My church, St. Thomas the Apostle, A modern Catholic Church

The Catholic Mass

People observing Catholic ceremonies for the first time may find the whole experience a bit confusing. Catholics go to church to pray, to hear Scripture being read, and to participate in sacraments, traditional ceremonies believed to be necessary or helpful to salvation. Chief among these is the Eucharist, called "The Lord's Supper" by some other Christians. It is a commemoration of the Last Supper famously portrayed by Leonardo da Vinci and recorded in the New Testament of the Bible. It is also an opportunity for the faithful to participate in their own time in Christ's one, single, historical redemptive death on the Cross. Catholics believe that the bread and wine become the real body and blood, soul and divinity, the actual living person, of Jesus Christ, the Son of God, by which he fulfills the promise to be "with you always, even unto the end of the world." Matthew 28:20

KJV Scriptural Bases for the Catholic Eucharist
Matthew 26:26-28	Mark 14:22-24	Luke 22:19-20	1 Corinthians 11:23-26
And as they were eating, Jesus took bread, and blessed it, and brake it, and gave it to the disciples, and said, Take, eat; this is my Body. And he took the cup, and gave thanks, and gave it to them, saying, Drink ye all of it; For this is my Blood of the new testament, which is shed for many for the remission of sins.	And as they did eat, Jesus took bread, and blessed, and brake it, and gave to them, and said, Take, eat: this is my Body. And he took the cup, and when he had given thanks, he gave it to them: and they all drank of it. And he said unto them, This is my Blood of the new testament, which is shed for many.	And he took bread, and gave thanks, and brake it, and gave unto them, saying, This is my Body which is given for you: this do in remembrance of me.* Likewise also the cup after supper, saying, This cup is the new testament in my Blood, which is shed for you.	For I have received of the Lord that which also I delivered unto you, That the Lord Jesus the same night in which he was betrayed took bread: And when he had given thanks, he brake it, and said, Take, eat: this is my Body, which is broken for you: this do in remembrance of me.* After the same manner also he took the cup, when he had supped, saying, This cup is the new testament in my Blood: this do ye, as oft as ye drink it, in remembrance of me.* For as often as ye eat this bread, and drink this cup, ye do shew the Lord's death till he come.

*The Eucharist is therefore submission to the will of God; a fulfilment of a mandate of Christ himself.

The Mass is a ceremony of the consecration of the Eucharist, which may be thought of as the Last Supper with associated prayers and Scriptural readings. Its establishment history is celebrated once a year during the week before Easter, specifically Holy (or "Maundy") Thursday. There are other ceremonies associated with this anniversary, such as foot washing and memorialization of the other events leading up to the Crucifixion, but the Mass itself is celebrated millions of times every day and week, all over the world. It is the focus of Catholic worship.

Catholics believe that the Last Supper, the Crucifixion, and each Mass are spiritually the same event. By this mystery, the followers of Jesus, at all times and in all places, from the Apostles to all living Christians everywhere, have the opportunity to be physically present as witnesses to the one, single event of the salvation of mankind by Jesus Christ.

The following discussion begins with the architecture and furnishing of Catholic churches, the vestments worn by the ministers, the articles used in the ceremonies, and the Mass.

Catholic churches reflect the cultures and architecture of their times and places of construction, so they are as varied as the congregations that build them, both externally and internally. They range from small humble adobe or wooden cottages to magnificent stone cathedrals. Nevertheless, the interior arrangement and furnishings have many similarities that reflect Catholic traditions:

Crucifix - Somewhere in every Catholic church is at least one crucifix, a cross with the "corpus," or image of the body of Christ, on it. The corpus was thought to be idolatrous by some of the Reformers, who felt it violated the Commandment against "images." Catholics, who interpret the prohibition differently, have retained it as a remembrance of what the imagery of the Cross is all about. You will find Protestant-style crosses all over in a Catholic church, though. Odds are that the floor plan of the church is in the shape of one.

Icons - All but the poorest Catholic churches have statues and paintings of Jesus and the saints. Some churches have hundreds of them, including images of lambs, doves and God knows what else (a little church humor, there). Perhaps the most classic example is the decoration of the Pope's private Sistine Chapel. Modern churches tend to be stark, with perhaps only a statue of Mary and Joseph, on either side.
Stations of the Cross - Fourteen of the events of the Crucifixion of Christ ("a series of unfortunate events") are represented by pictures or carvings located on the walls of the church or in a separate alcove. In very old churches, they may be very large and ornate, but in modern churches, they are often stylized and blended into the overall decor so that they are difficult to find unless one knows how to recognize them.
Confessionals - Classical churches have several boxes or stalls with privacy drapes or doors where people privately, and anonymously, confess their sins to the priest for forgiveness. Modern architecture favors separate rooms or innovative enclosures of various designs.
Altar - The altar is the focal point of the church, in the front (or sometimes in the center) of the church, It is a supper table or sacrificial slab, or both, take your pick. It is often elevated on a step or platform. Prior to 1962, altars were built against the front wall, and became so heavily ornamented that they looked almost like little cathedrals by themselves. Since then, altars have been free standing so that the priest can stand between the altar and the wall, facing the people. In many old churches, the remains of the old altar may still be seen behind the new one.
Chairs - One or more ornate chairs are located near the altar where the priest (and other ministers) can sit while the focus of the ceremony is on singing or Scriptural readings by others. In a bishop's church, his special chair, called a cathedra, is a throne representing his authority. This is why the bishop's church is called a cathedral.
Mary and Joseph altars - Large churches may have two or more smaller altars, one or more on each side of the main altar, often identified by statues of Mary and Joseph (and sometimes other people) associated with them.
Tabernacle - A central architectural feature is the tabernacle, which is Latin for "tent." It recalls the portable structure used by the Jews as the House of God before Solomon built his famous Temple. The tent itself is sometimes contained within a sturdy, often gilded and ornamented, vault, locked with a key to prevent vandalism and theft of the gold-plated utensils within, believed to contain the body of Christ.
Lectern - Scripture readings and announcements are read from a lectern. Older churches have two such features, one called a pulpit and another called an ambo.
Candles - Candles recall the early days of Christianity, when Christians had to celebrate Mass in the Catacombs, with only candles for light, for fear of the Romans. One huge ornamented candle, the Paschal candle, recalls Christ as the "Light of the World." A candle in a red glass container is kept burning near the tabernacle to indicate that Christ is "in residence." Many churches have racks of small votive candles that people can light as a reverential ritual.
Holy water - At the entrances, and sometimes at other places, are containers of water in which the faithful dip their fingers and make the sign of the Cross as a gesture of purification. They can range in size from small bowls to massive fountains. A large container, often with a cover, is used for baptisms.
Pews - In places such as the US where people sit and kneel during Mass instead of standing the entire time, long pews, or benches, are provided. They have folding padded steps that allow the occupants comfortably to kneel.
Musical Features - Most churches have a place for the choir and a means of making music, usually an organ or, more recently, an electronic organ or piano or both (and sometimes also electronic guitars, musical instruments of all kinds, and just about every kind of percussion instrument one can imagine).

