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Bishop's Visitation

According to the Ceremonial of Bishops 133 (Liturgical Handbook for Bishops) when the Bishop makes a pastoral visitation on a Sunday 'it is commendable that the rite of blessing and sprinkling water replace the usual penitential rite.' The order is Greeting - invitation to pray - prayr of blessing over water - Bishop sprinkles himself, concelebrants, ministers, clergy and the people. During the sprinkling an accompanying song is sung.

Suggestions may include the following:

Water of Life (Stephen Dean)

Springs of water (Haugen)

When the Bishop has returned to the chair and the singing ended, he stands and, with hands outstretched, says the concluding prayer. Then, according to season, the Gloria is sung or recited.

In every other respect the music follows the liturgical norms for Mass.
 


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