GLORY TO GOD

When we need a Gloria that immediately lifts the spirit of the congregation, this call-and-response setting of "Glory to God" is a wonderful choice. Written entirely in solfa notation, it breaks the great hymn of praise into short, rhythmic cantor lines answered by a constant, joyful choir refrain. Instead of singing the entire text in one long stretch, the choir and assembly anchor the piece by responding with "Glory to God, in the highest" and "Glory to God" after every single phrase.

This alternating structure makes it incredibly easy to teach and highly engaging for the parish. We typically bring this out during the introductory rites on festive Sundays, as it naturally builds momentum. The cantor leads the way through the familiar prayers—praising, blessing, and petitioning the Father and the Son—while the choir maintains the steady, uplifting response. By the time we reach the final "Amen, Alleluia," the whole church is usually swept up in the praise.