The formal clothing worn by the priest (and other ministers) has ritual significance, like academic gowns of judges, and generally recalls street clothing of ancient Rome. It consists of an alb, or white robe (sometimes with an attached hood), tied at the waist with a cord called a cincture. An ornamented cloak called a chasuble is the outer garment. As a symbol of his office, the priest wears a stole, resembling a long, thin prayer shawl, around the back of his neck, hanging down in front. The stole can be worn under or over the chasuble. An assistant minister, the deacon (if present), omits the chasuble and wears his stole over his left shoulder, clasped at the right waist. In some cases, the deacon wears a cross-shaped, coat-like outer garment called a dalmatic. Other assistant ministers (often children) wear an alb or a black or red dress-like garment called a cassock underneath a loose white shirt called a surplice, or omit the formal clothing and wear their street clothes.

Articles used in the Mass include:

Hosts - The wheat bread used in the Eucharist consists of small round wafers resembling little tortillas. A larger host, easy for the congregation to see, is often used by the priest. Each host is believed to become the body of Christ when the priest says the words, "this is my Body."

Wine - Sacramental wine is made from various species of grapes, without preservatives. It is believed to become the blood of Christ when the priest says, "this is my Blood."

Chalice - This is the cup into which the wine is poured and from which the faithful drink. For large congregations, there may be several of them. In some congregations, only the priest drinks from the chalice.

Paten - This is a shallow metal pan or dish containing the hosts. Large numbers of hosts are stored in the tabernacle and sometimes transported to the congregation in a container, resembling the chalice or a small tub, called a ciborium.

Corporal - This is a large napkin spread on the altar to catch and retain any particles of consecrated hosts that might otherwise fall on the altar. The word "corporal" means "for the body," in this case, the body of Christ.

Censer - Some solemn occasions are accompanied by the use of incense. The ritual significance of incense is that the smoke rises up to heaven, taking with it the prayers of the faithful up to the throne of God. Practically speaking, incense imparted a welcome spicy, pungent aroma in musty dark ages churches filled with sweaty, unwashed field hands and swineherds. The incense is burned with charcoal to produce the scented smoke in a device called a "censer." The censer is swung on a chain to generate the internal breeze that fans the smoldering charcoal within. Generally, the ministers take turns fanning the smoke on books containing Scriptural readings, the vessels used, the congregation, and each other.

Aspergillum - Rarely, the liturgy will include a ritual purging or clensing of the congregation involving the sprinkling of holy water carried in a small bucket or pail, called an "aspersory." The device used is an "aspergillum," a golfball-shaped container with a handle. The minister fills it by dipping it in the aspersory and then vigorously shakes it at the people as he walks among them, letting fly small droplets of water that quickly evaporate. The name comes from the Latin prayer, "aspereges mei," which means "cleanse me" in English.

Participation of the congregation by responses, movements and gestures is a tradition of great antiquity, intended to integrate the lay people more fully into the ritual led by the priest and his assistant ministers. Those unfamiliar with the rituals are invited to participate or sit and observe as they choose. For those who might find them helpful, most Catholic churches distribute prayer cards or booklets with the responses and prayers printed on (or in) them.

THE HOLY SACRIFICE OF THE MASS

The following is the basic ritual of the Mass. Celebration of the other sacraments generally takes place during the Mass, and involves additional rituals not noted here:

*Note 1 - "Proper" prayers of the mass change according to the purpose or memorial for which the Mass is being celebrated, and are noted in red here.

Note 2 - When a choir is present, the congregation frequently joins in the singing, and some of the prayers and their responses are sung along with the choir.

INTRODUCTORY RITES

Entrance Song

After the people have assembled, and are standing, the priest goes to the altar and kisses it as a sign of respect while the entrance song is being sung. Then he goes to his chair. After the entrance song, the priest and the faithful remain standing and make the sign of the cross, as the priest says: In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.

The people answer: Amen.

Then the priest, facing the people, extends his hands and greets all present with something like the following: The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ and the love of God and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all.

The people respond: And with your spirit.

Penitential Rite

After the introduction to the day's Mass, the priest invites the people to recall their sins and to repent of them in silence. He may use these or similar words: My brothers and sisters, let us acknowledge our sins, and so prepare ourselves to celebrate the sacred mysteries.

After reflection in silence, all say something like: I confess to almighty God and to you, my brothers and sisters, that I have greatly sinned, in my thoughts and in my words, in what I have done and in what I have failed to do... (Striking their breast, they say) through my fault, through my fault, through my most grievous fault. (Then they continue:) Therefore, I ask blessed Mary, ever Virgin, all the Angels and Saints, and you, my brothers and sisters, to pray for me to the Lord our God.

The priest says the absolution: May almighty God have mercy on us, forgive us our sins, and bring us to everlasting life.

The people answer: Amen.

