10/06/2015
THIS ARE THE TWO MAIN PARTS OF THE CATHOLIC MASS
1) The Liturgy of the Word
The Liturgy of the Word is the first half of the mass. Instantly the mass is a participation of the priest and the congregation. This can be seen and heard from the responses from the people, the choir and congregation singing and the alter servers helping the priest with the celebration.
The major parts of the first half of the mass in order are:
The confession where we state the “I Confess”.
Asking for mercy, Lord have Mercy, Christ have Mercy…
The Gloria – Celebrating God
Opening Prayer
The Readings – from the Bible, a reading from the Old Testament, then Psalms and then the New Testament (Non-Gospel), sometimes in the year Acts or Revelations are the first reading
The Gospel Reading (Book of Matthew, Mark, Luke or John) – The Gospel can only be read by a Priest or Deacon.
Homily
Nicene Creed – Profession of Faith
2) The Liturgy of the Eucharist
The Liturgy of the Eucharist is the second half mass. There is a definite change in direction at this point. The Liturgy of the Eucharist begins with the bread and wine being brought to the alter.
The bread and wine brought to the alter as well as our financial gift to the church
The preparation of the gifts by the Priest
Holy,Holy,Holy is sung
The Priest repeats the words of the last supper as they become the Body and Blood of Christ
The Congregation proclaims the Mystery of Faith – Jesus’ dying, rising and coming again.
The Lord’s Prayer
Sign of Peace – it is the sign of forgiveness and unity among all celebrating the mass. Everyone is equal in the presence of Jesus.
Greet Christ by saying the Lamb of God
The passing out of the Eucharist
Final blessing
