The Essence of Catholic Worship

      Rather than subject you to a long theological explanation of the Mass, let's cut to the chase.  The Mass    consists of four elements.

        •     We gather the folks

               We value community over isolated faith. So, we come together ever weekend to experience our   membership in the Body of Christ, (in our case the Roman Catholic community of Christ the King). By attending Mass weekly (at least), we support each other's faith. Absentees deprive us of their support in living a Christian life in a world that does not always support our beliefs and values.

        •     We tell our stories:

               We listen to ancient stories and modern stories and to our own stories. Storytelling is an important part of the Mass because they inspire us to live more faithfully according to the model set forth for us by Christ. Here's our story list:

      (1) Hebrew and New Testament writings (history, moral guidance, faith, tips for living in the world);

      (2) In the homily/sermon, the preacher/homilist shares his or her story and faith journey.

      (3) socializing before and after Mass (we share with each other the stories of our own lives and struggles, as we are living them day by day).

        •     We break bread

               We share the Eucharist—bread and wine become the body and blood of Christ right here, right now.

        •     We commit to making a difference

               We go out of Mass and back into the world to be the hands, feet, eyes, ears, and heart of Jesus, changing what needs to be changed to make the world a better place).