Loving and Living the Mass, Second Edition

Description

Many Catholics attend Mass without fully understanding its meaning and purpose. This book was written to provide that understanding. Author Father Thomas Kocik walks the reader through each part of the Mass, explaining the meaning of the prayers, the sacred vestments, the bodily gestures (such as bowing and genuflecting), and how each of these fit into the overall ''drama'' of the Mass. He explains these things in a clear, easy-to-follow style. But there is real substance here as well: Fr. Kocik often discusses the history behind a particular prayer or gesture, and the Scriptural background as well. This is no dry textbook. He makes understanding the Mass an enjoyable journey. Although written for adults, high school students will enjoy it, too. The Second Edition has been completely revised in light of the new English translation of the Mass. It also contains two new sections: A chapter that explains the meaning and purpose of ritual in the Mass; and an Appendix that discusses why and how the new translation came about. The Mass is a treasure-house of grace, but all too often the doors remain closed through a lack of understanding. This book was written to open the doors — to help Catholics appreciate and embrace the transformative power of the Mass. Praise for Loving and Living the Mass ''An excellent short treatment of the Mass for new Catholics and cradle Catholics as well. The author invites you to a real understanding of the Mass as a deeply spiritual event.'' —Fr. Benedict Groeschel