Version 1.0, July 30, 2025
Because the First Friday Mass is a weekday mass, but it has musical elements, it can be confusing for lectors. What does the choir do, and what does the lector do? Here is the breakdown:
| Who | Action |
|---|---|
| Organ or choir | Plays or sings a prelude |
| Priest | Rings the bell when ready to enter |
| Lector | Announces the mass (see below*) |
| Choir | Sings the Entrance Chant |
| Lector | Reads the First Reading |
| Choir | Leads singing the responsorial psalm |
| Lector | Reads the Second Reading, if there is one. |
| Choir | Leads singing the Gospel Acclamation |
| Priest/deacon | Reads the Gospel |
| Lector | Leads the Prayer of the Faithful, if there is no deacon |
| Organ/choir | Leads singing the Offertory Chant |
| Choir | Sings the Communion Chant |
| Organ/choir | Leads singing the recessional hymn |
In addition, the choir leads singing of the ordinary chants of the mass: Kyrie, Gloria, Sanctus, Agnus Dei.
The announcement comes after the prelude and after the priest rings the bell signifying he is ready to enter.
(:- The organist has to move to the back of the nave to direct the choir for the entrance chant. So if he’s not there yet when the priest is ready to enter, please make your announcement slowly to give him time. :-)
Here is a sample form for the announcement:
Good evening. Today is Friday in the [Nth] week of [season]. [We celebrate the Memorial / Feast / Solemnity of [saint or occasion].] Or: [Tonight’s mass is a Votive Mass of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus.] This mass is offered for [mass intention]. [If they are not already standing:] Please stand.