|
 The
History of Mass Traditions
Rev. William O'Brien, C.M
On Sundays, some
feast days, and on special
occasions, e.g. a wedding or
funeral, God speaks to us in a
second reading. This reading
will come from an Epistle, the
Acts of the Apostles, or the
Book of Revelation.
There is often a
connection between the first
reading and the Gospel; there is
usually no direct link
between the second reading and
the other two.
In accord with
the tradition of the Church, all
stand for the Gospel as well as
for its preparatory acclamation–
usually the Alleluia, except
during Lent.
Standing is a
sigh of readiness, of our
baptismal dignity, and of the
resurrection of Christ and the
promise of our own resurrection.
The word
“Alleluia” comes from the Hebrew
and means “Praise Yahweh.” This
is not a response to the
readings that went before;
rather, it looks ahead to the
reading of the Gospel. It is a
joyful shout or acclamation in
anticipation of hearing the
words of Christ coming to us
through one of the four Gospels.
Since it is
suppose to be a joyful shout or
acclamation, the word “Alleluia”
should never be said always
sung. If it is not sung, it
should be omitted. If the Book
of the Gospels has been carried
in the entrance procession and
placed on the altar, the priest
goes to the middle of the altar.
Bowing, he prays,
inaudibly: “Almighty God,
cleanse my heart and my lips so
that I may worthily
proclaim you Gospel.” He then
carries the book to the ambo at
the conclusion of the singing of
the Alleluia.
After greeting
the people- “The Lord be with
you” and receiving the
response-”And also with you,”
the priest (deacon) says, “A
reading from the Holy Gospel
according to…” While saying
this, he makes the sign of the
cross first on the book , then
on his forehead, lips, and
breast. The people make the
response, “Glory to you Lord.”
The gesture of
signing the book and then the
forehead, lips, and heart,
indicates our desire that we
grasp the words of Jesus with
our minds, speak with our lips,
and believe with our hearts.
|
