Each Mass is divided into two main parts: the Liturgy of the Word and the Liturgy of the Eucharist. In the first part, we hear and experience Christ through the Scriptures. Usually the Old Testament, Psalms, New Testament Letters, and Gospel readings are tied together and relate to one another. When you listen to the readings, see if you can detect a common thread.
Old Testament Reading
The Old Testament is the story of God reaching out to his people in love. It begins with Adam and Even in Genesis and ends just before the new Adam (Jesus) and the new Eve (Mary) who kick off the New Testament Letters.
Psalm
The Psalms are found in the Old Testament and many of them were written by King David as songs. Although we no longer have the ancient tunes to the psalms, we sing the words of the psalms with more contemporary melodies.
Reading from the Epistles
The Epistles are the apostolic letters of the New Testament Letters. Paul wrote many of the Epistles and you can basically think of them as instructions on Christian living.
Gospel
The four Gospel authors are Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John and you’ll hear from all of them in the two year cycle. We stand for the Gospel reading because when we stand we show respect. The Gospel has a key place of honor because it is the historical account of Jesus’ life and teachings.
Homily
This is where the priest brings it all together. Whether the homily is long or short, try to take one thing away from it and remember it this week. Be it a story, insight, or challenge, this is an important part of understanding Scripture better.
Profession of Faith
During the Profession of Faith we pray the Nicene Creed (I believe in God...) As Catholics it’s easy to just skim through this, but remember, this is one of the most ancient and most powerful prayers the Church has. There have been many Christians who have died defending these words.
General Intercessions
The general intercessions is our opportunity to collectively intercede for one another and the world. Christ said that wherever two or more are present, he is there. When we pour our hearts into this collective intercessory prayer, it is extremely effective.