Gloria

This hymn is said or sung on Sundays outside Advent and Lent, on solemnities and feasts, and in solemn local celebrations. Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to people of good will. We praise you, we bless you, we adore you, we glorify you, we give you thanks for your great glory, Lord God, heavenly King, O God, almighty Father. Lord Jesus Christ, Only Begotten Son, Lord God, Lamb of God, Son of the Father, you take away the sins of the world, have mercy on us; you take away the sins of the world, receive our prayer; you are seated at the right hand of the Father, have mercy on us. For you alone are the Holy One, you alone are the Lord, you alone are the Most High, Jesus Christ, with the Holy Spirit, in the glory of God the Father. Amen.

Opening Prayer*

The priest extends his hands and recites a short opening prayer At the end, the people respond: Amen.

First Reading*

The reader goes to the lectern for the first reading. All sit and listen. Scriptural readings in Amercan Catholic Churches are taken from the New American Bible, Revised Edition.

(Proverbs 8:22-31) Thus says the wisdom of God: "The LORD begot me, the beginning of his works, the forerunner of his deeds of long ago; From of old I was formed, at the first, before the earth. When there were no deeps I was brought forth, when there were no fountains or springs of water; Before the mountains were settled into place, before the hills, I was brought forth; While as yet the earth and fields were not made, nor the first clods of the world. When he established the heavens, there was I, when he marked out the vault over the face of the deep; When he made firm the skies above, when he fixed fast the springs of the deep; When he set for the sea its limit, so that the waters should not transgress his command; When he fixed the foundations of earth, then was I beside him as his artisan, I was his delight day by day, Playing over the whole of his earth, having my delight with human beings"

To indicate the end, the reader adds: This is the Word of the Lord. All respond: Thanks be to God.

Responsorial Psalm*

The cantor sings or recites the psalm, and the people respond. Today the response is: O Lord, our God, how wonderful your name in all the earth!

Psalms: 8:4-9 O Lord, our God, how wonderful your name in all the earth!
When I see your heavens, the work of your fingers, the moon and the stars that you set in place --
What is man that you are mindful of him, and a son of man that you care for him?
Yet you have made him little less than a god, crowned him with glory and honor.
You have given him rule over the works of your hands, put all things at his feet:
All sheep and oxen, even the beasts of the field,
The birds of the air, the fish of the sea, and whatever swims the paths of the seas.

Second Reading*

When there is a second reading, it is read at the lectern as before.

Romans 5:1-5 Brothers and sisters:
Therefore, since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have gained access [by faith] to this grace in which we stand, and we boast in hope of the glory of God. Not only that, but we even boast of our afflictions, knowing that affliction produces endurance, and endurance, proven character, and proven character, hope, and hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit that has been given to us.

To indicate the end, the reader adds: This is the Word of the Lord. The people respond: Thanks be to God.

Alleluia or Gospel Acclamation

All stand. The priest says: Alleluia! Alleluia! (Praise be to God)

The people respond: Alleluia! Alleluia!

The priest continues: Glory to the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit; to God who is, who was, and who is to come.

The people respond: Alleluia! Alleluia!

Gospel*

If there is no deacon, the priest bows before the altar and says quietly: Cleanse my heart and my lips, almighty God, that I may worthily proclaim your holy Gospel.

Then the deacon (or the priest) goes to the lectern. He may be accompanied by ministers with incense and candles. He sings or says: The Lord be with you.

The people answer: And with your spirit.

The deacon (or priest) sings or says: A reading from the holy gospel according to Mark (follows a previous reading)
(John 16:12-15) Jesus said to his disciples: "I have much more to tell you, but you cannot bear it now. But when he comes, the Spirit of truth, he will guide you to all truth. He will not speak on his own, but he will speak what he hears, and will declare to you the things that are coming. He will glorify me, because he will take from what is mine and declare it to you. Everything that the Father has is mine; for this reason I told you that he will take from what is mine and declare it to you."

He makes the sign of the cross on the book, and then on his forehead, lips and breast. The people sign themselves in a similar fashion and respond: Glory to you, Lord.

At the end of the gospel, the deacon (or priest) adds: The gospel of the Lord.

All respond: Praise to you, Lord Jesus Christ.

Then he kisses the book, saying quietly: Through the words of the Gospel may our sins be wiped away. .

Homily (Sermon) (The people sit) A homily is given on all Sundays and formal holy days and is recommended for other days.

Profession of Faith

After the homily, the profession of faith, either this one or an alternate known as "The Apostles' Creed" is said on Sundays and solemnities; it may also be said in solemn local celebrations. The people stand and recite the creed with the priest. (At the words "came down from heaven ... and became man," all bow.) I believe in one God, the Father almighty, maker of heaven and earth, of all things visible and invisible. I believe in one Lord Jesus Christ, the Only Begotten Son of God, born of the Father before all ages. God from God, Light from Light, true God from true God, begotten, not made, consubstantial with the Father; through him all things were made. For us men and for our salvation he came down from heaven, and by the Holy Spirit was incarnate of the Virgin Mary, and became man. For our sake he was crucified under Pontius Pilate, he suffered death and was buried, and rose again on the third day in accordance with the Scriptures. He ascended into heaven and is seated at the right hand of the Father. He will come again in glory to judge the living and the dead and his kingdom will have no end. I believe in the Holy Spirit, the Lord, the giver of life, who proceeds from the Father and the Son, who with the Father and the Son is adored and glorified, who has spoken through the prophets. I believe in one, holy, catholic and apostolic Church. I confess one Baptism for the forgiveness of sins and I look forward to the resurrection of the dead and the life of the world to come. Amen.

Here follow the general intercessions (prayers of the faithful). The priest presides at the prayer. With a brief introduction, he invites the people to pray, and members of the congregation may include their special intentions; after the intentions he says a concluding prayer.

