Music in LiturgyCourse Level: Basic

Successful completion of this course earns 2.5 CEU's. Click here for more information about CEU's.

• Articulate the basic function of music within the liturgical rite and why it is a key component to liturgical celebrations
• Comprehend the differentiation between music within Mass that enacts the rite, accompanies the rite, or is optional to the rite
• Understand the basic structure of the Roman Catholic liturgy and where music falls within it
• Demonstrate an introductory understanding of how to select appropriate hymnody for Sunday liturgical celebrations

• No books required. All readings are online.

• Week 1: Why do we sing? Music and the Mass
  • Be introduced to basic liturgical music norms set forth by the Church through the Second Vatican Council
  • Consider the charge for full and active participation within the liturgy
  • Consider Internal v. External Participation
• Week 2: What do we sing? And the Introductory Rites
  • Consider what constitutes proper liturgical music as opposed to sacred or devotional music.
  • Be introduced to elements of the Introductory Rites that involve music.
  • Examine ‘other’ sacred music in relation to liturgical music
  • Examine music proper to the Introductory Rites
• Week 3: Music and the Liturgy of the Word
  • Be familiar with music proper to the Liturgy of the Word
  • Comprehend a general overview of the Liturgy of the Word
  • Consider the centrality of music in the proclamation of the Responsorial Psalm
  • Consider how certain music enacts vs. accompanies the liturgical rite
  • Be introduced to the Gospel Acclamation and the language used during various liturgical seasons
• Week 4: Music and the Liturgy of the Eucharist/Concluding Rite
  • Comprehend a general overview of the Liturgy of the Eucharist
  • Consider the importance of congregational singing during the acclamations afforded to the assembly in the Eucharistic prayer
  • Be introduced to best practice methods for selecting a Mass setting that encourages full and active participation
  • Examine the Communion hymn and Sending Forth hymn
• Week 5: Selecting Proper Hymnody and Course Synthesis
  • Return to the overview of music within the liturgical rite and suggestions for best practices of selecting music
  • Examine resources that assist with the selection of hymnody in the planning of liturgy.
  • Apply principles for encouraging full and active participation within the gathered assembly at each liturgical celebration.