We Contemplate the Mystery

Discover beautiful hymn texts
In this inspiring collection, Michael Joncas offers hymns of the day for each Sunday of Lent and for the Triduum—for the entire three-year Lectionary cycle! The second of four volumes, We Contemplate the Mystery provides beautiful hymn texts that draw you deeper into meditation on the readings provided in the Lectionary.

Reflect on the poetic beauty of the Scriptures
Opening with an introduction to using hymns of the day, the hymn book also includes insightful commentaries for each hymn that connect the texts to the Scripture readings and provide helpful notes for priests, choir directors and singers. Each hymn is displayed simply in poetic stanzas as well as four-part settings of both well- and lesser-known hymn tunes drawn from the classical or traditional heritage.

Enrich worship throughout Lent and the Holy Triduum
Showcasing 22 beautifully written texts, We Contemplate the Mystery provides new hymns that will inspire congregational singing during these holy seasons. For the Third Sunday of Lent, Year C, "What Is Your Name" is a reflection on how we name and relate to the holy mystery based on the reading from Exodus. "When I a Foolish Child" was written for the Fourth Sunday of Lent of the same year and offers a new look at the story of the prodigal son.

Inspire your assembly
Michael writes in the preface "I believe the introduction of the Hymn of the Day in Roman Catholic worship will give us a chance to begin or recover hymn-singing as an integral act of communal prayer." What a beautiful way to connect the assembly with the readings in a more profound way.