History:
Till recently a rite known as the Asperges (sprinkling) was celebrated before the principal Mass on Sunday. The word comes from Psalm 51:9: “Cleanse me of sin with hyssop, that I may be purified.” Verses of the psalm Read more
by Sue Wilson csj
The woman beside me on the train seemed stressed, fidgeting back and forth in the seat. As we engaged in conversation, Claire told me that she was returning to Montreal after six years in Toronto. Read more
Exploring the Mass
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History: #6(a) – Penitential Rite
The Confiteor ( I confess to Almighty God) said by the priest at the foot of the altar was also said prior to the distribution of Read more
Signing with the cross was a gesture practiced by Christians as early as the second century . By the late fourth century this action was incorporated at many points in the celebration of the Sacraments. This is surely Read more
In ancient times the kiss as a sign of greeting was used to show reverence for temples and images of the gods. It seems that the table was likewise honoured before the family meal in places where Read more
The majority of the western rites have traditionally accompanied the entrance procession with song. At Rome the members of the schola cantorum (trained body of singers) arranged themselves in two double rows at the entrance to the sanctuary. Read more
Once the Church began to celebrate the Eucharist within large buildings, it was natural to utilize the space these structures provided. Since the sacristy (preparation room) was located close to the entrance of the major churches in Read more
As early as the mid-second century the celebration of the Eucharist, already separated from its setting within a regular meal, was usually preceded by a scripture service. The people gathered in silence and, when all had arrived, a Read more
No doubt you have heard that a new translation of the prayers at Mass has been completed by our bishops and confirmed by the Holy See.. The whole Church in the English-speaking world will be preparing for the reception Read more