LITURGY OF THE EUCHARIST

Preparation of the Altar and the Gifts

After the liturgy of the word, the offertory song is begun. The people sit down while the utensils to be used and the book containing the prayers to be said are placed on the altar. The priest, standing at the altar, takes the paten with the bread and, holding it slightly raised above the altar, says quietly: Blessed are you, Lord God of all creation, for through your goodness we have received the bread we offer you: fruit of the earth and work of human hands, it will become for us the bread of life.

The priest (or the deacon, if present) pours wine and a little water into the chalice saying quietly: By the mystery of this water and wine may we come to share in the divinity of Christ, who humbled himself to share in our humanity.

Then the priest takes the chalice and, holding it slightly raised above the altar, says quietly: Blessed are you, Lord God of all creation, for through your goodness we have received the wine we offer you: fruit of the vine and work of human hands, it will become our spiritual drink.

The people respond: Blessed be God for ever.

The priest bows and says quietly: With humble spirit and contrite heart may we be accepted by you, O Lord, and may our sacrifice in your sight this day be pleasing to you, Lord God.

Next the priest stands at the side of the altar and washes his hands, saying quietly something like: Wash me, O Lord, from my iniquity and cleanse me from my sin.

Standing at the center of the altar, facing the people, he extends and then joins his hands, saying: Pray, brothers and sisters, that my sacrifice and yours may be acceptable to God, the almighty Father.

The people pray: May the Lord accept the sacrifice at your hands for the praise and glory of his name, for our good, and the good of all his holy Church.

Prayer Over the Gifts*

With hands extended, the priest sings or says the prayer over the gifts, at the end of which the people respond: Amen.

EUCHARISTIC PRAYER (Note: There are four of these. This is one of them.)

The people stand as the priest begins the eucharistic prayer. With hands extended he sings or says: The Lord be with you.

The people respond: And with your spirit.

He lifts up his hands and continues: Lift up your hearts.

The people respond: We lift them up to the Lord.

With hands extended, he continues: Let us give thanks to the Lord our God.

The people respond: It is right and just.

Preface*

The priest continues the preface with hands extended. The preface varies according to the season, feast, or occasion that is celebrated and which eucharistic prayer is used. It is something like this: For our sake he opened his arms on the cross; he put an end to death and revealed the resurrection. In this he fulfilled your will and won for you a holy people. And so we join the angels and the saints in proclaiming your glory as we say:

At the end of the preface, he joins his hands and, together with the people, concludes it by singing or saying aloud as a bell is rung and the people kneel. Holy, Holy, Holy Lord God of hosts. Heaven and earth are full of your glory. Hosanna in the highest. Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord. Hosanna in the highest.

The priest, with hands extended, says: To you, therefore, most merciful Father, we make humble prayer and petition through Jesus Christ, your Son, our Lord...

He joins his hands and, making the sign of the cross once over both bread and chalice, says: that you accept and bless these gifts, these offerings, these holy and unblemished sacrifices...

With hands extended, he continues: which we offer you firstly for your holy catholic Church. Be pleased to grant her peace, to guard, unite and govern her throughout the whole world, together with your servant Francis our Pope and Lewis our Bishop, and all those who, holding to the truth, hand on the catholic and apostolic faith. Remember, Lord, your servants

The Priest may join his hands and pray briefly for those for whom he intends to pray. Then, with hands extended, he continues: and all gathered here, whose faith and devotion are known to you. For them, we offer you this sacrifice of praise or they offer it for themselves and all who are dear to them: for the redemption of their souls, in hope of health and well-being, and paying their homage to you, the eternal God, living and true. In communion with those whose memory we venerate, especially the glorious ever-Virgin Mary, Mother of our God and Lord, Jesus Christ, and blessed Joseph, her Spouse, your blessed Apostles and Martyrs, Peter and Paul, Andrew, and all your Saints; we ask that through their merits and prayers, in all things we may be defended by your protecting help, through Christ our Lord. Amen.

With hands extended, the Priest continues: Therefore, Lord, we pray: graciously accept this oblation of our service, that of your whole family; order our days in your peace, and command that we be delivered from eternal damnation and counted among the flock of those you have chosen.

He joins his hands. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.

Holding his hands extended over the offerings, he says: Be pleased, O God, we pray, to bless, acknowledge, and approve this offering in every respect; make it spiritual and acceptable, so that it may become for us the Body and Blood of your most beloved Son, our Lord Jesus Christ.

He joins his hands. takes the bread and, holding it slightly raised above the altar, continues: On the day before he was to suffer, he took bread in his holy and venerable hands, and with eyes raised to heaven to you, O God, his almighty Father, giving you thanks, he said the blessing, broke the bread and gave it to his disciples, saying: Take this, all of you, and eat of it; for this is my Body, which will be given up for you.

He bows slightly, shows the consecrated host to the people, places it on the paten, and genuflects in adoration as a bell is usually rung. Then he continues: In a similar way, when supper was ended...

He takes the chalice and, holding it slightly raised above the altar, continues: he took this precious chalice in his holy and venerable hands, and once more giving you thanks, he said the blessing and gave the chalice to his disciples, saying: Take this, all of you, and drink from it, for this is the chalice of my Blood, the Blood of the new and eternal covenant, which will be poured out for you and for many for the forgiveness of sins. Do this in memory of me.

He bows slightly. shows the chalice to the people, places it on the corporal, and genuflects in adoration. Rising, he says: The mystery of faith.

And the people continue, acclaiming: When we eat this Bread and drink this Cup, we proclaim your Death, O Lord, until you come again.

Then with hands extended, the priest says: Therefore, O Lord, as we celebrate the memorial of the blessed Passion, the Resurrection from the dead, and the glorious Ascension into heaven of Christ, your Son, our Lord, we, your servants and your holy people, offer to your glorious majesty from the gifts that you have given us, this pure victim, this holy victim, this spotless victim, the holy Bread of eternal life and the Chalice of everlasting salvation. Be pleased to look upon these offerings with a serene and kindly countenance, and to accept them, as once you were pleased to accept the gifts of your servant Abel the just, the sacrifice of Abraham, our father in faith, and the offering of your high priest Melchizedek, a holy sacrifice, a spotless victim...

