The Family Catechism

The Family Catechism

Fr. Francisco Radecki, CMRI

Catholic Prayers

The Sign of the Cross

In the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the

Holy Ghost. Amen.

Morning Offering

O Jesus, through the Immaculate Heart of Mary, I offer Thee all my prayers, works, joys and sufferings of this day, for all the intentions of Thy Most Sacred Heart, in union with the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass throughout the world, in reparation for my sins, for the conversion of sinners, for the intentions of all our associates and for the relief of the Poor Souls in Purgatory.

I wish to gain all the indulgences attached to the prayers I shall say and to the good works I shall perform this day.

Our Father

(English) (Latin)

Our Father, Who art in Heaven, Pater noster, qui es in

hallowed be Thy Name; Thy caelis: Sanctificetur nomen

Kingdom come; Thy will be Tuum: Adveniat regnum done on earth as it is in Heaven. tuum: Fiat voluntas Tua, Give us this day our daily bread; sicut in caelo et in terra. and forgive us our trespasses Panem nostrum quotidianum

as we forgive those who trespass da nobis hodie: Et dimitte

against us; and lead us not into nobis debita nostra, sicut et

temptation, but deliver us from nos, dimittimus debitoribus

evil. Amen. nostris. Et ne nos inducas in tentationem. Sed libera nos a malo. Amen.

Hail Mary

(English) (Latin)

Hail Mary, full of grace, the Ave, Maria, gratia plena;

Lord is with thee. Blessed Dominus tecum: benedicta

art thou among women and tu in mulieribus, et

blessed is the fruit of thy benedictus fructus ventris

womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, tui Jesus. Sancta Maria,

Mother of God, pray for Mater Dei, ora pro nobis

us sinners, now and at the peccatoribus, nunc et in

hour of our death. Amen. hora mortis nostrae. Amen.

Glory Be

(English) (Latin)

Glory be to the Father, and to Gloria Patri, et Filio, et

the Son and to the Holy Ghost. Spiritui Sancto. Sicut

As it was in the beginning, is erat in principio, et nunc

now and ever shall be, world et semper, et in saecula

without end. Amen. saeculorum. Amen.

Apostles Creed

I believe in God, the Father Almighty, Creator of Heaven and earth; and in Jesus Christ, His only Son, our Lord; Who was conceived by the Holy Ghost, born of the Virgin Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died and was buried. He descended into Hell; the third day He arose again from the dead; He ascended into Heaven, sitteth at the right hand of God, the Father Almighty; from thence He shall come to judge the living and the dead. I believe in the Holy Ghost, the Holy Catholic Church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body and life everlasting. Amen.

Angelus

(Prayed at noon and 6:00 p.m. during the year.)

(Versicle) The Angel of the Lord declared unto Mary.

(Response) And she conceived by the Holy Ghost. Hail Mary…

(V.) Behold the handmaid of the Lord.

18. Be it done unto me according to thy word. Hail Mary…

22. And the Word was made flesh. (genuflect)

(R.) And dwelt amongst us. Hail Mary…

(V.) Pray for us, O Holy Mother of God.

(R.) That we may be made worthy of the promises of Christ.

Let us pray.

Pour forth we beseech Thee, O Lord, Thy grace into our hearts; that we, to whom the Incarnation of Christ Thy Son was made known by the message of an angel, may, by His Passion and Cross, be brought to the glory of His Resurrection. Through the same Christ our Lord. Amen.

Hail Holy Queen

Hail, holy Queen, Mother of mercy, our life, our sweetness and our hope! To thee do we cry, poor banished children of Eve! To thee do we send up our sighs, mourning and weeping in this valley of tears! Turn then, most gracious advocate, thine eyes of mercy towards us; and after this, our exile, show unto us the blessed fruit of thy womb, Jesus! O clement, O loving, O sweet Virgin Mary!

Regina Caeli

(Prayed at noon and 6:00 p.m. during Easter time.)

(V.) Queen of Heaven, rejoice. (R.) Alleluia.

(V.) For He Whom thou didst merit to bear. (R.) Alleluia.

(V.) Hath risen as He said. (R.) Alleluia.

(V.) Pray for us to God. (R.) Alleluia.

(V.) Rejoice and be glad, O Virgin Mary, alleluia.

18. For the Lord has truly risen, alleluia.

Let us Pray

O God, Who by the Resurrection of Thy Son, Our Lord Jesus Christ, hast vouchsafed to make glad the whole world: grant, we beseech Thee, that through the intercession of the Virgin Mary, His Mother, we may attain the joys of eternal life. Through the same Christ our Lord. Amen.

