Latin Catholic Hymns and Gregorian Chant
The Church's sacred music directs the mind and heart toward prayer. Gregorian chant belongs to the living tradition of Catholic worship: its melodies clothe the words of the liturgy and help the faithful attend to their meaning. The SSPX's May–June 2024 issue of The Angelus invites Catholics to appreciate this treasury and learn the familiar melodies of the Sung Mass.
The chants of the Mass
The Kyriale contains settings for the Ordinary of the Mass. The SSPX article discusses settings associated with different seasons and feasts, including the Mass of the Angels. Learning one setting at a time helps a singer become familiar with its phrases and prayerful character. Our Mass readings and texts provide a companion for following the liturgy.
Mass sheet music and chant recordings
Use the parish's Mass music list to prepare for the liturgy. Each Mass link below opens its readings page, where the available music sheet and chant recordings are linked. Resources vary by Mass; a missing recording is not a prescribed omission from the liturgy.
- The Seven Sorrows of BVM
- Our Lady of Compassion (Passion Week)
- Good Friday Liturgy
- Dedication of the Archbasilica of Our Savior
- Full Requiem Mass
Salve Regina
This beloved Marian antiphon addresses Our Lady as Queen and Mother of Mercy. It expresses the Christian's need for her intercession and directs our hope toward her Son. The SSPX provides an introduction to the Salve Regina with musical resources for listening and study.
Regina Coeli
In Eastertide, the Regina Coeli rejoices in the Resurrection of Our Lord. The SSPX explains its place at the conclusion of Compline and its use in place of the Angelus during this season. Read the Latin text and Eastertide explanation.
Te Deum
The Te Deum is an ancient hymn of thanksgiving to Almighty God. St. Thomas More Priory offers the text and a chant recording. It provides a fitting introduction to the Church's solemn expressions of gratitude.
For daily prayer, explore the Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary and the Holy Rosary. Ask the parish about current choir arrangements before assuming that a particular setting is sung locally.
Source: The Angelus: Sacred Music and Gregorian Chant, with the SSPX resources linked above.