The Mass Is Ended

"The Mass is Ended" is a classic recessional hymn that perfectly captures the spirit of the dismissal. As the final blessing is given and the priest prepares to process out, this song serves as a marching order for the congregation. It transitions the faithful from the sacred space of the liturgy back into the ordinary world, reminding us that the end of the Mass is really the beginning of our mission.

The lyrics are straightforward but deeply profound, built around the call of John the Baptist: "We must diminish and Christ increase." Singing this as we leave the church loft or our pews reinforces the idea that we carry the Eucharist out into our daily lives. The verses ask us to be living witnesses, taking the love and communion we have just shared and letting it shine outward for everyone to see.

Musically, this sheet offers two different solfa settings—a "Second Tune" and a "Third Tune"—giving choirmasters options to fit the mood of their parish. Offering different melodies allows a choir director to match the rhythm to their local tradition. Sung with a steady, marching rhythm, the hymn unites the choir and congregation in a final act of praise to the Trinity before stepping out into the week ahead.