Memorare

Remember, O most gracious Virgin Mary, that never was it known that anyone who fled to thy protection, implored thy help or sought thy intercession, was left unaided. Inspired with this confidence, I fly unto thee, O Virgin of virgins, my Mother! To thee do I come, before thee I stand, sinful and sorrowful. O Mother of the Word Incarnate, despise not my petitions, but in thy mercy hear and answer me. Amen.

Grace Before Meals

Bless us, O Lord, and these Thy gifts, which we are about to receive from Thy bounty; through Christ Our Lord. Amen.

Grace After Meals

We give Thee thanks, Almighty God, for all Thy benefits, Who livest and reignest forever and ever. May the souls of the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.

Act of Faith

O my God, I firmly believe that Thou art one God in three Divine Persons, the Father, the Son and the Holy Ghost. I believe that Thy Divine Son became man and died for our sins, and that He will come to judge the living and the dead. I believe these and all the truths which the Holy Catholic Church teaches, because Thou hast revealed them, Who canst neither deceive nor be deceived.

Act of Hope

O my God, relying on Thy almighty power and infinite mercy and promises, I hope to obtain the pardon of my sins, the help of Thy grace and life everlasting, through the merits of Jesus Christ, my Lord and Redeemer.

Act of Charity

O my God, I love Thee above all things, with my whole heart and soul, because Thou art all good and worthy of all my love. I love my neighbor as myself for the love of Thee. I forgive all who have injured me and I ask pardon of all whom I have injured.

Prayer for the Faithful Departed

Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord and let perpetual light shine upon them. May they rest in peace. Amen.

Prayer to the Guardian Angel

Angel of God, my guardian dear,

To whom God’s love commits me here;

Ever this day (night) be at my side,

To light and guard, to rule and guide. Amen.

The Blessed Trinity

God is a Spirit—the Supreme Being who made all things.

God always was and always will be.

There are Three Persons in one God: the Father, the Son and the Holy Ghost. We call the Three Persons in one God the Blessed Trinity.

St. Patrick used a shamrock to simply explain the mystery of the Blessed Trinity. It has three leaves but is still only one shamrock.

Angels

Angels are pure spirits who do not have bodies. God loves everyone so much that He gives each person a special angel called a Guardian Angel. Everyone has a Guardian Angel to help them get to Heaven.

Your Guardian Angel prays for you, watches over you, protects you from danger and strengthens you to overcome temptation. Since your Guardian Angel is your best friend, you should pray to your special angel every day.

There are nine choirs (groups) of angels: Angels, Archangels, Thrones, Dominations, Principalities, Powers, Virtues, Cherubim and Seraphim. God tested the angels to see if they would love and obey Him. St. Michael and most of the angels remained faithful to God and are now in Heaven.

Devils

Sadly, many angels, led by Lucifer (Satan), disobeyed God and were cast into Hell where they will suffer forever. These bad angels, called devils, committed the first sin. When we are tempted we should always pray to God for help because the devils try to cause us to sin.

Saints

The holy men, women, boys and girls who once lived on earth and are now in Heaven are called saints. They are your friends and want you to be happy with them, too, after your life on earth is over. They pray for you and help you from Heaven. Saints lived very holy lives. You should read about them and try to be like them. If you are good, when you get to Heaven, you, too, will be a saint.

In your prayer book you will find many different kinds of saints:

18. Confessors are holy men and boys.

18. Popes and Bishops rule the Church.

22. Doctors of the Church teach the Catholic Faith.

18. Abbots are in charge of monasteries.

• Martyrs are men, women and children who died for Christ.

• Virgins dedicate their lives to Christ.

• Many Holy Women are also saints.

The Communion of Saints is made of:

18. The Church Triumphant (Saints in Heaven)

19. The Church Suffering (Souls in Purgatory)

20. The Church Militant (Faithful Catholics on Earth)

Adam and Eve

God created Adam and Eve, the first man and woman. They lived happily in the Garden of Paradise. The greatest gift they received from God was sanctifying grace. This made them children of God and gave them the right to Heaven. God tested their love and obedience by commanding Adam and Eve not to eat the fruit of a certain tree. They had to choose between good (obeying God) and evil (disobeying God). Satan, disguised as a talking snake, told Eve that if she ate the fruit, she would become like God. Eve and Adam both ate the forbidden fruit. Because of their disobedience, Adam and Eve were punished by God and forced to leave Paradise.

