Introductory Rite The Introductory Rite of the Mass

Introductory Rite The Introductory Rite of the Mass helps us prepare to offer ourselves with Jesus at Mass and to receive Jesus in Holy Communion.

The Introductory Rite has six parts. Entrance song and procession Sign of the Cross Greeting Penitential Act Gloria Opening Prayer/Collect

Entrance Song/Procession The priest and altar servers process to the altar while the congregation sings or says a chant. During this time the congregation stands.

Sign of the Cross Since the Mass is a prayer. We begin by making the Sign of the Cross. The priest says “In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. ” We respond by saying “Amen. ” We make the Sign of the Cross on ourselves.

Greeting The priest welcomes everyone to Mass. He says something like “Peace be with you. ” We respond by saying “And with your spirit. ” The priest may say a few other words to welcome people.

Penitential Act During this part of the Mass, we tell God we are sorry for sinning. There are 2 different ways we may do this. The first is a longer prayer called the Confiteor.

Strike chest

Penitential Act The 2 nd option that can be used after or in place of the Confiteor is a call and response. The priest says “Lord” have mercy. ” We respond “Lord, have mercy. ” The priest says “Christ, have mercy. ” We respond “Christ, have mercy. ” The priest says “Lord” have mercy. ” We respond “Lord, have mercy. ”

Gloria/Glory to God It is a prayer in which we give glory or praise God. This can be sung or recited. It is not sung or recited during Advent or Lent.

Opening Prayer/Collect This is a short prayer that allows time for reflection. The opening prayer usually begins with the priest saying “Let us pray. ”The priest will say the prayer aloud. We listen and think about it. It usually ends with the priest saying “Through Christ our Lord. ” We respond by saying “Amen. ” Then we sit down. The Introductory Rite is over.