You know how during Mass the choir or the priest will sometimes sing a Communion Antiphon a short verse before the distribution of Communion? Have you, like me, ever wondered where that verse came from? Is it from Scripture? Is it a prayer? How do they choose which antiphon goes with what day?
Let’s take a brief dive into some of these questions.
The Communion Antiphons are not random selections. They come directly from the Roman Missal (the book containing the prayers and chants for Mass) and ultimately from the Roman Gradual, the Church’s ancient collection of chants rooted in Scripture. Most of the antiphons are short passages from the Psalms or the Gospels, chosen to echo the theme of the day’s readings or the mystery being celebrated.
The purpose of the Communion Antiphon is to draw us more deeply into the mystery of what’s happening at that very moment the reception of the Eucharist. Just as the Entrance Antiphon prepares our hearts at the beginning of Mass, the Communion Antiphon gives voice to our prayer as we receive the Body and Blood of Christ.
For example, on Corpus Christi, we sing: “Whoever eats My Flesh and drinks My Blood remains in Me and I in him” (John 6:57). The text is no coincidence; it’s a direct meditation on what we are receiving!
On other days, the Church might choose a psalm that expresses trust, joy, or thanksgiving, matching the spirit of the liturgical season. The idea is that Scripture itself becomes our song of communion, helping us to speak to God through His own words.
So next time you hear the Communion Antiphon, listen closely! The Church has prayerfully selected the verse to help guide your heart closer to Our Lord’s presence, both in the Eucharist and in the liturgical year.
Is it sometimes difficult to pay attention during Mass with young children in tow? This Catholic Mass Quiet Book is a companion for little kids to engage with during Mass.
