Introductory Rites

The section of the Mass preceding the Liturgy of the Word that confers a quality of preparation and introduction on the Eucharistic Sacrifice. The intent is that the assembled group unite as a community properly prepared to hear God's Word and celebrate the Eucharist. Includes the following:

Entrance Antiphon

Greeting

Penitential Rite (Rite of Blessing & Sprinkling)

Kyrie (Lord, Have Mercy)

Gloria (Glory to God)

Opening Prayer (Collect)

 

Liturgy of the Word

Liturgy of the Word - The major part of the Mass between the Opening Prayer and the preparation of the Gifts during which the Word of God is proclaimed, responded to, authoritatively explained, accepted and held fast, and appealed to. Includes the following:

First Reading

Responsorial Psalm

Second Reading

Gospel

Acclamation (Alleluia)

Gospel Reading

Homily

Silence

Profession of Faith (Symbolum) - Nicene Creed or Apostles' Creed - Children Only

General Intercessions (Prayer of the Faithful)

Church

Public Authorities

Salvation of the World (Oppressed)

Local Community


 

Liturgy of the Eucharist

The major part of the Mass after the Liturgy of the Word and ending before the Concluding Rite. This part corresponds to the words and actions of Christ at the Last Supper. Christ took bread and the cup, gave thanks, broke, and gave them to His disciples saying: "Take and eat; this is My Body. Take and drink; This is the cup of My Blood. Do this in memory of Me."

Preparation of the Gifts (Presentation)

The priest prepares the altar and the gifts, prays over the bread and wine, and helps the assembly get ready for the tremendous Sacrifice that will take place in an unbloody manner. Includes the following:
 

Offertory Song

Preparation of the Altar

Preparation of the Bread

Preparation of the Wine

Washing of Hands

Invitation to Prayer

Prayer over the Gifts

 

Eucharistic Prayer

The center and high point of the Mass that makes Christ present for us in His Passion, Death, and Resurrection. During it, the entire assembly joins Christ in acknowledging the works of God and in the offering of Sacrifice. Includes the following:

Introductory Dialogue

Preface

Sanctus

Eucharistic Prayer

Thanksgiving

Acclamation

Epiclesis - Ask God to consecrate the Host & Wine

Institution - Narrative and Consecration

Anamnesis - Command of Christ through the Apostles

Offering

Intercessions

Final Doxology

Memorial Acclamation

Great Amen

 

Communion Rite

The part of the Mass in which receive the Body and Blood of our Lord Jesus Christ. It begins with the Our Father (the Church's principal prayer) and concludes with the Prayer after Communion. This part corresponds to the words and actions of Christ at the Last Supper. Christ took bread and the cup, gave thanks, broke, and gave them to His disciples saying: "Take and eat; this is My Body. Take and drink; This is the cup of My Blood. Do this in memory of Me." It includes the following:

The Lord's Prayer

Rite of Peace (Sign of Peace)

Fraction Rite

Breaking of the Bread

Commingling

Agnus Dei (Lamb of God)

Personal Prayer

Communion

Silent Prayer

Prayer after Communion


 

Concluding Rite

Immediately after the Communion Rite, should there be any announcements, these are made, but should be kept brief. Then just as the people were greeted at the beginning of the Mass, so now the presider greets the people again and blesses them in one of three forms, the simple one, or at his discretion a more solemn Blessing, particularly at various seasons or on specific feast days, or a Prayers over the people. Includes the following:

Blessing

Dismissal