I’ve been describing, sort of step-by-step, the ceremonies of the Mass. Of course, at this rate, it will take us quite some time to get through the whole celebration! Nevertheless, I think it’s a worthwhile project: I have gotten a lot of very positive feedback from parishioners and others throughout the diocese on these little articles.

Before I move on to consider the “next” little ceremony of our Eucharistic celebration – this will be the “Sign of the Cross,” by the way! – it might be a good time to note that a good Catholic constantly strives to make his or her prayer better. In other words, it takes effort on our part.

You know the old saying “You get out of the Mass what you put into it.” If you arrive late, or don’t pay attention to the texts being sung or spoken aloud, or ignore the actions of the priest, other ministers, or congregation, well, I can guarantee you’ll find the Mass boring and empty of meaning! Therefore, what I really hope to accomplish in these little reflections about liturgy is to get people to think a little bit more about what we are all doing at Mass.