A thought: Planning Backwards

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In 1956, the Goons were “walking backwards for Christmas”. And that’s not quite as daft as it sounds. While we may not be ready for the Easter Vigil just yet, we could keep it in mind while planning more imminent celebrations.

 

For example, consider the psalms for the Vigil – that's a lot of music to prepare.

 

The fourth psalm, “I will extol you, Lord, for you have raised me up,” appears three more times in the cycle: 3 Easter C, 13 Year B and 10 Year. With a little forethought, that one could have been ticked off the list some time ago.

 

The sixth psalm, “O Lord, you have the words of eternal life” appears on just one other occasion. However, it is also a Common Psalm for Ordinary Time. We could use this whenever the Liturgy of the Word speaks of teaching, word of God etc. And there’s another one prepared.

 

The seventh psalm, “Like the deer that years for running streams” (Psalm 43/42) appears just once in the three-year cycle. But it is also perfect for the Communion Procession throughout the year. By the time we get to the Vigil, your assembly won’t be struggling with a rare psalm but will be singing something which is comfortable and familiar. NB