LITURGICAL MUSIC

FOR THE SEASON OF LENT

Rundolph Fernandez Bayaua
Ministry for Liturgical Affairs
Diocese of Cubao, Quezon City

The renewed vision of Lent that emphasizes both Baptism and Penitence serves as
a reliable guide to musical strategy. This vision is a conveniently summed up in the
Circular Letter Concerning the Preparation and Celebration of the Easter
Feasts.Paschalis Solemnitatis.

The letter suggests the use of the Litany of the Saints to accompany the entrance
procession on the First Sunday of Lent.

Emphasize in our liturgical catechesis that we are entering our Lenten celebration
with all the members of the Church, including the glorious dead. Litanies have also
been said to make the church building itself seem to breathe: the respiration-like
alteration of petition and response can actually seem that way. The singing of the
litany can have a calming, centering, respiratory effect on the assembled body,
rather like that of the Jesus Prayer on the individual body. Do anything you can to
make the singing seem organic and inevitable – no awkward, unexpected pauses or
attempts at “dramatic effects.”

The Vatican Circular Letter includes a healthy reminder that a reason we sing is to
“facilitate the participation of the faithful,” and therefore the opportunities for
singing should not be taken away by those in leadership. The same principle rules
this statement: “In larger churches where the resources permit, a more ample use
should be made of the church’s musical heritage, both ancient and modern, always
ensuring that this does not impede the active participation of the faithful.’ If the
first statement maybe a useful reminder to priests not to exclude singing on a
whim, then the latter should restrain restrain music ministers who may be tempted
to let the more elaborate music get out of balance.

It would seem important that we regard all these principles (not just our favorite
ones) with respect and sensitivity, with adaptations both embodying the principles
and being mindful of local conditions. Our liturgies’ partial musical fast can be one
more fruitful element in preparing us for a more abundant Easter feast.

Gospel Acclamation: Characteristics of this season is the change in the text for
the Gospel Acclamation. The Alleluia is not used from the beginning of Lent until
the Easter Vigil. (General Norms for the Liturgical Year and the Calendar #
28) Alleluiais omitted in the Liturgy of the Hours and in the Mass wherever it is
found both verbal and visual. In the spirit of penitence, the liturgy “abstains” from
the Alleluia. This is true at celebrations of the funerals, weddings, baptisms and
confirmations as well.

During Lent a brief verse of acclamatory character replaces the Alleluia and is
sung in the same way (2002 IGMR #62 b) or else we observe silence. If the Gospel
Acclamation is not sung, it may be omitted.
 4 Models
a. Praise to You, Lord Jesus Christ, King of endless glory!
b. Praise and honor to You, Lord Jesus Christ!
c. Glory and praise to You, Lord Jesus Christ!
d. Glory to You, Word of God, Lord Jesus Christ!
(Lectionary, Introduction #9 [old edition])

The texts that replace the Alleluia in this season keep us mindful of the purpose of
the Gospel acclamation. We sing to honor Jesus Christ. Whether in the
festive Alleluia or in other, more subdued expressions of praise. The Gospel
Acclamation, along with the ceremonial that takes place at the proclamation of the
Gospel, enshrines the event with great dignity. It elevates this reading above all
others, just as the appropriate use of the Book of the Gospels calls attention to this
reading above all others.

Because Alleluia means “Praise God”, the substitute acclamation is a kind of

English translation of the Hebrew, which seems strange. Lucein Deiss, CSsP used
to ponder puckishly if God does not understand Hebrew during Lent. Still, this
alteration of the usual pattern in greeting the gospel remarkably creates a sense of
the season, because the Alleluia remains “buried” even on Sundays and solemnities
until Easter.

The substitution of a non-Alleluia acclamatory text during Lent reflects an ancient

tradition of “fasting” from the Alleluia during the penitential forty days. Some
theorists, however have questioned its appropriateness since every Eucharistic
Celebration (even during Lent) bears the marks of paschal joy. In the spirit of
penitence, the liturgy “abstains” from the Alleluia. This substitution does not
signify a diminution of praise. Both texts mean the same thing. It is simply a little
rubrical playing about to mark the penitential time of Lent. It presumes that
“Praise to You, Lord Jesus Christ,” is less joyful than the acclamation “Alleluia.” But
this is not the place to debate such liturgical curiosities.

