The Shape of the Mass

The action of the Mass takes place in four phases. 

In the first – the Introductory Rites – we gather together and ready ourselves for all that is to follow.  This paves the way for the next two parts that form the substance of the celebration.  In the first of these – the Liturgy of the Word – we listen and respond to the word of God.  Next, in the Liturgy of the Eucharist, we present the gifts, give thanks over them and receive them back in Communion.  The fourth and final part – the Concluding Rites – serves to bring the celebration to a close and send us forth.

It is helpful to keep this simple overall schema – gathering, hearing, thanking and eating, then going forth – in mind because each of the four parts has further subdivisions that could result in our losing sight of the whole.  Here is a more detailed but still somewhat simplified outline of the whole celebration:

INTRODUCTORY RITES

• Entrance

• Sign of the cross and greeting

• Introductory remarks

• Penitential act 

• (Hymn of praise or “Gloria”)

• Collect

LITURGY OF THE WORD

• First reading

• Responsorial psalm

• Second reading

• Gospel acclamation

• Gospel reading

• Homily

• Profession of faith

• Universal prayer

LITURGY OF THE EUCHARIST

• Preparation of gifts

o Preparation of altar

o Collection

o Procession of gifts

o Prayer over the offerings

• Eucharistic Prayer

• Communion rite

o Lord’s Prayer

o Sign of Peace

o Fraction rite

o Communion

o Prayer after Communion

CONCLUDING RITES

• (Announcements)

• Greeting and blessing

• Dismissal