Extraordinary Form·Mass of the Catechumens
Gradual, Alleluia, or Tract
A meditative chant between the readings.
What happens
After the Epistle, the priest reads the Gradual and either the Alleluia with its verse or, in penitential seasons, the Tract. On certain days a Sequence is also included (e.g., Victimae Paschali Laudes at Easter).
Why it happens
These chants, drawn largely from the Psalms, provide a space of sacred meditation on the Word just heard and prepare the faithful to receive the Gospel with attentive and joyful hearts.
Sources
- 1962 MR Proprium de Tempore
- RS VI, 4–5