Deepening our Appreciation of
Attending Mass

Starting on Sunday, Oct. 10, and for the following two Sundays, the diocese will present a step-by-step explanation of the meaning of the ritual actions of the Mass.

It’s the second phase of the Eucharist Renewal Initiative that began in September in all of the diocese’s parishes to re-introduce the gifts we receive when we attend Mass, none greater than the Eucharist.

Though participating in live-streamed Masses provided a lifeline for many throughout the pandemic, it is not a substitute for the in-person encounter with the real presence of Christ. Why do we leave the comfort of our homes to gather as the people of God each Sunday? What does the physical and spiritual encounter offer me and ask of me?

The “teaching Masses” help to answer those questions by explaining the rich history and meaning of the ritual actions we share in the celebration of the Eucharist. The actions will be explained briefly within the framework of a meal, where the faithful gather, tell stories, share nourishment, and are sent renewed into the world.

Bishop’s Message

English: https://youtu.be/BaIjkbCu3Hw
Spanish: https://youtu.be/vvNiulma-aY
Vietnamese: https://youtu.be/LNOnX9zzA8A

Oct. 9-10

Gathering: Introductory and Concluding Rites

English: Link to download text
Spanish: Link to download text
Vietnamese: Link to download text

Oct. 16-17

Storytelling: Liturgy of the Word

English: Link to download text
Spanish: Link to download text
Vietnamese: Link to download text

Oct. 23-24

Meal sharing: Liturgy of the Eucharist

English: Link to download text
Spanish: Link to download text

The diocese focused on the Eucharist in the first phase of the initiative, which began on Sept. 12 and concluded on Oct. 3. On the first three Sundays, pre-recorded homilies were presented at every parish, each keyed to a distinct theme. On the fourth Sunday, Oct. 3, every pastor presented his own homily on the Eucharist, geared to his community.

All the content for this initiative is available in English, Spanish and Vietnamese.

Bishop Robert McElroy introduced this initiative in a recorded message presented at all parishes on the first Sunday. He shared his vision for offering an opportunity to deepen our understanding of the Eucharist:

“It is my deepest hope that these weeks will be for us all a time to grow in our love for and understanding of this most beautiful sacrament and, in doing so, come closer to the God who has bestowed upon us every blessing we know in this world.”

Sept. 11-12

English: https://youtu.be/pDllTxTqUgA
Spanish: https://youtu.be/gB4sNzieQNE
Vietnamese: https://youtu.be/1I4j_sIj6Hg

Sept. 18-19

English: https://youtu.be/hDYcwvw5K0k
Spanish: https://youtu.be/iybRhf31Xt4
Vietnamese: https://youtu.be/VUIx_-wnUqw

Sept. 25-26

English: https://youtu.be/WmZUBxQ1uEc
Spanish: https://youtu.be/HuJJePdYVZw
Vietnamese: https://youtu.be/8krMTTAE5Tg