The most well-known form of Catholic worship is the Holy Mass. It has always been the central form of Catholic worship. The Holy Mass is an inexhaustible fountain of grace. As a most divine mystery it is an unfathomable source of wonder and contemplation.
The Mass is the complex of prayers and ceremonies that make up the service of the Eucharist in the Latin rites.
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
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 (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
It is part when God gives a gift to Him. In both cases the gift is the same Jesus Christ, the Son of God and Savior of the world. 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
Christ The King Catholic Church 