Use a single setting of the Gospel Acclamation throughout the forty days.

Gloria: The Te Deum and the Gloria are not said except on solemnities and feasts.
The Glory to God is omitted on Sundays of Lent. By suppressing the joyful song of
the Gloria, the liturgy places greater emphasis on the Act of Penitence. This gives
the whole liturgy a more somber air, suitable for a season of preparation and
penance.

From Ash Wednesday until the singing of the Gloria at the Easter Vigil and the
celebrations for the dead, the organ and other instruments should be played only
to sustain the singing. An exception is made for Laetare Sunday (The Fourth
Sunday of Lent) and for solemnities and festive days. From the end of the Gloria in
the Mass of the Lord’s Supper on Holy Thursday until theGloria at the Easter Vigil,
the organ and other musical instruments should be played only to sustain the
singing or allowed only to support the singing. (Ceremonial of Bishops # 252,
Congregation for Divine Worship, 14 September 1984)

Communion Hymn: As a unique feature of the Lenten Season, most of the

Sunday Communion Antiphons are taken directly from the Gospel Reading of the
day. This includes not only the pivotal Gospels in Year A, but also year C Gospels
for the Fourth and Fifth Sundays of Lent, concerning the prodigal son and the
woman caught in adultery. If possible, have the choir or cantor chant this antiphon
as an introduction to the Communion song. then as the participants come forward
to receive the Bread of Life they hear again the proclamation of the Word of Life.

Recessional Hymn: For Lent, you could end the Mass in silence for a feeling of
austerity and to mark the special character of the season. This is a matter of local
custom. The Recessional Hymn is not a part of the official liturgy, which ends with
the dismissal.

When choosing other music, refer to the scripture readings, but let the Entrance
Antiphon also provide direction. On the first Sunday of Lent, Psalm 90 is used
showing Jesus’ trust and confidence in God who saves Him in temptation. The
antiphons for the Second and Third Sundays of Lent concentrate on God’s merciful
forgiveness. The opening word of the antiphon on the Fourth Sunday of Lent gives
this day its special name: “Laetare – Rejoice, Jerusalem!” Let there be some
instrumental music on this day, anticipating the joy of Easter. The antiphon for the
Fifth Sunday of Lent introduces the element of the trials and suffering of Christ: “O
God, … defend my cause against the wicked!”

The current edition of the General Instruction of the Roman Missal gives more
prominence to the limitations placed on musical instruments during this season.
They should be used only to support singing (GIRM, 313). This “fasting” from
instrumental music also implies the suitability of unaccompanied singing during
Lent. Try singing the Eucharistic Acclamations without accompaniment using a
simple set that is simple enough to stand on its own.

Musical instruments may be played only to give necessary support to the singing.
Lent bans on any instrumental music not used to accompany singing. The ban has
nothing to do with gloominess; the silence makes it easier to think straight. It is
advisable for those preparing liturgical celebrations to attend to the purpose
rather than to the strict letter of this law and determine whether certain
instrumental pieces may in the local situation indeed foster the spirit of the Lenten
season.

Let there be some abstinence from musical instruments and their sensual delights
in your Lent. The details will vary place to place, but don’t let it be “business as
usual.” You’ll be glad you cut back when Easter comes and the effects are terrific
because of the fallow period.

Entrance Hymns
Title Lyrics Music Songbook/Hymnal
Buksan ang Aming Rolando Tinio Eduardo P. Hontiveros,Mga Awiting
Puso SJ Pansamba
Minamahal Mo ang Rev. Msgr. Simeon R.Rev. Msgr. Simeon R.Himnal ng
Lahat Reginio Reginio Sambayanang
Kristiyano (Ikalawang
Aklat)
Pagbabalik-loob Timoteo JM. Ofrasio,Eduardo P. Hontiveros,Papuri’t Pasasalamat
SJ SJ
 Bless the Lord My Psalm 103 Jacques Berthier
Soul
God of Mercy and E. Vaughn Au Sang Qu’un Dieu 87Organists, Guitarists
Compassion 87 D And Singers
Traditionl French
Melody
Hosea Based on Hosea 6: 1,Gregory Norbet Organists, Guitarists &
3: 3, 2: 16, 21 & Joel Singers
2: 12
Save Us, O Lord Based on Psalm 80 Robert J. Dufford, SJ

