This is where the stage is set for the rest of the Mass. Fully entering in to the introductory rites allows us to get right with God and prepare our hearts for the Liturgy of the Word.
Entrance Song and Greeting
Every sports competition starts off this way. The players march out onto the field, an anthem is sung, and the leader greets the participants. Get psyched because it’s just about to begin.
Penitential Rite
It’s important that the first thing we do is express our sorrow for the times we have sinned. In the prayer of the Mass there are multiple times in which we ask for God’s mercy and forgiveness before receiving him fully in the Eucharist. If you feel you’ve committed a mortal sin, however, it’s necessary to go to Confession before receiving the Eucharist.
Kyrie Eleison
This is an ancient prayer from the earliest times of the Church and before. It consists of singing, chanting, or saying “Kyrie Eleison, Christe Eleison, Kyrie Eleison” or Lord have mercy, Christ have mercy, Lord have Mercy.
Gloria
The Gloria is the time at Mass when we sing “Glory to God”. It’s fitting that immediately after receiving Christ’s mercy and forgiveness we glorify his name.
Opening Prayer
This prayer is based on the season and Mass we’re currently praying. Most of the time we zone this out, but if you play close attention, it will give you a hint at what the overall theme of the Mass will be from here on out.