Their worst punishment was the loss of sanctifying grace. As a result of their sin, the gates of Heaven were closed to Adam and Eve and also to all the members of the human race. The serious sin that Adam and Eve committed against Almighty God is called the original sin. We come into the world with original sin on our soul.

The Blessed Virgin Mary, because of her Immaculate Conception, was the only person ever created without original sin. Since Adam and Eve could not adequately make up for their terrible sin, God promised to send a Redeemer who would atone for their sin and open the gates of Heaven.

The Life of Jesus Christ

The Son of God came down from Heaven to earth in order to redeem us and open the gates of Heaven. Jesus Christ redeemed us by suffering and dying on the Cross for our sins. Jesus is both God and Man and was born in Bethlehem on Christmas morning. The Blessed Virgin Mary is called the Mother of God because Jesus Christ, her Son, is God. Jesus lived in Nazareth with His Blessed Mother and His foster father, St. Joseph. They are called the Holy Family.

By His words and example Jesus taught people how to be good and how to live holy lives. Jesus founded the Catholic Church and chose 12 men to be His Apostles. They helped Him with the important work of saving souls. Jesus performed many miracles in order to prove that He was God:

18. Jesus changed water into wine at the Marriage of Cana.

19. Jesus walked on the water of the Sea of Galilee.

20. Jesus fed thousands of people with just five loaves of bread and two fish.

21. Jesus calmed the stormy sea.

22. Jesus cured many sick people.

23. Jesus raised three people from the dead.

24. Jesus’ greatest miracle took place on Easter Sunday when He rose from the dead by His own power.

On the first Good Friday, Jesus died on the Cross to make up for the sins of the world. Christ thereby proved His love for us and showed us how much sin hurts Him. Catholics do not eat meat on Fridays to remind themselves that Jesus died for the sins of the world on Good Friday.

In order to be forever happy with God in Heaven you must know, love and serve God on earth. The more you know about God and His goodness, the more you will love Him. You always want to spend time and talk with those you love. Every time you pray, you talk to God.

Grace is a special gift that God gives you every time you pray. Grace helps you to be good and keep the Ten Commandments. The Ten Commandments are the rules that everyone must obey in order to get to Heaven.

The Ten Commandments

1. I am the Lord thy God; thou shalt not have strange gods

before Me.

2. Thou shalt not take the name of the Lord, thy God in vain.

3. Remember thou keep holy the Lord’s day.

4. Honor thy father and thy mother.

5. Thou shalt not kill.

6. Thou shalt not commit adultery.

7. Thou shalt not steal.

8. Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbor.

9. Thou shalt not covet thy neighbor’s wife.

10. Thou shalt not covet thy neighbor’s goods.

The Ten Commandments

Simplified for Children

1. I will love God and pray to Him every day.

2. I will always use God’s name with love and respect.

3. I will go to Mass every Sunday and Holy Day.

4. I will obey my mom and dad.

5. I will be kind to everyone.

6. I will be pure in my words and actions.

7. I will respect the property of others.

8. I will always tell the truth.

9. I will be pure in my thoughts.

10. I will be content with what I have.

The Ten Commandments Explained

1. The first commandment teaches us that we must:

18. Love God above all things.

•  Pray to God every single day.

•  Love our Catholic Faith with all our hearts.

•  Always remain a Catholic.

1. The first commandment teaches us that we must not:

•  Love anything more than God.

•  Neglect to pray everyday.

•  Think about other things during our prayers.

•  Give up the practice of our Catholic Faith.

2. The second commandment teaches us that we must:

•  Respect God’s name.

•  Always speak about God with reverence and love.

2. The second commandment teaches us that we must not:

•  Say God’s name in anger.

•  Speak about God or the saints with disrespect.

•  Use phrases like “I swear to God.”

2. The third commandment teaches us that we must:

•  Go to Mass on Sundays and Holy Days.

•  Dress properly for church.

•  Pay attention during Mass.

•  Treat Sundays as special days to love and honor God.

3. The third commandment teaches us that we must not:

•  Miss Mass on purpose on Sundays and Holy Days.

•  Laugh or talk in church.

•  Distract others in church.

•  Work or shop on Sundays or Holy Days.

2. The fourth commandment teaches us that we must:

•  Obey our parents, teachers and those in authority.

•  Love our parents and treat them with respect.

4. The fourth commandment teaches us that we must not:

•  Disobey our parents, teachers and those in authority.

•  Talk back to them or treat them with disrespect.

•  Delay in obeying our parents.

2. The fifth commandment teaches us that we must:

•  Be nice to everyone.

