What is referred to as the 'Ordinary of the Mass'?

The term 'Ordinary of the Mass' refers to the unchanging parts of the Mass, which are the sections of the liturgy that remain consistent regardless of the specific occasion or season. These components include the Kyrie, Gloria, Credo, Sanctus, and Agnus Dei, among others. These texts and their associated music provide a structure to the Mass and are essential for the overall flow of the worship service.

In contrast, the changing parts of church services would be referenced as the ‘Proper of the Mass,’ which varies depending on the specific feast day or celebration. Evening services held by monks do not pertain directly to the concept of the Ordinary, nor does the music played during Communion, which is associated with specific rituals and may change depending on the liturgical calendar. Thus, identifying the Ordinary as the unchanging sections of the Mass helps to clarify its role in the liturgical framework.