Q: Hello, Fr Paul. I am a new deacon, and I’ll be proclaiming the Exsultet this Easter Vigil. My question is, does GIRM, 148, regarding the hands apply to the Exsultet or is it hands together during the entire Exsultet? Thank you very much in anticipation of your guidance.
Grace and peace be yours.
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A: The custom is to keep hands joined for the exsultet. GIRM 148 pertains to the eucharistic prayer, when the priest is addressing God. The exsultet in some ways resembles a gospel proclamation, as it is delivered from the ambo. The deacon is addressing the people throughout almost all the proclamation, turning his attention to God only at the very end.
When I sing it, I keep my hands joined or on the ambo.