INTROITS

Noun

introits

plural of introit

Source: Wiktionary

INTROIT

In*tro"it, n. Etym: [L. introitus, fr. introire to go into, to enter; intro within + ire to go: cf. F. introit.]

1. A going in. Caxton.

2. (R. C. Ch.) (a) A psalm sung or chanted immediately before the collect, epistle, and gospel, and while the priest is entering within the rails of the altar. (b) A part of a psalm or other portion of Scripture read by the priest at Mass immediately after ascending to the altar.

3. (R. C. Ch.)

Definition: An anthem or psalm sung before the Communion service.

4. Any composition of vocal music appropriate to the opening of church services.

Source: Webster’s Unabridged Dictionary 1913 Edition