One of the common experiences of our Catholic faith is the celebration of the Mass. As we gather around the altar to celebrate the Eucharist, we see many actions & hear many words & perhaps at times we’ve found ourselves wondering the purpose or the meaning behind them. Maybe we’ve always wondered how the readings are chosen at Mass, or why do we sign ourselves before the Gospel, or why the Priest or Deacon kisses the Gospel Book, or what is Father saying right before Communion or during some of the other times in Mass where he prays a prayer silently.

  Our celebration of Mass is not just a bunch of random words & actions thrown together. Every word, every action, & their place in the Mass have deep meaning & symbolism. Over the course of the next few months in my column here in the bulletin I hope to explore many of these questions in an effort to help us deepen our understanding of & appreciation for the Mass. I might not present a new question every single week as times may arise that necessitate writing about another question, issue, or concern, but for the most part I plan to make the Pastor’s Column a “Mass Class” series over the course of these next few months. As I go along with these columns please don’t hesitate to reach out with your questions, ideas, suggestions for what you might like to read about. I have a plan in mind, but I can always add more should a question arise in your mind. Hope fully having a deeper understanding of what we come together to do will help to enhance our celebration together.

  Have a blessed week & we’ll see you next week when we’ll start at the very beginning...why is what we do even called Mass in the first place??????