Low Mass

American  

noun

1. a Mass that is said, and not sung, by the celebrant, who is assisted by one server, and which has less ceremonial form than a High Mass, using no music or choir.

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Low Mass British  

noun

1. a Mass that has a simplified ceremonial form and is spoken rather than sung Compare High Mass

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Etymology

Origin of Low Mass

First recorded in 1560–70

Compare meaning

How does low-mass compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

• High Mass vs. Low Mass

Example Sentences

A Low Mass at 8:30 a.m. and a Sung Mass with Choir at 11 a.m.

From Washington Post • Dec. 30, 2016

A Low Mass with healing rite will be celebrated at noon.

From Washington Post • Nov. 25, 2016

The Rev. Martin Smith will be the guest preacher at the Low Mass service, where there is no music, incense and minimal ceremonial aspects.

From Washington Post • Aug. 12, 2016

He added: "Every morning after Low Mass I pray for Joe Stalin and for Russia, as does every Catholic priest in the world."

From Time Magazine Archive

A few people, going to the Low Mass, I should judge by the solemnity of their walk, men and women, sent curious glances at the stranger dressed in the robes on the street.

From Conversion of a High Priest into a Christian Worker by Golden, M. (Meletios)