Communion Hymns
Ang Biyaya ng Lorenzo Judan Eduardo P. Hontiveros, SJ Mga Awiting
Diyos Pansamba
Dakilang Pag-ibig Crispulo B.Eduardo P. Hontiveros, SJ Mga Awiting
Pangilinan Pansamba
Dunong ng Puso Batay sa Salmo 51 Marius C. Villaroman Tinig San Jose 2
Noel Jose C.
Labendia
Hesus ng Arnel dC. Aquino, SJArnel dC. Aquino, SJ
Aking Buhay
Hesus na Aking Eduardo P. Hontiveros, SJ Mga Awiting
Kapatid Pansamba,
Magsiawit sa
Panginoon, &
Purihi’t
Pasalamatan
Hesus na Hain ng Rolando Tinio Eduardo P. Hontiveros, SJ Mga Awiting
Diyos Pansamba
Kung ‘Yong Manuel V.Manuel V. Francisco, SJ Hindi Kita
Nanaisin Francisco, SJ Malilimutan &
Tinapay ng Buhay
Likhain Mong Albert E. Alejo, SJ Manuel V. Francisco, SJ Hindi Kita
Muli Malilimutan,
Himig Heswita 2
& The Best of
Himig Heswita
Maging Akin Muli Arnel dC. Aquino, SJArnel dC. Aquino, SJ O Bayan ng Diyos
Nang Buo Kong Koro ay batayEduardo P. Hontiveros, SJ Papuri’t
Buhay sa Marcos 12: 28- Pasasalamat
30 Albert E.
Alejo, SJ
Pagbabalik batay sa Hosea 11:Manuel V. Francisco, SJ Hindi Kita
1-2, 8-9 & Malilimutan
Talinghaga ng
Mapagmahal na
Ama
Ronnie Alcaraz
Pag-ibig Ko Carlos G. Cenzon,Carlos G. Cenzon, SJ Hindi Kita
SJ Malilimutan
Pag-ibig Mo, Ama Fernando L.Eduardo P. Hontiveros, SJ Papuri sa Diyos
Macalinao, SJ
Pananalig Silvino Borres Jr., SJManuel V. Francisco, SJ Hindi Kita
Malilimutan
Pintig ng Puso Ko + Luis Antonio G.Eduardo P. Hontiveros, SJ Papuri’t
Tagle, DD Pasasalamat &
Purihit Pasalamatan
Sa Piling Mo Silvino Borres Jr., SJNemesio S. Que, SJ Alay Kapwa: Huwag
Limutin
Sino Kayo Rene B. Javellana,Nemesio S. Que, SJ Papuri Sa Diyos
SJ
Be Not Afraid Based on Isaiah 43:Robert J. Dufford Organists,
2-3 & Luke 6: 20 ff. Guitarists &
Singers
Deep Within Jeremiah 31: 33,David Haas
Ezekiel 36,: 26 &
Joel 2: 12
Eat This Bread Jacques Berthier
Now We Remain Corinthians, I John, David Haas Hangad
2 Timothy
On Eagle’s Wings Based on Psalm 91 Jan Michael Joncas Organists, Guitarists
& Singers
Only this I Want Philippians 3: 7-16; Daniel Schutte Organists, Guitarists
2: 15, 18 & Singers
So the Love of Daniel Schutte Daniel Schutte
God
Unless a Grain of Based on John 12:Bernadette Farrell
Wheat 24
We Remember Marty Haugen Marty Haugen
Without Seeing Inspired by 1 PeterDavid Haas Easter Journey
You 1: 8
(verse 1) Joel 2: 13 & Psalm
84, 89, 23

