Selecting music for the Third Sunday of Lent (Year C) was pretty tough, only because I couldn’t get a handle on what the Exodus reading had to do with Gospel. When choosing music for Mass, I try to figure out what the connection is between the readings, and then find songs and hymns that illustrate, illuminate, or expand on those ideas.
But the readings for the Third Sunday of Lent were a bit tough this time. I’m still not sure I see a parallel. I decided to focus on the calling of Moses, maybe because of my personal taste in specific songs. Obviously, knowing more about what the homily might focus on would be a big help in this case.
Music Suggestions for
Third Sunday of Lent
Gathering Song:
Dust and Ashes
Lead us through the desert sand.
Bring us living water
Holy Spirit, come.
Preparation of the Gifts Song:
Here I Am, Lord
Is it I, Lord?
I have heard you calling in the night.
Communion Song:
You are Mine
I have called you each by name
Come and follow me, I will lead you home
I love you, and you are mine.
Song for Sending Forth:
Jerusalem, My Destiny
Jerusalem, my destiny!
Additional Notes for
Third Sunday of Lent
The nomadic-sounding nature of "Dust and Ashes" makes it an excellent choice for a processional, and the penitential text is a good fit with the repentance message of the Gospel. Dan Schutte's "Here I Am, Lord," and David Haas' "You are Mine" reflect on the Exodus reading, and give voice to what it means to be called by God.
I had the pleasure of meeting Dan Schutte recently (in fact, he inspired me to start this blog). During the concert he gave for our parish, he explained that "Here I Am, Lord" was written to be sung with solo verses, with the refrain sung by the congregation- emphasizing the call and response nature of the text. The song is so beloved and well-known that it's hard to get a congregation to not sing it, but if you have a large choir you can at least alternate the texture between solo cantor and large ensemble. I suggest having a woman sing the voice of God.