The EF is celebrated according to the rubrics of the 1962 Roman Missal; however some parishes and priestly fraternities observe customs which predate the 1962 rubrics. Some examples are:
-The double readings at Solemn Masses: While the subdeacon reads the Epistle, the celebrant attended by the deacon at the altar silently reads the Epistle, Gradual, Tract or Alleluia verse; in the 1962 instructions the Celebrant and Deacon sit at the sedilia (bench or chairs for the sacred ministers) while the Epistle is proclaimed; At the Gospel the priest would read the Gospel silently before hearing it proclaimed by the Deacon;
-The “third” Confiteor: The Confiteor is first said by the priest then recited by the (sacred) ministers on behalf of the people. A practice omitted in 1962 is the recitation of the confiteor before the communion of the faithful. Many but not all parishes have retained the practice of the third confiteor before the communion of the faithful at Holy Mass.
The use of music varies in the liturgical ceremonies and depends heavily on the preference of the choir who consult with the liturgical ministers and coordinators. On most Sundays polyphonic settings are used along with meditational motets for the Offertory and Communion. Vernacular hymns are sung during adoration and on high days during the processional and recessional. Otherwise the organ is played or the introit is started at the signal of the bell.
