First Sunday of Lent

You may recall that in Advent we sang the ordinary parts of the Mass in Latin.  As we enter Lent once again, we are returning to that practice.  The “ordinary” parts of the Mass - the Kyrie, Gloria (omitted in Lent), Sanctus, and Agnus Dei - are the prayers that remain the same each week.  Because they are stable and familiar, they are especially suited to a common language that Catholics everywhere can learn and sing together.  Praying them in Latin unites our parish with the wider Church in a shared voice of worship.

Latin holds a sacred place in our tradition, shaping the Church’s prayer for centuries.  While we commonly celebrate the Mass in English, the Church has never intended for Latin to disappear from our liturgical life.   The Second Vatican Council, in Sacrosanctum Concilium, taught that “the use of the Latin language is to be preserved” and encouraged the faithful to be able to sing the Ordinary of the Mass in Latin (SC 36, 54).  In this way, Catholics can participate more fully in the Church’s universal prayer wherever they worship.

Lent is a fitting time to embrace this tradition.  It is a season of simplicity and deeper reflection.  The reverent and timeless character of Latin helps mark these forty days as set apart and draws us more deeply into the mysteries we celebrate.  May this practice enrich our prayer and strengthen our unity as we journey toward Easter.

Nick Labrie

Director of Mission Operations