He bows, joins his hands and continues: In humble prayer we ask you, almighty God: command that these gifts be borne by the hands of your holy Angel to your altar on high in the sight of your divine majesty, so that all of us, who through this participation at the altar receive the most holy Body and Blood of your Son, may be filled with every grace and heavenly blessing, through Christ our Lord. Amen.

With hands extended, the Priest says: Remember also, Lord, your servants (Names) who have gone before us with the sign of faith and rest in the sleep of peace.

He joins his hands and prays briefly for those who have died and for whom he intends to pray. Then, with hands extended, he continues: Grant them, O Lord, we pray, and all who sleep in Christ, a place of refreshment, light and peace, through Christ our Lord. Amen.

He strikes his breast with his right hand, and then with hands extended, he continues: To us, also, your servants, who, though sinners, hope in your abundant mercies, graciously grant some share and fellowship with your holy Apostles and Martyrs: with John the Baptist, Stephen, Matthias, Barnabas, and all your Saints; admit us, we beseech you, into their company, not weighing our merits, but granting us your pardon, through Christ our Lord, through whom you continue to make all these good things, O Lord; you sanctify them, fill them with life, bless them, and bestow them upon us.

He takes the chalice and the paten with the host and, raising both, he says: Through him, and with him, and in him, O God, almighty Father, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, all glory and honor is yours, for ever and ever.

The people acclaim: Amen!

COMMUNION RITE

Lord's Prayer

The priest sets down the chalice and paten and with hands joined sings or says something like the following as the people stand: At the Savior's command and formed by divine teaching, we dare to say:

He extends his hands and he continues, with the people, "the Lord's Prayer:" Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name; thy kingdom come; thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread; and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil.

With hands extended, the priest continues alone: Deliver us, Lord, we pray, from every evil, graciously grant peace in our days, that, by the help of your mercy, we may be always free from sin and safe from all distress, as we await the blessed hope and the coming of our Savior, Jesus Christ.

He joins his hands as the people end the prayer with the acclamation: For the kingdom, the power, and the glory are yours, now and for ever.

Sign of Peace

Then the priest, with hands extended, says aloud: Lord Jesus Christ, who said to your Apostles: Peace I leave you, my peace I give you; look not on our sins, but on the faith of your Church, and graciously grant her peace and unity in accordance with your will...

He joins his hands. Who live and reign for ever and ever.

The people usually join: Amen.

The Priest, turned towards the people, extending and then joining his hands, adds: The peace of the Lord be with you always.

The people respond: And with your spirit.

Then, if appropriate, the Deacon, or the Priest, adds: Let us offer each other a sign of peace.

All make an appropriate sign of peace, according to local custom (usually shaking hands or, for couples or parents with children, hugging or kissing). The priest gives the sign of peace to the deacon or minister (often, in the US, a hug). The priest then breaks the host saying with the people: May this mingling of the Body and Blood of our Lord Jesus Christ bring eternal life to us who receive it. Lamb of God, you take away the sins of the world, have mercy on us. Lamb of God, you take away the sins of the world, have mercy on us. Lamb of God, you take away the sins of the world, grant us peace.

Breaking of the Host

Meanwhile, he takes the host and breaks it over the paten. He places a small piece in the chalice, saying quietly: May this mingling of the Body and Blood of our Lord Jesus Christ bring eternal life to us who receive it.

Private Preparation of the Priest

Then the priest joins his hands and says quietly something like: Lord Jesus Christ, Son of the living God, who, by the will of the Father and the work of the Holy Spirit, through your Death gave life to the world, free me by this, your most holy Body and Blood, from all my sins and from every evil; keep me always faithful to your commandments, and never let me be parted from you.

The priest genuflects. Taking the host, he raises it slightly over the paten and, facing the people, says aloud: Behold the Lamb of God, behold him who takes away the sins of the world. Blessed are those called to the supper of the Lamb.

With the people, he says: Lord, I am not worthy that you should enter under my roof, but only say the word and my soul shall be healed.

Facing the altar, the priest says quietly: May the Body of Christ bring me to everlasting life.

He reverently consumes the host. Then he takes the chalice and says quietly: May the Blood of Christ bring me to everlasting life.

He reverently drinks from the chalice. After this he takes the paten or other vessel and goes to the communicants. The priest or other minister distributing the eucharistic takes a host for each communicant and raises it a little to display it, saying: The Body of Christ.

As he receives the host, the communicant answers: Amen.

Communion of the Faithful - Note: Because the Catholic ritual of communion involves public declaration of the recipient's agreement that it is the actual person of Jesus Christ, the Catholic Church discourages reception by those who do not, in fact, personally believe and proclaim this understanding of the sacrament, or who are too young to be able to make such a declaration. They are, however, invited to participate and indicate their desire if they so choose to receive a blessing in lieu of a declaration of Catholic faith by crossing their hands in front of their chests when they approach the minister, who will say "May God bless you" or something similar.

When receiving from the chalice, the minister says: The Blood of Christ.

Before the drinks from the chalice, the communicant answers: Amen.

Communion Song

While the priest consumes the host, the communion song is begun. The vessels are emptied, cleaned and dried by the priest or other minister after the communion as the priest says quietly: What has passed our lips as food, O Lord, may we possess in purity of heart, that what has been given to us in time may be our healing for eternity.

The priest may return to his chair. A period of silence is often observed, or a psalm or song of praise may be sung, after which the priest stands and says something like: Let us pray. Lord, by your Body and Blood you have saved the world. May those of us who have received it be brought to everlasting happiness in your heavenly kingdom.

The people answer: Amen.

CONCLUDING RITE

If there are any brief announcements, they are made at this time.

The rite of dismissal takes place. Facing the people, the priest extends his hands and sings or says: The Lord be with you.

The people answer: And with your spirit.

