsley Alleluia (adp. mtgf)
Preparation of Gifts Ave maris stella (Monteverdi)
Eucharistic Acclamations Creation (Marty Haugen)
Lamb of God Advent (mtgf)
Communion Antiphon Behold, a virgin (mtgf)
Communion O holy Mary (Owen Alstott)
Final O come, O come Emmanuel

Though to go through Advent and not sing O come, O come Emmanuel at Sunday Mass would seem odd; it somehow does not seem to fit this Sunday. Perhaps it is a final shout

Sunday, December 13, 2015

Carols by Candlelight

12 December 2015

Part 1 - Prepare a way for the Lord

EntranceYonder come day (Georgia Sea Islands Spiritual) 
Opening Responses 
ReadingIsaiah 40:1–5 The prophet Isaiah tells the people of Israel to prepare a way for the Lord
Choir O comfort my people (Irish arr. mtgf)
HymnO come, O come Emmanuel

Part 2 - Behold the virgin will conceive

ReadingLuke 1: 26-38 St Luke tells of the Incarnation of Jesus
ChoirAve Maria (Arcadelt)
CarolO little town of Bethlehem

Part 3 - Today is born a Saviour, Christ the Lord

ReadingLuke 2:1-14 St Luke tells of the birth of Jesus
ChoirAll this time (Walton)
CarolSilent Night

Part 4 - The Word was made flesh and lived among us

Reading1 John 1:1–4 St John reflects on the Incarnation
ChoirPeace Child (Bernadette Farrell)
Reflection
Intercessions 
Lord's Prayer & Blessing 
CarolJoy to the world

This followed much the same pattern as last year - once again it was the end of a community festival. I hope the music covered a wide range of styles and that there was something for everyone. It was the melody of Bernadette Farrell's Peace Child that I have found myself humming the most times over the last month while we have been preparing.

Immaculate Conception of the BVM

8 December 2015

Entrance The angel Gabriel
Penitential Rite St Gabriel (mtgf)
Gloria Angels and Saints (Steven Janco)
Psalm 97 Sing a new song (mtgf)
Gospel Acclamation Salisbury Alleluia (Christopher Walker)
Preparation of Gifts Ave Maria (Arcadelt)
Eucharistic Acclamations Creation (Marty Haugen)
Lamb of God Angels and Saints (Steven Janco)
Communion O holy Mary (Owen Alstott)
Final Tell out my soul

For the last few years the Mass has been in the early evening. This year it was at 1pm. One of the effects of this is that it was harder to get singers as students did not want miss one of the final lectures of the term.

Owen Alstott's O holy Mary is a lovely piece of quasi-chant with a simple descant that adds a whole sense of space to the music.

3rd Sunday of Advent

13 December 2015

Entrance Longing, trusting (mtgf)
Penitential Rite Kyrie 'Orbis factor'
Psalm - Isaiah 12 Sing and shout for joy (mtgf)
Gospel Acclamation Helmsley Alleluia (adp. mtgf)
Preparation of Gifts My song is mercy and justice (mtgf)
Eucharistic Acclamations Creation (Marty Haugen)
Lamb of God Advent (mtgf)
Communion Antiphon Say to the faint of heart (mtgf)
Communion O radiant dawn (James MacMillan)
Final Blest be the Lord, the God of Israel

I am not sure how long we have been singing James MacMillan 'hit' but this morning was when it felt confidence in all parts. Not that we have done it badly before - just that difference between adrenaline and confidence.

My song is mercy and justice we sang for the beginning of the Year of Mercy. It is one of a series of Psalms and Songs of Mercy I have prepared. This piece is about 20 years old in its origins. This year gave an impetus for it to find its final form.

2nd Sunday of Advent

6 December 2015

Entrance Longing, trusting (mtgf)
Penitential Rite Kyrie 'Orbis factor'
Psalm 125 What marvels the Lord (mtgf)
Gospel Acclamation Helmsley Alleluia (adp. mtgf)
Preparation of Gifts O comfort my people (Irish arr. mtgf)
Eucharistic Acclamations Creation (Marty Haugen)
Lamb of God Advent (mtgf)
Communion Antiphon Jerusalem, arise (mtgf)
Communion Winding ways (Bill Tamblyn)
Final The voice of God

It was the first time we have used Bill Tamblyn's Winding ways. He has such a gift for melody. What struck me singing it this morning were those refugees travelling across unfamiliar terrain for whom winding ways may become straight.

1st Sunday of Advent

29 November 2015

Entrance Longing, trusting (mtgf)
Penitential Rite Kyrie 'Orbis factor'
Psalm 24 To you, O Lord (mtgf)
Gospel Acclamation Helmsley Alleluia (adp. mtgf)
Preparation of Gifts There is a longing (Anne Quigley)
Eucharistic Acclamations Creation (Marty Haugen)
Lamb of God Advent (mtgf)
Communion Antiphon The Lord will bestow his bounty (mtgf)
Communion Rorate Caeli (chant)
Final Hark a herald voice

It is a while, I think, since we have done Rorate Caeli. We sing the response in Latin with English verses. People May picked up the references to the melody in the Advent Lamb of God.

Our Lord Jesus Christ, Universal King

22 November 2015

Entrance Rejoice the Lord is king
Penitential Rite St Gabriel (mtgf)
Gloria Angels and Saints (Steven Janco)
Psalm 92 The Lord is king (mtgf)
Gospel Acclamation Salisbury Alleluia (Christopher Walker)
Preparation of Gifts Christ the glory (Laloulette)
Eucharistic Acclamations Creation (Marty Haugen)
Lamb of God Angels and Saints (Steven Janco)
Communion Antiphon The Lord sits as king (mtgf)
Communion Exultant Deo (Cruger)
Final Hail Redeemer

It can be surprising the pieces of music that I think are relatively simple and then find the singers find difficult. We first looked at the Crüger 2 years ago - now though we did not look at it every week it did come out from time to time. There were two aspects that I think were more difficult or tricky than I realisedL the relationship between duple and triple sections and what threw the women was that the top 2 were effectively equal voices - so the soprano was not always on top. Anyway we celebrated Christ the King with - and I look forward to doing it again at a festive occasion.

33rd Sunday in Ordinary Time

15 November 2015

Entrance Let all mortal flesh
Penitential Rite St Gabriel (mtgf)
Gloria Angels and Saints (Steven Janco)
Psalm 15 Preserve me, God (mtgf)
Gospel Acclamation Salisbury Alleluia (Christopher Walker)
Preparation of Gifts Long is our winter (German, 14th c.)
Eucharistic Acclamations Creation (Marty Haugen)
Lamb of God Angels and Saints (Steven Janco)
Communion Antiphon To be near God (mtgf)
Communion Love divine (Purcell)
Final Lo, he comes on clouds

One of my favourite bits of 'trivia' is that Wesley wrote the words of Love divine' to the tune of Purcell's Fairest Isle. We sang it as a choir piece and not only do the words fit well I think there is a also an element of 'parody' (in the purest sense) of Dryden's original words.

