Litany of the Saints

When a parish gathers to dedicate a new church, the liturgy calls on the entire communion of saints to join the celebration. This chant setting of the "Litany of the Saints" is the official English translation used for these solemn moments. It begins with the familiar Kyrie, then moves into a steady, rhythmic roll call of the apostles, martyrs, and holy men and women who have gone before us.

Singing this litany is always a powerful experience for a choir and congregation. The cantor intones each name or petition, and the people answer with a unified response—"pray for us," "Lord, deliver us, we pray," or "Lord, we ask you, hear our prayer." Because the melody is simple and repetitive, it allows the faithful to sink deeply into the prayer, creating a continuous wave of voices echoing through the nave.

This specific arrangement includes the special petition to "Consecrate this church for your worship," anchoring it perfectly to the rite of dedication. It is a beautiful reminder that when we sing the liturgy, we never sing alone; we are joined by the angels and saints in a chorus that spans heaven and earth.