Recessional Hymns
Alay-Kapwa Rolando Tinio Eduardo P. Hontiveros, SJ
Mga Awiting
Pansamba & Alay
Kapwa: Huwag
Limutin
Alay sa Kapwa Simplicio Esteban,Simplicio Esteban, NDVPapuri Sa Diyos
NDV
Ang Tawag ng Rolando Tinio Eduardo P. Hontiveros, SJ
Papuri Sa Diyos
Panahon
Pagkatao Eduardo P. Hontiveros,Eduardo P. Hontiveros, SJ
Himig Heswita 2
SJ
Pananagutan Eduardo P. Hontiveros, SJ
Mga Awiting
Pansamba & Purihi’t
Pasalamatan
Pinapawi Mo Ang Tao Batay sa Salmo 90 Rev. Msgr. Simeon HimnalR. ng
Reginio Sambayanang
 Kristiyano

Saan Kami Tutungo Fernando L.Eduardo P. Hontiveros, SJ

Mga Awiting
Macalinao, SJ Pansamba, Magsiawit
sa Panginoon &
Purihi’t Pasalamatan
Sinong Batay sa Roma 8: 31–Ma. Anunciata Sta. Ana,Organists, Guitarists &
Makapaghihiwalay 39 SPC Singers
Brother to Brother Eduardo P. Hontiveros, SJ
Sing Out, O People of
God
Service Buddy Ceasar Buddy Ceasar Organists, Guitarists &
Singers
Though the Mountains Isaiah 54: 6-10, 49:15,Daniel L. Schutte Organists, Guitarists &
May Fall 40: 31-32 Singers
Time to Change Atec Jacinto Atec Jacinto Organists, Guitarists &
Singers

First Sunday of Lent

First Reading Responsorial Second Reading Gospel

Psalm
First Sunday Temptation of
of Lent Jesus
Year A Genesis 2: 7-9, 3: Psalm 50 Romans 5: 12- Matthew 4: 1-11
1-7 19
Year B Genesis 8: 8-15 Psalm 24 Peter 3: 18-22 Mark 1: 12-15
Year C Deuteronomy 26: Psalm 90 Romans 10: 8- Luke 4: 1-13
4-10 13

Years A, B & C
Communion Hymn
Be Not Afraid (verse Based on Isaiah 43: 2-Robert J. Dufford, SJ Organists, Guitarists &
1) 3 & Luke 6: 20 ff. Singers
On Eagle’s Wings Based on Psalm 91 Jan Michael Joncas Organists, Guitarists &
Singers
Recessional Hymn
Blest be the Lord Based on Psalm 91 Daniel L. Schutte Organists, Guitarists &
Singers

Second Sunday of Lent

First Reading Responsorial Second Reading Gospel

Psalm
Second Story of Transfiguration of
Sunday of Abraham Jesus
Lent
Year A Genesis 12: 1-4 Psalm 32 Timothy 1: 8-10 Matthew 17: 1-9
Year B Genesis 22: 1-2, Psalm 115 Romans 8: 31-34 Mark 9: 2-10
9, 10-13, 15-18
 Year C Genesis 15: 5-12, Psalm 26 Philippians 3: Matthew 9: 28-36
17-18 17–4: 1

Years/Cycles A, B & C

Communion Hymn
Likhain Mong Muli Albert E. Alejo, SJ Manuel V. Francisco, SJHimig Heswita 2 & The
Best of Himig Heswita
Sa Piling Mo Silvino Borres Jr. , SJ Nemesio S. Que, SJ Alay Kapwa: Huwag
Limutin
Eye Has Not Seen Refrain based on Marty Haugen Breaking Bread
1 Corinthians 2: 9-10

Year B
Recessional Hymn
If God is For Us Based on Romans 8:John Foley, SJ Organists, Guitarists &
31–39 Singers
Sinong Batay sa Roma 8: 31–Ma. Anunciata Sta.Organists, Guitarists &
Makapaghihiwalay 39 Ana, SPC Singers

Year C
Responsorial Psalm
Ang Ama Kong Batay sa Salmo 27 Arnel dC. Aquino, SJ
Mahal
Panginoon Aking Batay sa Salmo 27 Felipe Fruto Ll.Papuri’t Pasasalamat
Tanglaw Ramirez, SJ
Salmo 27 Batay sa Salmo 27 Bienvenido ReyUnang Alay: ICONS
Emmanuel C. Magnaye

