The Holy Mass

Explanation of the Mass

Introductory Rites

The section of the Mass preceding the Liturgy of the Word that confers a quality of preparation and introduction on the Eucharistic Sacrifice. The intent is that the assembled group unite as a community properly prepared to hear God's Word and celebrate the Eucharist. Includes the following:

Entrance Antiphon Greeting Penitential Rite (Rite of Blessing & Sprinkling) Kyrie (Lord, Have Mercy) Gloria (Glory to God) Opening Prayer

Liturgy of the Word

Liturgy of the Word - The major part of the Mass between the Opening Prayer and the preparation of the Gifts during which the Word of God is proclaimed, responded to, authoritatively explained, accepted and held fast, and appealed to. Includes the following:

First Reading Responsorial Psalm Second Reading Gospel Acclamation (Alleluia) Gospel Reading Homily Silence Profession of Faith (Nicene Creed) or (Apostles' Creed - Children Only) General Intercessions (Prayer of the Faithful) Church Public Authorities Salvation of the World (Oppressed) Local Community

Liturgy of the Eucharist

The major part of the Mass after the Liturgy of the Word and ending before the Concluding Rite. This part corresponds to the words and actions of Christ at the Last Supper. Christ took bread and the cup, gave thanks, broke, and gave them to His disciples saying: "Take and eat; this is My Body. Take and drink; This is the cup of My Blood. Do this in memory of Me."

Preparation of the Gifts (Presentation) - The priest prepares the altar and the gifts, prays over the bread and wine, and helps the assembly get ready for the tremendous Sacrifice that will take place in an unbloody manner. Includes the following:
Offertory Song Preparation of the Altar Preparation of the Bread Preparation of the Wine Washing of Hands Invitation to Prayer Prayer over the Gifts

Eucharistic Prayer - The center and high point of the Mass that makes Christ present for us in His Passion, Death, and Resurrection. During it, the entire assembly joins Christ in acknowledging the works of God and in the offering of Sacrifice. Includes the following: Introductory Dialogue Preface Sanctus Eucharistic Prayer Thanksgiving Acclamation Epiclesis - Ask God to consecrate the Host & Wine Institution - Narrative and Consecration Anamnesis - Command of Christ through the Apostles Offering Intercessions Final Doxology Memorial Acclamation Great Amen

Communion Rite - It is part when God gives a gift to Him. In both cases the gift is the same Jesus Christ, the Son of God and Savior of the world. Includes the following: The Lord's Prayer Rite of Peace (Sign of Peace) Fraction Rite Breaking of the Bread Commingling Agnus Dei (Lamb of God) Personal Prayer Communion Silent Prayer Prayer after Communion

Concluding Rite

Immediately after the Communion Rite, should there be any announcements, these are made, but should be kept brief. Then just as the people were greeted at the beginning of the Mass, so now the presider greets the people again and blesses them in one of three forms, the simple one, or at his discretion a more solemn Blessing, particularly at various seasons or on specific feast days, or a Prayers over the people. Includes the following:

Blessing Dismissal

Source: www.catholic.org