Extraordinary Form·Mass of the Faithful
Preface & Sanctus
Thanksgiving rising to the song of the seraphim.
What happens
The priest chants or recites the dialogue (Sursum corda… Gratias agamus Domino Deo nostro) and the proper to the day, concluding with the , at which a bell is rung and, at Solemn Mass, incense is offered.
Why it happens
The is the great act of thanksgiving leading into the Canon. In the , the earthly Church joins the angels and saints in their unceasing heavenly worship, on the threshold of the Holy of Holies.
Sources
- 1962 MR Ordo Missae; Praefationes
- RS VIII, 1–4