•  Speak kindly of others.

•  Use self control.

5. The fifth commandment teaches us that we must not:

•  Talk badly of others.

•  Become angry.

•  Tease, argue or fight with others.

6. & 9. The sixth and ninth commandments teach us to:

•  Be pure in thought, word and deed.

•  Dress modestly.

6. & 9. The sixth and ninth commandments teach us not to:

•  Watch impure TV, movies, DVD’s or videos.

•  Look at bad pictures, magazines, books or websites.

•  Wear immodest clothes.

7. & 10. The seventh and tenth commandments teach us to:

•  Be happy with what God and our parents give us.

7. & 10. The seventh and tenth commandments teach us not to:

•  Take or damage things that belong to others.

•  Want things that other people have.

8. The eighth commandment teaches us that we must:

18. Always tell the truth.

•  Always be honest.

8. The eighth commandment teaches us that we must not:

•  Tell lies.

•  Mislead others.

•  Be jealous or greedy.

Laws of the Church

1. To assist at Mass on all Sundays and Holy Days

of Obligation.

2. To fast and to abstain on the days appointed.

3. To confess our sins at least once a year.

4. To receive Holy Communion during the Easter time.

5. To contribute to the support of the Church.

2. To observe the Church’s laws concerning marriage.

Laws of the Church Simply Explained

1. Go to Mass on every Sunday and Holy Day.

2. Don’t eat meat on Fridays and other abstinence days.

3. Go to confession at least once a year.

(Try to go to confession once every 3 weeks.)

4. Go to Holy Communion once during Easter time.

(Try to go to Holy Communion as often as you can.)

5. Do what you can to help your parish.

6. Catholics should marry Catholics.

Holy Days of Obligation

in the United States

January 1 Circumcision of Our Lord

(Jesus gets His name)

40 Days after Easter Ascension Thursday

(Jesus ascends into Heaven)

August 15 Assumption of Mary

(Mary is taken up to Heaven)

November 1 All Saints’ Day

(A day we honor all the saints)

December 8 Immaculate Conception

(Mary without sin)

December 25 Christmas

(Jesus’ birthday)

The Seven Sacraments

Jesus Christ lived on earth for 33 years and founded the Catholic Church. Our Lord taught us the way to Heaven and gave us the Seven Sacraments to bestow upon us the graces we need to be holy. A Sacrament is an outward sign, instituted by Christ to give grace.

Baptism

The sacrament that washes away original sin from your soul, the sin inherited from Adam and Eve, is called Baptism. It makes you an adopted child of God and gives you sanctifying grace—the grace that makes you holy. This grace is your ticket to Heaven. Sanctifying grace must be protected because it can be lost by mortal sin.

Penance

The sacrament that forgives the sins you commit after Baptism is called Penance.

Sin

Sin is a willful thought, word, deed (action) or omission forbidden by the law of God. There are two main kinds of sin: mortal and venial.

A mortal sin is a serious sin that hurts God very much. Purposely missing Mass on Sunday or stealing expensive things are mortal sins. God will not let anyone into Heaven who has an unforgiven mortal sin on his or her soul.

Three things that make a sin Mortal:

• It’s a big sin. (It is seriously wrong.)

•  You know it’s a big sin.

(You know it’s seriously wrong.)

• You do it anyway. (Full consent of the will.)

If you have committed a mortal sin, say the Act of Contrition right away and go to confession as soon as possible.

A venial sin is a lesser sin, but it still offends God. Disobeying, fighting and lying are venial sins.

All your sins can be forgiven by the priest in confession if you are really sorry for them. If you ever commit a mortal sin, do not be afraid to tell the priest. He takes Jesus’ place and will never tell your sins to anyone.

How to Go to Confession

After you enter the confessional, kneel down, make the Sign of the Cross and say:

“Bless me, Father, for I have sinned. My last confession was_______(weeks or months ago).”

If this is your first confession, say, “Bless me, Father, for I have sinned. This is my first confession.”

Tell the priest your sins and how many times you have committed them. When you have finished confessing your sins say,

“I am sorry for these and all the sins of my past life, especially (then mention a sin you are sorry for that you have already confessed).”

The priest will talk to you and give you a penance (some prayers) and will tell you to say the Act of Contrition.

Then say the Act of Contrition while the priest recites prayers in Latin (absolution) that forgives your sins. When the priest has finished, return to your place and say the prayers that were given to you for your penance.

