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.”
Guided by this one principle, every parish: “will become a model in its own way, and the liturgical reform, in its essence and demands, will be happily fulfilled.” — Aurelio Porfiri
Silence is one of the most important sounds of the liturgy.
You will not make progress at your parish unless you understand Pope Benedict’s “Unbelievably Big Kite” theory.
Importing singers is the quickest way to get good music into your parish, even if it is only for one occasion.
Turn off the microphones. This can be a challenge when many parishes and even some cathedrals are enamored of carpeting – to say nothing of seat cushions!
I have been asked to recommend some ways in which any parish in the United States could improve the music used at Mass. Some parishes may already have taken the following two steps, in which case my advice will be nugatory for them, but if your parish has not yet done so, now’s the time to begin.
Simple steps to start moving from the “average” Catholic music program to a more reverent liturgy.