Third Sunday of Lent

First Reading Responsorial Second Reading Gospel

Psalm
Third Sunday Story of Moses
of Lent
Year A Exodus 17: 3-7 Psalm 94 Romans 5: 1-2, Jesus and
Theme of 5-8 the Samaritan
Water Woman
John 4: 5-42
Year B Exodus 20: 1-17 Psalm 18 Corinthians 1: Jesus Death and
22-25 Resurrection
John 2: 13-25
Year C Exodus 3: 1-8, Psalm 102 Corinthians 10: 1-6, Parable of the Fig
Theme of 13-15 10-12 Tree
Repentance Luke 13: 1-9

Year A
Entrance Hymn
Glory and Praise Based on Psalms 65 &Daniel L. Schutte Organists, Guitarists &
(verse 3) 66 Singers
Water of Life David Haas
Tubig ng Buhay Salin ng “Water of Lionel Zivan Valdellon Tinapay ng Buhay
Life” ni David Haas (Volume 2)

Communion Hymn
As the Deer Martin Martin
Nystrom Nystrom

As Water to Timothy David Haas

the Thirsty Dudley-
Smith
I Seek For I Based onLionel Zivan Valdellon
Thirst Psalm 63
Ang Batay saNemesio S. Que, SJ Papuri Sa
Kaluluwa Salmo 63 Diyos
Ko’y
Nauuhaw
Awit ng Batay saCarlos G. Cenzon, SJ Hindi Kita
Paghahanga Salmo 63 Malilimutan
d

Fourth Sunday of Lent

First Reading Responsorial Second Reading Gospel

Psalm
Fourth Sunday
of Lent
Laetare
Sunday
Year A Samuel 16: 1, 6- Psalm 23 Ephesians 5: 8- The man born
Theme of Light 7, 10-13 14 blind
John 9: 1-41
Year B Chronicles 36: Psalm 136 Ephesians 2: 4- Jesus and
14-16, 19-23 10 Nicodemus
John 3: 14-21
Year C Joshua 5: 9, 10- Psalm 33 Corinthians 5: Prodigal Son
Theme of 12 17-21 and Forgiving
Reconciliation Father
Luke 15: 1-3, 11-
32

Year A
Responsorial Psalm
Ang Panginoon ang Batay sa Salmo 23 Felipe Fruto Ll.Papuri Sa Diyos
Aking Pastol Ramirez, SJ
Salmo 23 Batay sa Salmo 23 Arnel dC. Aquino, SJ O Bayan ng Diyos
Salmo 23 Batay sa Salmo 23 Rey BienvenidoUnang Alay: ICONS
Emmanuel C. Magnaye
Communion Hymn
Like a Shepherd Based on Isaiah 40: 9 Robert J. Dufford, SJ Organists, Guitarists &
(verses 2 & 3) 77; Ezekeil 34: 11 ff & Singers
Matthew 11: 28 ff.
Pastorale Manuel V. Francisco,Hindi Kita Malilimutan
SJ
We Will Rise Again Based on Isaiah 40, 41 David Haas
Without Seeing You Inspired by 1 Peter 1:David Haas Easter Journey
(verses 1 & 4) 8
Joel 2: 13 & Psalm 84,
89, 23
Sa Diyos Lamang Batay sa Salmo at 23 Nemesio S. Que, SJ Papuri sa Diyos & Alay-
Mapapanatag Kapwa: Huwag Limutin

Year B
Communion Hymn
So the Love of God Daniel L. Schutte
Dakilang Pag-ibig Batay sa “Ubi Caritas Eduardo P. Hontiveros,Mga Awiting Pansamba
et Amor” CrispuloSJ & Purihi’t Pasalamatan
Pangilinan
Diyos ay Pag-ibig D. Magalong Organists, Guitarists &
Singers
Kay Kristo ang Rdo. P. LordencioRdo. P. LordencioKay Kristo ang
Kaligtasan Honrada Honrada Kaligtasan
Pag-ibig Mo, Ama Fernando Macalinao,Eduardo P. Hontiveros,Papuri Sa Diyos
SJ SJ
Pananalig Silvino L. Borres Jr., SJ Manuel V. Francisco, SJHindi Kita Malilimutan
Sa Pag-ibig ng Batay sa Efeso 5: 17-Felipe Fruto Ll.Papuri’t Pasasalamat
Panginoon 19 Ramirez, SJ

