What is the origin of the word "Mass"?

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ptbenn

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Ok, here’s an easy question for someone, I think! What is the origin and definition of the word “mass”. I have always been curious.

I posted my question on the “ask an apologist” forum and it wasn’t answered. I guess it didn’t have enough “mass appeal”. 😛
 
ptbenn:

Your question is valid, and has a simple answer. The word “Mass” comes from the Latin dismissal at the end of the Mass: “Ite missa est.” Note, however, that even though this is the “dismissal” there was still the Final Gospel to be proclaimed. Traditionally the Latin phrase was translated as “Go, you are dismissed.”

Deacon Ed
 
Thank you both for your responses! I"ll have to read the definition from the Encyclopedia another day as I’m just about through with my lunch hour. But thanks!
 
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