Christ in Our Midst

Christ in Our Midst, Editors at Paraclete Press with chant by The Gloriae Dei Cantores Schola. Paraclete Press (ISBN: 9798893480283) 2025.

Summary: An artfully designed Lenten daily devotional incorporating chant, scripture, reflections, and journaling questions.

Another type of Lenten devotional includes a scripture text and reflection, often related to lectionary readings or simply the journey from Ash Wednesday to Holy Week. This Lenten devotional follows that model with a wonderful addition. It incorporates chants tied to the scripture readings for each day. The chant text and musical notation appears opposite the reflection. A QR code allows you to listen to a recording of the chant performed by The Gloriae Dei Cantores Schola.

Chants are provided for Ash Wednesday and each of the three days until the first Sunday of Lent. Beginning on the first Sunday of Lent, the chant is printed on that day and repeated throughout the week, with the QR code with each daily reading. Then chants are provided for each day of Holy Week, culminating with Easter. Finally, a chant is provided for Easter Monday, which serves as the theme for the Easter Week readings.

For those new to chant, there is an explanation of the history of chant and how the musical notation, consisting of square notes on a four line staff, works. I also learned that in contrast to regular musical notation, where the pitch of each note is absolute, pitch in chant is relative. In addition, since the chants are in Latin, a Latin pronunciation guide is offered. Nearly all of them are scriptural texts. The editors note that one of the reasons to use Latin is to provide a universal language for the church’s sung prayers. Many of the chants, or antiphons, are brief, from 25 to 50 seconds. There are several longer ones on key Holy Days, such as the beautiful “Ubi Caritas” on Holy Thursday. Finally, the intent is that we not only listen but join in singing, which I found myself doing.

I appreciated how well connected the chants were with the readings. For example, beginning with the fourth Sunday in Lent, the chant is “Ego sum resurrectio,” or “I am the resurrection and the life.” Each of the readings, beginning with the raising of Lazarus, explore our resurrection hope, a theme I found particularly meaningful in this first reading.

In addition to these elements, a reflection prompt and journaling space is proved for each day. Drawings of wildflowers set off each section. The devotional is hardbound with a ribbon marker.

I found that the incorporation of chant quieted my mind to receive and reflect upon scripture. This is a devotional I hope to return to in future Lenten seasons. I also want to acknowledge that I know I’m posting this on Ash Wednesday. But if you order this today, most shippers will have it to you within days for your use throughout Lent. (And it is OK to play catch-up!)

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Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher for review.