Extraordinary Form·Conclusion
Ite Missa Est & Blessing
Dismissal and priestly blessing.
What happens
The priest says 'Dominus vobiscum,' then 'Ite, missa est' (or 'Benedicamus Domino' when the Gloria has been omitted; 'Requiescant in pace' at Requiems). He bows for the Placeat prayer and gives the blessing with the sign of the cross.
Why it happens
The dismissal formally ends the liturgical action and, together with the blessing, sends the faithful forth to live the graces received. 'Missa' — the root of 'Mass' itself — means 'sent.'
Sources
- 1962 MR Ordo Missae
- RS XII, 1–3