I think this is the first time we have sung Lo, he comes as a hymn. Following last year it serves as a preparation for our Advent 'Helmsley Alleluia'.

32nd Sunday in Ordinary Time - Remembrance

8 November 2015

Entrance Eternal rest (mtgf)
Penitential Rite St Gabriel (mtgf)
Gloria Angels and Saints (Steven Janco)
Psalm 145 My soul give praise to the Lord (mtgf)
Gospel Acclamation Salisbury Alleluia (Christopher Walker)
Preparation of Gifts Teach me, O Lord (Atwood)
Eucharistic Acclamations Creation (Marty Haugen)
Lamb of God Angels and Saints (Steven Janco)
Communion Antiphon The Lord is my shepherd (mtgf)
Communion Cast thy burden (Mendelssohn)
Final Praise my soul

In previous years I think we have done a better job in choosing music which bridges the readings of the day and Remembrance.

All Saints

1 November 2015

Entrance For all the Saints
Penitential Rite St Gabriel (mtgf)
Gloria Angels and Saints (Steven Janco)
Psalm 23 Blessed are they (mtgf)
Gospel Acclamation Salisbury Alleluia (Christopher Walker)
Preparation of Gifts Gaudent in caelis (Dering)
Eucharistic Acclamations Creation (Marty Haugen)
Lamb of God Angels and Saints (Steven Janco)
Communion Antiphon Blessed are the clean (mtgf)
Communion What does the Lord require (mtgf)
Final Holy God, we praise thy name

I had hoped to use Peter Jones' We praise you, O God at the end of Mass but with a number of possible visitors I had second thoughts. This was the annual Mass for deceased Simmarians. It is only in the last couple of years that we have separated this from Remembrance Sunday. I can see the pros and cons both ways - what make it challenge is that last year we had it on Christ the King, and this year All Saints, While I would be the first to argue that through the Paschal Mystery it is possible to proclaim Resurrection and consolation within in any Sunday liturgy - it does feel that there is a tug in a number in two directions. Also if you wish to encourage students who may not come to Mass every week to come and pay tribute to their predecessors there seem to me advantages of their meeting their living predecessors.

Saturday, October 31, 2015

30th Sunday in Ordinary Time

25 October 2015

Entrance Christ be our light
Penitential Rite St Gabriel (mtgf)
Gloria Angels and Saints (Steven Janco)
Psalm 125 What marvels the Lord (mtgf)
Gospel Acclamation Salisbury Alleluia (Christopher Walker)
Preparation of Gifts Eye has not seen (Marty Haugen)
Eucharistic Acclamations Creation (Marty Haugen)
Lamb of God Angels and Saints (Steven Janco)
Communion Antiphon We will ring out our joy (mtgf)
Communion Oculi omnium (Wood)
Final Be thou my vision

29th Sunday in Ordinary Time

18 October 2015

Entrance Brother, sister let me serve you
Penitential Rite St Gabriel (mtgf)
Gloria Angels and Saints (Steven Janco)
Psalm 32 May your love (mtgf)
Gospel Acclamation Salisbury Alleluia (Christopher Walker)
Preparation of Gifts Ours were the griefs ()
Eucharistic Acclamations Creation (Marty Haugen)
Lamb of God Angels and Saints (Steven Janco)
Communion Antiphon The Son of Man (mtgf)
Communion Ave serum (Mozart)
Final At the name of Jesus

It is pleasing those weeks when the priest picks up a phrase from the opening hymn and brings it into his introduction as a preparation for the Liturgy of the Word. This week it was 'Let me be the Christ to you'. It hopefully reinforces the understanding of the congregation that music is not chosen at random or by a rota or some other method.

28th Sunday in Ordinary Time

11 October 2015

Entrance All my hope on God is founded
Penitential Rite St Gabriel (mtgf)
Gloria Angels and Saints (Steven Janco)
Psalm 89 Fill us with your love (mtgf)
Gospel Acclamation Salisbury Alleluia (Christopher Walker)
Preparation of Gifts Restless is the heart (Bernadette Farrell)
Eucharistic Acclamations Creation (Marty Haugen)
Lamb of God Angels and Saints (Steven Janco)
Communion Antiphon The rich suffer want and grow hungry (mtgf)
Communion Where your treasure is (Marty Haugen)
Final Forth in thy name ( )

Our piece at Communion gave us a Lucan view of riches. The Preparation of Gifts was an example where familiarity with a piece and the desire to sing it within the liturgy are important factors in selecting music.

27th Sunday in Ordinary Time

4 October 2015

Entrance Love is his word
Penitential Rite St Gabriel (mtgf)
Gloria Angels and Saints (Steven Janco)
Psalm 127 (Paul Inwood)
Gospel Acclamation Salisbury Alleluia (Christopher Walker)
Preparation of Gifts Ubi caritas (Bob Hurd)
Eucharistic Acclamations Creation (Marty Haugen)
Lamb of God Angels and Saints (Steven Janco)
Communion Antiphon The Lord is good (mtgf)
Communion Bread of Life (Bernadette Farrell)
Final Love divine

26th Sunday in Ordinary Time

27 September 2015

Entrance God, whose almighty Word
Penitential Rite St Gabriel (mtgf)
Gloria Angels and Saints (Steven Janco)
Psalm 18 The precepts of the Lord (mtgf)
Gospel Acclamation Salisbury Alleluia (Christopher Walker)
Preparation of Gifts
Eucharistic Acclamations Creation (Marty Haugen)
Lamb of God Angels and Saints (Steven Janco)
Communion Antiphon By this we came to know (mtgf)
Communion The gifts of the Holy Spirit
Final At the name of Jesus

Sunday, September 20, 2015

25th Sunday in Ordinary Time

20 September 2015

Entrance Brother, sister let me serve you
Penitential Rite St Gabriel (mtgf)
Gloria Angels and Saints (Steven Janco)
Psalm 53 The Lord upholds my life. (mtgf)
Gospel Acclamation Salisbury Alleluia (Christopher Walker)
Preparation of Gifts Ours were the griefs (Stephen Dean)
Eucharistic Acclamations Creation (Marty Haugen)
Lamb of God Angels and Saints (Steven Janco)
Communion Antiphon I am the Good Shepherd (mtgf)
Communion Like a child rests (Christopher Walker)
Final Be thou my vision

24th Sunday in Ordinary Time

13 September 2015

Entrance Praise to the holiest
Penitential Rite St Gabriel (mtgf)
Gloria Angels and Saints (Steven Janco)
Psalm 114 I walk in the presence (mtgf)
Gospel Acclamation Salisbury Alleluia (Christopher Walker)
Preparation of Gifts Song of God among us (Huijbers)
Eucharistic Acclamations Creation (Marty Haugen)
Lamb of God Angels and Saints (Steven Janco)
Communion Antiphon How precious is your mercy (mtgf)
Communion He became poor (John Bell)
Final Will you come and follow me

Passion hymns, to me, never feel right in these Sundays where there is a prophecy of the Passion - important as they are as way markers in the gospel. The Cross is there in Praise to the Holiest and we sang verses to He became poor from Philippians 2.

