Why we are using Latin in Advent or Lent?
The Second Vatican Council expressed the hope that the people would continue to learn the “Ordinary” (the unchanging parts of the Mass) in Latin, and to sing them regularly in their parishes.
The Sanctus (Holy) and Agnus Dei (Lamb of God), are included in most hymnals and it should be the most common Mass Settings between us Catholics. Those were written between XII and XIII centuries and were written "IN FERIIS ADVENTUS ET QUADRAGESIMAE ET AD MISSAM PRO DEFUNCTIS" which means for Advent and Lent time as well as Funeral Masses.
“But I don't know Latin.” For those who regularly attend Mass, you know what we are singing when we sing “Sanctus” instead of “Holy” and “Agnus Dei” instead of “Lamb of God”, it is the same text just sung by our "Mother Tongue".
Sacrosanctum Concilium also, makes it clear that Gregorian chant is “especially suited to the Roman liturgy: therefore, other things being equal, it should be given pride of place in liturgical services” although “other kinds of sacred music, especially polyphony, are by no means excluded from liturgical celebrations, so long as they accord with the spirit of the liturgical action.” (SC. 116).
What does it add to our celebration of Mass during the penitential seasons of Advent and Lent?
Mystery and Solemnity.
Latin adds mystery. The tones of the chant are not overtly emotional but they seem mournful.
Using Latin, like so many of the devotions we practice during Lent (Stations of the Cross, Adoration, and Benediction of the Holy Eucharist, and the Rosary) reminds us of the many timeless traditions in the Church, traditions that we shouldn't lose. I think those traditions give us an identity.
The Latin and the chant also add to the solemnity of the season. Since these chants can be sung a Cappella, they take the general instruction of the Roman Missal restrictions on the use of instrumental music at Mass even further into the desert (“RM. 313. In Lent the playing of the organ and musical instruments is allowed only in order to support the singing. Exceptions, however, are Laetare Sunday ... Solemnities, and Feasts.”).
Finally, the focus must not be on suppressing other forms of musical worship, but rather restoring chant to its proper place within the life of the Church.
Using Latin reminds us that we are one universal, Catholic Church. Latin is a sign of unity just as the use of the vernacular around the world is a sign of diversity.
Sincerely,
Hector Salcedo.