The Act of Contrition

O my God, I am heartily sorry for having offended Thee, and I detest all my sins, because I dread the loss of Heaven and the pains of Hell, but most of all because they offend Thee, my God, Who art all good and deserving of all my love. I firmly resolve, with the help of Thy grace, to confess my sins, to do penance and to amend my life. Amen.

Explanation of the Words

heartily sorry (sorry from your heart) offended (hurt)

detest (hate) dread (fear)

firmly resolve (try real hard)

amend my life (try to never sin again)

Examination of Conscience

for Children

Did I say my prayers without paying attention to them?

Did I omit my morning or night prayers?

Did I use God’s name without respect or in anger?

Did I miss Mass on Sundays or Holy Days on purpose?

Did I misbehave, play or talk in church?

Did I treat holy things without reverence and respect?

Did I disobey my parents, teachers or those in authority?

Was I disrespectful to them?

Did I talk back to them?

Did I fight or argue with my brothers or sisters or others?

Did I get real angry?

Did I call anyone names?

Did I make fun of others?

Was I lazy?

Was I cruel to animals?

Did I give bad example?

Did I look at impure pictures?

Did I watch bad TV or movies?

Did I steal anything? Explain.

Did I break something that belonged to another?

Did I tell any lies?

Did I cheat?

Did I want what others have?

Was I jealous?

Did I eat meat on Friday on purpose?

Did I not go to confession at least once a year?

Did I make a bad confession by purposely leaving out

a mortal sin?

Did I not receive Holy Communion during the Easter time?

(Easter time lasts from Ash Wednesday until Trinity Sunday.)

If you honestly forgot to confess a mortal sin, the sin is forgiven and you may go to Holy Communion but you must confess the sin if it comes to mind again.

A Bad Confession

If you purposely conceal or leave out a mortal sin in confession, you commit a mortal sin of sacrilege and none of your sins are forgiven.

In order to have your sins forgiven if you made a

bad confession you must:

18. Tell the priest that you made a bad confession.

19. Say the sin or sins you left out.

20. Tell the priest the sacraments you received since then.

21. Confess any other mortal sins, if you have committed any since your last good confession.

Holy Eucharist

The sacrament that contains the Body, Blood, Soul and Divinity of Jesus Christ under the appearances of bread and wine is called the Holy Eucharist.

On Holy Thursday at the Last Supper, Jesus changed bread and wine into His Body and Blood. Christ gave this same power to the Apostles and to the bishops and priests who came after them.

During the Consecration of the Mass, the priest repeats the words and actions of Jesus at the Last Supper. The bread and wine are then changed into the Body and Blood of Christ. This miracle is called Transubstantiation.

When you go to church, you will see a candle inside a red glass on the left side of the altar. This candle is called the sanctuary lamp and it tells you that Jesus is in the tabernacle. Jesus loves you so much that He stays in the Blessed Sacrament so you can visit Him and talk to Him.

When you receive Holy Communion, Jesus comes into your body and soul. Each Holy Communion is special and fills your soul with God’s grace and love. Prepare your heart for Jesus by living a holy life and by saying your prayers every day. Ask Mary and your Guardian Angel to help you, too.

Communion Fast

•  You cannot have food or alcoholic beverages for three

hours before you receive Holy Communion.

•  You cannot drink anything for one hour.

•  You may drink water and take necessary medicine any

time before receiving Holy Communion.

When you receive Holy Communion, Jesus stays in your heart for about 15 minutes. Do not chew the Sacred Host. Swallow It as soon as it is moist enough to do so.

•  If the Sacred Host sticks to the roof of your mouth, never touch It with your fingers, but use your tongue to help you swallow It.

•  Never receive Holy Communion if you have a mortal sin

on your soul. You must go to confession first. If you

have venial sins on your soul, you can still go to

Holy Communion.

•  Never receive Holy Communion if you are sick and feel like throwing up.

18. Do not receive Holy Communion if you have not kept the communion fast.

When the priest raises the Host and Chalice during the Consecration of the Mass you should look at the Sacred Host and Chalice and say: “My Lord and My God.” Bells are rung to tell you that a great miracle has taken place and that Jesus is on the altar. After Holy Communion you can either say prayers on your own or read prayers from your missal. It is also good to say the Prayer before a Crucifix.

At each Holy Communion

L-Tell Jesus you love Him & ask Him to help you always be good.

A-Ask Jesus to bless your family & friends.

S-Tell Jesus you are sorry for all your sins.

T-Thank Jesus for all He has done for you. Talk to Jesus.

Prayers after Holy Communion

LOVE: Jesus, I love Thee with my whole heart and soul. I thank Thee for coming to me in Holy Communion today. I believe that Thou art in the Sacred Host. Thou art my best friend. Help me to always be good.

