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Proper of the mass

Christianity

Quick Summary

The Proper of the Mass refers to the parts of the Christian liturgy that change depending on the specific feast or season being celebrated. These texts are distinct from the Ordinary of the Mass, which remains the same for every service. The Proper includes elements like the Introit, Gradual, Alleluia, Sequence, Offertory, and Communion.12

These variable texts are set to music, historically in plainchant, and later in polyphonic styles. The Proper's purpose is to highlight the significance of each particular day within the liturgical calendar. The Mass itself is the central act of worship in the Roman Catholic Church, culminating in the Eucharist, and is understood as both a memorial of Christ's sacrifice and a spiritual nourishment for the community.123

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  1. Gregorian chant
  2. mass
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