PRIESTLY PEOPLE

"Priestly People" by Fr. Lucien Deiss is a familiar and majestic hymn in our parishes, instantly recognizable by its unifying chorus. Drawing directly from the First Letter of Peter, the text calls the congregation to recognize their shared identity as a chosen race and a royal priesthood. It is a song that gathers the church together in a spirit of joyful dignity.

Because of its strong processional rhythm and themes of calling, choirs frequently use this piece as an Entrance hymn to open Sunday Mass. It is also a natural, fitting choice for Ordination Masses, the Chrism Mass, or any celebration that highlights the priesthood of Christ and the shared mission of the baptized.

The structure of the hymn makes it highly engaging to sing. The verses unfold as a litany of praise to Christ under various titles—beloved Son, morning star, guiding light, and Shepherd. This allows a cantor or the choir to chant the flowing verses, while the entire congregation responds with the robust, harmonized refrain, creating a powerful dialogue of worship.