Sunday, December 11, 2016

3rd Sunday of Advent

11 December 2016

Entrance Longing, trusting (mtgf)
Penitential Rite Kyrie 'Orbis factor'
Psalm 145 Come, Lord (mtgf)
Gospel Acclamation Helmsley Alleluia (adp. mtgf)
Preparation of Gifts Song of God among us (Huijbers)
Eucharistic Acclamations Creation (Marty Haugen)
Lamb of God Advent (mtgf)
Communion Antiphon Say to the faint of heart (mtgf)
Communion God has chosen me (Bernadette Farrell)
Final Benedictus (Alstott/Farrell

Saturday was Winter Graduations - so a number of us had given it our all at 4 ceremonies. So this morning was not too complicated. However as we have a couple of new singers and also a guest this morning - nothing is that simple. Though our musical/liturgical economy is based on repetition that possibly only makes sense in a year's time and however simple there is still just a lot of music to do

Immaculate Conception of Blessed Virgin Mary

8 December 2016

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 Angelus ad virginem (English 13th C. arr. mtgf)
Eucharistic Acclamations Creation (Marty Haugen)
Lamb of God Angels and Saints (Steven Janco)
Communion Alma redemptoris mater (Palestrina)
Final Tell out my soul

The College Patronal Feast - Mass followed by Meat Pie. No big changes, the psalm was a new setting and sung by the same student who sang the same psalm on Remembrance Sunday. The usual economies of repetitions are present - but to little avail when you have mostly a different set of sopranos - the vagaries of student life!

2nd Sunday of Advent

4 December 2016

Entrance Longing, trusting (mtgf)
Penitential Rite Kyrie 'Orbis factor'
Psalm 71 In his days (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 On Jordan's bank (Monteverdi)
Final Come, thou long expected Jesus

I am always interested in the connection between gospel time and liturgical time. Rather the mismatch, we have these seasons, Advent, Lent & Easter, the latter two even have their length sanctioned by the gospel of 40 and 50 days, but the gospel accounts are sparse when it comes to that time. And so the Lectionary in the Easter season is filled with before and after, the last supper discourse of John and the Acts of the Apostles. It struck me this Sunday that I, at least on one level, have at times heard the gospels of John the Baptist as happening prior to the birth of Jesus rather than his baptism and mission. There is a half conscious memory of wondering why the images of John the Baptist and Jesus are not of a more adult John. It seems to me that the Lectionary is at least not refuting that impression. So, to my original point, the Gospel narratives of what happens prior to Jesus' birth are heard on the 4th Sunday. Now you may think that the prior Sundays are about 2nd coming, but John does not fit into that narrative. To steal a well known title by Raymond Brown John heralds an adult Christ at Christmas.

Sunday, December 4, 2016

Carols by Candlelight

3 December 2016

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 There is a longing (Anne Quigley)
HymnO come, O come Emmanuel

Part 2 - Behold the virgin will conceive

ReadingLuke 1: 26-38 St Luke tells of the Incarnation of Jesus
ChoirAngelus ad Virginem (13th C English arr. mtgf)
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
ChoirNight of silence (Daniel Kantor)
CarolSilent Night

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

Reading1 John 1:1–4 St John reflects on the Incarnation
ChoirAlma redemptoris mater (Palestrina)
Reflection
Intercessions 
Lord's Prayer & Blessing 
CarolJoy to the world

For the last couple of years the carol service has been on a Saturday and connected with the SU Christmas fair. This year the connection seemed to be broken and so though the numbers were O they were not what it has been for previous years.

We have followed the same format for a number of years with a few tweaks. Angelus ad Virginem is part of an effort to find something Marian which the choir would enjoy and could be used when needed. I am not sure whether it achieved this. One of the stumbling blocks was the density of the Latin and I found myself preparing an English translation on Thursday night. Not ideal but I think it made it far more manageable - we could even consider the change of person within the verses. Our American students were particularly delighted to sing that classic 'Night of Silence'. Though I have touched on 'Christmas in Advent' before it struck me that both 'O little town' and 'Joy to the world' have a not quite yet flavour to them.

Mass for Fr Desmond Beirne cm

Monday 28 November 2016

Entrance Lord of all hopefulness
Psalm 22 The Lord is my shepherd (mtgf)
Gospel Acclamation Paschal Alleluia (chant)
Preparation of Gifts There is a longing (Anne Quigley)
Eucharistic Acclamations Creation (Marty Haugen)
Lamb of God Mass XVIII (chant)
Communion Good and faithful servant (Andrew Everson)
Final Ave maris stella

Fr Desmond Beirne was Principal from 1979-1992 and the last Vincentian Principal. He died in reland earlier in the year and this was the University's opportunity to pay tribute and pray for him.

A number of the University Choir were able to attend and that partly dictated some of the choices. It seemed an appropriate occasion to sing the 'College Hymn' at the end.

1st Sunday of Advent

27 November 2016

Entrance Longing, trusting (mtgf)
Penitential Rite Kyrie 'Orbis factor'
Psalm 121 I rejoiced (mtgf)
Gospel Acclamation Helmsley Alleluia (adp. mtgf)
Preparation of Gifts Zion hears the watchmen's voices (J S Bach)
Eucharistic Acclamations Creation (Marty Haugen)
Lamb of God Advent (mtgf)
Communion Antiphon The Lord will bestow his bounty (mtgf)
Communion How far is the night (Huijbers)
Final Lo, he comes with clouds descending

And so back to the beginning. No big changes - the congregation now sings most o fteh Lamb of God rather than just repeat 'have mercy on us' etc. I think we have done 'Zion hears…' before but not in immediate memory. It is long enough without the closing chorale.

