Why is the Mass so Important to Catholics?

09-16-2018Weekly ReflectionRev. Emmanuel I. Ihemedu

After the Sign of the Cross, the priest says the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ… be with you all,” and the congregation says: “And with your spirit.” This means that Christ is present in our midst. Scripture says “for where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them” (Matthew 18:20).

Recognizing that Christ is in our presence makes us acknowledge the times we have not lived in his presence. In silent reflection we each consider our relationship with God, and ask for and receive God’s mercy for our sins. Like the prodigal son, we admit the times we failed and then return to the Father who is waiting for us with love and forgiveness.

The next thing that follows is the Gloria. This is an ancient hymn of praise that was first sung by the angels the night Jesus Christ was born in Bethlehem (Luke 2:13-14). Before the opening prayer, all of us join the priest in singing the Gloria. In this hymn of praise, our hearts are enlarged with wonders at what God has done. We are joining Jesus to Praise his Father in his works. Next, the priest says, “Let us pray,” and pauses for a moment’s silent prayer before he gathers or collects our prayers to present them to God.

I hope this small information makes a difference in your participation at mass and may God bestow the graces of the resurrection upon you, Amen!

Fr. Emmanuel