Latin in Mass during Lent

For the last several years during Lent, our parish has used Latin chant for the ordinary parts of the Mass (the Holy, Memorial Acclamation, Great Amen, and Lamb of God). We'll chant the Sanctus (Holy) and the Agnus Dei (Lamb of God), and the Post Consecrationem (Mystery of Faith) in Latin.

Why do we do this? Quite simply put, preservation, mystery, solemnity, and unity.

Preservation

Since the Second Vatican Council, the vernacular has replaced Latin in the liturgies in many communities. The unintended result is that Latin has become an unfamiliar language to Latin Rite Catholics worldwide. The council’s document on the liturgy suggested otherwise. The Constitution on the Liturgy of the Second Vatican Council (Sacrosanctum Concilium) stated that “particular law remaining in force, the use of the Latin language is to be preserved in the Latin rites.” (36.1)

The council fathers also advised that even though the use of the “Mother Tongue” in the liturgy might be expanded, “nevertheless steps should be taken so that the faithful may also be able to say or to sing together in Latin those parts of the Ordinary of the Mass which pertain to them.” (54) Our chanting of these acclamations in Latin contributes to this preservation of the liturgical language. 

Mystery and Solemnity

During Lent, we also practice many devotions (Stations of the Cross, Adoration, and Benediction of the Holy Eucharist, the Rosary, Fasting, and Almsgiving). Latin chants, like these devotions, remind us of the many timeless traditions in the church and contributes to the solemnity of the season. Chanting our acclamations in Latin adds a sense of mystery, while the ancient chant tones bring a mournfulness to the sacrifice of the Mass during this holy season. 

Unity

Using Latin reminds us that we are one universal Catholic Church. Latin continues to be a sign of unity. The prayerful intent at Mother Teresa Church is that we embrace this Lenten practice and join our voices to the voices of the universal church in singing together the acclamations and the prayerful hymnody and psalmody of the season.