Mass Prayers
theophilus June 4th, 2008
Sometimes (actually, too many times), my attention wanders during Mass and I miss some of the odds and ends that give the Mass its majesty.
One such area I tend to inadvertently tune out involves the prayers. Even in reading a missal-type of publication (for me it’s Word Among Us, but I also like Magnificat), I tend to skip over the prayers (and the Responsorial Psalm) to focus on the readings.
But today’s Mass prayers are special in that they can pretty much sum up what us ordinary Catholics want to say to God or have God say to us.
Today’s Entrance Antiphon -
O look at me and be merciful, for I am wretched and alone. See my hardship and my poverty, and pardon all my sins.
Today’s Opening Prayer -
Father, your love never fails. Hear our call. Keep us from danger and provide for all our needs.
Today’s Alleluia -
I am the resurrection and the life, says the Lord; whoever believes in me will never die.
Today’s Communion Antiphon -
I call upon you, God, for you will answer me; bend your ear and hear my prayer.
Prayer after Communion -
Lord, as you give us the body and blood of your Son, guide us with your Spirit that we may honor you not only with our lips, but also with the lives we lead, and so enter your kingdom.
Today, we should really contemplate these prayers; saying them over and over again. I think we’ll be surprised at the powerful effect they will have on us.
And, I guess I need to pay more attention to the “other” parts of Mass. I’m beginning to learn that there are no throw-aways in the Liturgy. Everything has its purpose and that is to bring us closer to Christ and closer to each other in communion with the Church.
