The Gloria

As we have gone through the elements making up the Mass over the last few weeks, we come this week to the Gloria.

The first words of the Gloria come from the song of the angels at the birth of Christ: “Glory to God in the highest and peace on earth among people of goodwill.” (Luke 2.14). So its use in the Mass invites us to rejoice in the coming of the Saviour among us. They invite us to rejoice in the good news.

It is a series of invocations addressed to the Father and to Christ in praise and rejoicing for the coming of Christ among us.

We now use the Gloria on Sundays outside of the Lent and Advent seasons and on greater feasts and it can be sung in various ways or it can be said.

Historically we find it first in manuscripts in the Greek and Syriac languages. It came into the Roman Liturgy through Gaul (more or less todays France and Germany) where the Gallican Liturgy rather than the Roman Liturgy was originally celebrated. It was being used in Rome by the beginning of the sixth century.

At first it was used sparingly in the Roman Liturgy. It was only used when the bishop celebrated Mass and then only on Sundays and greater feasts. When priests presided at Mass, it was only used at the Easter Vigil. However, by the eleventh century, it was being used at all Masses on Sundays and feast days.

Its use on Sundays outside of Lent and Advent and greater feasts remains our custom.

Looking at the text, it is indeed a joyful celebration of the Father and of the Lord Jesus. It has a strong concentration on Christ as “the Lamb of God” – the One who gives his life for us.

By Frank O’Loughlin