23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time

6 September 2015

Entrance Gather us in
Penitential Rite St Gabriel (mtgf)
Gloria Angels and Saints (Steven Janco)
Psalm 145 My soul give praise to the Lord (mtgf)
Gospel Acclamation Salisbury Alleluia (Christopher Walker)
Preparation of Gifts Song of the man born blind (Bob Hurd)
Eucharistic Acclamations Creation (Marty Haugen)
Lamb of God Angels and Saints (Steven Janco)
Communion Antiphon I am the light of the world (mtgf)
Communion How can I repay the Lord (mtgf)
Final Now thanks we all our God ( )

Unaccompanied again so some close harmony. Otherwise our autumn repertoire started. Another priest, new to us, who preached one of the best short homilies I have heard in a while. He is a scripture scholar - but he gave some context for each readings, including the psalm (!) but also a thought for reflection/action.

Monday, August 31, 2015

22nd Sunday in Ordinary Time

30 August 2015

Entrance Dear Lord and Father
Penitential Rite At the table of the Lord (Collegeville)
Gloria At the table of the Lord (Collegeville)
Psalm 14 The just will live (mtgf)
Gospel Acclamation (Murray)
Preparation of Gifts O God, you search me (Bernadette Farrell)
Eucharistic Acclamations Missal
Lamb of God Nores (mtgf)
Communion Antiphon How great is your goodness (mtgf)
Communion What does the Lord require (mtgf)
Final The kingdom of God

21st Sunday in Ordinary Time

23 August 2015

Entrance Your words are spirit
Penitential Rite At the table of the Lord (Collegeville)
Gloria At the table of the Lord (Collegeville)
Psalm 33 Taste and see (mtgf)
Gospel Acclamation (Murray)
Response to final Intercession May the choirs of angels (Ernest Sands)
Preparation of Gifts How can I repay the Lord (mtgf)
Eucharistic Acclamations Missal
Lamb of God Nores (mtgf)
Communion Antiphon Whoever eats my flesh (mtgf)
Communion One in body, heart and mind (Christopher Walker)
Final Alleluia, sing to Jesus

The end of John 6. The Communion antiphons were first used 3 years ago as way of giving a thread through this min-season and we have continued ever since. They are one of the most obvious examples where the antiphon echoes the gospel and leads to communion. They have fulfilled one of their objectives which is that the singers should find them memorable and easy to pick up. Though I usually print either text or text and music in the service sheet this is not something which the congregation has picked up in a big way.

This week we had a reunion of 62-65 - who have been a number of times before. One asked if he could sing May the choirs of angels after the names of those who had died was read out as part of the intercessions. Though we had put the number on the hymn board there is not a good moment to announce it at this point - but people responded suggesting that the Song of Farewell is a piece of common repertoire across the country.

The Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary

16 August 2015

Entrance Hail Queen of heaven
Penitential Rite At the table of the Lord (Collegeville)
Gloria At the table of the Lord (Collegeville)
Psalm 44 At your right stands the Queen (mtgf)
Gospel Acclamation (Murray)
Preparation of Gifts O holy Mary (Alstott)
Eucharistic Acclamations Missal
Lamb of God Nores (mtgf)
Communion Antiphon All generations shall call me blessed (mtgf)
Communion I sing a maid (Michael Joncas)
Final Tell out my soul

19th Sunday in Ordinary Time

9 August 2015

Entrance Let all mortal flesh
Penitential Rite At the table of the Lord (Collegeville)
Gloria At the table of the Lord (Collegeville)
Psalm 33 (mtgf)
Gospel Acclamation (Murray)
Preparation of Gifts Now we remain (David Haas)
Eucharistic Acclamations Missal
Lamb of God Nores (mtgf)
Communion Antiphon The bread that I will give (mtgf)
Communion I received the living God
Final O bread of heaven

Wednesday, August 5, 2015

18th Sunday in Ordinary Time

2 August 2015

Entrance O food of travellers
Penitential Rite At the table of the Lord (Collegeville)
Gloria At the table of the Lord (Collegeville)
Psalm 77 The Lord gave them bread (mtgf)
Gospel Acclamation (Murray)
Preparation of Gifts Panis angelicus (Franck)
Eucharistic Acclamations Missal
Lamb of God Nores (mtgf)
Communion Antiphon I am the bread of life (mtgf)
Communion Bread for the world
Final Guide me, O thou great redeemer

17th Sunday in Ordinary Time

26 July 2015

Entrance All who hunger
Penitential Rite At the table of the Lord (Collegeville)
Gloria At the table of the Lord (Collegeville)
Psalm 144 You open wide your hands (mtgf)
Gospel Acclamation (Murray)
Preparation of Gifts There is one Lord (Owen Alstott)
Eucharistic Acclamations Missal
Lamb of God Nores (mtgf)
Communion Antiphon Bless the Lord (mtgf)
Communion Bread for the world (Bernadette Farrell)
Final God is love, his the care

16th Sunday in Ordinary Time

19 July 2015

Entrance I heard the voice of Jesus say
Penitential Rite At the table of the Lord (Collegeville)
Gloria At the table of the Lord (Collegeville)
Psalm 22 The Lord is my shepherd (mtgf)
Gospel Acclamation (Murray)
Preparation of Gifts Because the Lord is my shepherd (Christopher Walker)
Eucharistic Acclamations Missal
Lamb of God Nores (mtgf)
Communion Antiphon The Lord, the gracious (mtgf)
Communion Christ our peace (Marty Haugen)
Final Praise we our God with joy

Sunday, July 12, 2015

15th Sunday in Ordinary Time

12 July 2015

Entrance All that is hidden
Penitential Rite At the table of the Lord (Collegeville)
Gloria At the table of the Lord (Collegeville)
Psalm 84 Let us see, O Lord (mtgf)
Gospel Acclamation (Murray)
Preparation of Gifts Lord, you have come (Gabarain)
Eucharistic Acclamations Missal
Lamb of God Nores (mtgf)
Communion Antiphon Whoever eats my flesh (mtgf)
Communion The gift of the Holy Spirit
Final Forth in thy name

I don't think we have done All that is hidden for a while and the congregation seemed less certain. Other musicians can be supposed at the idea of not starting with a hymn which everyone sings throughout and we are used to songs with a refrain sung by all but I wonder if because we have not done it for a while and that we started with a solo verse they were wrong-footed.