ASK: Dear Jesus, please bless and watch over me. Bless my mom and dad, my brothers and sisters, my grandparents, my cousins, my uncles and my aunts. Bless the priests and sisters who teach me how to love Thee and get to Heaven. Bless my teachers and my friends. Let me always be good and kind to everyone. Help me to obey Mom, Dad and my teachers and to always do my best. Let everyone in the world love Thee the way I do. Always keep me safe. Have mercy on the Souls in Purgatory so they can be with Thee in Heaven soon.

SORRY: Dear Jesus, I am so sorry for all my sins because they hurt Thee very much. Make me strong so I will always do what is right. Please help me be holy and pure. Give me grace to always be good and to resist the temptations of the devil.

THANK: Dear Jesus, Thou hast done so much for me. Thou hast died on the Cross for me and made Heaven so I can be happy with Thee forever. I thank Thee for creating such a beautiful world with lakes and seas, flowers and trees, mountains and hills, animals and birds, the sky and the sun, the moon and the stars. I thank Thee for my family. Bless us and help us get to Heaven. I thank Thee for making me a Catholic. I want to love Thee always. Please help me to always be a good example. Take me to Heaven when I die so I can be happy with Thee forever.

Prayer before the Crucifix

Behold, O kind and most sweet Jesus, I cast myself upon my knees in Thy sight, and with the most fervent desire of my soul I pray and beseech Thee that Thou wouldst impress deep within my heart lively sentiments of faith, hope and charity, with true repentance for my sins and a firm purpose of amendment, whilst with deep affection and grief of soul I ponder within myself and mentally contemplate Thy five most precious Wounds; having before my eyes that which David in prophecy spoke concerning Thee, O Good Jesus: “They have pierced my hands and my feet; they have numbered all my bones.”

Our Father… Hail Mary… Glory Be…

Matrimony

The sacrament that unites a baptized man and woman for life in marriage and gives them all the graces they need is called Matrimony.

Holy Orders

The sacrament that gives men the power and grace to be bishops, priests and other ministers of the Church is called Holy Orders. There are numerous steps to the priesthood: tonsure, porter, lector, exorcist, acolyte, subdeacon, deacon and priest. The bishop possesses the fullness of the priesthood.

Extreme Unction

The sacrament that gives health and strength to the soul and sometimes to the body when you are in danger of death is called Extreme Unction.

The Holy Sacrifice

of the Mass

Offertory—Bread and wine are offered to God.

Consecration—Bread and wine are changed into

the Body, Blood, Soul and Divinity of Jesus Christ.

Communion—You receive Jesus.

The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass is a renewal in an unbloody manner of the Sacrifice of the Cross. The three main parts of the Mass are the Offertory, Consecration and Communion.

Vestments used for Mass

Amice—a rectangular linen cloth with two strings that is worn

over the priest’s shoulders. The

amice represents the blindfold

used to cover Jesus’ eyes during

the Passion.

Alb—a long white garment

worn by the priest. It

symbolizes the white robe

of mockery that Herod

placed on Jesus during

His Passion. (The word

“alb” is derived from the

Latin word for white.)

Cincture—a cord worn around

the waist that is usually the

same color as the outer

vestment. It symbolizes the

scourges that were used to

torture Jesus.

Maniple—a short narrow piece

of silk, velvet or other colored

material with a cross at the top

and on the lower portion of both

sides that is worn over the left

arm. It symbolizes the ropes by

which Jesus was led during the

Passion.

Stole—a long narrow piece of

fabric with a cross at the top

and on the bottom of both sides

that is worn around the neck. It

symbolizes the rope that tied

Jesus to the pillar. It is worn by

the priest in the administration

of all the sacraments.

Chasuble—a large colored garment worn over the other vestments. It symbolizes Jesus’ purple robe of scorn. (The word chasuble is derived from the Latin word for little house.)

Gothic Style

long flowing garment

that drapes over the

arms.

Roman Style

stiff garment that

hangs in the front

and back.

Tunic—sleeved garment Dalmatic—sleeved garment

worn by the worn by the

subdeacon during deacon during

Solemn High Mass. Solemn High Mass.

Kinds of Masses

Two candles are lit for a normal daily Mass (Low Mass). Six candles are lit for a Sung or High Mass (Missa Cantata). During a Solemn High Mass the priest is assisted by a deacon and subdeacon. A Requiem Mass is a Mass offered for the Faithful Departed. A Nuptial Mass is offered when the Sacrament of Matrimony takes place. A Votive Mass is offered for a special intention.

