Part three of the Reconciliation Rite involves the “PROCLAMATION OF PRAISE FOR GOD’S MERCY”
56. When the individual confessions have been completed, the other priests stand near the one who is presiding over the celebration. The latter invites all present to offer thanks and encourages them to do good works which will proclaim the grace of repentance in the life of the entire community and each of its members. It is fitting for all to sing a psalm or hymn or to say a litany in acknowledgment of God’s power and mercy, for example, the canticle of Mary (Luke 1:46-55), or Psalm 136:1-9, 13-14, 16,25-26, or one of the psalms as given in no. 206.
Note the priorities: Scripture (a psalm), hymn, or litany. How many musicians program the Magnificat? I can tell you I never have. The song of praise at this part of the liturgy seems to work much better than a bookend “closing” hymn. I also think a hymn structure is better suited to the state of mind of worshippers than a responsorial or antiphonal format in which they share the singing in alternation with cantor or choir. I would consider a hymn version of the Magnificat. Perhaps the Te Deum. What do you think?
12 January 2008 at 8:44 am
The Benedictus seems closer than the Magnificat if we are choosing canticles – which idea I would commend.