Sunday, November 20, 2016

Our Lord Jesus Christ, Universal King

20 November 2016

Entrance Rejoice, the Lord is king
Penitential Rite St Gabriel (mtgf)
Gloria Angels and Saints (Steven Janco)
Psalm 121 I rejoiced (mtgf)
Gospel Acclamation Salisbury Alleluia (Christopher Walker)
Preparation of Gifts Christ the glory (Lalouette)
Eucharistic Acclamations Creation (Marty Haugen)
Lamb of God Angels and Saints (Steven Janco)
Communion Antiphon The Lord sits as king for ever (mtgf)
Communion Calvarie Mount (Tallis)
Final Hail Redeemer

This was the first Sunday when all the regular members were together for quite awhile. We also welcomed a new member. I always find it hard for new members - to a greater or lesser extent we relying on the repetition of Mass parts over a season and an evolving repertoire that can be drawn upon. It means that week 1 is very unfamiliar and possibly even worse at the end of a season, as next week even the Mass parts will change for the most part.

33rd Sunday in Ordinary Time

13 November 2016 - Remembrance Sunday

Entrance Eternal rest (mtgf)
Penitential Rite St Gabriel (mtgf)
Gloria Angels and Saints (Steven Janco)
Psalm 97 The Lord comes to rule (mtgf)
Gospel Acclamation Salisbury Alleluia (Christopher Walker)
Preparation of Gifts There is a longing (Anne Quigley)
Eucharistic Acclamations Creation (Marty Haugen)
Lamb of God Angels and Saints (Steven Janco)
Communion Antiphon Amen, I say (mtgf)
Communion Verleih uns frieden - Lord, grant us mercy (Mendelssohn)
Final At the name of Jesus

As usual we were joined by the University Choir this morning.

I was pleased with the Mendelssohn, which is a lovely piece. The text is Luther's translation of Da pacem, Domine so in its plea for peace in times of conflict it was a fitting text for today, in its explicit reference to mercy it fitted with the ending of the Year of Mercy from this Sunday, and as a bit of Luther it also noted the anniversary of the reformation.

32nd Sunday in Ordinary Time

6 November 2016

Entrance The Church's one foundation
Penitential Rite St Gabriel (mtgf)
Gloria Angels and Saints (Steven Janco)
Psalm 16 I shall be filled (mtgf)
Gospel Acclamation Salisbury Alleluia (Christopher Walker)
Preparation of Gifts I know my redeemer lives (Stephen Dean)
Eucharistic Acclamations Creation (Marty Haugen)
Lamb of God Angels and Saints (Steven Janco)
Communion Antiphon The Lord is my shepherd (mtgf)
Communion Christ the glory (Laloutte)
Final Love divine

Not the easiest set of readings to choose from. The editors of the Lectionary obviously had the resurrection of the body in mind but surface stories of martyrdom and marriage provide a possible distraction. I am not sure when we did the first hymn last - but it fitted very well.

31st Sunday in Ordinary Time

30 October 2016

Entrance I heard the voice of Jesus say
Penitential Rite St Gabriel (mtgf)
Gloria Angels and Saints (Steven Janco)
Psalm 144 I will bless your name (mtgf)
Gospel Acclamation Salisbury Alleluia (Christopher Walker)
Preparation of Gifts O God, you search me (Bernadette Farrell)
Eucharistic Acclamations Creation (Marty Haugen)
Lamb of God Angels and Saints (Steven Janco)
Communion Antiphon You will show me the path of life. (mtgf)
Communion Jesus, face of the Father's mercy (mtgf)
Final God is love, his the care

Sunday, October 23, 2016

30th Sunday in Ordinary Time

23 October 2016

Entrance Dear Lord and Father of mankind
Penitential Rite St Gabriel (mtgf)
Gloria Angels and Saints (Steven Janco)
Psalm 33 This poor man called (mtgf)
Gospel Acclamation Salisbury Alleluia (Christopher Walker)
Preparation of Gifts Listen, Lord (John Bell)
Eucharistic Acclamations Creation (Marty Haugen)
Lamb of God Angels and Saints (Steven Janco)
Communion Antiphon Christ loved us (mtgf)
Communion Dulcis Christi (Grancini)
Final He who would valiant be

We were going to do, and it made it to the hymn board, Like a child rests at Communion but instead we did the Grancini. This was primarily for musical reasons - the right singers in the right place. This morning was also the first time that our new Chaplain, Fr Peter Newby, came to the morning Mass.

29th Sunday in Ordinary Time

16 October 2016

Entrance Lord for tomorrow and its needs
Penitential Rite St Gabriel (mtgf)
Gloria Angels and Saints (Steven Janco)
Psalm 121 Our help is in the name of the Lord (mtgf)
Gospel Acclamation Salisbury Alleluia (Christopher Walker)
Preparation of Gifts There is a longing (Anne Quigley)
Eucharistic Acclamations Creation (Marty Haugen)
Lamb of God Angels and Saints (Steven Janco)
Communion Antiphon The Son of Man (mtgf)
Communion I have loved you (Michael Joncas)
Final O God, our help in ages past

I don't think we have sung either first and last hymn in the last 20 years - but I guessed they would be know, I can't say that I would be moved to use the first hymn again soon.

28th Sunday in Ordinary Time

9 October 2016

Entrance Unless a grain
Penitential Rite St Gabriel (mtgf)
Gloria Angels and Saints (Steven Janco)
Psalm 97 The Lord has shown his salvation (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 The rich suffer want (mtgf)
Communion Now we remain (David Haas)
Final O praise ye the Lord ( )

A nod to the secnd reading in first hymn and Communion.

27th Sunday in Ordinary Time

2 October 2016

Entrance Lord of Creation
Penitential Rite St Gabriel (mtgf)
Gloria Angels and Saints (Steven Janco)
Psalm 94 O that today (mtgf)
Gospel Acclamation Salisbury Alleluia (Christopher Walker)
Preparation of Gifts For peace (Antoine Oomen)
Eucharistic Acclamations Creation (Marty Haugen)
Lamb of God Angels and Saints (Steven Janco)
Communion Antiphon The Lord is good (mtgf)
Communion Lord, you have come to the lakeside ()
Final All my hope on God is founded

The phrase of St Augustine's 'Far too late have I begun to love you…' was mentioned a number of times in the homily. Looking at my colleagues and whispering 'we know a song about that…' I discretely went to the music cupboard during the Creed and returned with copies of Oomen's 'For Peace' which use the phrase as a refrain. It replaced 'We walk by faith' and I am not sure if it was noticed.

