The Celebration of the Eucharist

Foundation of the Mass Eucharist was commanded by Jesus at the Last Supper Ancient Jewish worship centered around scripture reading, interpretation and instruction along with praise by psalm recitation. After Jesus, worship began in the Temple with prayer and instruction and then to the homes of the disciples for the “breaking of the bread” Sunday was chosen because – It was the day of the Resurrection – New first day of creation “Let there be Light”

Gathering Together Temple (synagogue to Homes) Church – Ekklesia- a calling to gather – Kirke- German translation A chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation The entire people of God across the world The diocese- the local church The assembly of believers gathered for liturgy

Contents of the Mass The Mass is divided into 4 sections Introductory Rites Liturgy of the Word Liturgy of the Eucharist Concluding Rites

Introductory Rites Entrance Procession -Altar servers, ministers and priest walk in while a hymn is sung Greetings -We begin with the Sign of the Cross and the priest says “The Lord be with you”. We respond. Penitential Rite -We reflect on our sins and ask for forgiveness. Gloria -Hymn of thanks and praise for redemption Opening Prayer -In reading the “Collect” the priest invites us to pray in silence

Liturgy of the Word First Reading -Usually from the Old Testament Responsorial Psalm -The reciting or singing of a psalm to which we answer a refrain Second Reading -Usually an epistle, letter from the New Testament These texts are usually read by a lector from a book called a lectionary

Gospel -This is a reading from one of the four Gospels. It is read by the priest or deacon. Homily -After the gospel has been read, the priest reflects and explains the three readings we have heard.

Profession of Faith -We pray a statement of our beliefs together as a community Nicene Creed Prayer of the Faithful -A prayer of intercession in which we ask God for the needs of all the Church

Essential Elements Wheat Bread and grape wine – Presented at the beginning of the Liturgy of the Eucharist Words of consecration, Eucharistic Prayer – Epiclesis – Anamnesis

Liturgy of the Eucharist Offering and Preparation of Gifts -The bread and wine to be offered are brought to the altar Rite of Hand Washing -The priest washes his hands as a symbol of purity Prayer over the Gifts -The priest invites us to join with him in this sacrifice

Eucharistic Prayer -The prayer by which the priest remembers the sacrifice of Jesus, calls the Holy Spirit into the bread and wine (epiclesis) to transform them into the Body and Blood of Jesus and repeats the words of Jesus from His Last Supper. Remembers the sacrifice offered by Jesus. (anamnesis) The transformation of the bread and wine into Jesus’ Body and Blood is called “Transubstantiation ”

Lord’s Prayer -Communion begins with the Our Father. Peace -We share a sign of peace with each other “Lamb of God” -We acknowledge Jesus as the perfect sacrifice for our sins

Communion - The community partakes of the Body of Christ Prayer after Communion -First we meditate silently on the Sacrament of Eucharist. Then the priest invites us to pray together.

Concluding Rites Greeting – “The Lord be with you” The priest and people share a last greeting Blessing – Simple or solemn The priest blesses the people. Dismissal – “The Mass is ended go in peace to love and serve the Lord” We are sent out refreshed and strengthened to carry out the gospel in our community.

Ministries at the Mass Lector – Reads the first and/or second reading Extraordinary minister – Helps with the distribution of the Eucharist Choir – “Singing is praying twice” Altar Server – Helps the priest with the celebration of the Mass Deacon – May read the Gospel and give the homily. Helps with the celebration of the Mass