Scott Hahn, founder of the St. Paul Center for Biblical Theology, said on Mar. 31 that the word ‘Alleluia’ returns to Catholic liturgy with special significance as Lent ends and Easter begins.
Hahn explained that Easter is closely linked to Passover, noting that many languages use words derived from the Hebrew ‘Pesach’ for both holidays. He said this connection highlights continuity in tradition and draws attention to details such as the use of ‘Alleluia.’
According to Hahn, “Alleluia is just a single word, and it’s so commonly used that we hardly notice it. But it is significant because the Jews of Jesus’ time associated the word primarily with Passover.” He added that early Christians valued ‘Alleluia’ so much they left it untranslated in biblical texts.
Hahn described how Psalms known as Hallel were sung during Passover meals in Jesus’ time. The Catholic Church reflects this tradition by using some Hallel Psalms during Mass and reciting or singing Alleluia before the Gospel reading. During Lent, however, Alleluia is omitted as part of preparation for Easter.
As Lent ends and Catholics celebrate Easter, Hahn said Alleluia becomes central once again: “So, now, as Catholics turn the calendar page from Lent to Easter, the word Alleluia does not merely return to its normal place before the Gospel; rather, it saturates the prayers of the Mass for the entire 50-day Easter Season.” He concluded with a quote from St. Pope John Paul II: “We are an Easter people, and [therefore] alleluia is our song.”