Sunday, July 5, 2015

14th Sunday in Ordinary Time

5 July 2015

Entrance God has spoken by his prophets
Penitential Rite At the table of the Lord (Collegeville)
Gloria At the table of the Lord (Collegeville)
Psalm 122 Our eyes are on the Lord (mtgf)
Gospel Acclamation (Murray)
Preparation of Gifts Song of God among us (Huijbers)
Eucharistic Acclamations Missal
Lamb of God Nores (mtgf)
Communion Antiphon Come to me (mtgf)
Communion Eye has not seen (Marty Haugen)
Final Forth in the peace of Christ

Sunday, June 28, 2015

St Peter & St Paul

28 June 2015

Entrance Into a world
Penitential Rite At the table of the Lord (Collegeville)
Gloria At the table of the Lord (Collegeville)
Psalm 33 From all my terrors (mtgf)
Gospel Acclamation (Murray)
Profession of Faith Credo III
Preparation of Gifts What does the Lord require (mtgf)
Eucharistic Acclamations Missal
Lamb of God Nores (mtgf)
Communion Antiphon Peter said to Jesus (mtgf)
Communion Now we remain (David Haas)
Final Thy hand, O God

When initially planning today I had big plans but additions and absences meant simpler fare. This was the last week of Credo III and I finally noted before we sang it that we were going to do it antiphonally men-women. In truth I realise that those who know it - know it and don't want to be looking at text/music to see when they sing.

12th Sunday in Ordinary Time

21 June 2015

Entrance O changeless Christ
Penitential Rite At the table of the Lord (Collegeville)
Gloria At the table of the Lord (Collegeville)
Psalm 106 O give thanks to the Lord (mtgf)
Gospel Acclamation (Murray)
Profession of Faith Credo III
Preparation of Gifts If we are living (Mexican)
Eucharistic Acclamations Missal
Lamb of God Nores (mtgf)
Communion Antiphon The eyes of all (mtgf)
Communion Let nothing trouble you (Bernadette Farrell)
Final Eternal Father, strong to save
Song at Icon Ave maris stella

Today's psalm setting was new. It had a slight shanty feel to it - it was in 6/8. I am not sure whether the response was too long for a single breath but as I had run the two lines on there was little chance for a breath in the middle. As a text this is a good example of the psalm narrative mirroring the gospel.

We had a reunion - students who were celebrating 40 years since they left. If you can participate in the liturgy lustily - they did. One also came and joined us which is always lovely - she had run the folk group when she was a student. It is perhaps a sign of how times have changed but it is hard to imagine the class of 2015 in 40 years time engaging in such numbers - it is a credit to the college at the time. The opening hymn as well as having a reference to the calming of the storm also names Christ the teacher. As a rule we try to do what we would normally do but if we can make appropriate choices for our guests we do. It had been requested by older Simmarians who are still regular to sing the College Hymn for these reunions - so our practice has been to sing it after Mass at the Icon presented by Pope Benedict. The former students don't come rushing for this - perhaps they might if it was included within the procession - but I suspect it is not one of things they are nostalgic for - if they are nostalgic at all.

Wednesday, June 17, 2015

11th Sunday in Ordinary Time

14 June 2015

Entrance Unless a grain
Penitential Rite At the table of the Lord (Collegeville)
Gloria At the table of the Lord (Collegeville)
Psalm 91 It is good to give thanks (mtgf)
Gospel Acclamation (Murray)
Preparation of Gifts Parable (M D Ridge)
Eucharistic Acclamations Missal
Lamb of God Nores (mtgf)
Communion Antiphon There is one thing (mtgf)
Communion To Christ the seed (O'Riada)
Final The kingdom of God

It is strange how Ordinary tIme feels different when it come to choosing music - I think it is after weeks (15?) of expecting the readings to have a commonality and relate to a wider picture. I had a rubric to Credo III suggesting alternating men and women - obviously not everyone had read it given the different octaves being sung.

The Most Holy Body & Blood of the Lord

7 June 2015

Entrance Of the glorious body
Penitential Rite At the table of the Lord (Collegeville)
Gloria At the table of the Lord (Collegeville)
Psalm 115 The cup of salvation (mtgf)
Gospel Acclamation (Murray)
Profession of Faith Credo III
Preparation of Gifts Ave verum (Elgar)
Eucharistic Acclamations Missal
Lamb of God Nores (mtgf)
Communion Antiphon Whoever eats my flesh (mtgf)
Communion Take and eat (Michael Joncas)
Final Alleluia, sing to Jesus

Trinity Sunday seems to fall in to a regular repertoire and when choosing for today I thought the same was true but when I checked back last year was quite different. I am aware on these Solemnities do you celebrate the mystery or the readings and I think the first hymn was both the gospel and touching base with what I expect was a very hymn for many at some point - with St Thomas as the tune.

The one lesson from last year was that the text from Wisdom for the verses of the Communion antiphon was a bit of a mouthful and we used Psalm 22 instead.

Sunday, May 31, 2015

Most Holy Trinity

31 May 2015

Entrance God whose almighty Word
Penitential Rite At the table of the Lord (Collegeville)
Gloria At the table of the Lord (Collegeville)
Psalm 32 Happy the people (mtgf)
Gospel Acclamation (Murray)
Profession of Faith Credo III
Preparation of Gifts Hymn of the Cherubim (Russian)
Eucharistic Acclamations Missal
Lamb of God Nores (mtgf)
Communion Antiphon Since you are children of God (mtgf)
Communion God beyond all names (Bernadette Farrell)
Final Holy God, we praise thy name

It has been a busy week. The University Choir sang in Westminster Cathedral on Wednesday for the Installation of Cardinal Nichols as Chancellor of the University and then in Arundel on Thursday when Bishop Moth, our Chair of Governors, was installed as Bishop of Arundel & Brighton.

Following discussion after Christmas we decided to repeat Credo III, as we did a couple of years ago, for the Sundays from Trinity to Ss Peter & Paul. I know some of the congregation enjoy it for the memories it brings but I am not sure how all feel about it. At least this time I have put the English text underneath the Latin chant - I have become more aware that it is not that people do not understand Latin, it is that they do not recognise as language and therefore conveying meaning.

