| Q: Thank you for all you do! Recently, I’ve noticed a priest explain almost every special ritual before we do it. For example, on Holy Thursday, he concluded his homily and explained what he was about to do with the washing of the feet and how we will carry it out and the meaning of it. Then after the prayer after communion, he explained the procession and how it will work. I’m sure he just wants to catechize the people but it seems to break up the liturgy. I would be curious to know your thoughts. Also, do you think it is pastorally appropriate to explain parts of the Mass where not everyone is Catholic or are not practicing Catholics (weddings, funerals, etc.) when the GIRM permits it, such as before the preface dialogue? Thanks! == |
A: GIRM 31 permits the priest to give commentary at several moments of the Mass: “He is permitted, furthermore, in a very few words, to give the faithful an introduction to the Mass of the day (after the initial Greeting and before the Penitential Act), to the Liturgy of the Word (before the readings), and to the Eucharistic Prayer (before the Preface), though never during the Eucharistic Prayer itself; he may also make concluding comments regarding the entire sacred action before the Dismissal.”
This can be overdone. Some people like to hear more of what’s going on, but there are other ways to offer them catechesis. My own practice is generally to let the rites speak for themselves and to keep my comments spare.
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