Sunday, September 25, 2016

26th Sunday in Ordinary Time

25 September 2016

Entrance I heard the voice of Jesus say
Penitential Rite St Gabriel (mtgf)
Gloria Angels and Saints (Steven Janco)
Psalm 145 My soul give thanks (mtgf)
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 By this we came to know (mtgf)
Communion A touching place (John Bell)
Final The kingdom of God

I suspect that the musical connections of the first hymn was lost on most people - in England it was sung to a text about Dives and Lazarus, today's Gospel. Actually the text had a number of resounances with the Gospel with references to rest and water.

We discussed before Mass whether it would have been suitable to sing a setting of the 'in Paradisum' — et cum Lazaro, but decided that it would work/make sense.

25th Sunday in Ordinary Time

18 September 2016

Entrance Blest are the pure in heart
Penitential Rite St Gabriel (mtgf)
Gloria Angels and Saints (Steven Janco)
Psalm 112 Praise the Lord (mtgf)
Gospel Acclamation Salisbury Alleluia (Christopher Walker)
Preparation of Gifts Blessed are you poor (John Bell)
Eucharistic Acclamations Creation (Marty Haugen)
Lamb of God Angels and Saints (Steven Janco)
Communion Antiphon I am the Good Shepherd (mtgf)
Communion O most high and glorious God (Randall DeBruyn)
Final For the healing of the nations ( )

A advantage of this blog is the record what has and hasn't been done and when. I generally have a sense of what has been done before - so I was aware that we have not used the first hymn before, whereas the Lucan Beatitudes I knew we had done before but maybe at what point this year.

24th Sunday in Ordinary Time

11 September 2016

Entrance There's a wideness in God's mercy
Penitential Rite St Gabriel (mtgf)
Gloria Angels and Saints (Steven Janco)
Psalm 50 I will leave this place (mtgf)
Gospel Acclamation Salisbury Alleluia (Christopher Walker)
Preparation of Gifts Rejoice with me (mtgf)
Eucharistic Acclamations Creation (Marty Haugen)
Lamb of God Angels and Saints (Steven Janco)
Communion Antiphon How precious is your mercy (mtgf)
Communion Our blessing cup (Bob Hurd)
Final Praise we our God with joy ( )

Usually we would have started our 'Autumn' music last week but as it was a single cantor last week it seemed better to stay with the familiar

23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time

4 September 2016

Entrance All my hope on God is founded
Penitential Rite At the table of the Lord (Collegeville)
Gloria At the table of the Lord (Collegeville)
Psalm 89 O Lord, you have been our refuge (mtgf)
Gospel Acclamation (Murray)
Preparation of Gifts
Eucharistic Acclamations Missal
Lamb of God Nores (mtgf)
Communion Antiphon I am the light of the world (mtgf)
Final Will you come and follow me

Just a cantor again as most of the choir was able to be at one of our member's wedding. I know the congregation appreciate that we make an effort to offer some continuity.

22nd Sunday in Ordinary Time

28 August 2016

Entrance Gather us in
Penitential Rite At the table of the Lord (Collegeville)
Gloria At the table of the Lord (Collegeville)
Psalm 67 In your goodness, O Lord (mtgf)
Gospel Acclamation (Murray)
Preparation of Gifts What does the Lord require (mtgf)
Eucharistic Acclamations Missal
Lamb of God Nores (mtgf)
Communion Antiphon How great is your goodness (mtgf)
Communion Call us to your table (Christopher Walker
Final Lord of all hopefulness

21st Sunday in Ordinary Time

21 August 2016

Entrance Gather us in
Penitential Rite At the table of the Lord (Collegeville)
Gloria At the table of the Lord (Collegeville)
Psalm 116 Gou out to the whole world (mtgf)
Gospel Acclamation (Murray)
Preparation of Gifts Travelling the road to freedom (John Bell)
Eucharistic Acclamations Missal
Lamb of God Nores (mtgf)
Communion Antiphon Whoever eats my flesh (mtgf)
Communion One bread, one body
Final The kingdom of God is justice and joy

We are lucky that even that if everyone else is away a solo cantor will lead the music.

Sunday, August 14, 2016

The Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary

14 August 2016

Entrance Sing we of the blessed Mother
Penitential Rite At the table of the Lord (Collegeville)
Gloria At the table of the Lord (Collegeville)
Psalm 44 On your right (mtgf)
Gospel Acclamation (Murray)
Preparation of Gifts Ave Maria (Arcadelt)
Eucharistic Acclamations Missal
Lamb of God Nores (mtgf)
Communion Antiphon All generations shall call me blessed (mtgf)
Communion Hail, Holy Queen
Final Tell out my soul

Having had long periods of stability we have had various supply priests (and today a supply bishop) it is interesting to get back into the habit of the conversation beforehand: which form of Penitential Act? Will you sing the Doxology and Invitation to the Mystery of Faith? Will you want a note?

I suspect I have noted before but with the Kyrie we do from the Psallite Mass (I) when it is Penitential Act 1 and the Gloria follows straight on one jumps from F# minor to C major and interesting key change which I suspect was not considered by the composers.

Sing we of the blessed Mother seemed a good opener for us as it is structured around the rosary on which the 15 windows of the chapel are based. I had understood that the Arcadelt was based on a 3 part chanson to which a 19th century had added sacred words and a bass part. AS we were missing our Bass today we could test this - but trying it without the bass part did not make musical sense so who knows.

Hail Holy Queen is probably a final song of mercy for this year. Written so it could be sung in unison and even unaccompanied as a prayer. Today it was sung by two voices with accompaniment.

