The spelling of the phrase "folk mass" can be explained using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA). The first word, "folk," is pronounced /fəʊk/, with the stressed syllable being the second one. The second word, "mass," is pronounced /mæs/, with the stressed syllable being the first. When combined, the phrase is pronounced /fəʊk mæs/. The term "folk mass" refers to a liturgical service that incorporates folk music into its structure, popularized in the 1960s and 70s in the United States.
A "folk mass" refers to a type of religious musical service or liturgy that incorporates contemporary folk music styles within a traditional Catholic or Christian framework. It is a form of worship that emerged in the mid-20th century as a response to the desire for a more participatory and accessible experience for congregations.
In a folk mass, hymns and songs are often chosen from the folk music repertoire, characterized by its simplicity, singability, and often acoustic instrumentations. These songs are typically contemporary compositions that reflect the spiritual themes and values of the Christian faith. The aim is to create an atmosphere of unity and community, where the congregation actively participates, often by singing along or clapping, in contrast to more traditional liturgical forms where the choir or soloists lead the music.
The structure and elements of a folk mass generally follow the standard order of a religious service, including prayers, readings, and the Eucharistic celebration. However, the musical accompaniment and style differentiate it from more traditional services. It is common to find guitars, keyboards, and other folk instruments used instead of the traditional organ.
Folk masses have become particularly popular in the late 20th century, especially in North America, as a way to engage younger generations and make the liturgy more relatable to contemporary sensibilities. They often foster a relaxed and casual atmosphere, enhancing the sense of community and encouraging active participation from the congregation.
The term "folk mass" is derived from the combination of two words: "folk" and "mass".
The word "folk" comes from the Old English language, specifically from the noun "folc", which means "people" or "community". It has roots in various Germanic languages, ultimately tracing back to the Proto-Germanic word "fulka". Over time, "folk" came to represent the common people, their culture, and traditions.
The word "mass" is a term used in Christianity to refer to the central act of worship within the Catholic Church, known as the Eucharist or Holy Communion. It originated from the Latin word "missa", which means "dismissal" or "sending forth". The term evolved from the ending of the Latin Mass: "Ite, missa est", which translates to "Go, it is the dismissal".