Encore Post: I began this series because people in my congregation, namely confirmation students asked me questions about the service. Knowing they probably weren’t the only ones asking why we do what we do, I figured I would churn out my responses here as well. A recent question about the service that I received was about this funny word: Introit.
Yes, what is an introit? I am ever so thankful for the work of The Commission on Worship of the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod in producing the most recent Lutheran Service Book. It is spectacular. The book is a great resource and really should be purchased for home devotions. It contains so many great things, not just hymns! It contains a wonderful glossary of terms too.
In that little glossary we find the definition for the word introit. The word comes from the Latin, meaning to enter. An introit is a collection of psalm verses sung or spoken at the beginning of the service. It is what is known as part of the Propers for the day, which like the scripture readings and hymns of the service change each Sunday in accordance with the Church Year.
The Introit plays a pretty important part in setting the tone for the rest of the Divine Service. It is the first words we hear that begin to develop the theme of the day.
Why is it called the Introit? Well, historically speaking the pastors or bishops of the early church would go from house church to house church. Upon entering the church, they would begin singing the psalm and take up their place at the altar. This is still a practice in many churches, see CTSFW for instance. While I do not begin the service from the back of the church, I do not go up to the altar until we begin to chant the Introit.
This singing of the Introit also begins what is called the Service of the Word, for the Word of God is central to the event taking place. The Introit then is a key aspect of the Divine Service further preparing us and conditioning us to tune our ears in to the themes of the upcoming readings, hymns, and sermon as well.
I encourage you to take a long look at the introit for upcoming Divine Services. May they help prepare you for hearing the Gospel proclaimed.
Rev. Jacob Hercamp
Christ Lutheran Church
Noblesville, Indiana
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