From communion hits such as “Take and Receive” and “Anima Christi” to closing hymns like “Tell the World of His Love” and “Humayo’t Ihayag,” every massgoer is sure to have their own favorite mass song. And just as Easter Sunday is approaching, so too will cheerful and celebratory hymns fill our neighborhood churches once again. Here are some of our favorite mass songs to celebrate the return of Christ.
READ: Why are the statues in church covered during Lent?
“In Him Alone”
Written by Manoling V. Francisco SJ and popularized by the Bukas Palad Music Ministry, this timeless communion song is based on Psalm 62 and speaks of God’s boundless love. According to the Bukas Palad Music Ministry, Francisco SJ wrote the track during a retreat and dedicated it to Fr. Pedro Arrupe, S.J.
“Take and Receive”
Another communion song, “Take and Receive” originates from a prayer written by St. Ignatius of Loyola for his Spiritual Exercises.
“Tinapay ng Buhay”
Likely a communion staple for decades to come, “Tinapay ng Buhay” speaks of the Lord’s sacrifice while asking others to take after this selfless act.
“Anima Christi”
This timeless mass song is based on a 14th century prayer. Though the exact author is unknown, it is popularly attributed to Pope John XXII.
“I Will Sing Forever”
Another Francisco SJ classic, “I Will Sing Forever” is the perfect recessional song.
“Pananagutan”
Originally performed by Himig Heswita and written by Fr. Eduardo Hontiveros SJ, “Pananagutan” is a modern classic that’s found its way into Filipino pop culture. Gary Valenciano notably performed his version of the song for the hit television series “Honesto.” A newer rendition was done by Bugoy Drilon for “May Bukas Pa.”
“Humayo’t Ihayag”
A timeless closing hymn, this song will surely have the congregation out of their seats when this starts playing. According to Bukas Palad Music Ministry, Francisco, SJ wrote this song in 1996 after years of trying to write a gospel track.
“Christify”
No offertory is ever complete without hearing this mass classic.
“Pag-aalaala”
Written by Francisco, SJ in 1989, this song was penned in celebration of the EDSA People Power Revolution.
READ: The EDSA People Power Revolution anniversary and the essence of a holiday
“Tell The World of His Love”
Written by Trina Belamide in time for World Youth Day 1995 and Pope John Paul II’s second visit to the Philippines, “Tell The World of His Love” is a contemporary hit that’s now regarded alongside other classic mass songs.
