The Liturgy... is the outstanding means whereby the faithful may express in their lives and manifest to others this mystery of Christ and the real nature of the true Church.
The Constitution of the Sacred Liturgy (CSL) # 2
The Church earnestly desires that all the faithful be led to that full, conscious, and active participation in liturgical celebrations called for by the nature of the Liturgy... for it is the primary and indispensable source from which the faithful are to derive the true Christian spirit...
The Constitution of the Sacred Liturgy (CSL) # 14
Liturgical services are not private functions, but are celebrations belonging to the Church, which is the 'sacrament of unity.'
The Constitution of the Sacred Liturgy (CSL) # 26
The Church earnestly desires that Christ's faithful, when present at this mystery of faith, should not be there as strangers or silent spectators.
The Constitution of the Sacred Liturgy (CSL) # 48
The musical tradition of the universal Church is a treasure of inestimable value... as sacred song closely bound to the text, it forms a necessary or integral part of the solemn Liturgy... having regard to the purpose of sacred music which is the glory of God and the sanctification of the faithful...
The Constitution of the Sacred Liturgy (CSL) # 112
A liturgical service takes on a nobler aspect when the rites are celebrated with singing...
The Constitution of the Sacred Liturgy (CSL) # 113
The power of a liturgical celebration to share faith will depend on its unity... flowing from the skillful and sensitive selections of options, music, and related arts.
Music in Catholic Worship (MCW) # 11
Among the many signs and symbols used by the Church to celebrate its faith, music is of preeminent importance. As sacred song united to words, it forms a necessary or integral part of the solemn Liturgy.
Music in Catholic Worship (MCW) # 23
The treasure of sacred music is to be preserved and fostered with great care.
The Constitution of the Sacred Liturgy (CSL) # 114
... Music chosen with care can serve as a bridge to faith as well as an expression of it.
Music in Catholic Worship (MCW) # 16
Great care should be taken especially at marriages... that the same general principles of planning worship and judging music are employed as at other liturgies, and above all, that the Liturgy is a prayer for all present, not a theatrical production.
Music in Catholic Worship (MCW) # 82
The Christian faithful who gather together as one to await the Lord's coming are instructed ... to sing together psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs... singing is the sign of the heart's joy.
General Instruction of the Roman Missal (GIRM) # 39
Among all who are involved with regard to the rites, pastoral aspects, and music, there should be harmony and diligence in the effective preparation of each liturgical celebration in accord with the Missal and other liturgical books.
General Instruction of the Roman Missal (GIRM) # 111