19th Sunday in Ordinary Time

7 August 2016

Entrance All people that on earth
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)
Preparation of Gifts Lord, you have come to the lakeside (Gabardine)
Eucharistic Acclamations Missal
Lamb of God Nores (mtgf)
Communion Antiphon I am the bread of life (mtgf)
Communion I'll love the Lord (John Bell)
Final Lord of all hopefulness

18th Sunday in Ordinary Time

31 July 2016

Entrance Dear Lord & Father
Penitential Rite At the table of the Lord (Collegeville)
Gloria At the table of the Lord (Collegeville)
Psalm 89 O Lord, you have been our refuge (mtgf)
Gospel Acclamation (Murray)
Preparation of Gifts Where is your treasure is (Marty Haugen)
Eucharistic Acclamations Missal
Lamb of God Nores (mtgf)
Communion Antiphon I am the bread of life (mtgf)
Communion Like a child rests (Christopher Walker)
Final Now thank we all our God

17th Sunday in Ordinary Time

24 July 2016

Entrance Praise to the Lord
Penitential Rite At the table of the Lord (Collegeville)
Gloria At the table of the Lord (Collegeville)
Psalm 137 On the day I called (mtgf)
Gospel Acclamation (Murray)
Preparation of Gifts Listen Lord (John Bell)
Eucharistic Acclamations Missal
Lamb of God Nores (mtgf)
Communion Antiphon Bless the Lord (mtgf)
Communion The cry of the poor
Final Holy God, we praise thy name

Sunday, July 17, 2016

16th Sunday in Ordinary Time

17 July 2016

Entrance All are welcome
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 There eis a longing (Anne Quigley)
Eucharistic Acclamations Missal
Lamb of God Nores (mtgf)
Communion Antiphon Behold (mtgf)
Communion I received the living God (Anon. arr. Proulx)
Final Lord of all hopefulness

Hospitality and domesticity were in mind this morning. I have been looking at psalms recently, in particular see what the editors of our current Lectionary did - and what others have done. Unlike other liturgical books the Lectionary is not all laid out in Latin rather it is principally a collection of references. However the psalm responses are given in Latin as often they are an edited version of part or parts of the psalm. For today's psalm the Latin original is the first line of psalm 'Lord, who shall be admitted to your tent?' whereas our Lectionary has 'The just will live in the presence of the Lord' which though the reference is v.1 is actually not fund in the psalm. Before suggesting that the editors of the 83 Lectionary took liberties I would want to check what was in the 1st edition of the Lectionary (both in English and Latin) as in 83 they may have just decided to keep what was there before. Apart from tracing a textual history I wonder what difference it makes. To be honest, 'Lord, who shall be admitted to your tent?' does not possibly the weight or right image of the text (tent is tabernaculo). But the response we have ignores the question, well does not ignore but provides an answer. Who shall be admitted? The just shall be admitted. Whereas the context in the readings say: who shall be admitted? Abraham, Sarah, Mary, Martha, and what about me?

Sunday, July 10, 2016

15th Sunday in Ordinary Time

10 July 2016

Entrance Your words are spirit and life.
Penitential Rite At the table of the Lord (Collegeville)
Gloria At the table of the Lord (Collegeville)
Psalm 68 Seek the Lord (mtgf)
Gospel Acclamation (Murray)
Preparation of Gifts These words (Tom Lowenthal)
Eucharistic Acclamations Missal
Lamb of God Nores (mtgf)
Communion Antiphon Whoever eats my flesh (mtgf)
Communion Ubi Caritas (Bob Hurd)
Final God is love, his the care

This is one of two Sundays in Year C where the Lectionary offers a choice of psalm. If I remember correctly Psalm 68 was the choice in the first edition of the Lectionary (i.e. Ordo Lectionum Missae; Psalm 18 given in the second edition. The editors of our '83 Lectionary decided to keep both. The first, which we use this Sunday, seems to be the song of the Samaritan, whereas the second fits better with the theme of the Law. I went with the first because it is not a psalm we hear as much - and Psalm 18 provided the text of our Opening Song.

14th Sunday in Ordinary Time

3 July 2016

Entrance O day of peace
Penitential Rite At the table of the Lord (Collegeville)
Gloria At the table of the Lord (Collegeville)
Psalm 65 Cry out with joy (mtgf)
Gospel Acclamation (Murray)
Preparation of Gifts The love of the Lord (Michael Joncas)
Eucharistic Acclamations Missal
Lamb of God Nores (mtgf)
Communion Antiphon Come to me (mtgf)
Communion What does the Lord require (mtg)
Final Forth in thy name

O day of peace was new to us - it is sung to Jerusalem. Those who like Thaxted a few weeks ago, also appreciated this. Though one might think the central theme of the readings was proclamation - Cry out with joy - peace is there, I suppose integral to the proclamation.

13th Sunday in Ordinary Time

26 June 2016

Entrance Brother, sister, let me serve you
Penitential Rite At the table of the Lord (Collegeville)
Gloria At the table of the Lord (Collegeville)
Psalm 15 O Lord, it is you (mtgf)
Gospel Acclamation (Murray)
Profession of Faith Credo III
Preparation of Gifts Where is your mercy (Haugen)
Eucharistic Acclamations Missal
Lamb of God Nores (mtgf)
Communion Antiphon Bless the Lord, O my soul (mtgf)
Communion I'll love the Lord
Final He who would valiant be

Sunday, June 19, 2016

12th Sunday in Ordinary Time

19 June 2016

Entrance All that is hidden
Penitential Rite At the table of the Lord (Collegeville)
Gloria At the table of the Lord (Collegeville)
Psalm 62 For you my soul is thirsting (mtgf)
Gospel Acclamation (Murray)
Profession of Faith Credo III
Preparation of Gifts Servant King
Eucharistic Acclamations Missal
Lamb of God Nores (mtgf)
Communion Antiphon I am the good shepherd (mtgf)
Communion Christ our peace (Marty Haugen)
Final At the name of Jesus

The series of readings from Galatians provides a number of strong passages. It is hard to know what emphasis to give them in relation to the whole. But our homilist started with today's 2nd reading as part of the radical message of Christianity and then linked it to the Gospel so our Communion Song was a happy choice. We were just Cantor and accompaniment so I changed what were going to do at Preparation to Graham Kendrick's Servant King.

