The Introductory Rites | Understanding the Mass

Summary

The video explores the introductory rites of the Catholic Mass, emphasizing their deeper meaning. It delves into when the Mass truly begins—whether during the procession, greeting, or sign of the cross. Drawing from Orthodox theologian Alexander Shmemann, it suggests that the journey to the church is part of the worship experience. The script details the symbolic acts performed during the procession, the reverence for the altar, and the shared prayers. It underscores the importance of communal worship, focusing on God's mercy, preparing participants for the Word, and uniting them in the sacred liturgy.

Takeaways

• ⛪ The introductory rites of Mass set the stage for the celebration and help the congregation prepare for what is about to happen.
• 🕊️ The start of the Mass is not a specific moment, but it symbolically begins when people leave their private lives to come together as a community.
• 🚶 The Entrance Procession, which ends when the priest reaches the chair, begins at home, signifying the journey from personal lives to a shared space of worship.
• 💧 The act of blessing oneself with holy water upon entering the church reminds participants of their baptism and Christian identity.
• 🙏 Upon entering the pews, reverence is shown by genuflecting toward the tabernacle or bowing to the altar, depending on the tabernacle's location.
• 🎶 The Entrance Chant or hymn is a significant part of the liturgy that should not be replaced by complete silence unless necessary.
• 📜 The Gospel book (evangeliary) is placed on the altar, and the celebrants venerate the altar to signify its importance in the liturgy.
• ✝️ The priest opens the Mass with the sign of the cross and a greeting, such as 'The Lord be with you,' to which the congregation responds, initiating a dialogue that reflects their active participation.
• 🤲 The Penitential Act involves a collective recognition of sin and an appeal to God's mercy, but it does not replace the sacrament of confession.
• 🎵 The Gloria, an ancient hymn of praise, follows and is a joyful declaration that should not be skipped or merely recited.
• 📿 The Collect, or Opening Prayer, concludes the introductory rites, where the priest gathers the prayers of the congregation and presents them to God, emphasizing the collective nature of worship.

Q & A

What are the Introductory Rites in the Mass?

The Introductory Rites mark the beginning of the Mass, serving to gather and prepare the congregation for the sacred celebration. They include prayers, songs, and gestures that focus attention on the act of worship.

When does the Mass officially begin?

There is no fixed moment when the Mass officially begins. Some consider it the start of the entrance procession, others the sign of the cross by the priest, or when the cantor welcomes the congregation. Theologically, it begins when people leave their homes and journey toward the church.

What is the significance of the Entrance Procession?

The Entrance Procession symbolizes the journey of the congregation towards the altar of the Lord, which represents leaving behind personal struggles and entering into communal worship.

What role does holy water play when entering the church?

Dipping one’s hand in holy water and making the sign of the cross reminds worshippers of their baptism and the responsibilities of being a Christian. It signifies spiritual cleansing and readiness for worship.

Why do worshippers genuflect or bow upon entering the pews?

Worshippers genuflect if the tabernacle, containing the Eucharist, is visible, to show reverence for Christ’s presence. If the tabernacle is not visible, they bow towards the altar, where the Eucharistic sacrifice will occur.

Why is the singing or recitation of an entrance hymn important?

The entrance hymn serves to unite the congregation in song, setting the tone for the worship to follow. While silence is permitted, singing is preferred to enhance communal participation and reflection.

What is the significance of the Gloria during the Mass?

The Gloria, one of the oldest and most joyful hymns of the Mass, expresses praise and glory to God. It is seen as a vital part of the liturgy, not to be omitted or merely recited.

What is the purpose of the Penitential Act during the Introductory Rites?

The Penitential Act invites the congregation to acknowledge their sins and ask for God’s mercy, focusing not on guilt but on God’s infinite mercy, preparing hearts for the liturgy.

What is the structure and purpose of the Collect prayer?

The Collect is the first major prayer of the Mass, where the priest invites the congregation to pray silently before offering the prayer on behalf of everyone. It brings the individual prayers of the people together into one collective petition.

How does the congregation participate in the Introductory Rites?

The congregation participates by singing, responding to the priest's greetings, and engaging in the prayers and gestures. Their role is not passive; they actively join the priest in offering the prayers to God.