The priest makes the sign of the cross over the people as he says: May almighty God bless you, the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit.

Dismissal

The deacon (or the priest), with hands joined, sings or says something like: The Mass is ended, go in peace.

The people respond: Thanks be to God.

The priest kisses the altar as at the beginning. Then he makes the customary reverence with the ministers and leaves, sometimes in procession with the other ministers. If any liturgical service follows immediately, the rite of dismissal is omitted.

INTRODUCTORY RITES
Entrance Song
After the people have assembled, and are standing, the priest goes to the altar and kisses it as a sign of respect while the entrance song is being sung. Then he goes to his chair. After the entrance song, the priest and the faithful remain standing and make the sign of the cross, as the priest says:	In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.
The people answer:	Amen.
Then the priest, facing the people, extends his hands and greets all present with something like the following:	The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ and the love of God and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all.
The people respond:	And with your spirit.

Penitential Rite
After the introduction to the day's Mass, the priest invites the people to recall their sins and to repent of them in silence. He may use these or similar words:	My brothers and sisters, let us acknowledge our sins, and so prepare ourselves to celebrate the sacred mysteries.
After reflection in silence, all say something like:	I confess to almighty God and to you, my brothers and sisters, that I have greatly sinned, in my thoughts and in my words, in what I have done and in what I have failed to do... (Striking their breast, they say) through my fault, through my fault, through my most grievous fault. (Then they continue:) Therefore, I ask blessed Mary, ever Virgin, all the Angels and Saints, and you, my brothers and sisters, to pray for me to the Lord our God.
The priest says the absolution:	May almighty God have mercy on us, forgive us our sins, and bring us to everlasting life.
The people answer:	Amen.

First Reading*
The reader goes to the lectern for the first reading. All sit and listen.	Scriptural readings in Amercan Catholic Churches are taken from the New American Bible, Revised Edition.
(Proverbs 8:22-31) Thus says the wisdom of God: "The LORD begot me, the beginning of his works, the forerunner of his deeds of long ago; From of old I was formed, at the first, before the earth. When there were no deeps I was brought forth, when there were no fountains or springs of water; Before the mountains were settled into place, before the hills, I was brought forth; While as yet the earth and fields were not made, nor the first clods of the world. When he established the heavens, there was I, when he marked out the vault over the face of the deep; When he made firm the skies above, when he fixed fast the springs of the deep; When he set for the sea its limit, so that the waters should not transgress his command; When he fixed the foundations of earth, then was I beside him as his artisan, I was his delight day by day, Playing over the whole of his earth, having my delight with human beings"
To indicate the end, the reader adds: This is the Word of the Lord.	All respond: Thanks be to God.

Responsorial Psalm*
The cantor sings or recites the psalm, and the people respond. Today the response is:	O Lord, our God, how wonderful your name in all the earth!
Psalms: 8:4-9 O Lord, our God, how wonderful your name in all the earth! When I see your heavens, the work of your fingers, the moon and the stars that you set in place -- What is man that you are mindful of him, and a son of man that you care for him? Yet you have made him little less than a god, crowned him with glory and honor. You have given him rule over the works of your hands, put all things at his feet: All sheep and oxen, even the beasts of the field, The birds of the air, the fish of the sea, and whatever swims the paths of the seas.
Second Reading*
When there is a second reading, it is read at the lectern as before.
Romans 5:1-5 Brothers and sisters: Therefore, since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have gained access [by faith] to this grace in which we stand, and we boast in hope of the glory of God. Not only that, but we even boast of our afflictions, knowing that affliction produces endurance, and endurance, proven character, and proven character, hope, and hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit that has been given to us.
To indicate the end, the reader adds: This is the Word of the Lord.	The people respond: Thanks be to God.
Alleluia or Gospel Acclamation
All stand. The priest says:	Alleluia! Alleluia! (Praise be to God)
The people respond:	Alleluia! Alleluia!
The priest continues:	Glory to the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit; to God who is, who was, and who is to come.
The people respond:	Alleluia! Alleluia!

Gospel*
If there is no deacon, the priest bows before the altar and says quietly:	Cleanse my heart and my lips, almighty God, that I may worthily proclaim your holy Gospel.
Then the deacon (or the priest) goes to the lectern. He may be accompanied by ministers with incense and candles. He sings or says:	The Lord be with you.
The people answer:	And with your spirit.
The deacon (or priest) sings or says:	A reading from the holy gospel according to Mark (follows a previous reading) (John 16:12-15) Jesus said to his disciples: "I have much more to tell you, but you cannot bear it now. But when he comes, the Spirit of truth, he will guide you to all truth. He will not speak on his own, but he will speak what he hears, and will declare to you the things that are coming. He will glorify me, because he will take from what is mine and declare it to you. Everything that the Father has is mine; for this reason I told you that he will take from what is mine and declare it to you."
He makes the sign of the cross on the book, and then on his forehead, lips and breast. The people sign themselves in a similar fashion and respond:	Glory to you, Lord.
At the end of the gospel, the deacon (or priest) adds:	The gospel of the Lord.
All respond:	Praise to you, Lord Jesus Christ.
Then he kisses the book, saying quietly:	Through the words of the Gospel may our sins be wiped away. .
Homily (Sermon) (The people sit)	A homily is given on all Sundays and formal holy days and is recommended for other days.