11th Sunday in Ordinary Time

12 June 2016

Entrance There's a wideness in God's mercy
Penitential Rite At the table of the Lord (Collegeville)
Gloria At the table of the Lord (Collegeville)
Psalm 31 Forgive, Lord, the guilt of my sine (mtgf)
Gospel Acclamation (Murray)
Profession of Faith Credo III
Preparation of Gifts Where is your mercy? (Marty Haugen)
Eucharistic Acclamations Missal
Lamb of God Nores (mtgf)
Communion Antiphon There is one thing I ask (mtgf)
Communion Thy mercy, O Lord God (Marcello)
Final O God, beyond all praising

Our homilist about the antithesis of sin and love whereas the music possibly looked at the transition of mercy. We haven't done the Haugen piece for a while - it is an indulgence. A commentary on the story of Job which does not really resolve the question.

The final hymn was our national moment - we sing it regularly at Graduations as a tune which is known (by at least rugby fans. Though I think it is a good tune I am not wholly convinced it is a tune for singing. But then this was one of things we received positive comments after Mass.

Sunday, June 5, 2016

10th Sunday in Ordinary Time

5 June 2016

Entrance Your hands, O Lord
Penitential Rite At the table of the Lord (Collegeville)
Gloria At the table of the Lord (Collegeville)
Psalm 29 I will praise you, Lord (Paul Inwood)
Gospel Acclamation (Murray)
Profession of Faith Credo III
Preparation of Gifts You are mine (David Haas)
Eucharistic Acclamations Missal
Lamb of God Nores (mtgf)
Communion Antiphon The Lord is my rock (mtgf)
Communion Like a child rests (Christopher Walker)
Final We praise you, O God

Life, death and healing. We sang the opening hymn to Coe Fen (and to continue last week's comments) a tune we had not sung before - but it seemed familiar to some in the congregation. I was pleased with Like a child rests in its mother's arms as a reflection on the Gospel on the widow and her son. The final hymn was a reprise nw with accompaniment to check that it is bedded down.

The Body and Blood of the Lord

29 May 2016

Entrance Of the glorious body telling
Penitential Rite At the table of the Lord (Collegeville)
Gloria At the table of the Lord (Collegeville)
Psalm 109 You are a priest for ever (mtgf)
Gospel Acclamation (Murray)
Profession of Faith Credo III
Preparation of Gifts Ave verum (Byrd)
Eucharistic Acclamations Missal
Lamb of God Nores (mtgf)
Communion Antiphon Whoever eats my flesh (mtgf)
Communion Take and eat (Michael Joncas)
Final O thou, who at thy Eucharist did pray

One of the possible purposes of this blog is to record what we do so that I know what we have done before. In fact, I generally remember whether we have done it before just not necessarily when. And if you have not done it before well when is never. So I was aware that we had not sung the final hymn before - and I was surprised that the rest of the choir did not know it. Whether it is still the case it seemed to be one of few hymns that got sung at Cathedral (large-scale) liturgies. The list includes Praise to the holiest, Soul of my Saviour — it doesn't speak well for a common repertoire.

Wednesday, May 25, 2016

Most Holy Trinity

22 May 2016

Entrance God, whose almighty Word
Penitential Rite At the table of the Lord (Collegeville)
Gloria At the table of the Lord (Collegeville)
Psalm 8 How great is your name (mtgf)
Gospel Acclamation (Murray)
Profession of Faith Credo III
Preparation of Gifts Father in heaven (arr. Niles)
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 We praise you, O God (Jones)

I enjoy this change from the festivity of the Easter Season to our more simple Summer fare. We were unaccompanied which meant you could really hear the congregation singing. The last hymn might have been a risk but they seemed to remember it -it is a good melody. I think it may also have been the first time we have got the alternation right in Credo III.

Pentecost

15 May 2016

Entrance Come down, O love divine
Penitential Rite Lux et origo (mtgf)
Gloria Mass of Wisdom (Steven Janco)
Psalm 103 Send forth, your spirit (mtgf)
Sequence Come Holy Spirit (chant arr. mtg)
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 We have a gospel

Sunday, May 8, 2016

The Ascension of the Lord

8 May 2016

Entrance Hail, O festival day (Vaughan Williams)
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 with you always (mtgf)
Communion O rex gloriae (Marenzio)
Final Lord, you give the great commission

Given that I have often commented negatively on homilists and their inability to link what we hear from week to week I should praise our present celebrant who regularly refers back ( and forward) to help us see the long picture. Now I am not sure I wholly agree with him about the readings of the Easer Season - the working out the meaning of the risen Christ. I would prefer that the mean is worked through in the mystery of the Church - but that is a minor quibble.

We used the Ascension refrain for Hail, O festival day - but as noted last week the verses do not quite supply something direct - unless their is a version I have not come across.

Funeral of Des Cunningham

29 April 2016

Entrance Holy Virgin, by God's decree
Psalm 22 The Lord is my shepherd (mtgf)
Gospel Acclamation Paschal (chant)
Preparation of Gifts Ave Maria (Arcadelt)
Regina Caeli (Soriano)
Eucharistic Acclamations Missal
Lamb of God Agnus XVIII
Communion Ave Verum (Mozart)
Communion Be still for the presence of the Lord
Song of farewell May the choirs of angels (Sands)
Final Ave maris stella (College Hymn)

Des was a stalwart of the community. He had come to St Mary's in 1941 and most of the last 30 years and been sacristan. He had love of Lourdes which came out in the music choices. The whole choir was there which was a tribute to him and his family.

