www.byzcath.org Forums Faith & Christian Life Faith & Theology Do Antiochian Orthodox in America use Russian Chant?

Thank you for the historical information Rev. Fr David and Three Cents. I did not know that Antiochian Orthodox history in America was so intertwined with the Russian church here.

However, I completely agree with StuartK on sticking to the chant that is unique to the particular church's roots. Each church has a rich musical style and should fully embrace it.

I respectfully disagree with you AMM on congregational participation. I feel that the congregation should be able to sing and pray without feeling out of tune or singing awkward melodies. I after hearing the choir say Lord Have Mercy during the liturgy many times, I still felt like I could not say it along with them. It is an important experience for me to participate singing the prayers where I ask God for his mercy. In any style of chanting, participation of the congregation should be always encouraged over having a good standalone choir.

God Bless

Well, as I said, it's probably just my own personal viewpoint. I don't sing and prefer simply to pray silently for the most part.

I honestly don't know what truly encourages congregational participation. In pretty much every parish I've ever visited, it's generally fairly limited, and actually where true Byzantine chant is used is where I've seen almost no or absolutely no congregational participation.

Glory to Jesus Christ!

AMM,

I suggest you come visit the Melkite parish in VA. It is one of the reasons I love the east and it's chanting. When I went to my first Roman Mass, I asked my friend, do you guys even sing here? Most of my background comes from black protestant churches, and so (not sure if you know anything about many, I'd say most, black protestant churches, is that they LOVE to sing their hymns, song leaders and the whole congregation) and so I was kind of sad that I was going to be missing that when I became Catholic. But then I found out about the Christian East and Eastern Catholics and because of my older heritage, I was greatly attracted to the Melkite Church and was enthralled at the sight and sound of everyone singing and singing with such love and passion (or at least that is how I experience it).

I am NOT a good singer, not even remotely close to being decent. But I do my best to sing/chant along with my fellow parishoners and for me, that helps me in the participation of the Divine Liturgy and in being present to our Lord God Jesus Christ!

Like you, I'm guessing this is probably because of my past experiences. None the less, come visit us in VA sometime. I think we sound great ;-)

Kyrie eleison,

Manuel