Why do the verses of the English hymns not rhyme?
The response to this question must acknowledge the implicit suggestion that one expects the verses to rhyme. English hymnody generally employs rhyme for the sake of memorization as well as the delight of sound. However, this expectation does not exist in Latin. Not all of the hymns rhyme in the typical edition of the Liturgy of the Hours. Hymns were originally introduced into the Divine Office in order to keep the orthodox faith on the lips of Catholics. The chant melodies are designed to foster ones meditation of the sentiment of the text. They should be sung with attention to the meaning of words. In other words, the music is for the sake of the text; in chant music is at the service of the word: to sustain it, to lift it up, to honor it. The translation of Latin hymns into English requires the labor of people with a variety of specialized competencies: Latinists, theologians, musicians and poets. As the Church reclaims the treasury of sacred music, scholars with these gifts we will