Liturgical Colors

White: Worn on feasts of Christ, Mary, angels, and saints who were not martyrs and for Nuptial Masses.

Red: Masses of the Holy Ghost (the week of Pentecost and Votive Masses), feasts in honor of the Passion and the Cross and for martyrs (those who shed their blood for Christ).

Gold: Christmas, Easter and major feasts. It can also be used in place of white, red or green.

Green: Sundays after Epiphany and Pentecost.

Rose: Gaudete Sunday (Advent) and Laetare Sunday (Lent).

Violet: Advent, Septuagesima, Lent, Passiontide, Vigils, Rogation Days and most Ember Days.

Black: Masses for the Dead (Requiem Masses) and Funerals.

Liturgical Seasons

Advent: The Four Sundays before Christmas.

Christmas: December 25, Christ’s birthday.

Epiphany: January 6, the Three Kings adore Jesus.

Sundays After Epiphany

Septuagesima: The three Sundays before Lent begins.

Lent: The 40 day period from Ash Wednesday until Easter. There are four Sundays of Lent before Passiontide.

Passiontide: The two Sundays before Easter. This season includes Passion Sunday, Palm Sunday and Holy Week.

Easter: Jesus rises from the dead.

Sundays after Easter

Pentecost: The Holy Ghost descends upon Mary

and the Apostles.

Sundays after Pentecost: The remaining Sundays

of the year.

Liturgical Books

Roman Missal—altar missal used by the priest during Mass.

Roman Ritual—book of blessings and exorcisms.

Roman Breviary—contains the Divine Office—the 150 psalms of King David, scriptural readings and writings from the saints. The priest recites the Divine Office every day.

The Chalice

The chalice is a gold plated cup. A purificator drapes over it. This linen has three folds and a red cross on the top. It is used to purify the chalice. The paten is a gold covered plate on which the host rests. A stiff piece of square linen called the pall rests on the top of the chalice. It protects the chalice from foreign objects. The chalice veil drapes over the chalice until the Offertory. The chalice is covered again after Communion. The burse is the two-piece square cloth that opens and contains a corporal. The corporal is a square piece of linen on which the chalice and host rest during Mass. It has a red cross sewn in the front or the middle. The chalice veil and burse are the same color as the vestment worn by the priest.

Ciborium: a gold container

that holds consecrated Hosts.

Pyx: a gold plated object used

to bring Hosts to the sick.

Burse: a leather case that

holds the pyx and is worn

around the priest’s neck

during sick calls.

Cruets—glass containers that hold water and wine for Mass.

Lavabo Dish—a glass dish used when washing the priest’s hands.

Paten—a gold plated dish placed under the chin at Communion.

Bells—inform the faithful of the solemn parts of the Mass.

Biretta—a black hat worn by the priest to and from the altar.

Aspergel / Aspersorium—holy water sprinkler and bucket.

Items Used for Benediction

Cope: long clasped cape used for Processions and Benediction.

Humeral Veil: long narrow garment worn over the shoulders for Benediction. The priest uses it to hold the monstrance.

Monstrance: a large gold plated sacred vessel that holds

the Sacred Host.

Luna: a circular crystal container that holds the Sacred Host.

Capsula: a container that holds the luna.

Censer: charcoal

burner used for

Benediction and

processions.

Boat: holds incense.

Candelabra: candleholder.

Ablution Bowl: used to purify the priest’s fingers after

the distribution of Holy Communion.

The Church

The front of the church is called the sanctuary. A red candle, the sanctuary lamp, burns on the side of the altar to show that the Blessed Sacrament is present. The altar rests on a platform. The marble altar stone in the center of the altar contains relics of two martyrs. It has five crosses etched on its surface symbolizing the Five Wounds of Jesus. The tabernacle is a safe made of brass or wood that rests on the altar and holds the Sacred Hosts that are kept in the ciborium. A crucifix always hangs above the altar or rests on top of the tabernacle. The sanctuary is separated from the body of the church by the communion rail which usually has a linen cloth draped over it. The ambry, located on the right wall of the sanctuary, houses the Holy Oils.

The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass

and the Passion of Christ

The ceremonies of the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass represent the various events that took place during Christ’s Passion, Death and Resurrection.

The Priest goes to the Altar:

Jesus goes to the Garden of Olives (Gethsemane). Stand.

The Prayers at the Foot of the Altar:

Jesus foresees His terrible sufferings and the sins of the world. He prays and sweats blood while the Apostles sleep. (Priest and servers bow low.) Kneel.

