Definition

Noun: 1. A solemn and elaborate Mass with music: A specific form of the Eucharistic celebration in the Roman Catholic Church, characterized by its formal, ceremonial nature, the singing of many parts by the priest and the choir, and the use of incense. It is more complex and musically elaborate than a Low Mass.

Usage

The term "high mass" is used to describe a specific type of religious service. It is a proper noun and is often capitalized as "High Mass." * It is typically scheduled for Sundays and important holy days. * It contrasts with a "Low Mass," which is a simpler, spoken service. * Attendance at a High Mass often involves more active participation through sung responses.

Examples

• Noun:
  • The cathedral choir sings at the High Mass every Sunday morning.
  • For the feast day, the parish celebrated a particularly beautiful High Mass.
  • The intricate rituals of the High Mass are deeply symbolic.

Advanced Usage

• "Solemn High Mass": An even more elaborate form of High Mass, often involving more clergy (a priest, deacon, and subdeacon) and ceremonial details.
  • A Solemn High Mass was held for the ordination of the new bishop.

Variants and Related Words

• Mass (n): The central act of worship in the Catholic Church, the celebration of the Eucharist.
• Low Mass (n): A simpler, recited form of the Mass without music or incense.
• Missa Cantata (n): A "sung Mass," which is essentially a High Mass but celebrated by a single priest without a deacon and subdeacon.

Synonyms

• Solemn Mass: A direct synonym often used interchangeably with High Mass.
• Festal Mass: A Mass for a feast day, which is often celebrated as a High Mass.

Antonyms

• Low Mass: The contrasting form of the Mass, characterized by its simplicity and lack of musical elaboration.

Noun

1. a solemn and elaborate Mass with music