An Advent Vespers Update?

As previously noted here (see screen capture for details), one cam only wonder if a change has been made to the Advent Vespers program in a local Catholic parish at which Rabbi Susan Talve was scheduled.



Considering what is being passed off as "Advent Vespers" these days in some places, some might rightly ask, "What exactly are 'Advent Vespers'?"

'Vespers' refers to 'Evening prayer' and as a liturgical action, it should be celebrated communally in church by groups of the faithful, if possible. Some of us pray the Liturgy of the Hours, but do not have the opportunity to do so communally in a church on a regular basis. But when a special season such as Advent provides us an opportunity to do so, should we not make use of the rites and prayers afforded us by the Church?

CantiNOVA Publications has great information on Advent Vespers and from its site, we read:

These excerpts from the General Instruction of the Liturgy of the Hours show the Church's concern that the faithful unite in liturgical prayer, even beyond Sunday Mass. The season of Advent offers an appropriate opportunity for us to celebrate the Hours, most especially Evening Prayer (Vespers).

The Catholic Liturgy Book states, "Evening Prayer has a dual character- praise for the gifts of the day gone by and PENITENCE for the sins we have committed. It sets the approach of night within the context of Christian hope, and is marked by a strong sense of God's mercy and HOPE FOR THE COMING OF CHRIST, who is the light of the world." One can see from the capitalized phrases above that the themes of Advent and the basic themes of Evening Prayer overlap considerably....

It should be noted that it is ALWAYS desirable to stray as little as necessary from officially approved texts and translations, even with congregational involvement. Under unusual circumstances it may be necessary to substitute a paraphrased version of a psalm or canticle in the interest of having a familiar and singable setting. This should be done with caution, and should ultimately lead the congregation to a familiarity with and appreciation of approved settings. While the clergy (bishop, priest or deacon) should participate in a leadership role in Evening Prayer, the service may be celebrated fully and properly even with no clergy present.

For those who wish to learn more about Advent Vespers, I would suggest the CantiNOVA site which has a wonderful outline, making it quite easy for those planning such liturgical prayers.