SACRED LITURGY AND SACRED MUSIC
CATHEDRAL SACRED LITURGY AND SACRED MUSIC
The Liturgy
"In the Church's liturgy the divine blessing is fully revealed and communicated. the Father is acknowledged and adored as the source and the end of all the blessings of creation and salvation. In his Word who became incarnate, died, and rose for us, he fills us with his blessings. Through his Word, he pours into our hearts the Gift that contains all gifts, the Holy Spirit." (Catechism of the Catholic Church 1082)
The Sacraments
The whole liturgical life of the Church revolves around the Eucharistic sacrifice and the sacraments. There are seven sacraments in the Church: Baptism, Confirmation or Chrismation, Eucharist, Penance, Anointing of the Sick, Holy Orders, and Matrimony.
Sacraments are "powers that comes forth" from the Body of Christ, which is ever-living and life-giving. They are actions of the Holy Spirit at work in his Body, the Church. They are "the masterworks of God" in the new and everlasting covenant. (Catechism of the Catholic Church 1113 & 1116)
The Music
Sacred music is integral to the liturgical life of the Church, in which the members of Her Mystical Body unite with Christ, the Head, in His eternal sacrifice on the cross. Sacred music is characterized by beauty and sincerity of form. It flows from and is united to the Liturgical texts and actions. It is holy, set apart, and expressive of the spirit of communal prayer. It engages the mind, body, and soul to enter into the mysteries of our faith. Whether an ancient chant or a modern sacred composition, it conveys the truth of the eternal.
Each choir at the Cathedral of Our Lady of Perpetual Help studies, rehearses, and sings sacred music from across the eras, with the aim to elevate and make more noble the celebration of Mass, and to grow in our Faith through musical and spiritual training. Historically, liturgical choirs were called “Schola Cantorum” (“singing school”).
With questions or to discuss involvement, please click here to contact the Coordinator of Sacred Music.
“Cantare amantis est. (Singing belongs to one who loves)." ― St. Augustine