Q: I noticed that in the Book of Blessings liturgy for distribution of ashes there is no dismissal. Is that omission intentional? If so, what is the reason for that omission? Thanks.
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A: It’s probably intentional. Many of the blessings in that book end without a dismissal.
Maybe the question is not, “Why isn’t it there,” but “Why is it there at the end of the Mass?” Having fed on the eucharist, the Body of Christ goes forth into the world on mission.
When the blessing takes place apart from Mass, the missionary imperative is not so integral.