I love seeing full churches at any Mass, and I would encourage all Catholics to attend Mass, not just on Sundays, but whenever possible. I realize that there are many responsibilities and commitments that place great demands on our time, but where there is a will, there is a way.The more we learn about our Catholic faith, and the more we grow in knowledge of the grace available to us, especially in the sacraments of the Eucharist and Confession/Reconciliation, the more eager we will become to make time to go to Confession and attend and participate in the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass.
The entire Liturgy of the Mass is one big, beautiful prayer of worship and thanksgiving. I encourage you to take the time to listen carefully to the liturgy, and participate fully at Mass.
My prayer is that all Catholics, including myself, through the grace of Almighty God, will continue to grow in the knowledge of our faith, and to realize what a privilege it is to not only be in the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ, but also to be able to unite with Him in the Eucharist.
“We thank you for counting us worthy to stand in your presence and serve you. May all of us who share in the body and blood of Christ be brought together in unity by the Holy Spirit.” (from the Eucharistic prayer at Mass)
I am always on the lookout for good resources, especially videos, that will increase our knowledge of what the Mass is all about, which I pray will eventually lead us all into a full appreciation for this most precious Gift we have available to us!
The following is a video I found on YouTube and published by the Diocese of St. Petersburg. The title is Introduction to the Mass. At its conclusion, a series of videos will continue to play, each giving explanations for each part of the Mass.
One of my all time favorite video teachings on the Mass is entitled, The Mass Explained. It is presented most eloquently by Father Larry Richards. There is little doubt that you will find Father Richards to be very informative! He is a great speaker with the God-given ability to hold your attention! This video, along with other great resources can be found at The Reason For Our Hope Foundation.
Please don’t hesitate to share this with others! Thank you for your time, and may our Lord’s peace remain with you always!
Penny,
ReplyDeleteThanks for visiting, and I'm glad you like Fr. Larry. I love his style and delivery, as well as his dedication to proclaiming the truth without compromise!
My family and I are fortunate to have a pastor at our parish, whose ability to break open the word of God in a homily, is just an extra- added blessing to the Celebration of the Eucharist. Just one more thing for which we give thanks to our Heavenly Father!