Integration of Music
The following is stated on page 20 of the new liturgy: “Following these words of preparation for the forgiveness of sins and Holy Communion, the congregation sings the hymn of preparation.”
If one were to stop reading here, it could be assumed that only the congregation should sing the hymn of repentance. Of course, having the congregation sing for this moment can be powerful, as it gives all believers an opportunity to express their repentance and confess their sins collectively, before both God and one another.
However, if we read on, we find the following: “The congregation remains seated during the hymn of repentance. The choir stands if it is asked to sing.”
The mentioning of choir helps to clarify that the congregation isn’t the only option, while also implying that the musical approach in these moments can be varied. Not only can the congregation sing together to express collective repentance, the choir can also sing on behalf of the congregation. In addition, it can also be impactful when a soloist is included here to reflect the sanctity and humility of the moment.
Moment of Silence
The following is also stated on page 20 of the new liturgy: “In place of the hymn of repentance, the officiant may invite the congregation to observe a moment of silence (with a maximum duration of one minute). A moment of silence is a time of reflection and can help us experience God’s nearness through repentance and remorse. The congregation remains seated for this.”
Note that if this option is utilized, it should only be utilized sparingly. The more frequently this approach is taken, the less impactful these moments of silence will inevitably be.
When this approach is taken, it’s important to consider not only how we enter the moment of silence, but also we how exit it. To preface these moments, the officiant could simply state the following: “Together, we will now observe a moment of silence—a time for us to reflect and experience God’s nearness through repentance and remorse” (note that this wording is pulled from the liturgy). Of course this is just an example, and can be adjusted.
To come out of the moment of silence, the officiant can say something to the following effect: “We want to transition now from this time of reflection to the communal praying of the Lord’s Prayer. Let us rise and join in this prayer which the Lord Jesus taught us.” Or, where desired, the piano or organ could play something lightly following the moment of silence—either a short song of repentance to reflect the present moment, or a portion of the song to be rendered during Holy Communion to foreshadow fellowship with Christ. Then, directly following the music, the officiant would invite the congregation to stand and join in the Lord’s Prayer.
No matter which option is utilized, advance communication will be necessary so that any distractions are minimized in these moving moments.
If there are any questions over anything above, or if further clarification is needed, please email music_worship@nac-usa.org.