Being Present During the Mass

[grantklentzman1]

Throughout my years of going to mass, it can be very boring and repetitive and boring if I’m being honest. Given that mass is something that is done by Catholics on a weekly basis, how does one stay engaged in the mass and not go through the motions?

 

[Stephen_says]

I would recomend learning about the mass, where the prayers come from, what they mean, and what is going on during the different parts. It really made a difference for me!

 

[Irishmom2]

I would recommend searching for a video of a teaching mass. The mass is explained in great detail. Our priest did it a couple of times and it really changed my perception and awareness of why things ar3 said and done. Mass flies by for me.

 

[Gorgias]

Throughout my years of going to mass, it can be very boring and repetitive and boring if I’m being honest. Given that mass is something that is done by Catholics on a weekly basis, how does one stay engaged in the mass and not go through the motions?

You might ask that question of someone who’s been married for many years.

 

[OddBird]

it can be very boring and repetitive

To me, the repetitiveness of it is precisely what allows me to be engaged – knowing what is happening and what is to come helps me to not sit there as a passive spectator, but to unite in prayer with what is unfolding, to pray along with the celebrant, to anticipate and prepare for some parts.

I’m not a fan of “creative” Protestant services, where I feel I’ve done nothing but watch a show for one hour, instead of being an actor of the liturgy (which originally means “the work of the people”).