Reverent Changes for the Season of Lent

Reverent Changes for the Season of Lent

As we enter the sacred season of Lent, a time of reflection, repentance, and spiritual renewal, our liturgical celebrations will undergo some reverent changes to help deepen our prayerful experience. These changes align with the Church’s ancient traditions and invite us into a more solemn, contemplative posture as we journey toward the joy of Easter. -Your Holy Angels Clergy & Liturgical Committee Members

1. The Gloria is Removed

During Lent, we set aside the joyful hymn of the Gloria, which we typically sing on Sundays and feast days. This practice heightens our anticipation for its triumphant return at the Easter Vigil, where we celebrate Christ’s resurrection with renewed joy. The absence of the Gloria reminds us that Lent is a penitential season, calling us to humility and conversion.

2. The Sign of Peace Returns to Its Traditional Place

We will be moving the Sign of Peace back to its traditional placement—before the Agnus Dei (Lamb of God). This shift restores the ancient order of the Mass and reflects Jesus’ teaching in Matthew 5:23-24: "If you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother or sister has something against you, leave your gift there before the altar. First go and be reconciled to them; then come and offer your gift."

As we exchange the Sign of Peace, let us do so with reverence, understanding that it is not a casual greeting but a sacred act. It is a moment to extend Christ’s peace to one another in humility and sincerity, preparing our hearts to receive the Eucharist worthily.

Sharing the Sign of Peace

• Turn to those near you with a gentle bow, handshake, or another appropriate gesture.

• A simple phrase such as “Peace be with you” is encouraged, keeping the moment prayerful rather than casual.

• This is a time of unity and reconciliation—be mindful of its sacred nature.

3. Removal of the Three Prayers at the End of Mass

To maintain the solemnity of the Lenten season, we will be setting aside the recitation of the Hail Mary, Eternal Rest, and the Angelus at the conclusion of Mass. This change allows us to depart in quiet reflection, carrying the grace of the Eucharist into our daily lives. We encourage everyone to continue praying these devotions privately, as they remain powerful prayers for intercession and remembrance.

As we embrace these reverent practices, let us allow them to shape our Lenten journey—drawing us deeper into prayer, humility, and preparation for the great Paschal mystery. May this season be one of transformation for each of us as we walk with Christ toward the cross and the empty tomb.