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Question Title Posted By Question Date
Drums at Mass! James Tuesday, September 7, 2004

Question:

Our Parish is split into three churches, under one umbrella. In two of the three Churches we have traditional Liturgy following the GIRM and the Vatican Documents, almost to the letter. However, my question concerns the third Church. At Sunday Mass there is a 'band' that play the music, much like that which you would find in an Evangelical Church. Even the music they used is evangelical and not catholic. The instruments used are keyboards, electric guitars, drum kits, and trumpets. Surely this is, in some way a breach of authentic Liturgy. Can you advise on this in relation to actual Church documents etc... As the whole Parish Organist and Musical Director I feel very frustrated about this - but at the moment do not have any say in whether or not they are right in what they are doing. I would like to make my point to them in the near future. Many thanks for your help and information.

Dominus Vobiscum,

James.

Question Answered by Mr. Jacob Slavek

Dear James,

Yes the Church has produced a handful of documents that deal with music...  since you are involved with ministry I think you should read "Musicam Sacram" as well as its "parent" document "Sacrosanctum Concilium", with is a from Vatican II.

One thing that these documents are absolutely clear on is that musical instruments that are associated with the secular culture are absolutely barred from the Liturgy.  (Musicam Sacram, 63)

I really don't think that it can be argued that the guitar and drum sets are not associated with secular music......

Besides, it goes against common sense to use these instruments at Mass, since in our culture they are used for profane entertainment.  Holy Mass is NOT entertainment, rather it is a sacrifice and it is worship.  Only those things that are sacred are to be permitted for use at Mass.  Guitars and drums are not sacred.  When you go to Mass, there should never be any question in your mind where you are at:  at church or at a rock concert.

Mr. Slavek
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