LITURGY OF THE EUCHARIST
Preparation of the Altar and the Gifts
After the liturgy of the word, the offertory song is begun. The people sit down while the utensils to be used and the book containing the prayers to be said are placed on the altar. The priest, standing at the altar, takes the paten with the bread and, holding it slightly raised above the altar, says quietly:	Blessed are you, Lord God of all creation, for through your goodness we have received the bread we offer you: fruit of the earth and work of human hands, it will become for us the bread of life.
The priest (or the deacon, if present) pours wine and a little water into the chalice saying quietly:	By the mystery of this water and wine may we come to share in the divinity of Christ, who humbled himself to share in our humanity.
Then the priest takes the chalice and, holding it slightly raised above the altar, says quietly:	Blessed are you, Lord God of all creation, for through your goodness we have received the wine we offer you: fruit of the vine and work of human hands, it will become our spiritual drink.
The people respond:	Blessed be God for ever.
The priest bows and says quietly:	With humble spirit and contrite heart may we be accepted by you, O Lord, and may our sacrifice in your sight this day be pleasing to you, Lord God.
Next the priest stands at the side of the altar and washes his hands, saying quietly something like:	Wash me, O Lord, from my iniquity and cleanse me from my sin.
Standing at the center of the altar, facing the people, he extends and then joins his hands, saying:	Pray, brothers and sisters, that my sacrifice and yours may be acceptable to God, the almighty Father.
The people pray:	May the Lord accept the sacrifice at your hands for the praise and glory of his name, for our good, and the good of all his holy Church.

Prayer Over the Gifts*
With hands extended, the priest sings or says the prayer over the gifts, at the end of which the people respond:	Amen.
EUCHARISTIC PRAYER (Note: There are four of these. This is one of them.)
The people stand as the priest begins the eucharistic prayer. With hands extended he sings or says:	The Lord be with you.
The people respond:	And with your spirit.
He lifts up his hands and continues:	Lift up your hearts.
The people respond:	We lift them up to the Lord.
With hands extended, he continues:	Let us give thanks to the Lord our God.
The people respond:	It is right and just.

Preface*
The priest continues the preface with hands extended. The preface varies according to the season, feast, or occasion that is celebrated and which eucharistic prayer is used. It is something like this:	For our sake he opened his arms on the cross; he put an end to death and revealed the resurrection. In this he fulfilled your will and won for you a holy people. And so we join the angels and the saints in proclaiming your glory as we say:
At the end of the preface, he joins his hands and, together with the people, concludes it by singing or saying aloud as a bell is rung and the people kneel.	Holy, Holy, Holy Lord God of hosts. Heaven and earth are full of your glory. Hosanna in the highest. Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord. Hosanna in the highest.
The priest, with hands extended, says:	To you, therefore, most merciful Father, we make humble prayer and petition through Jesus Christ, your Son, our Lord...
He joins his hands and, making the sign of the cross once over both bread and chalice, says:	that you accept and bless these gifts, these offerings, these holy and unblemished sacrifices...
With hands extended, he continues:	which we offer you firstly for your holy catholic Church. Be pleased to grant her peace, to guard, unite and govern her throughout the whole world, together with your servant Francis our Pope and Lewis our Bishop, and all those who, holding to the truth, hand on the catholic and apostolic faith. Remember, Lord, your servants
The Priest may join his hands and pray briefly for those for whom he intends to pray. Then, with hands extended, he continues:	and all gathered here, whose faith and devotion are known to you. For them, we offer you this sacrifice of praise or they offer it for themselves and all who are dear to them: for the redemption of their souls, in hope of health and well-being, and paying their homage to you, the eternal God, living and true. In communion with those whose memory we venerate, especially the glorious ever-Virgin Mary, Mother of our God and Lord, Jesus Christ, and blessed Joseph, her Spouse, your blessed Apostles and Martyrs, Peter and Paul, Andrew, and all your Saints; we ask that through their merits and prayers, in all things we may be defended by your protecting help, through Christ our Lord. Amen.
With hands extended, the Priest continues:	Therefore, Lord, we pray: graciously accept this oblation of our service, that of your whole family; order our days in your peace, and command that we be delivered from eternal damnation and counted among the flock of those you have chosen.
He joins his hands.	Through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Holding his hands extended over the offerings, he says:	Be pleased, O God, we pray, to bless, acknowledge, and approve this offering in every respect; make it spiritual and acceptable, so that it may become for us the Body and Blood of your most beloved Son, our Lord Jesus Christ.
He joins his hands. takes the bread and, holding it slightly raised above the altar, continues:	On the day before he was to suffer, he took bread in his holy and venerable hands, and with eyes raised to heaven to you, O God, his almighty Father, giving you thanks, he said the blessing, broke the bread and gave it to his disciples, saying: Take this, all of you, and eat of it; for this is my Body, which will be given up for you.
He bows slightly, shows the consecrated host to the people, places it on the paten, and genuflects in adoration as a bell is usually rung. Then he continues:	In a similar way, when supper was ended...
He takes the chalice and, holding it slightly raised above the altar, continues:	he took this precious chalice in his holy and venerable hands, and once more giving you thanks, he said the blessing and gave the chalice to his disciples, saying: Take this, all of you, and drink from it, for this is the chalice of my Blood, the Blood of the new and eternal covenant, which will be poured out for you and for many for the forgiveness of sins. Do this in memory of me.
He bows slightly. shows the chalice to the people, places it on the corporal, and genuflects in adoration. Rising, he says:	The mystery of faith.
And the people continue, acclaiming:	When we eat this Bread and drink this Cup, we proclaim your Death, O Lord, until you come again.
Then with hands extended, the priest says:	Therefore, O Lord, as we celebrate the memorial of the blessed Passion, the Resurrection from the dead, and the glorious Ascension into heaven of Christ, your Son, our Lord, we, your servants and your holy people, offer to your glorious majesty from the gifts that you have given us, this pure victim, this holy victim, this spotless victim, the holy Bread of eternal life and the Chalice of everlasting salvation. Be pleased to look upon these offerings with a serene and kindly countenance, and to accept them, as once you were pleased to accept the gifts of your servant Abel the just, the sacrifice of Abraham, our father in faith, and the offering of your high priest Melchizedek, a holy sacrifice, a spotless victim...
He bows, joins his hands and continues:	In humble prayer we ask you, almighty God: command that these gifts be borne by the hands of your holy Angel to your altar on high in the sight of your divine majesty, so that all of us, who through this participation at the altar receive the most holy Body and Blood of your Son, may be filled with every grace and heavenly blessing, through Christ our Lord. Amen.
With hands extended, the Priest says:	Remember also, Lord, your servants (Names) who have gone before us with the sign of faith and rest in the sleep of peace.
He joins his hands and prays briefly for those who have died and for whom he intends to pray. Then, with hands extended, he continues:	Grant them, O Lord, we pray, and all who sleep in Christ, a place of refreshment, light and peace, through Christ our Lord. Amen.
He strikes his breast with his right hand, and then with hands extended, he continues:	To us, also, your servants, who, though sinners, hope in your abundant mercies, graciously grant some share and fellowship with your holy Apostles and Martyrs: with John the Baptist, Stephen, Matthias, Barnabas, and all your Saints; admit us, we beseech you, into their company, not weighing our merits, but granting us your pardon, through Christ our Lord, through whom you continue to make all these good things, O Lord; you sanctify them, fill them with life, bless them, and bestow them upon us.
He takes the chalice and the paten with the host and, raising both, he says:	Through him, and with him, and in him, O God, almighty Father, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, all glory and honor is yours, for ever and ever.
The people acclaim:	Amen!