The Priest kisses the Altar: Jesus is betrayed by Judas’ kiss.

Introit: Jesus is brought before Annas and is struck by one of the attendants.

Kyrie Eleison: St. Peter denies Jesus three times. The Kyrie is the only prayer in the Mass recited in the Greek language.

Gloria: Jesus is brought before the high priest, Caiphas.

Dominus Vobiscum: Jesus looks at Peter.

Epistle: Jesus is led to the Roman governor, Pontius Pilate, and accused by false witnesses. Sit or kneel.

Gospel: Jesus is mocked by Herod. The Sign of the Cross is made three times: once on the forehead, lips and over the heart. This action asks God that we understand the teachings of the Gospel with our mind, it be spoken from our lips and that we may always love Him with our heart. Stand.

Creed: Jesus is mocked by the soldiers and crowd. Stand.

Offertory: Jesus is scourged. Sit.

The priest offers the chalice and covers it. Jesus is crowned with thorns and clothed in a purple cloak.

Washing of the Hands: Pontius Pilate washes his hands.

Orate Fratres: Jesus is presented before the people.

Preface / Sanctus: Jesus is condemned to death while the crowd cries, “crucify Him!” three times. (The bells are rung three times.) Kneel.

Canon of the Mass: Jesus carries the Cross, is met by His Blessed Mother and falls several times. Veronica wipes the Sacred Face of Jesus. (The priest prays very quietly.) The word “Canon” is derived from the Greek word meaning “fixed rule.”

Hanc Igitur: When Jesus arrives on Calvary, He is stripped of His garments and crucified. The priest places his hands over the host and chalice while his thumbs form a cross. The bells ring once. This imposition of hands signifies that Christ died for the sins of the world on the Cross.

Quam Oblationem: Jesus is nailed to the Cross.

Consecration: The priest reenacts the miracle of the Last Supper when he, in the person of Christ, repeats the words and actions of Our Lord. The substance of the bread and wine are changed into the Body, Blood, Soul and Divinity of Jesus Christ. This miracle is called Transubstantiation. There are separate consecrations of the host and wine to represent the Sacrifice of the Cross—when Jesus’, dying on the Cross, shed His Blood for our redemption.

Elevation: Jesus is raised on the Cross and His Precious Blood flows from His wounds. Pope St. Gregory X began the practice of elevating the Host and Chalice during the Canon of the Mass to outwardly manifest belief in the Real Presence of Christ in the Holy Eucharist. The bells are rung three times to inform the faithful that the Consecration of the Host and Chalice have taken place. It is customary for the faithful to say quietly “My Lord and My God.”

Remaining Prayers of the Canon / Our Father: The Seven Last Words spoken by Christ from the Cross.

The Host is broken: Jesus dies upon the Cross.

A Particle of the Host is placed in the Chalice: Jesus Sacred Body is taken down from the Cross and His soul descends into Limbo.

Agnus Dei: St. Longinus pierces Our Lord’s Sacred Heart with a lance and proclaims His Divinity.

Priest’s Communion / The Communion of the Faithful: Jesus is laid in the tomb.

Prayers after Communion: Jesus rises from the dead.

Ite Missa Est: Jesus ascends into Heaven.

The Priest Gives his Blessing: The Descent of the Holy Ghost at Pentecost. It is customary to always kneel for a priest’s blessing.

Last Gospel: The Gospel is preached throughout the world.

Stand.

The 15 Mysteries of the Rosary

The Blessed Virgin Mary appeared to St. Dominic in 1214 AD and taught him the Joyful, Sorrowful and Glorious Mysteries of the Rosary.

Joyful Mysteries are prayed on Mondays,

Thursdays and on the Sundays of Advent,

Christmas, Epiphany and Septuagesima.

Sorrowful Mysteries are prayed on Tuesdays,

Fridays and on the Sundays of Lent.

Glorious Mysteries are prayed on Wednesdays,

Saturdays and on the Sundays of Easter and

Pentecost.

When you pray the Rosary you do two different things:

18. Move your fingers along the beads as you say the Apostles’

Creed, the Our Father, the Hail Mary and the Glory Be.

18. At the same time, you meditate on (think about) the joys,

sorrows and glories of Jesus and Mary.

Joyful Mysteries

The Annunciation

The Angel Gabriel announces to Mary that she is to become the Mother of God.

The Visitation

Mary visits her cousin St. Elizabeth.

The Nativity

Jesus is born in Bethlehem.