This week, we have some practical tips for you and your family to not be bored and instead by inspired as we return to the public celebration of Holy Mass.
What is the purpose of the Mass?
To worship God
Memorial of Christ’s sacrifice
To be united to God and to one another
The Mass is first of all something God does for us. In order to receive all that he wants to give us we need to be prepared.
We are called to actively participate in the Mass – this means that we should come to Church prepared to contribute to the worship of God.
Before Mass
Go to confession regularly – we need to be in a state of grace to receive communion – that means being free of mortal sin and striving to avoid sin.
Learn about the Mass through the Catechism. Some really helpful books are “The Seven Secrets of the Eucharist” by Vinny Flynn and “The Lamb’s Supper” by Dr. Scott Hahn.
Reflect on the readings before Mass.
Listen, read or watch commentaries on the Gospels. We recommend Bishop Barron and Dr. Brant Pitre.
Talk about them as a family in the car.
Listen, read or watch commentaries on the Gospels. We recommend Bishop Barron and Dr. Brant Pitre.
Talk about them as a family in the car.
Observe the Eucharistic Fast - The Church asks us to refrain from eating for one hour before Mass. This physical emptiness reminds us that “man does not live on bread alone” and reflects the spiritual space we need to make within ourselves to receive Christ into our hearts
Get there early! Clear your mind. God speaks to hearts that are prepared.
During Mass
Pay attention as best you can! If you have little one squirming around, the Lord understands you can’t focus as well as you would like!
Try to imagine being at Calvary during the Eucharistic Prayer.
Offer your sacrifices and intentions during the preparation.
We are meant to offer the Mass with the priest.
Before going up for communion, ask Mary to make your heart a pleasing dwelling place for God.
After Mass
Practice gratitude! Be thankful. See the link below for our video on this.
Discuss the homily.
Pray for the priest.
Take Jesus out into the world!
Related Videos
Making a Thanksgiving: https://www.facebook.com/stbridgetofswedenparish/videos/759338617892572/