The Holy Mass

Celebrating the Lord's Day
Sunday is the day on which we celebrate the Resurrection of Jesus. Sunday is the Lord's Day. We gather for Mass, rest from work, and perform works of mercy. People all over the world gather at God's eucharistic table as brothers and sisters.

Order of the Mass

The Mass is the high point of the Christian life, and it always follows a set order.

Introductory Rite—preparing to celebrate the Eucharist

Entrance Procession and Song
We gather as a community and praise God in song.

Sign of the Cross and Greeting
We pray the Sign of the Cross. The priest welcomes us.

Penitential Rite
We remember our sins and ask God for mercy.

Gloria
We praise God in song.

Opening Prayer
We ask God to hear our prayers.

The Liturgy of the Word—hearing God's plan of salvation

First Reading
We listen to God's Word, usually from the Old Testament.

Responsorial Psalm
We respond to God's Word in song.

Second Reading
We listen to God's Word from the New Testament.

Alleluia or Gospel Acclamation
We sing “Alleluia!” (except during Lent) to praise God for the Good News.

Gospel
We stand and listen to the Gospel of the Lord.

Homily
The priest or the deacon explains God's Word.

Profession of Faith
We proclaim our faith through the Nicene Creed.

General Intercessions
We pray for our needs and the needs of others.

The Liturgy of the Eucharist—celebrating Jesus' presence in the Eucharist

Preparation of the Altar and the Gifts
We bring gifts of bread and wine to the altar.

Prayer Over the Gifts
The priest prays that God will accept our sacrifice.

Eucharistic Prayer
This prayer of thanksgiving is the center and high point of the entire celebration.
Preface—We give thanks and praise to God.
Holy, Holy—We sing an acclamation of praise.
Consecration—The bread and wine become the Body and Blood of Jesus Christ.
Memorial Acclamation—We proclaim the mystery of our faith.
Great Amen—We affirm the words and actions of the Eucharistic prayer.
Communion Rite
We prepare to receive the Body and Blood of Jesus Christ.
Lord’s Prayer—We pray the Our Father.
Sign of Peace—We offer one another Christ’s peace.
Breaking of the Bread and the Lamb of God—We pray for forgiveness, mercy, and peace.
Communion—We receive the Body and Blood of Jesus Christ.
Prayer After Communion—We pray that the Eucharist will strengthen us to live as Jesus Christ did.
Concluding Rite—going forth to serve the Lord and others

Blessing
We receive God’s blessing.

Dismissal
We go in peace to love and serve the Lord and one another