Session 2: The Introductory Rites

Review introductory workbook material
Book, Part I: Foundations pages 7-14
Skim the prayers of the Mass (Order of full Mass)
     *Questions from the workbook
     What are your first impressions?
     Is there anything in the rites and prayers of the Mass that you have not noticed before?
     What biblical words or images do you notice in the prayers of the Mass?
     What questions about the Mass would you like answered in this study?
Re-read the prayers for the first part of Mass from the opening Sign of the Cross to the Collect (Order of full Mass pages 1-7)
Read book, Part II: Introductory Rites pages 18-49
Workbook pages 6-10

Helpful resources (also bookmarked on separate page):
Revised Standard Version (RSV) searchable Bible
Catechism of the Catholic Church (searchable)
Order of full Mass (printable PDF)
Changes in People's Parts of the Mass (printable PDF)
Changes in Priest's Parts of the Mass (printable PDF)

Session 1: A Biblical Walk Through the Mass

 

About A Biblical Walk Through the Mass Study (from Ascension Press Website):

A Biblical Walk Through the Mass is a five-part study that provides a unique tour of the timeless Liturgy. Based on the revised translation of the Mass which goes into effect Advent, 2011, it explores the biblical roots of the words and gestures we experience in Mass and explains their profound significance.

Participants in this study will come to know and understand the Mass like never before. They will see, perhaps for the first time, why they say what they say, and do what they do every week at Mass. The words and gestures will be seen in a new light, leading them to a richer, more fruitful worship experience.

Taking this study is the perfect way to receive catechesis on the Mass in the context of the new translation coming Advent, 2011.

Chapter 11: Mary's Memory

Lk 1: 26-38

1.  Reflect on the gifts and graces that you have been given.  How does this help you to trust?

2.  How can you cooperate more fully with the will of God?

3.  Mary was taken into the home of St. John following the death of Jesus.  How does his gospel reflect this?

4.  How does your relationship with Mary lead you closer to Christ?

Chapter 10: Mary Magdalene

Jn 8:3-10; Jn 19:25

1.  How do you enter into the Passion of Christ daily?  during Lent?

2.  In what areas do you tend to judge/compare others and/or yourself?  How do you avoid condemnation/negative judgements?

3.  What helps you to overcome sin?

4.  When is Mother Mary a source of consolation to you?

Chapter 9: The Samaritan Woman

Jn 4:5-42

1.  For what do you thirst?  What motivates you?

2.  Under the crucifixes in the Missionaries of Charity's convents is a quote from Christ on the cross, "I thirst."  For what does He thirst?

3.  How are you called to slake the thirst of others?

4.  The Samaritan woman becomes an unlikely evangelist.  What unusual sources have revealed God and His goodness to you?

Chapter 8: The Hemorrhage Woman

Mk 5: 21-43

1.  What helps you not to be overcome by despair or anxiety for your children as you send them out into our fallen world?

2.  Why does the image of the hemorrhage woman introduce the Catechism of the Catholic Church on The Celebration of the Christian Mystery (i.e. sacraments)?  See image following page 276, paragraphs 1115 and 1116.

3.  Share an example of the power of the sacraments.

4.  In what area are you being challenged to increase your faith?

Death Comes for the Archbishop

Our summer literary selection:

 

Additional Resources:

Cliff Notes Summary
Cliff Notes Glossary
Cliff Notes Critical Essay: Death Comes for the Archbishop as a Catholic Novel

1.  Share any favorite quotes or vignettes.

2.  Cather was not Catholic.  Why do you think she chose this subject matter?

3.  How does the story relate to the modern Church?

4.  How do Father Latour and Father Vaillant contrast/compliment one another?