I was touched that his widow asked for In paradisum at the end - and meant May the choirs of angels. When we sang it i remembered the composer whose funeral was later the same day

6th Sunday of Easter

1 May 2016

Entrance Hail, O festival day (Vaughan Williams)
Penitential Rite Lux et origo (mtgf)
Gloria Mass of Wisdom (Steven Janco)
Psalm 66 Let the peoples praise you, O God (mtgf)
Gospel Acclamation Celtic (O'Carroll/Walker)
Preparation of Gifts Let nothing trouble you (Bernadette Farrell)
Eucharistic Acclamations Mass of Wisdom (Steven Janco)
Lamb of God Lux et origo (mtgf)
Communion Antiphon If you love me (mtgf)
Communion We have been told (David Haas)
Final Christ is made the sure foundation

The final hymn might have seemed a bit odd (we omitted To this temple) but I wanted to pick up somewhere the new Jerusalem of Revelation. Though I am beginning to get a sense of the readings of the Easter Season it is hard to give attention to each when they at first appear to be separate tracks. I have begun to wonder if there is even some pattern mirroring the Lenten readings.

5th Sunday of Easter

24 April 2016

Entrance Love is his word
Penitential Rite Lux et origo (mtgf)
Gloria Mass of Wisdom (Steven Janco)
Psalm 144 I will give you glory (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 I am the true vine (mtgf)
Communion Love one another (mtg)
Final God is love, his the care

A week off from Hail, O festival day. Good as the melody is I am not sure the verses have enough - though they make strong connection between Spring and Easter.

Sunday, April 17, 2016

4th Sunday of Easter

17 April 2016

Entrance Hail, O festival day
Penitential Rite Lux et origo (mtgf)
Gloria Mass of Wisdom (Steven Janco)
Psalm 99 We are his people (mtgf)
Gospel Acclamation Celtic (O'Carroll/Walker)
Preparation of Gifts My shepherd will supply my need (arr. Virgil Thompson)
Eucharistic Acclamations Mass of Wisdom (Steven Janco)
Lamb of God Lux et origo (mtgf)
Communion Antiphon The Good Shepherd has risen (mtgf)
Communion Shepherd me, O God (Marty Haugen)
Final God is love, his the care

3rd Sunday of Easter

10 April 2016

Entrance Hail, O festival day
Penitential Rite Lux et origo (mtgf)
Gloria Mass of Wisdom (Steven Janco)
Psalm 29 I will praise you, Lord (Paul Inwood)
Gospel Acclamation Celtic (O'Carroll/Walker)
Preparation of Gifts You hear the lambs a-crying (Spiritual arr. Bell)
Eucharistic Acclamations Mass of Wisdom (Steven Janco)
Lamb of God Lux et origo (mtgf)
Communion Antiphon Jesus said to his disciples: Come and eat (mtgf)
Communion Regina Caeli (Soriano)
Final Forth in the peace

Today's Gospel is one of the most memorable exchanges but it appears not mohave inspired compares. You hear the lambs has been one of those pieces stored in the back of the mind, passed over, looked at but not sure which finally came to the liturgy — and it was rather fine and effective, I think.

Hail, O festival day we have not used for a long time, let's guess 15 years - but enough to remember that in the various editions of the hymnbook are different versions of the text. It is Vaughan Williams at his most robust, with even the a notch towards the vulgar and robust at the end of verses as it gets back to the refrain. We will, as we did before, sing it a couple of weeks as our 'Easter Entrance'.

2nd Sunday of Easter

3 April 2016

Entrance Godhead, here in hiding
Penitential Rite Lux et origo (mtgf)
Gloria Mass of Wisdom (Steven Janco)
Psalm 117 Give thanks (mtgf)
Gospel Acclamation Celtic (O'Carroll/Walker)
Preparation of Gifts We walk by faith (Marty Haugen)
Eucharistic Acclamations Mass of Wisdom (Steven Janco)
Lamb of God Lux et origo (mtgf)
Communion Antiphon Bring your hands (mtgf)
Communion Christ our peace
Final This joyful Eastertide

Tuesday, March 29, 2016

Easter Sunday

27 March 2016

EntranceJesus Christ is risen today
Penitential RiteLux et origo (mtgf)
GloriaMass of Wisdom (Steven Janco)
Psalm 117This is the day (mtgf)
Gospel Acclamation/SequenceVictimae Paschali (mtgf)
Preparation of GiftsChristo resurgenti (Couperin)
Eucharistic AcclamationsMass of Wisdom (Steven Janco)
Lamb of GodLux et origo (mtgf)
Communion AntiphonChrist our passover (mtgf)
CommunionSicut cervus (Palestrina)
FinalThine be the glory

I think the singers could missed the missing hour. It was good to do the Couperin again, this year by the women and a very nice sound they made, it has something of the sprightly joy of Easter. Sicut cervus was a remnant from the previous night when it was replaced by instrumental music.

Easter Vigil

26 March 2016

ProcessionThe Lord is my light (Taizé)
ExsultetMissal
Psalm 103Send forth your spirit (mtgf)
Psalm 15Preserve me, God (Christopher Walker)
Exodus 15I will sing to the Lord (mtgf)
Psalm 18O Lord, you have the message (mtgf)
Psalm 41-42As the deer longs (Palestrina/Bridge)
GloriaWisdom (Steven Janco)
Gospel AcclamationCeltic Alleluia (O'Carroll/Walker)
Baptismal LiturgyLitany of the Saints (Missal)
Springs of water (mtgf)
Preparation of GiftsIn bread we bring you, Lord (Kevin Nichols)
Eucharistic AcclamationsWisdom (Steven Janco)
Lamb of GodLux et origo (mtgf)
Communion AntiphonChrist our Passover
FinalHoly is God (Paul Inwood)

We had a Reception and the candidate requested In bread we bring you. As is often the case with this generation of hymns it is a long time since we have sung them - but we still remember them. Actually Kevin Nichols shows a higher level of craft than many with triple rhymes and theological content.

We had sang Holy is God as our last Alleluia before Lent and it seemed and interesting idea to sing it again tonight. Among its other merits it is short - just long enough to bring the vigil to conclusion.

Good Friday

25 March 2016

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

Again quite lean. We have more music on standby for the Adoration including Victoria O dos ones and Jesus, remember me but 2 pieces are currently enough.

