The Mass is a dialogue between God and His people. In the celebration of the Mass we give praise and honor to the Father by participating in the parts of the Mass. The priest, in persona Christi, acts as mediator and dispenser of the Sacrament. The Mass has specific parts and calls for the “full and active participation of the laity” (Vatican Council II).

In order for the “full and active participation of the laity” to occur, people need to know and understand their part (role) in the celebration of the Eucharist. Responding to the priest, e.g., “The Lord be with you” – “and with your spirit” or “Behold the Lamb of God..., blessed are those called to the supper of the Lamb” – “Lord, I am not worthy that You should enter under my roof, but only say the Word and my soul shall be healed” calls for the full and active participa-tion of the congregation. But responding is not just a matter of the spoken word; our responses in Mass are comprised of speaking, singing and even our posture—it’s about being present.

So if you would like to learn more about just what is taking place during the Mass (when does the consecration take place or what is the epiclesis), or if you would like to know more intimately what your role is supposed to be in the Mass…then come to Fr. Michael’s sessions on “The Mass: What’s Going On and What’s My Part?” This two-session seminar will be held on February 10th & 24th, 7 p.m. in Russell Hall. Come learn more about this central ritual of our faith and learn how you can “get” more out of the Mass.