To those with a fondness for science fiction genre, it probably reminds one of "paranormal".
Indeed, para is a prefix meaning "beside" or "beyond". In this context, it also connotes "outside".
Thus, a para-liturgical hymn is one sung or chanted outside the Divine Liturgy. Many of what we consider to be our most treasured, traditional hymns (Marian, Lenten, Christmas, Pascal, etc., including many found in the Byzantine Catholic Hymnal) are indeed para-liturgical hymns and, as such, would not be used as part of the Divine Liturgy celebration, but either beforehand or afterward. Particularly in the case of Marian hymns, some are famously chanted on pilgrimages.
Liturgical hymns are thus those that are proper to, and used in the Divine Liturgy (e.g. the Thrice Holy Hymn; the Cherubim Hymn; etc.). Unlike para-liturgical hymns, they must have very firm foundation in Scripture. Many such hymns either take lyrics directly from the Psalms, or are based on passages and have been vetted for strict conformity with Holy Scripture.
In our advance postings of propers, hymns and hymn selection (order of worship), everything that is outlined for use during that particular celebration of the Divine Liturgy constitutes a liturgical hymn, except for the Opening Hymn, which is often (but not always) para-liturgical in nature.
Indeed, para is a prefix meaning "beside" or "beyond". In this context, it also connotes "outside".
Thus, a para-liturgical hymn is one sung or chanted outside the Divine Liturgy. Many of what we consider to be our most treasured, traditional hymns (Marian, Lenten, Christmas, Pascal, etc., including many found in the Byzantine Catholic Hymnal) are indeed para-liturgical hymns and, as such, would not be used as part of the Divine Liturgy celebration, but either beforehand or afterward. Particularly in the case of Marian hymns, some are famously chanted on pilgrimages.
Liturgical hymns are thus those that are proper to, and used in the Divine Liturgy (e.g. the Thrice Holy Hymn; the Cherubim Hymn; etc.). Unlike para-liturgical hymns, they must have very firm foundation in Scripture. Many such hymns either take lyrics directly from the Psalms, or are based on passages and have been vetted for strict conformity with Holy Scripture.
In our advance postings of propers, hymns and hymn selection (order of worship), everything that is outlined for use during that particular celebration of the Divine Liturgy constitutes a liturgical hymn, except for the Opening Hymn, which is often (but not always) para-liturgical in nature.
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