Do You Know Your Faith?

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

Why is the Mass so Important to Catholics?

Every Sunday when we gather for Mass as Catholics, we remember what Jesus did at the Last Supper. Do you know that the words of Jesus, “Do this in remembrance of me,” have been obeyed without interruption for nearly two thousand years? Whenever we come together as Catholics to celebrate the Mass, we are there to do what Jesus commanded. It is our faith that in that action, Jesus is made present for us.

At the beginning of the Mass, our gathering together takes on the form of a community (General Instruction of the Roman Missal). When the priest and the ministers process in, we have the completion of the community. Together, we become the people of God with Jesus Christ present in our midst.

The priest begins with the Sign of the Cross by saying, “In the Name of Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit” and the congregation respond “Amen.” The sign of the cross reminds us of what happened on Good Friday. Jesus defeated death on the Cross. Everyone responding at Mass, is important to the celebration. Our active response and participation with conviction and enthusiasm makes the prayer come alive.

May the Blessings of Divine Mercy be yours as you listen, reflect, respond, and sing with conviction and enthusiasm at this Mass, Amen!

Why does the priest say: The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ…be with you all?

Stay tuned.

Fr. Emmanuel