Corpus Christi Watershed

Pope Saint Paul VI (3 April 1969): “Although the text of the Roman Gradual—at least that which concerns the singing—has not been changed, the Entrance antiphons and Communions antiphons have been revised for Masses without singing.”

Views from the Choir Loft

May Crowning • The Official Antiphon

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E TEND TO THINK of the May crowning as bright & joyful, since it occurs during the merry month of May. Did you know the liturgical books designate an antiphon for the May crowning ceremony? 1

Do you agree the following is a DARK antiphon?

    * *  Vocal Score (PDF)   •   Organ Accompaniment (PDF)


Mary’s not just a happy Queen—she’s a fearful one. If you’ve ever been close to death, you can recall the serious terror that grabs hold of your mind & heart. The Church seems to be reminding us of how serious Mary’s role was: saying “yes” to the Redeemer.

You can hear this antiphon sung by more than fifty singers if you attend the 4:30pm SOLEMN MASS which I have spoken about already.  Will I see you there?

It’s your chance to meet the FSSP District Superior and famous conductors like Dr. Horst Buchholz and Dr. Alfred Calabrese!



NOTES FROM THIS ARTICLE:

1   It’s the same antiphon used for Communion on 31 May in the 1962 calendar, which is called “Mary the Queen.”

Opinions by blog authors do not necessarily represent the views of Corpus Christi Watershed.

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