Pentecost

24 May 2015

Entrance Come down, O love divine
Penitential Rite Lux et origo (mtgf)
Gloria Mass of Wisdom (Steven Janco)
Psalm 102 Send forth your spirit (mtgf)
Sequence Veni Sancte Spiritus (mtgf)
Preparation of Gifts Spirit of God (Bernadette Farrell)
Eucharistic Acclamations Mass of Wisdom (Steven Janco)
Lamb of God Lux et origo (mtgf)
Communion Antiphon They were all filled (mtgf)
Communion Spirit of God within me (Michael Joncas)
Final Lord, you give the great commission

Ascension of the Lord

17 May 2015

Entrance Hail the day
Penitential Rite Lux et origo (mtgf)
Gloria Mass of Wisdom (Steven Janco)
Psalm 46 Our God goes up (mtgf)
Gospel Acclamation Celtic (O'Carroll/Walker)
Preparation of Gifts Christ the glory (Lalouette)
Eucharistic Acclamations Mass of Wisdom (Steven Janco)
Lamb of God Lux et origo (mtgf)
Communion Antiphon Behold, I am (mtgf)
Communion Christ our peace (Marty Haugen)
Final Sing to the world

6th Sunday of Easter

10 May 2015

Entrance Love is his word
Penitential Rite Lux et origo (mtgf)
Gloria Mass of Wisdom (Steven Janco)
Psalm 97 The Lord has shown his salvation (mtgf)
Gospel Acclamation Celtic (O'Carroll/Walker)
Preparation of Gifts Ubi caritas (Bob Hurd)
Eucharistic Acclamations Mass of Wisdom (Steven Janco)
Lamb of God Lux et origo (mtgf)
Communion Antiphon If you love me (mtgf)
Communion Love one another (mtgf)
Final God is love, his the care

I was away this weekend but we had cantor and accompaniment.

5th Sunday of Easter

3 May 2015

Aldershot Cathedral

Entrance Christ is the world's light
Penitential Rite Lux et origo (mtgf)
Gloria Mass of Angels & Saints (Steven Janco)
Psalm 21 You, Lord are our praise (mtgf)
Gospel Acclamation Salisbury (Walker)
Preparation of Gifts Restless is the heart (Bernadette Farrell)
Eucharistic Acclamations Mass of Creation (Marty Haugen)
Lamb of God Lux et origo (mtgf)
Communion Love one another (mtgf)
Final Christ is alive

St Mary's was left without singers this morning as we had our University Choir trip to Aldershot. We has sung Restless is the heart as our solo piece at the Cathedrals Group Choirs Festival and the students like it and so it seemed a good idea to repeat it. I then realised that the latter half of the refrain (all the earth shall remember…) is from today's psalm.

4th Sunday of Easter

26 April 2015

Entrance All people that on earth
Penitential Rite Lux et origo (mtgf)
Gloria Mass of Wisdom (Steven Janco)
Psalm 117 The stone which the builders (mtgf)
Gospel Acclamation Celtic (O'Carroll/Walker)
Preparation of Gifts Because the Lord is my shepherd ()
Eucharistic Acclamations Mass of Wisdom (Steven Janco)
Lamb of God Lux et origo (mtgf)
Communion Antiphon The Good Shepherd has risen (mtgf)
Communion
Final Hail Redeemer

Sunday, April 19, 2015

3rd Sunday of Easter

19 April 2015

EntranceWe walk by faith
Penitential RiteLux et origo (mtgf)
GloriaMass of Wisdom (Steven Janco)
Psalm 4Lift up the light (mtgf)
Gospel AcclamationCeltic (O'Carroll/Walker)
Preparation of GiftsBehold the Lamb (Martin Willett)
Eucharistic AcclamationsMass of Wisdom (Steven Janco)
Lamb of GodLux et origo (mtgf)
Communion AntiphonThe Christ had to suffer (mtgf)
CommunionI received the living God (Anon arr. Proulx)
FinalSing to the world

Today in terms of planning was one of those when different pieces could go in a number of places and it was about what was new, what was known and what might fit where. I think today was the first time that we used Marty Haugen's tune Shanti when we have used We walk by faith as a congregational hymn. It was definitely the first time, at least for a very long time, we had used Sing to the world. It is one of those titles I glance at but today it was recalled. This was the new piece therefore that once place helped shape the rest. In fact the majority of the musicians had sung it before - and yes, a long time ago.

2nd Sunday of Easter

12 April 2015

EntranceYe sons and daughters
Penitential RiteLux et origo (mtgf)
GloriaMass of Wisdom (Steven Janco)
Psalm 117Give thanks to the Lord (mtgf)
Gospel AcclamationCeltic (O'Carroll/Walker)
Preparation of GiftsChristo resurgenti (Couperin)
Eucharistic AcclamationsMass of Wisdom (Steven Janco)
Lamb of GodLux et origo (mtgf)
Communion AntiphonBring your hands (mtgf)
CommunionChrist our peace (Marty Haugen)
FinalThis joyful Eastertide

We were all a bit sleepy this morning. I announced the first hymn as starting at the 4th verse and then attempted to start at the 4th verse rather than the refrain…

Christo resurgenti was a hangover from Easter Sunday when we didn't do it. Christ our peace was a reflection on Jesus' Easter greeting 'Peace be with you' - though I realised the phrase 'you break down the walls' was in some way a comment on the gospel. It is a very rich gospel, we hear it in each cycle, it would be a shame if it were reduced to divine mercy. A picture appeared and a rather un-Roman prayer read out at the end of Mass. I had quickly scanned the document on the Holy Year that morning and my impression was that Frances hardly mentions Divine mercy rather offers a more trinitarian economy of mercy with the Father as the true source.

Monday, April 6, 2015

Easter Day

5 April 2015

EntranceJesus Christ is risen today
Penitential RiteLux et origo (mtgf)
GloriaMass of Wisdom (Steven Janco)
Psalm 117This is the day (Haugen)
Gospel Acclamation/SequenceVictimae Paschali (mtgf)
Preparation of GiftsChrist the glory (Lallouette)
Eucharistic AcclamationsMass of Wisdom (Steven Janco)
Lamb of GodLux et origo (mtgf)
Communion AntiphonChrist our passover (mtgf)
CommunionI have seen the Lord (Bob Hurd)
FinalThine be the glory

In contrast to the previous 3 days Easter Sunday morning was packed - such that we ran out of Mass leaflets. I have suggested before, that at least in my local experience, Easter Sunday, as opposed to Good Friday, has become a day when people go to church.

Musically we were were 2 singers and accompaniment - and those present were not in peak condition following the Vigil! This meant a change to what was planned but we mustered some energy and Easter joy. The next task is to make a note of things to remember for next year.

