The Propers of the Mass are liturgical texts that vary, like the readings, daily according to the calendar: the Introit, the Gradual, the Responsorial Psalm, the Alleluia Verse/Lenten Tract, the Offertory Chant, and the Communion Antiphon.
Prior to Vatican II, the use of the Propers was an integral part of congregational practice, but in recent years this has been lost as a tradition in most parishes. For example, before it became tradition to sing an opening hymn at the beginning of Mass, the mass began with the chanting of the Introit Antiphon “proper” to that particular liturgy and day. The familiar terms Gaudete Sunday and Laetare Sunday were adopted by the early church directly from the Introit Antiphons for the third Sunday of Advent and fourth Sundays of Lent, “Gaudete in Domino sempre” and “Laetare Jerusalem” respectively.
The Church of the Resurrection is committed to re-introducing the traditional chants of the Catholic Church into the liturgy. On the third Sunday of each month, the adult choir welcomes additional singers to join in the singing of the Propers at the 11 AM mass. Separated into two “scholas,” Men’s and Women’s, we lead a mass characterized by introspection and prayerfulness, passed down by the Church and reflective of the deep musical treasure of the Church. Through this ministry we aim to bring worshippers into a deeper union with the Divine.
All those interested in joining either the Men’s Schola or Women’s Schola may do so by contacting our Director of Music, David Stattelman, using the link below.
