What is a Catholic Cantor?

Written By Carly

A Cantor is a Liturgical minister who leads the congregation in participating in the sung parts of a Mass or formal prayer service. An entire chapter was devoted to Sacred Music in the Vatican II, Sacrosanctum Consilium. In fact, Article No. 118 of that document states, “Religious singing by the people is to be intelligently fostered so that in devotions and sacred exercises, as also during liturgical services, the voices of the faithful may ring out…”

In following the instructions of Vatican documents, a Cantor leads and supports the people when they sing by:

  • announcing the hymns at the appropriate times in the Liturgy;

  • singing the hymn melody and words clearly, usually with a microphone, so that the people feel confident to sing along;

  • leading the sung prayers of the Eucharist at the appropriate times, which often includes singing the: Kyrie, Sanctus, Memorial Acclamation, Great Amen, and the Angus Dei.

Even without organ or other instrumental support, the Cantor can lead the people in singing various parts of the Mass a cappella. For example, singing the Responsorial Psalm; Gospel Acclamation; and Eucharistic Prayer responses without instrumental accompaniment can deepen the prayer experience for the congregation when sung by a strong Cantor. 

Carly

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