The Gloria — "Glory to God in the highest" — is the great hymn of praise near the start of Mass. Here's its meaning, its origin in the angels' song at Bethlehem, and why it is dropped during Advent and Lent.
The Gloria Prayer ("Glory to God in the Highest"): Meaning and Biblical Origin
The Gloria — "Glory to God in the highest" (Gloria in excelsis Deo) — is the ancient hymn of praise sung near the beginning of Mass on Sundays and feasts. In this session of The Mass Explained, Dr. Brant Pitre shows that its opening words are the very song of the angels over Bethlehem on the night of Christ's birth: "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace…" (Luke 2:14). He traces the hymn through the tradition — how Pope St. Telesphorus is said to have added it for Christmas in the second century, how Pope St. Symmachus extended it to every Sunday, and why it is omitted during Advent and Lent (so that it returns "like a new song" at Christmas and Easter) — and unfolds its meaning as an earthly echo of the angels' worship, drawing on William Durand.
Key passages & sources examined: the angels' song at the Nativity (Luke 2:8–14); Pope St. Telesphorus and Pope St. Symmachus (Liber Pontificalis); Amalar of Metz on omitting the Gloria in Advent and Lent; and William Durand on the Gloria and the Incarnation.
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.
