singing the preface...

[docmattc]

I was off my patch this weekend investigating an organ south of Watford Gap ready for a wedding in July. At Mass last night I experienced a rather odd liturgical practice which I have heard goes on in a neighbouring diocese up here too.

We sang the preface dialogue (excellent) and then the priest sang the preface including the words "and so with all the choirs of angels we SING" ... and then we all said the Sanctus.

Is there any liturgical logic to this practice? Surely it makes no sense to sing the preface if the people cannot then acclaim in song.

[musicus]

Is there any liturgical logic to this practice? Surely it makes no sense to sing the preface if the people cannot then acclaim in song.

No 'logic' at all. They certainly seem to have their musical priorities wrong (about which our bishops have written from time to time).