Easter Vigil


4 April 2015


Procession
The Lord is my light (Taizé)

Exsultet
Missal

Psalm 103
Send forth your spirit (mtgf)

Psalm 15
Preserve me, God (Christopher Walker)

Exodus 15
I will sing to the Lord (mtgf)

Isaiah 12
With joy you will draw water (mtgf)

Psalm 41-42
As the deer longs (Palestrina/Bridge)

Gloria
Wisdom (Steven Janco)

Gospel Acclamation
Celtic Alleluia (O'Carroll/Walker)

Baptismal Liturgy
Springs of water (mtgf)

Preparation of Gifts
For peace (Antoine Oomen)

Eucharistic Acclamations
Wisdom (Steven Janco)

Lamb of God
Lux et origo (mtgf)
Communion AntiphonChrist our Passover

Communion
Sicut Cervus (Palestrina)

Final
Out of Darkness (Christopher Walker)

For variety one reading was changed and hence the psalm. To my mind, if you are not going to have all 7 readings, 1, 2, 3 and 7 always feel essential and then it is a choice between 4, 5, and 6. I suspect that it is the attraction of three stories and a vision. It may be shaped by a phrase I find inadequate 'Salvation history' partly because it sounds both past and abstract — rather than the story of God's saving relationship with people which, when their are baptisms, continues to this day

Our soprano could not be with us which meant that some pieces did not have their full sparkle, and to whom the psalms were allocated was shifted but in the end it only affected one choice which was to revert to the Celtic Alleluia.

Good Friday

3 April 2015

Psalm 30Father, into your hands (mtgf)
Gospel AcclamationLenten (mtgf)
Adoration of the CrossAs Moses lifted up the serpent (Bairstow)
Reproaches (Peter Jones)
Christus factus est (Anton Bruckner)
CommunionO Crux ave (Rihards Dubra)
When I survey the wondrous cross

I wanted to repeat the Bairstow piece which leads into the text God so loved the world — bringing some Johannine glory into the music. Actually I think the Bruckner and the Dubra reflect this as well - in different ways.

Maundy Thursday

2 April 2015

EntranceFor God so loved the world (mtgf)
Penitential RiteUbi Caritas (Bob Hurd)
GloriaMass of Wisdom (Steven Janco)
Psalm 115The blessing cup (mtgf)
Gospel AcclamationLenten (mtgf)
Washing of the FeetFaith, hope and love (Christopher Walker)
Preparation of GiftsUbi Caritas (Duruflé)
Eucharistic AcclamationsUbi Caritas (Bob Hurd)
Lamb of GodUbi Caritas (Bob Hurd)
Communion AntiphonThis is the Body (mtgf)
CommunionAve verum Corpus (Byrd)
ProcessionPange lingua (Ricky Manalo)
Tantum ergo (chant)
WatchingStay with me (Taizé)

Small changes as ever. New things, some changed after a year, some much longer. A new psalm setting, simpler. We reverted back to Faith, hope and love (and noted for the first time discrepancies between printed copies). Duruflé Ubi Caritas, a first for us (or at least for a very long time). I wonder if the congregation registered it as similar or different to the Eucharistic Acclamations. The final change was an omission was not to have a choir piece at the beginning of the Watching. It partly relates to the too many pieces, too little time and could possibly seem an indulgence. Also the practicalities of singing in the crypt, not a resonant acoustic with the choir despite best efforts sometimes strung out.

Two non-musical aspects of this and the following celebrations also struck me. Our numbers were lower than usual - over all the Triduum. There could be many reasons for this, including weather. I suspect there is a discontinuity between Sundays and the Triduum - at its simplest nobody on a Sunday invited/reminded people to take part. Sunday Mass numbers are also changing with seemingly more attending the morning Mass.

The other aspect was theatrical or 'set design'. People often get nervous when you use such words but what I particularly mean is how do you lay out the sanctuary so that the principle elements are in focus at the right time and so that the liturgical action can be carried out with ease and dignity. This becomes most obvious when, to my mind, when elements aren't right. I am not sure if our much vaunted visual culture (and the ability to read it) is switched off when we come to liturgy or the desire to follow the rubrics can mean one loses sight of the whole. To give an example where do you place the Paschal Candle? the Missal says either by the Ambo or in the middle of the Sanctuary. The latter (which is slightly ambiguous) says, I think, the Candle is significant in its own right (part of the ambiguity is in front of or behind the altar) - the light illumines the whole Church. By the Ambo suggests that by the light of Christ we read the scriptures. And for us who don't have full illumination for the readings it can be a real source of light. This year rather than beside we placed it directly in front - this may sound as though it might block the reader or the psalmist but the set designer will know that this will effect hardly anyone.

Palm Sunday of the Passion of the Lord

29 March 2015

EntranceHosanna (Paul Inwood)
Psalm 21My God, my God (Christopher Walker)
Gospel AcclamationLenten (mtgf)
Preparation of GiftsOurs were the griefs (Stephen Dean)
Eucharistic AcclamationsMissa Ubi Caritas (Bob Hurd)
Lamb of GodMissa Ubi Caritas (Bob Hurd)
Communion AntiphonFather, if this cup (Stephen Dean)
CommunionChristus factus est (Anerio)
FinalMy song is love unknown

By request I changed the communion antiphon to see Stephen Dean's setting which we have not sung for a number of years with its grinding chromaticism. One of the challenges of Holy Week more than any other time of year is all the music you could sing and making choices and fitting in. The danger as I think was the case here, and later on Good Friday, was that there may be time but that does not mean there will be space - that is enough time so that each piece has its space and it does not seem like a continuous soundtrack of music.

Sunday, March 22, 2015

5th Sunday of Lent

22 March 2015

EntranceFor God so loved the world (mtgf)
Penitential RiteMissa Ubi Caritas (Bob Hurd)
Psalm 50A pure heart (mtgf)
Gospel AcclamationLenten (mtgf)
Preparation of GiftsAs the deer longs (Bob Hurd)
Eucharistic AcclamationsMissa Ubi Caritas (Bob Hurd)
Lamb of GodMissa Ubi Caritas (Bob Hurd)
Communion AntiphonAmen, Amen I say (mtgf)
CommunionUnless a grain of wheat (Bob Hurd)
FinalLift high the cross

I don't think we have sung Lift high the cross before but it's a stirring tune and I think it brought out the Johannine glory which contrasted with the other softer pieces today. The text of the verses are not quite satisfactory particularly how the words fits the melody.

As the deer longs was generic Lent mainly because we had noted that since we do another version of the vigil we had not sung it for a long time. Bob Hurd's Unless a grain of wheat was new to us with its hesitant harmony — neither settling or going very far. It was good to have an alternative setting to Bernadette Farrell's which pace Stephen Dean I had always presumed was written for one of the feasts of the English Martyrs at Allen Hall.

