Et Cum Spiritu Tuo (And With Your Spirit)

 

ET CUM SPIRITUO TUO

NARRARE

          As I continued attending Latin Mass, there would be several times I would listen to everyone say another appealing phrase; “Et cum spiritu tuo.” This time, I had no idea what this short response actually meant, but I knew it was important. Mainly, because the Gregorian choir would sing more intensely in unison with the faithful. I tried to contemplate, and contextually resolve the meaning of this phrase. I could not even think of a phrase in Spanish that would sound close to, “Et cum spirituo tuo.” Simply saying the phrase was not enough for me, because I wanted to be completely aware of my participation. It was not until I researched what it meant that I found the profound meaning of this prayer in the liturgy.

          "Et cum spiritu tuo" is a Latin phrase used in Catholic liturgy, particularly in the context of the Mass. It translates to "And with your spirit" in English. 

Etymology

• Et" means "and" in Latin, as in the English language.

• "Cum" means "with" in Latin.

• "Spiritu" is the ablative form of "Spiritus," which means "spirit" or "breath" in Latin. 

•  "Tuo" is the ablative form of "Tuus," which means "your" in Latin.

           This phrase is used in various parts of the Catholic Mass, such as in responses to greetings or blessings from the priest. Its usage reflects a form of greeting/acknowledgment of the spiritual authority/presence of the priest, thus, invoking God's blessings upon them. The phrase has been part of Catholic liturgy since ancient times, and remains an integral aspect of the Latin Mass.

          Overall, this special prayer informs me of the grace the faithful receives while being present at Mass. As we repeatedly state this, we are reminding ourselves of the spiritual union we are sharing with Christ as His Mass is being celebrated. We're all aware Mass is Christ on cavalry once again, and saying "Et cum spirituo tuo," means we witness the sacrifice he made for us to save our souls. 

ET CUM SPIRITUO TUO