This article by Diana Macalintal originally appeared in Eucharistic Ministries, #237, December 2003.
Book
Because “the Word became flesh” (Jn 1:14), the Book of Gospels should be more prominent during the Christmas liturgies. Use a large elegant book that visually marks the importance of the Word.
Music
At Easter, the return of the Alleluia takes center stage during the procession of the Gospel. At Christmas, since the Alleluia has been sung throughout Advent, the musical element of the procession is less dramatic. But consider making an aural connection between Easter and Christmas by using the same Alleluia setting that you will sing at Eastertime. Change the instrumentation to give it its own Christmas feel.
Movement
Dancing does not necessarily mean complicated steps; it is primarily just moving gracefully. The one who carries the Book to the ambo walks slowly and deliberately. The Book is lifted high and shown with care to the assembly. If appropriate, the Book is processed through the assembly (“And the Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us…”) down the aisles before it is proclaimed from the ambo. Use incense to highlight the procession and to honor the Gospel book.
FILED UNDER: LITURGY
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