Recessional Hymn
Tell the World of His Inspired by John 1: 16 Trina Belamide
Love
Though the Based on Isaiah 54: 6 –Daniel L. Schutte Organists, Guitarists &
Mountains May Fall 10, 49: 15 and 40: 31 – Singers
32

Year C
Entrance Hymn
Hosea Based on Hosea 6: 1,Gregory Norbet Organists, Guitarists &
3: 3, 2: 16, 21 & Joel 2: Singers
12
Save Us, O Lord Based on Psalm 80 Robert J. Dufford, SJ Organists, Guitarists &
Singers
Communion Hymn
Hesus ng Aking Arnel dC. Aquino, SJ Arnel dC. Aquino, SJ O Bayan ng Diyos
Buhay
Maging Akin Muli Arnel dC. Aquino, SJ Arnel dC. Aquino, SJ O Bayan ng Diyos
Pagbabalik Batay sa Hosea 11: 1-2,Manuel V. Francisco,Hindi Kita Malilimutan
8-9 & Talinghaga ngSJ
Mapagmahal na Ama
(Lukas 15: 1-3, 11-32)
Ronnie Alcaraz
Pagbabalik-loob Timoteo JM. Ofrasio, SJ Eduardo P. Hontiveros,Papuri’t Pasasalamat
 SJ
Pintig ng Puso Ko Batay sa Hosea 11: 1-2,Eduardo P. Hontiveros,Papuri’t Pasasalamat &
8-9 SJ Purihi’t Pasalamatan
+ Luis Antonio G.
Tagle, D.D.
Without Seeing You Inspired by 1 Peter 1: 8 David Haas Easter Journey
(verse 1) Joel 2: 13 & Psalm 84,
89, 23

Fifth Sunday of Lent

First Reading Responsorial Second Reading Gospel

Psalm
Fifth Sunday of
Lent
Year A Ezekiel 37: 12- Psalm 129 Romans 8: 8-11 Raising of
Theme of Life 14 Lazarus
John 11: 1-45
Year B Jeremiah 31: 31- Psalm 50 Hebrews 5: 7-9 Grain of Wheat
34 John 12: 20-33
Year C Isaiah 43: 16-21 Psalm 125 Philippians 3: 8- Woman caught
Theme of 14 in adultery
Forgiveness John 8: 1-11

Year A
Communion Hymns
Ako ang Buhay Batay sa Juan 6: 35-58,Suzanne Toolan, RSM
11: 25-27
I Am the Bread of Based on John 6: 35-Suzanne Toolan, RSM Organists, Guitarists &
Life 58, 11: 25-27 Singers
I am the Based on 11: 25 – 26 David Haas
Resurrection
I Know that My Based on Job 19, PsalmScoot Soper
Redeemer Lives 27 & Isaiah 25
In My Heart Song of Saint Mary Manuel V. Francisco,The Best of Bukas
Magdalene SJ Palad Volume
Based on John 20:18 &
Philippians 2:10-11

Year B
Communion Hymns
Lose Yourself in Based on John 12: 20-33 Rev. Deacon CareyOrganists,
Me Landrey Guitarists &
Singers
Tingni Masdan Unang talata batay sa Juan 12: 20-Eduardo P.Papuri’t
ang Tao sa Krus 33 Hontiveros, SJ Pasasalamat
(verse 1) Albert E. Alejo, SJ
Seed, Scattered Didache 9, 1 Corinthians 10: 16-17 Dan Feiten Breaking Bread
and Sown & Mark 4: 3-
(verses 3 & 4) 6
Table Song Verses based on Psalm 116, JohnDavid Haas
(verse 3) 12 : 24, Psalm 34
Unless a Grain Based on John 12: 24 Bernadette Farrell
of Wheat