Fraction Anthem

The anthem at the fraction, sometimes called the confractorium, a term borrowed from the Ambrosian rite. The BCP prints two anthems but permits others. Rite 1 prints both Pascha nostrum (Christ our Passover) (adapted from a similar anthem in the 1549 Prayer Book) and Agnus Dei (O Lamb of God). It allows either or both or another suitable anthem. Rite 2 prints only “Christ our Passover” (BCP, p. 364). Another suitable anthem may be used in place of or in addition to the printed one. The BOS gives fifteen anthems for various seasons and occasions. Several of these anthems are set to music in The Hymnal 1982. The confractoria may be said or sung, responsively or in unison. In many places the choir or a cantor sings the anthem, sometimes responsively with the people, while the presider breaks the bread.