“The musical tradition of the universal Church is a treasure of inestimable value, greater even than that of any other art. The main reason for this preeminence is that, as sacred song closely bound to the text, it forms a necessary or integral part of the solemn liturgy.”
(Constitution on the Sacred Liturgy #112)
As the Second Vatican Council affirms, the purpose of sacred music, is “the glory of God and the sanctification of the faithful.” The music ministry of the Basilica of the National Shrine of Mary, Queen of the Universe, embraces the vision defined in the Church’s documents whereby liturgical services celebrated with song are to enable the assembly of God’s people “to contribute the active participation that rightly belongs to it (CSL #114).