Reflection on mass at St. John Baptist Church By: James Rutowski

As a practicing Catholic, I was very surprised about the differences between the Catholic Church and the African American Baptist Church despite both being Christian denominations. In the African American Baptist Church, music constantly played. It was nice to have background organ music during readings. The music coincided well with the tone of the minister. I think that it helped me stay engaged with the service too. Rather than try to focus on just words, there was a supporting rhythm, much like poetry set to music. Also surprising to me, was how the organ was placed right next to the altar, how a drum kit was actually behind the altar, and how the choir sat right next to the altar. This seems to highlight the importance of music to the ceremony. The music is very close to ministers, to the pulpit, and what I assume was the communion vessels. The music was very close to the holiest people and objects of the ceremony. The music being even close to these important parts of the mass shows that music is of the utmost importance to the ceremony. It seems to be woven through the scripture readings, the ministers’ reflections and offerings of the congregations. It is a unifying force throughout the entire ceremony as it constantly played. Although catholic is intended to be an uplifting occasion, it is relatively dull. The organ music played at a catholic mass is generally vey classical and a bit dreary. In addition, the music is strictly separated from other aspects of the mass. Music does not play in the background of the priest’s homily, nor during scripture readings. The music separates the different parts of the mass rather than unify the parts of the mass. In addition, the organ is generally in the back of the church, as far from the altar as possible. This suggests that the music is secondary to the ceremony. I will admit however, my views are limited. Although I attend catholic masses weekly, I have only attended mass at a hand full of churches. I think my conclusions are valid because the Catholic Church tries to create a unified, structured mass that is relatively consistent across the globe.

What was most prominent for me was the dramatic difference between the general atmospheres of the two means of worship. In the Catholic Church, the ceremony is relatively somber. Music is generally classical and quiet. In the Baptist Church, the music started quietly, but quickly grew to a powerful, loud, expression of joy for their faith. Also, the call and response was unexpected. In the Catholic Church, people sit when told, stand when told, and speak rehearsed prayers and responses when called to do so. It is highly structured. In my limited experience at the Baptist Church, there was not the same level of structure. People shouted when they agreed or felt moved by what was being spoken. The Minister actually tried to engage the congregation.

As I listened to the Minister speak, two aspects seemed particularly important to me. The minister’s sermon began with the importance of the name Yahweh. The minister explicitly pointed out that God was not given a name, but instead chose his own name. As a white Catholic male, this concept never seemed important to me. However, I am beginning to see the importance of this concept to people as I learn about African American lives and culture. Fredrick Douglas chose his name to show that white masters no longer had control over him. Richard Wright and Muhammad Ali both change their names. It seems like a symbolic action to say that they are only under the control of themselves; other parts of society do not control them.

The other aspect was just a passing comment. As the class was being introduced, Minister Chapman commented that he worshipped at Baptist Churches, and Protestant Churches, even Mosques. He was open to other religions. The Catholic does not even acknowledge parts of the Protestant church. At times, the Catholic Church seems exclusionary. People are alienated. In my limited experience with the Baptist Church, people were very friendly and welcoming. Many even invited us back to worship again. The Minister seemed eager to have Dr. Dierenfield speak and involved our entire class with the ceremony. There was a feeling of being welcomed rather than scrutinized or alienated for being outsiders to this particular church

Unfortunately, the Catholic Church is currently facing a bit of a crisis. The number of active followers is dwindling. After going to the Baptist church, I can see why. The Catholic mass is a bit dull. Although it is steeped in history, symbolism and tradition, I sometimes have a hard time taking a message away from the mass. I feel as though the mass needs to adapt and change to meet the changing needs of the 21st century. Perhaps it needs to take a page out of the book of the Baptists. The Catholic Church may need to engage and welcome the congregation rather than preach to it.

Created By
Vincent Bargnes
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