The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass

The Mass is the central act of worship for Catholics around the world.  At the Mass we follow the Lord's instructions to "do this in memory of Me."  In the Mass we pray, listen to readings from sacred Scripture, hear how to live out the Gospel, profess our beliefs, receive Jesus in Holy Communion and are sent out back into the world to spread the Good News.  See the video by Bishop Barron on this page for a more detailed explanation of the Mass. 

Each year the Church relives the life of Jesus from preparing for His coming during Advent, celebrating the Incarnation through the Christmas season, learning from Him throughout Ordinary Time, reflecting on His passion and death in Lent and rejoicing in the resurrection for the 8 weeks of Easter. Learn more about the liturgical calendar. The text of the Mass and its responses are also available.  The readings for Mass change each day of the week as well as each Sunday. Click here to see the texts of these readings.

How do I know when to stand, sit or kneel?