Répons

A responsorial psalm is a form of congregational song in which a leader sings or recites a line or section of a psalm, and the congregation responds with a repeated refrain. This call-and-response pattern is common in various religious traditions, most notably in Christian liturgy, particularly within Catholic and some Protestant churches. The responsorial psalm is often integrated into the Mass, typically sung after the first reading and before the second reading.

The structure of a responsorial psalm usually involves a soloist, often a cantor or a choir, singing the verses of the psalm. The congregation then sings a pre-determined refrain after each verse. This refrain is often a short, memorable phrase that summarizes the theme of the psalm or offers a prayerful response. The selection of psalms and refrains is often tied to the liturgical season or the specific readings of the day.

The purpose of the responsorial psalm is multifaceted. It allows for active participation of the congregation in worship, providing a musical and textual element that reinforces the scriptures being proclaimed. The repetition of the refrain helps to create a sense of unity and shared prayer among the worshippers. Historically, this form of singing has roots in ancient Jewish synagogue practices, where psalms were sung with congregational responses. The responsorial psalm serves as a bridge between the spoken word of scripture and the communal prayer of the assembly.