COMMUNION RITE
Lord's Prayer
The priest sets down the chalice and paten and with hands joined sings or says something like the following as the people stand:	At the Savior's command and formed by divine teaching, we dare to say:
He extends his hands and he continues, with the people, "the Lord's Prayer:"	Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name; thy kingdom come; thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread; and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil.
With hands extended, the priest continues alone:	Deliver us, Lord, we pray, from every evil, graciously grant peace in our days, that, by the help of your mercy, we may be always free from sin and safe from all distress, as we await the blessed hope and the coming of our Savior, Jesus Christ.
He joins his hands as the people end the prayer with the acclamation:	For the kingdom, the power, and the glory are yours, now and for ever.

Sign of Peace
Then the priest, with hands extended, says aloud:	Lord Jesus Christ, who said to your Apostles: Peace I leave you, my peace I give you; look not on our sins, but on the faith of your Church, and graciously grant her peace and unity in accordance with your will...
He joins his hands.	Who live and reign for ever and ever.
The people usually join:	Amen.
The Priest, turned towards the people, extending and then joining his hands, adds:	The peace of the Lord be with you always.
The people respond:	And with your spirit.
Then, if appropriate, the Deacon, or the Priest, adds:	Let us offer each other a sign of peace.
All make an appropriate sign of peace, according to local custom (usually shaking hands or, for couples or parents with children, hugging or kissing). The priest gives the sign of peace to the deacon or minister (often, in the US, a hug). The priest then breaks the host saying with the people:	May this mingling of the Body and Blood of our Lord Jesus Christ bring eternal life to us who receive it. Lamb of God, you take away the sins of the world, have mercy on us. Lamb of God, you take away the sins of the world, have mercy on us. Lamb of God, you take away the sins of the world, grant us peace.
Breaking of the Host
Meanwhile, he takes the host and breaks it over the paten. He places a small piece in the chalice, saying quietly:	May this mingling of the Body and Blood of our Lord Jesus Christ bring eternal life to us who receive it.
Private Preparation of the Priest
Then the priest joins his hands and says quietly something like:	Lord Jesus Christ, Son of the living God, who, by the will of the Father and the work of the Holy Spirit, through your Death gave life to the world, free me by this, your most holy Body and Blood, from all my sins and from every evil; keep me always faithful to your commandments, and never let me be parted from you.
The priest genuflects. Taking the host, he raises it slightly over the paten and, facing the people, says aloud:	Behold the Lamb of God, behold him who takes away the sins of the world. Blessed are those called to the supper of the Lamb.
With the people, he says:	Lord, I am not worthy that you should enter under my roof, but only say the word and my soul shall be healed.
Facing the altar, the priest says quietly:	May the Body of Christ bring me to everlasting life.
He reverently consumes the host. Then he takes the chalice and says quietly:	May the Blood of Christ bring me to everlasting life.
He reverently drinks from the chalice. After this he takes the paten or other vessel and goes to the communicants. The priest or other minister distributing the eucharistic takes a host for each communicant and raises it a little to display it, saying:	The Body of Christ.
As he receives the host, the communicant answers:	Amen.
Communion of the Faithful - Note: Because the Catholic ritual of communion involves public declaration of the recipient's agreement that it is the actual person of Jesus Christ, the Catholic Church discourages reception by those who do not, in fact, personally believe and proclaim this understanding of the sacrament, or who are too young to be able to make such a declaration. They are, however, invited to participate and indicate their desire if they so choose to receive a blessing in lieu of a declaration of Catholic faith by crossing their hands in front of their chests when they approach the minister, who will say "May God bless you" or something similar.
When receiving from the chalice, the minister says:	The Blood of Christ.
Before the drinks from the chalice, the communicant answers:	Amen.
Communion Song
While the priest consumes the host, the communion song is begun. The vessels are emptied, cleaned and dried by the priest or other minister after the communion as the priest says quietly:	What has passed our lips as food, O Lord, may we possess in purity of heart, that what has been given to us in time may be our healing for eternity.
The priest may return to his chair. A period of silence is often observed, or a psalm or song of praise may be sung, after which the priest stands and says something like:	Let us pray. Lord, by your Body and Blood you have saved the world. May those of us who have received it be brought to everlasting happiness in your heavenly kingdom.
The people answer:	Amen.

CONCLUDING RITE
If there are any brief announcements, they are made at this time.
The rite of dismissal takes place. Facing the people, the priest extends his hands and sings or says:	The Lord be with you.
The people answer:	And with your spirit.
The priest makes the sign of the cross over the people as he says:	May almighty God bless you, the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit.
Dismissal
The deacon (or the priest), with hands joined, sings or says something like:	The Mass is ended, go in peace.
The people respond:	Thanks be to God.
The priest kisses the altar as at the beginning. Then he makes the customary reverence with the ministers and leaves, sometimes in procession with the other ministers.	If any liturgical service follows immediately, the rite of dismissal is omitted.