Sunday, March 15, 2015

4th Sunday of Lent

15 March 2015

EntranceFor God so loved the world (mtgf)
Penitential RiteMissa Ubi Caritas (Bob Hurd)
Psalm 136O let my tongue (mtgf)
Gospel AcclamationLenten (mtgf)
Preparation of GiftsAs Moses lifted up the serpent (Bairstow)
Eucharistic AcclamationsMissa Ubi Caritas (Bob Hurd)
Lamb of GodMissa Ubi Caritas (Bob Hurd)
Communion AntiphonJerusalem is built as a city (mtgf)
CommunionWhen I am lifted up (Bob Hurd)
FinalOut of darkness

I had not realised until I was looking at this week and next that the phrase about being lifted up occurred in both gospels - I had joined the two in my head. It does show how the Gospels of year B are about the Johannine theme of the glory of the Cross from which Christ reigns. I had come across the Barstow a couple of years ago when looking for settings of this text. This was the first time we had sung it. It is an odd piece which sounds/works more effectively than it looks. The first page is TB quasi recitative with SA suspensions which looks a bit sparse on paper. It then becomes a flowing setting of 'God so loved the world' - a text heard 4 times this morning including the gospel.

Another theme was darkness and light and though I thought about doing 'Awake, awake' at the end (it has been a while since we have) as we will be singing Out of Darkness at the end of the Vigil it was agood idea to remind ourselves of it.

Sunday, March 8, 2015

3rd Sunday of Lent

8 March 2015

EntranceFor God so loved the world (mtgf)
Penitential RiteMissa Ubi Caritas (Bob Hurd)
Psalm 18O Lord, you have the message (mtgf)
Gospel AcclamationLenten (mtgf)
Preparation of GiftsOurs were the griefs (Stephen Dean)
Eucharistic AcclamationsMissa Ubi Caritas (Bob Hurd)
Lamb of GodMissa Ubi Caritas (Bob Hurd)
Communion AntiphonThe sparrow finds a home (mtgf)
CommunionWe proclaim Christ crucified (Bob Hurd)
FinalGlorious things are you are spoken

Looking at the choices I recognise that a couple of turnings were taken. 3 years ago we used Bruckner's Locus iste to connect with the tempe which is Christ's body. We were going to sing it again - we had sung it last weekend with probably no more reason that its a nice piece which a choir of 200 can sing with little practice. This Sunday, with slightly fewer, our bass was missing and though some pieces can work without one part (Ours were the griefs did) I was not sure that Bruckner would. This linking between Christ - Temple - Church led to the last hymn which I am not sure we have ever sung before. It had the added bonus of baptismal imagery from Ezekiel.

Ours were the griefs was from a rare moment of democray (this or O how lovely is your dwelling place by DeBruyn) bud did link to the crucified suffering Christ. We sang Psalm 84 with the antiphon.

For reasons I am not sure singing was good this morning. We had 7 Winter Graduations on Friday and Saturday - so it may be people who had been at them.

Tuesday, March 3, 2015

2nd Sunday of Lent

A Lenten fast from music this week for the congregation. We were with the University Choir at the annual Cathedrals Group Choirs Festival which was this year was in Chester.

1st Sunday of Lent

22 February 2015

EntranceFor God so loved the world (mtgf)
Penitential RiteMissa Ubi Caritas (Bob Hurd)
Psalm 24Your ways, Lord (mtgf)
Gospel AcclamationLenten (mtgf)
Preparation of GiftsMiserere (Lotti)
Eucharistic AcclamationsMissa Ubi Caritas (Bob Hurd)
Lamb of GodMissa Ubi Caritas (Bob Hurd)
Communion AntiphonOne does not eat (mtgf)
CommunionOut into the wilderness (Bob Hurd)
FinalGuide me, O thou great Redeemer

A gratifying moment this morning was noticing a parishioner singing along to For God so loved the world without reaching for her leaflet. I suspect it was totally unconscious but especially as this was the first we had done it since last year one hoed it had been taken to heart.

Sunday, February 15, 2015

6th Sunday in Ordinary Time

15 February 2015

EntranceAll my hope on God is founded
Penitential RiteSt Gabriel (mtgf)
GloriaNewman (James MacMillan)
Psalm 31You are my refuge, O Lord (mtgf)
Gospel AcclamationAlleluia Beati (Christopher Walker)
Preparation of GiftsThy mercy, O Lord God (Marcello)
Eucharistic AcclamationsSt Annes (James MacMillan)
Lamb of GodNewman (James MacMillan)
Communion AntiphonThey ate and had their fill. (mtgf)
CommunionHow can I repay the Lord (mtgf)
FinalPraise my soul

Praise my soul included lots of Alleluias to prepare us for Lent. How can I repay is a setting of Ps 115 for equal voices which I wrote for year B last round - for when we hear John 6. I remembered it when looking for other settings of Psalm 115 - it fitted with Eucharist and the thanksgiving for being healed.

The MacMillan settings were the last ones of the new translation we introduced in January 2013. We had sung the St Anne's previously and it was commended as a diocesan setting. I thought it would take 3 years to get them known. This morning people were definitely singing them. I have been struck in recent weeks that the Newman Gloria reminds a little of Chris Walker's St Augustine's Gloria — one of few unrevised settings I miss. It is the rising sequence of notes which is sung starting on progressively rising pitches.

5th Sunday in Ordinary Time

8 February 2015

EntranceYour hands, O Lord
Penitential RiteSt Gabriel (mtgf)
GloriaNewman (James MacMillan)
Psalm 146Praise the Lord who heals the broken-hearted (mtgf)
Gospel AcclamationAlleluia Beati (Christopher Walker)
Preparation of GiftsHealer of our every ill (Marty Haugen)
Eucharistic AcclamationsSt Annes (James MacMillan)
Lamb of GodNewman (James MacMillan)
Communion AntiphonLet them thank the Lord for his mercy (mtgf)
CommunionA touching place (John Bell)
FinalNow thank we all our God

Healing once more in the gospel and reflected in the choices. A touching place showed the power of unaccompanied solo melody.

Sunday, February 1, 2015

4th Sunday in Ordinary Time

1 February 2015

EntranceGod, whose almighty word
Penitential RiteSt Gabriel (mtgf)
GloriaNewman (James MacMillan)
Psalm 94O that today (mtgf)
Gospel AcclamationAlleluia Beati (Christopher Walker)
Preparation of GiftsYou are mine (David Haas)
Eucharistic AcclamationsSt Annes (James MacMillan)
Lamb of GodNewman (James MacMillan)
Communion AntiphonLet your face shine (mtgf)
CommunionJesus the Word has lived among us (French traditional)
FinalAt the name of Jesus

Every knee should bow in heaven, on earth and under the earth. Part of my understanding of today's Gospel is part of Mark's purpose is to show who Jesus is and that he is acknowledge by heaven, the world and the underworld - the latter coming to the fore today. It was only when deciding which verses of the last hymn to sing that it struck for the first time that At the name of Jesus though a paraphrase of Philippians does not refer to the underworld.

