How does the entrance song of the Mass function within the Roman Rite? What can it express theologically? What should Roman Catholics sing at the beginning of Mass? In this groundbreaking study, Jason McFarland answers these and other important questions by exploring the history and theology of the entrance song of Mass. After a careful history of the entrance song, he investigates its place in church documents. He proposes several models of the entrance song for liturgical celebration today. Finally, he offers a skillful theological analysis of the entrance song genre, focusing on the song for the Holy Thursday Evening Mass-arguably the most important entrance song of the entire liturgical year. Announcing the Feast provides the most comprehensive treatment of the Roman Rite entrance song to date. It is unique in that it bridges the disciplines of liturgical studies, musicology, and theological method.
"I'm unaware of any book like [Announcing the Feast] in terms of focus, argument, and evidence. It is engaging and straightforward but clearly the result of many years of in-depth research. It makes a major contribution toward helping us understand just how crucial is the entrance to the Mass itself…. On a personal note, I warn you that if you are a liturgy geek like I am, this book is not somethi
Jeffrey A. Tucker, Managing Editor, Sacred Music, Chant Café blog
"Carefully researched, clearly articulated and insightfully argued, Announcing the Feast will stand as a major resource for all involved in the study of liturgical music for years to come. A multidisciplinary tour de force. The careful reader will come away with presuppositions challenged, new ideas carefully nuanced and presented and a wealth to bring to the question of 'what is next' for the con
Msgr. Kevin W. Irwin Dean of the School of Theology and Religious Studies The Catholic U
"Announcing the Feast is an important book for both liturgical scholars and pastoral musicians. McFarland's meticulous scholarship offers a history of the entrance song using a method that takes seriously the context of every worship event. This book will inspire those who read it to take another look at how their musical choices 'announce the feast."
Judith M. Kubicki Associate Professor of Liturgy Fordham University President, North Am
