Dear Parishioners of St. James:
Praised be Jesus Christ!
Holy Mass is offering ourselves with Jesus Christ to God the Father. The once-for-all sacrifice of Christ on the cross is made present at Holy Mass so that we might participate in the offering. God the Father wants everyone on earth to join in the redeeming passion, death, and resurrection of Jesus, the divine victim. Holy Mass is the place and time to access the “buying back” of souls from damnation into salvation and eternal life. How, then, should we participate in Holy Mass? We offer some suggestions.
First, bring an offering. Come to Holy Mass with the purpose of giving God your intention of offering sacrifice with Jesus. Some examples include: the grace of forgiving someone who hurt you; thanksgiving for graces received; for the conversion of sinners; to know your vocation; in reparation for sins (yours and the whole world’s); in praise of God’s majesty, etc. Your intention will focus your attention during the most intense spiritual hour of the whole week.
Second, read the Scriptures beforehand. Get to Holy Mass early so that you can prayerfully read the readings in church either on your phone or in the pew missal. The Holy Spirit reveals Jesus to us both in the Old Testament and in the New. The Lord has a message of eternal truth to give you. Read and listen to God’s word Who wants to instruct, console and inspire you.
Third, respond to the prayers. Do not be a bystander at the foot of the Cross. Pray during Holy Mass. Your gestures, words of sorrow for sin, praise of God’s glory, joining the angels in worshiping God’s holiness, etc., intensify your appropriation of the graces of Holy Mass. You have one hour (or less) to give to God. Give your all.
The Catholic Church teaches that the people should offer full, conscious, and active participation in Holy Mass. As royal priests of the New Covenant, lay people offer themselves with Jesus to the Father. Tap into the power of the Sacrifice of Jesus by praying the Holy Mass consciously and reverently. The graces you will receive are eternal.
God bless you,
Fr. Geary
Saint James Catholic Church 