Maundy Thursday

24 March 2016

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 (Bob Hurd)
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)

Nearly the same as last year - simpler and leaner than in some years past. I notice I commented on layout last year (though confusingly about the Paschal Candle). This year the seats for the foot washing were placed across the front the sanctuary, for the whole liturgy. I think it is arguable whether the foot washing is main symbolic action of the liturgy (there are some who would wish to omit it, and may for pastoral reasons), even if this were so it would be the washing not the seats which became a barrier to be passed for the rest of the liturgy.

Monday, March 28, 2016

Palm Sunday of the Passion of the Lord

21 March 2016

Entrance Procession Hosanna (Paul Inwood) + verses Ps 23
Psalm 21 My God, my God (Christopher Walker)
Gospel Acclamation Lenten (mtgf)
Preparation of Gifts Ours were the griefs (Stephen Dean)
Eucharistic Acclamations Missa Ubi Caritas (Bob Hurd)
Lamb of God Missa Ubi Caritas (Bob Hurd)
Communion Antiphon Father, if this chalice (mtgf)
Communion Father, if this cup (Stephen Dean)
Final My song is love unknown

I was away this Sunday and also the one before - but I was confident that everything would go well in my absence. Though this year we had an innovation - a procession. I have long felt that we have an ideal processional route. One of Walpole's follies known as the Chapel in the Woods provides an obvious starting point and then there is the piazza to process across to the chapel. The practical aspect of this for the musicians was that because I was away I had prepared the leaflets at the beginning of Lent - and though I don't think I would have changed what was done it placed a possible parameter. In the event they sang the usual Hosannas but I gave the choir some verses from Psalm 23 to chant in between to fill out the procession.

5th Sunday of Lent

13 March 2016

Entrance For God so loved the world (mtgf)
Penitential Rite Missa Ubi Caritas (Bob Hurd)
Psalm 125 What marvels (mtgf)
Gospel Acclamation Lenten (mtgf)
Preparation of Gifts The love of the Lord (Michael Joncas)
Eucharistic Acclamations Missa Ubi Caritas (Bob Hurd)
Lamb of God Missa Ubi Caritas (Bob Hurd)
Communion Antiphon Has no one (mtgf)
Communion Remember not the sins (Bob Hurd)
Final There's a wideness in God's mercy

4th Sunday of Lent

6 March 2016

Entrance For God so loved the world (mtgf)
Penitential Rite Missa Ubi Caritas (Bob Hurd)
Psalm 33 Taste and see (Stephen Dean)
Gospel Acclamation Lenten (mtgf)
Preparation of Gifts Your love is finer (Marty Haugen)
Eucharistic Acclamations Missa Ubi Caritas (Bob Hurd)
Lamb of God Missa Ubi Caritas (Bob Hurd)
Communion Antiphon You must rejoice, my Son (mtgf)
Communion Jesus. face of the Father's mercy (mtg)
Final Praise now our God with joy.

The prodigal son did not inspire much direct music making. Though I was struck by the communion antiphon which is addressed to the older brother. My Jesus, face of the Father's mercy is one a series of songs for the Year of Mercy and reflects the encounters of mercy in the gospels.

3rd Sunday of Lent

28 February 2016

Entrance For God so loved the world (mtgf)
Penitential Rite Missa Ubi Caritas (Bob Hurd)
Psalm 103 The Lord is compassion and love (mtgf)
Gospel Acclamation Lenten (mtgf)
Preparation of Gifts ()
Eucharistic Acclamations Missa Ubi Caritas (Bob Hurd)
Lamb of God Missa Ubi Caritas (Bob Hurd)
Communion Antiphon The sparrow finds a nest (mtgf)
Communion
Final Praise my soul

The singers were with the University Choir in Winchester for the Cathedral's Group Choirs Festival. Our organist was bravely cantor and accompanist. I err towards trying to keep the music going Sunday by Sunday and by the positive comments of the congregation it was appreciated.

2nd Sunday of Lent

21 February 2016

Entrance For God so loved the world (mtgf)
Penitential Rite Missa Ubi Caritas (Bob Hurd)
Psalm 26 The Lord is my light (mtgf)
Gospel Acclamation Lenten (mtgf)
Preparation of Gifts O nata lux (Tallis)
Eucharistic Acclamations Missa Ubi Caritas (Bob Hurd)
Lamb of God Missa Ubi Caritas (Bob Hurd)
Communion Antiphon This is my beloved Son (mtgf)
Communion Transfigure us, O Lord (Bob Hurd)
Final Be thou my vision

1st Sunday of Lent

14 February 2016

Entrance For God so loved the world (mtgf)
Penitential Rite Missa Ubi Caritas (Bob Hurd)
Psalm 90 Be with me, Lord (mtgf)
Gospel Acclamation Lenten (mtgf)
Preparation of Gifts Miserere (Lotti)
Eucharistic Acclamations Missa Ubi Caritas (Bob Hurd)
Lamb of God Missa Ubi Caritas (Bob Hurd)
Communion Antiphon One does not live (mtgf)
Communion Out into the wilderness (Bob Hurd)
Final Guide me, O thou great Redeemer

Lenten fare that will nourish us for next 6 weeks.

Sunday, February 7, 2016

5th Sunday in Ordinary Time

7 February 2016

Entrance Holy, Holy, Holy
Penitential Rite Misericordiae Vultus (mtgf)
Gloria Newman (James MacMillan)
Psalm 137 Before the angels (mtgf)
Gospel Acclamation Alleluia Beati (Christopher Walker)
Preparation of Gifts Lord, you have come to the lakeside (Gabardine)
Eucharistic Acclamations Bede (mtgf)
Lamb of God Newman (James MacMillan)
Communion Antiphon Let them thank (mtgf)
Communion Blessed are you poor (John Bell)
Final Holy is God (Paul Inwood)

The next time we hear Luke's Gospel on a Sunday in Ordinary Time will be on the 10th Sunday in June and we will have reached chapter 7. We sang Luke's Beatitudes at Communion — it was intended as a filler what we will miss. It had suggested itself while looking for some other music.

