Just before the Gospel, the whole assembly rises and sings a single Hebrew word: "Alleluia." Why this word, at this moment — and what does it have to do with the song of the angels in the book of Revelation?
What Is the Gospel Acclamation? The Alleluia Before the Gospel
This first session on the Gospel reading covers the Alleluia and Gospel Acclamation, the incensing, the deacon's blessing, and the procession to the ambo. Dr. Pitre explains why the congregation sings the Hebrew "Alleluia" — "Praise the Lord" — and connects it to the great multitude crying "Hallelujah!" in Revelation 19, and to Jesus proclaiming the "good news" (Greek euangelizō) in the synagogue at Nazareth. He then traces the tradition: Justin Martyr on the Sunday reading of the "memoirs of the apostles," Jerome on lighting candles for the Gospel, Pope Anastasius on standing, Augustine and Gregory the Great on when the Alleluia is sung, and Ordo Romanus I on the papal blessing of the deacon. Isidore of Seville supplies the mystagogy joining the Alleluia to the song of the angels. Why is this Hebrew word left untranslated, and why is it omitted in Lent?
Key passages & sources examined: Roman Missal, Order of Mass nos. 13–14; Revelation 19:6–7; Luke 4:16–22; Justin Martyr, 1 Apology 67 (cf. Dialogue 103.8); Jerome, Against Vigilantius 7; Liber Pontificalis (Anastasius); Augustine, Expositions of the Psalms 106.1; Gregory the Great, Letters 9.26; Ordo Romanus I nos. 58–59, 62; Isidore of Seville, On the Ecclesiastical Offices 13.1–2
What is the Gospel Acclamation at Mass? It is the sung acclamation — "Alleluia" outside Lent — by which the standing assembly greets Christ about to speak in the Gospel. The video explains its meaning and its place in the liturgy.
What does "Alleluia" mean, and why sing it in Hebrew? Dr. Pitre gives the Hebrew sense ("Praise the Lord") and, following Isidore, why the word is preserved untranslated — the full reason is in the session.
What do the priest and deacon say quietly before the Gospel? The video walks through the deacon's blessing ("May the Lord be in your heart and on your lips") and the priest's "Cleanse my heart" prayer, and why they matter.
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I told him I do not know what I would do without all the knowledge I have gained from this program. Period. Dr. Grant Pitre is phenomenal and an excellent teacher.
This video series helped me to more deeply enter into Mass. Understanding the biblical and historical context brings me attention back to the altar, even when the kiddos are at their most distracting!
This supported by doctrine study illuminates a personal struggle and provides the necessary coping mechanisms to overcome adversity. Doctor Brant has an exquisite methodology of presenting the material in an informative manner that keeps you engaged in the discussion.
Love this subscription. Dr Pitre’s explanations are so understandable and helpful. Michael in customer service is always available and quickly answers any questions I might have.
I told him I do not know what I would do without all the knowledge I have gained from this program. Period. Dr. Grant Pitre is phenomenal and an excellent teacher.
This video series helped me to more deeply enter into Mass. Understanding the biblical and historical context brings me attention back to the altar, even when the kiddos are at their most distracting!
This supported by doctrine study illuminates a personal struggle and provides the necessary coping mechanisms to overcome adversity. Doctor Brant has an exquisite methodology of presenting the material in an informative manner that keeps you engaged in the discussion.
Love this subscription. Dr Pitre’s explanations are so understandable and helpful. Michael in customer service is always available and quickly answers any questions I might have.
