Questions about Mass

  • Thread starter Thread starter MissClaire
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One other thing you can do is go to Adoration if it is offered at your parish or in your area. I wrote a little about it here and more is available elsewhere.

Another thing I didn’t see mentioned is genuflecting when first entering or leaving the pew. This is done toward the tabernacle in respect for our Lord’s real presence there.

There is also a special sign of the Cross made before the Gospel reading (3 small crosses made with the right thumb - on the forehead, lips and heart).

In my church you could go in the communion line and receive a blessing by crossing your arms with you hands on your shoulders. Not only do non-Catholics do this, but Catholics who are not in a state of grace. Check first with someone who knows how things are done where you are as this might vary (I have heard the same gesture is used in other parts of the country to express your intention to receive the Eucharist on the tongue).

Most importantly - - - Welcome!
 
I’m so excited for you Miss Claire, welcome home! I can’t say I know quite how you’re feeling in all this since I was born into the Catholic Church, but I did stray from the faith for a few years and then came back, so I can appreciate the excitement you must be experiencing.

I’m sorry that some of your loved ones aren’t very accepting of you right now. Hopefully they will realize that this is very important to you and that perhaps instead of being upset with your decision they should try to understand it instead. Who knows, maybe in learning more about why you are converting they might convert themselves! 😉

I wouldn’t fret too much about making sure you get everything “right” in mass the first few times. I know some Catholics who still stumble here and there during the mass and they’ve been going for years. Likewise the missal has just been updated and the implementation of those revisions will be taking place in the next year so everyone, whether they’re new converts or life-long Catholics will have a few things to re-learn soon regarding responses, etc.

Lastly (but by no means least), I am so happy to hear you now have a rosary! Praying the rosary is a wonderful, wonderful devotion. It is the Blessed Virgin Mary’s favorite prayer and is an excellent way to cultivate a deeper relationship with her. Likewise by meditating on the mysteries of the rosary you will deepen your knowledge and appreciation of Scripture. I will warn you that many people at one time or another find it difficult to pray the rosary because of becoming distracted during prayer, but if that happens to you don’t give up on it. There are many resources out there to help people get the most out of praying the rosary.

But I think I’ve rambled on long enough. Congratulations again and welcome to the Church! 🙂
 
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