What Happens at Mass
A step-by-step guide to the Catholic Mass — for newcomers, returning Catholics, and anyone who wants to understand what's happening and why.
Tap any step to go deeper →
“The Eucharist is the source and summit of the Christian life.”
— Lumen Gentium, 11 (Vatican II)
Introductory Rites
Entrance Procession
The priest and ministers process to the altar accompanied by a hymn. The congregation stands.
Greeting
The priest makes the Sign of the Cross and greets the assembly: 'The Lord be with you.' We respond: 'And with your spirit.'
Penitential Act
We acknowledge our sins and ask for God's mercy. The congregation prays: 'I confess to almighty God...' or the priest leads the Kyrie: 'Lord, have mercy.'
Gloria
On Sundays (except during Advent and Lent) and solemnities, the ancient hymn of praise: 'Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to people of good will...'
Collect (Opening Prayer)
The priest prays the Collect, gathering the prayers of the assembly into one. We respond: 'Amen.'
Liturgy of the Word
First Reading
Usually from the Old Testament (or Acts during Easter season). A lector reads. We sit and listen.
Responsorial Psalm
A psalm is sung or recited. The congregation sings or says the response.
Second Reading
From the New Testament letters (epistles). Read by a lector.
Gospel Acclamation
We stand and sing the Alleluia (or a Lenten acclamation during Lent) to welcome the Gospel.
Gospel
The deacon or priest proclaims the Gospel — the words and deeds of Jesus Himself. We sign our foreheads, lips, and hearts with a small cross.
Homily
The priest or deacon preaches, breaking open the Scripture readings and applying them to our lives. We sit.
Creed
We stand and profess our faith together, usually with the Nicene Creed.
Prayer of the Faithful
Intentions are offered for the Church, the world, the sick, the dead, and local needs. We respond: 'Lord, hear our prayer.'
Liturgy of the Eucharist
Offertory
Bread and wine are brought to the altar. The collection is taken. The priest prepares the gifts and prays the offertory prayers.
Eucharistic Prayer
The great prayer of thanksgiving. The priest prays in the name of the whole Church, recalling God's saving works.
Consecration
The most sacred moment. The priest speaks the words of Christ: 'This is my Body... This is the chalice of my Blood...' The bread and wine become the Body and Blood of Christ.
Memorial Acclamation
We proclaim the mystery of faith: 'We proclaim your Death, O Lord, and profess your Resurrection, until you come again.'
The Lord's Prayer
Together we pray the Our Father, the prayer Jesus taught us.
Sign of Peace
We exchange a sign of peace with those around us.
Lamb of God
We pray: 'Lamb of God, you take away the sins of the world, have mercy on us... grant us peace.' The priest breaks the host.
Holy Communion
Those in a state of grace receive the Body and Blood of Christ. The minister says: 'The Body of Christ.' We respond: 'Amen.' This is the most intimate encounter with Jesus available to us on earth.
Concluding Rites
Prayer After Communion
The priest prays a final prayer. We respond: 'Amen.'
Blessing
The priest blesses the assembly: 'May almighty God bless you, the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit.' We respond: 'Amen.'
Dismissal
The deacon or priest sends us forth: 'Go forth, the Mass is ended' or 'Go and announce the Gospel of the Lord.' We respond: 'Thanks be to God.' The word 'Mass' comes from the Latin 'missa' — we are sent on mission.
First Time at Mass?
You are welcome. You do not need to receive Communion if you are not Catholic or not in a state of grace — you may cross your arms over your chest to receive a blessing instead. Simply follow along, and don't worry about getting everything right. God is glad you are here.