The Gospel Acclamation

In liturgical worship an acclamation is sung after the Epistle reading and before the gospel reading.

A Liturgical Gospel Acclamation Explanation of the Liturgical Gospel Acclamation. After the Epistle reading and before the gospel, the congregation stands to sing the gospel acclamation. The gospel acclamation is normally an alleluia (which means "praise Yahweh"). If the gospel reading is to be read from the center aisle of the sanctuary, the reader (and assistants) may process to the place of reading during the alleluia. As the gospel acclamation begins, the people stand. The gospel acclamation is then sung in the following way: 1. The alleluia is sung first by a cantor. 2. The alleluia is then repeated by the congregation and choir. 3. The verse is sung by the cantor. 4. The alleluia is repeated by the congregation and choir. Example of the Liturgical Gospel Acclamation Cantor: Alleluia, Alleluia, Alleluia. Congregation: [Repeats the Alleluia.] Cantor: [Sings verse or verses of the psalm.] Cantor and Congregation: [Sing the Alleluia together.] (This sequence is repeated until the psalm is completed.) A Contemporary Gospel Acclamation In the nonliturgical churches the ancient gospel acclamation may be replaced by a more contemporary song such as a psalm, a canticle, or a praise tradition song. The purpose of the song is to adorn the reading of the gospel and thus serve the gospel. Before the gospel is read, the people stand and the worship minister or choir leads them in the singing of a song that adorns the reading of the gospel and prepares the hearts of the people to hear the Word of the Lord. Examples of Songs That May Adorn the Reading of the Gospel "Alleluia" "Change My Heart, O God" "Give Praise to Jesus" "Great Are You Lord" "Here in Your Presence" "Thy Word"