Hey there,
This week’s topic is one of the most important in our faith, but one that is sometimes overlooked … the Holy Mass.
If you’re like me, there have been periods where you weren’t so good about attending Mass. For a variety of reasons.
I rediscovered Mass when I was in college … and again later when I felt the responsibility to get my children to Mass. But truth be told, I’ve struggled with consistently going.
About 7 years ago at Lent I decided to commit myself to a year of not missing Mass. Between my church, nearby churches, and those I found when traveling, I completed the year successfully, only missing a couple of times due to illness.
Then I kept going. And now, years later, it’s no longer something I do as a short-term goal, but something that’s important to me every week.
Of course, it’s supposed to be that way. I know I’m a little late to the party. I mention this for the benefit of any one like me who may struggle with regularity … it’s not too late.
Gathering these resources has been a great refresher for me … and I learned a new thing or two. Topics covered include understanding the Mass, preparing for Mass, getting more out of Mass, canon law, and more.
I hope you’ll find something here that will deepen your love for the Mass. And, if needed, inspiration to start your own commitment to attend Mass.
Keep Believing-
Katy Barrilleaux
Founding Editor, Genuflect
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Introduction to The Mass
The Mass is the central form of our Catholic worship. To get us started, here’s a nice introduction that looks at its ancient origins and the various things that it represents.
What is The Catholic Mass? – An Introduction | Learn Religions
Understanding The Mass
Every part of the Mass has special meaning from the songs we sing to standing or kneeling. Do you know what they all are? Here’s a great overview. You may just learn something you didn’t know.
Trouble Understanding the Mass? Here’s a Simple Explanation | Catholic Link
4 Types of Mass
There are generally 4 types of Mass. Here’s an explanation of what each one entails.
The Many Types of Holy Mass and Church Rites Celebrated in Churches | Old St. Mary’s Church
11 Holy Names For The Mass
Whether I refer to the Mass or the Eucharist, you probably know what I mean. But there are a lot of other names for the Mass. The Catechism of the Catholic Church refers to 11 different names. Check this out.
The 11 Holy Names for the Mass Every Catholic Needs to Know | ChurchPOP
How to Prepare For Mass
Let’s face it, sometimes it can be a challenge to keep your focus during Mass. You find yourself going through the motions … and maybe even a little bored. Philip Kosloski shares the 5 ways he has discovered to prepare for Mass that works for him. I use #3 and #4. I’ll need to try some of the others. Which ones work for you?
5 Practical Ways to Prepare For Mass | Philip Kosloski
How to Get More Out of Mass
Do you ever leave Mass feeling like you didn’t get anything out of it? When this happens it may be tempting to blame the Priest. But the truth is, it’s not on him. Here are 8 things you can do to make sure you get the most out of every Mass.
Eight Quick Tips For Getting More Out of Mass | Aggie Catholic
Find a Mass
This is a very handy website for when you’re traveling and need to find a Mass in the United States. Just plug in the City and State and you’ll see a list of nearby Catholic Churches.
Discover Mass | Discover Mass
No Orans Posture
When the Priest holds his hands out towards the sky, it’s called the orans posture. He typically does this when he’s praying on behalf of everyone. And oftentimes, people join him with this hand gesture during the Our Father prayer. There is no specific rubric about your hands during the Our Father. But Jason Izolt explains why he believes we should not use the orans posture.
The Faithful Are NOT to Use The Orans Posture During The Our Father | Catholic 365
Rules on Fasting Before Communion
Did you know that it’s still against canon law to eat or drink (with a couple of exceptions) within one hour of receiving Holy Communion? Here’s how canon law on fasting before Communion has evolved over the years and what you need to know now.
How Has Canon Law Changed on Fasting Before Communion? | Canon Law Made Easy
20 Types of People at Mass
Justin McClain says there are 20 different types of people at Mass. He describes each one of them in this parody. I suspect I’m #17. Of course it doesn’t matter which one you are … as long as you’re there with all the cast of characters.
The 20 Types of People You’ll Meet at Mass–Which One Are You? | Epic Pew
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