The “Word of the Father” Chord: Theology and Harmony Meet at Christmas
It is fitting that the most exquisite chord in Adeste Fideles coincides with the most profound line of theology.
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.”
Mark Haas is a composer and speaker whose liturgical music has been sung in over 600 parishes and 10 countries. He lives in Florida with his wife and seven children.—Read full biography (with photographs).

It is fitting that the most exquisite chord in Adeste Fideles coincides with the most profound line of theology.

A collection of Palestrina works that are not only stunningly beautiful but also surprisingly accessible.

“A chorus of groans erupted: ‘Mr. Haaaaaasssss, whyyyy?'”

“Their culture blended into the harmony of the Church. They were no longer citizens. They were Catholic.”

“The choristers are not only learning the Propers more quickly but are also internalizing the sound of solfege in relation to Gregorian modes.”

“Organum is a humble addition to Gregorian chant, yet it opens a profound sonic world.”

“To assist this process, I have compiled links to the documents…” —Mark Haas

“This unique vitality is nowhere more visible than in the choir loft.”

“Tending the garden of the liturgy so that, in God’s time, fruit may grow that is destined for eternity.”

“Charlie Kirk has repeatedly spoken about the power of traditional liturgy.”

To call any form of liturgical singing “chant” is to obscure the meaning the Church has always attributed to Gregorian chant.

“A restaurant’s niche—just like a Church’s patrimony—draws people in not by blending with the generic, but by standing apart.”

“There is a sacred calling for those of us who compose and arrange music for the Church.”

“We had 14 singers in the loft—nearly all of them teenagers.”
Corpus Christi Watershed is a 501(c)3 public charity dedicated to exploring and embodying as our calling the relationship of religion, culture, and the arts. This non-profit organization employs the creative media in service of theology, the Church, and Christian culture for the enrichment and enjoyment of the public.