In a similar way Holy is God struck me a number of weeks ago. Apart from being one of those songs (such as Out of Darkness) we have not used for a long time (actually I don't think we ever have) it would also make a suitable farewell to the Alleluia. As I looked at the text I realised that it was a good choice for this morning's readings. As it was unknown I did briefly rehearse before Mass. There is a view that people will sing better if you inform them why we are singing something. So in addition to the Alleluia I noted that it picked up the 'Holy' of the first reading and the 'proclamation' of the Gospel. Unless the choir were making a lot of noise people seemed to pick it up and try it - it is also a good piece.

4th Sunday in Ordinary Time

31 January 2016

Entrance Oh the word of my Lord
Penitential Rite Misericordiae Vultus (mtgf)
Gloria Newman (James MacMillan)
Psalm 70 My lips will tell of your help (mtgf)
Gospel Acclamation Alleluia Beati (Christopher Walker)
Preparation of Gifts Faith, hope and love (Christopher Walker)
Eucharistic Acclamations Bede (mtgf)
Lamb of God Newman (James MacMillan)
Communion Antiphon Let your face (mtgf)
Communion In perfect charity (DeBruyn)
Final He who would valiant be

Each year of Ordinary Time begins with readings from 1 Corinthians. Some commentators suggest that the texts are about the nature of the Church and so an important place to begin - who are we that receive these words. The challenge is that the letter contains some of the most famous passages in scripture and it is difficult to relegate them to a secondary position. My solution was roughly 1st reading/Gospel and first/last, 2nd reading with preparation and communion. I did wonder about alternatives to the opening hymn - particularly something which 'bridged the gap'.

Sunday, January 24, 2016

3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time

24 January 2016

Entrance God has spoken
Penitential Rite Misericordiae Vultus (mtgf)
Gloria Newman (James MacMillan)
Psalm 18 Your words are spirit (mtgf)
Gospel Acclamation Alleluia Beati (Christopher Walker)
Preparation of Gifts These words (Tom Lowenthal)
Eucharistic Acclamations Bede (mtgf)
Lamb of God Newman (James MacMillan)
Communion Antiphon I am the light of the world (mtgf)
Communion Many are the light beams (Widestrand)
Final The kingdom of God

Just cantor and accompaniment this morning so despite other more elaborate plans offered These words which perhaps gave a further dimension to the already rich readings. I am surprised that more people do not know Many are the light beams particularly in Marty Haugen's simple arrangement from Tales of Wonder.

2nd Sunday in Ordinary Time

17 January 2016

Entrance We come as guests invited
Penitential Rite Misericordiae Vultus (mtgf)
Gloria Newman (James MacMillan)
Psalm 95 Proclaim the wonders (mtgf)
Gospel Acclamation Alleluia Beati (Christopher Walker)
Preparation of Gifts Cantata Domino (Pitoni)
Eucharistic Acclamations Bede (mtgf)
Lamb of God Newman (James MacMillan)
Communion Antiphon You have prepared (mtgf)
Communion Ubi Caritas (Bob Hurd)
Final Lord, you give the great commission

Baptism of the Lord

10 January 2016

Entrance Songs of thankfulness and praise
Penitential Rite St Gabriel (mtgf)
Gloria Christmas Gloria (Paul Gibson)
Psalm 103 Bless the Lord (mtgf)
Gospel Acclamation Salisbury Alleluia (Christopher Walker)
Preparation of Gifts There is one Lord (Owen Alstott)
Eucharistic Acclamations Bede (mtgf)
Lamb of God Christmas (arr. mtgf)
Communion Antiphon Behold the One (mtgf)
Communion O child of promise (Andrew Maries)
Final The voice of God

I wonder if many noticed that we repeated the last hymn of the Epiphany at the beginning - and if they do perhaps they think that it is ore about limited imagination rather than a making a connection across the feasts… Following last year's absence we did continue to sing the Christmas Gloria this week, though with some new Acclamations.

Sunday, January 3, 2016

Epiphany of the Lord

3 January 2016

Entrance We three kings
Penitential Rite St Gabriel (mtgf)
Gloria Christmas (Paul Gibson)
Psalm 71 O Lord, all the earth (mtgf)
Gospel Acclamation Salisbury Alleluia (Christopher Walker)
Preparation of Gifts In the bleak midwinter (Darke)
Eucharistic Acclamations Creation (Marty Haugen)
Lamb of God Christmas (mtgf)
Communion Antiphon We saw his star (mtgf)
Communion The Three Kings (Cornelius)
Final Songs of thankfulness and praise

If this blog serves no other purpose it at least reminds what we have done in the past. I did look at last year's comments on the Epiphany and followed the suggestion for the hymns as at beginning and end. We sang the last hymn, as suggested, to King Divine and I thought it worked well. I think I have previously sung it to St Georges Windsor - but that was a long time ago. It strange how trading hymn names suggests the need for one called Mornington Crescent!

Mary, Mother of God

1 January 2016

Entrance Holy Virgin, by God's decree
Penitential Rite St Gabriel (mtgf)
[Gloria Christmas (Paul Gibson)]
Psalm 66 O God, be gracious (mtgf)
Gospel Acclamation Salisbury Alleluia (Christopher Walker)
Preparation of Gifts New Year Carol (Britten)
Eucharistic Acclamations Creation (Marty Haugen)
Lamb of God Christmas (mtgf)
Communion Antiphon Jesus Christ, yesterday (mtgf)
Communion On the lips of an angel (Bach/Gounod/Soper)
Final Sing we of the blessed mother

It has been a long time since there has been a resident priest around over the Christmas break. This has meant that there has been daily Mass. Someone thought it would be nice if we sang for the Octave day. In fact there was 2-1 congregation-choir. I was minded to begin with A noble flower of Judah but the numbers suggested something probably more familiar. The challenge how is it still Christmas

Next year the Solemnity will fall on the Sunday - so good to be prepared.