What is the sung Ordinary?
The Ordinary refers to the parts of the Mass that are generally repeated in each liturgy. These include the introductory and penitential rites, the Preface dia- logue, the communion rite, and the concluding rites. The sung Ordinary refers to the five principal Ordi- nary chants, which are identified by their opening word(s): Kyrie (Lord have mercy), Gloria (Glory to God), Credo (Creed), Sanctus and Benedictus (Holy, holy), and Agnus Dei (Lamb of God). Traditional polyphonic Mass settings consist of these five move- ments. Modern vernacular Mass settings may include music for the Memorial Acclamation, Great Amen, and even the Our Father.
