E SACRIFICE OF THE MASS

THE COMMUNION. 139
which was formerly chanted (from the days of the
Apostles to the twelfth century) while Holy Communion
was given to the clergy and the faithful. After the
twelfth century hymns were sung after the Communion
and became a part of the priest s thanksgiving. In
process of time these psalms or hymns were cut down
to a single verse which still keeps its name of Com
munion thus indicating its origin and use.
The verse in the Communion is usually taken from
the Bible, not always from the Psalms. The Com
munion is sometimes composed by the Church, as in
the feast of the Seven Dolours. Happy the feelings of
the Blessed Virgin Mary, who without dying hath
merited the palm of martyrdom beneath the Cross
of the Lord. The Communion (in spite of its name)
does not at all necessarily refer to the distribution or
receiving of the Eucharist. The Communion, like other
variable portions of the Mass, bears on the feast of the
day or the ecclesiastical season. The allusion to the
Eucharist is rare and seems almost accidental.
We may cite here a few examples of the Com
munions from the Missal to illustrate the truth of what
has been said regarding the peculiar character of the
prayer.
The Communions for the four Sundays in Advent
indicate the Church s spirit during that season.
First Sunday. The Lord will give goodness and
our earth shall yield her fruit.
Second Sunday. Jerusalem, arise and stand on
high and see the gladness which shall come to thee
from thy God.
Third Sunday. Say to the faint-hearted : Take
courage and fear not ;
and save us.
behold our Lord shall come