The hymns mixed this acknowledgment of Jesus as Lord and Jesus the healer — someone worth listening to. Jesus the Word was Jesus revealed as Lord and in someways the text is Johannine in feel. I did a simple two part arrangement based on a French edition I found on IMSLP.

Sunday, January 25, 2015

3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time

25 January 2015

EntranceO changeless Christ
Penitential RiteSt Gabriel (mtgf)
GloriaNewman (James MacMillan)
Psalm 24Lord, make me know your ways. (mtgf)
Gospel AcclamationAlleluia Beati (Christopher Walker)
Preparation of GiftsLord, you have come to the seashore (Gabarain)
Eucharistic AcclamationsSt Annes (James MacMillan)
Lamb of GodNewman (James MacMillan)
Communion AntiphonI am the light (mtgf)
CommunionLead me, Lord (SS Wesley)
FinalHe who would valiant be

Two weeks of calling the disciples. One difference is that we now with Mark and in Galilee - the place the first hymn picked up. My impression is that Mark is a less attractive gospel to hymn writers that the others (order of popularity John, Luke, Matthew, Mark?). A hymn which uses 'The time is fulfilled' text would be a useful addition.

After last week's extravagance this week's psalm was simpler. It (and next week) is part of a project setting the Common Psalms and other related psalms. So Psalm 24 is used as a Common Psalm in Advent with the response To you, O Lord; on this Sunday there are a different set of verses from the psalm and a difference response Lord, make me know your ways. For ease the same psalm tone is used. One particular feature of the setting is a short interlude after the verse before the response which provides a little space and is also intend so that when it is accompanied by guitars they can get back into the pulse.

The psalm response led to the choice of Wesley's simple anthem Lead me, Lord.

2nd Sunday in Ordinary Time

18 January 2015

EntranceWill you come and follow me
Penitential RiteSt Gabriel (mtgf)
GloriaNewman (James MacMillan)
Psalm 39Here I am, Lord (mtgf)
Gospel AcclamationAlleluia Beati (Christopher Walker)
Preparation of GiftsI'll love the Lord (John Bell)
Eucharistic AcclamationsSt Annes (James MacMillan)
Lamb of GodNewman (James MacMillan)
Communion Antiphon You have prepared a table (mtgf)
CommunionBehold the Lamb of God (Martin Willett)
FinalForth in the peace

So Mass Settings for Ordinary Time. This is our third year of using the MacMillan settings - it is hard to tell if the congregation has taken to them. Unlike other settings we have stuck with one Memorial Acclamation (When we eat) as I find the word underlay more awkward in the other two.

The psalm setting was a possible indulgence - one I wrote some 26 years ago and I was more harmonically adventurous then. I have used the melody of the response, which I think has a pleasing symmetry, in subsequent settings. In this setting the response text is split, so first 'Here I am, Lord' and then in response to the 3rd verse 'I come to do your will' before coming together at the end.

It is strange, in some ways, that one thinks of many hymns as more suited to one part of Mass than another. Will you come and follow me we usually use at the end of Mass - possibly as though being at Mass was not about following.

Sunday, January 11, 2015

The Baptism of the Lord

11 January 2015

EntranceWe shall draw water
Penitential RiteSt Gabriel (mtgf)
Gloria[Christmas (Paul Gibson)]
Isaiah 12With joy you will draw water (mtgf)
Gospel AcclamationSalisbury Alleluia (Christopher Walker)
Preparation of GiftsThere is one Lord (Owen Alstott)
Eucharistic AcclamationsCreation (Marty Haugen)
Lamb of GodChristmas (mtgf)
Communion AntiphonBehold the One (mtgf)
CommunionSicut cervus (Palestrina)
FinalBlest be the Lord, the God of Israel

Last week our deacon had confidently preached that Christmas ends at the Epiphany apart from suggesting afterwards that the liturgical books suggest otherwise I thought I ought to follow my own advice and keep our Christmas settings for this Sunday as well. In the past we have begun our Ordinary Time music this week. I was interested to see if there would be any reaction from the congregation. In the end I don't know as the presider went straight from the end of the Penitential Act to the Collect. I am not sure he ever realised.

The psalm response was another example where the music in the leaflet avoided complexity and did not include the time signatures as the setting oscillates between 7/8 and 4/4.

Using the Benedictus at the end made a connection back to Advent to round the season off.

The Epiphany of the Lord

4 January 2015

EntranceBethlehem of noblest cities
Penitential RiteSt Gabriel (mtgf)
GloriaChristmas (Paul Gibson)
Psalm 71O Lord, all the earth (mtgf)
Gospel AcclamationSalisbury Alleluia (Christopher Walker)
Preparation of GiftsWhat shall we give (Catalan arr. Dean)
Eucharistic AcclamationsCreation (Marty Haugen)
Lamb of GodChristmas (mtgf)
Communion AntiphonWe have seen his star (mtgf)
CommunionThe Three Kings (Cornelius)
FinalWe three Kings

In previous years, and you can check, we have begun the Epiphany with 'We 3 kings' and ended with 'The first Nowell'. This year we made a change and began with Bethlehem of noblest cities'. For me, at least, there is a tension between wanting to have our fill of carols and awareness a number of the Epiphany hymns giving perhaps a more theological view of the feast. Though I know some don't like 'We three kings' I think it is a good original carol and suspect that its verse have informed people of an interpretation of the Epiphany story. [I was intrigued to hear of some US parishes omitting the 4th verse as it is too sad - this may be an urban myth.]

In the event the opening hymn was just that - and I think what I am partly looking for is the character brings - and gives to the season - this is not Ordinary Time. We three kings did not feel right at the end either - a case of 'we already know this why are you telling us again?'? My thought for next year is the kings at the beginning and a hymn at the end but something uplifting. As Wie schön leeches die Morgenstern is not in the hymnbook 'Songs of thankfulness and praise' but as I suspect the tune is not known perhaps to King Divine?

I have been working on the Common Psalms recently. A Common Psalm is provided for Epiphany in addition to Christmas, presumably to show a shift in the season. (Though the Christmas response All the ends of the earth have seen the salvation of our God. would also be appropriate.) What I found interesting, and I suspect is no more than different working groups on the Lectionary, is that for the Epiphany the psalm verses are the same but the response is longer and I think is slightly better — Before you all kings shall fall prostrate, all nations shall serve you.