Why do bells ring at mass

To highlight the solemnity of this miraculous moment, an incensation was also allowed at each elevation as it may be today.

Moreover, during the Solemn Mass or High Mass, the great bell of the Church was rung to alert the townsfolk that the consecration had occurred, at which time they would piously kneel and make an act of adoration. In the old Tridentine Mass, the Missale Romanum, promulgated in by Pope Pius V, prescribed the ringing of a bell at both the Sanctus and the consecration.

When Pope Paul VI issued the revisions to the Mass, the practice of ringing a bell was retained as an option as stated previously. Since we are a people of senses, sounds are important in our worship, whether in the quiet of the moment, the singing of a congregation, or the sound of the organ. The sound of bells does add to the reverence and the solemnity of the Mass.

Most importantly, they highlight in a sensible way the sacred action taking place on the altar. A case could be made that it is no longer necessary, since the Mass is usually celebrated in the vernacular and the arrangement of the sanctuary enables a greater view of the altar. However, another perspective holds that ringing a bell at Mass is still important because of a decline of faith in the holy eucharist as truly being the Body and Blood of Christ.

He is here on the altar. He will soon be present within us in the holy eucharist! This worship involves not just our minds, but our bodies and five senses, too. Girotti is vicar for canonical services and associate moderator of the Curia for the Diocese of Green Bay. All rights reserved. Reproduction of material from this website without written permission is strictly prohibited.

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