Litany of the saints (English) for Easter

The Litany of the Saints is one of the most ancient and moving prayers we sing as a Church. In this English chant setting from the Roman Missal, the cantor leads the congregation in calling upon the great cloud of witnesses—from Mary and the Apostles to the martyrs and founders of religious orders. The simple, repeating melody allows the choir and the people to fall into a deep, meditative rhythm, uniting their voices with the saints in heaven.

We hear this litany most powerfully during the Easter Vigil, right before the blessing of the baptismal water. The score includes the specific invocations used when new members are about to be baptized, asking God to bring them to new birth. It is also a staple at ordinations and the dedication of new churches. Singing these names back-to-back reminds us that we are never alone in the choir loft or in the pews; we worship alongside generations of holy men and women who have walked the path before us.