The Litany of Saints is not a once-a-year text, but we sometimes think it is because we encounter it most often only at the Easter Vigil. But the Litany of Saints has a rich tradition of being a principal way the church prays for God’s help in times of need. Therefore, you can help your assemblies pray fully by utilizing this special musical form of prayer more often.
The Litany of Saints is intercessory prayer, similar in purpose to the Universal Prayer (or General Intercessions) at Mass. So you will find the Litany of Saints taking the place of the usual intercessions at liturgies of ordination, consecration to religious life, blessing of an abbot or abbess, or dedication of a church or altar.
The Litany of Saints is certainly appropriate as an opening song for today’s Solemnity of All Saints. With careful preparation, you might even sing it in place of the intercessions today. Click To TweetThe church also sings the Litany as a processional song, accompanying the procession to the font at baptisms or the entrance procession on the First Sunday of Lent. Some communities also use the Litany to accompany the body of their deceased to its final resting place.
The Litany of Saints is certainly appropriate as an opening song for today’s Solemnity of All Saints. With careful preparation, you might even sing it in place of the intercessions today. The level of solemnity you desire whenever you use the Litany will determine the setting you choose, whether the traditional chant or another arrangement.
Leave a Reply