Praying Twice

When I think of music in a Catholic mass, I think of polar extremes:

I've been to masses with music that truly is a gift from God - the kind than moves your heart, deepens your prayer and creates an otherworldly feeling. Organs, string instruments, choirs, children's voices and chants can be amazing to experience.

On the other hand, I've been to masses where the Music was weak or uninspired. I've been to masses where the music ministers sung out of tune. Worse, I've all too often been at mass when few people even bother to sing - its as if singing is optional. Lots of humming with few people even bothering to have the hymnal or missal out in front of them.

In our RCIA class this week we covered the importance of music in the Liturgy. Music is a gift from God! Everyone should participate in the music. Music deepens the word of God.

Here is the Catachism, 1156: "The musical tradition of the universal Church is a treasure of inestimable value, greater even than that of any other art. The main reason for this pre-eminence is that, as a combination of sacred music and words, it forms a necessary or integral part of solemn liturgy." The composition and singing of inspired psalms, often accompanied by musical instruments, were already closely linked to the liturgical celebrations of the Old Covenant. The Church continues and develops this tradition: "Address . . . one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody to the Lord with all your heart."

St. Augustine even says 'Singing is praying. When one sings, he prays twice."
Make a point next time you celebrate mass to sing. Sing loud. God is listening!