08/04/2004: "Question of the Day: Why is there so many congregation recited prayers during Mass?"

NOTE: If you'd like to submit a question, either post it as a comment in this entry or e-mail me at questions at thecrawfordfamily dot net.

Many people who come the Catholic Church are taken back by the numerous prayers that are recited by the entire congregation in addition to the numerous "conversations" between the presiding priest/bishop and the congregation. "Protestant's never have this kind of stuff at their Sunday services. It feels like a cult to me!"

I can see why they'd feel that way. It is unusual from an American Protestant perspective which is what most Americans are familiar with, even those who never attend church. What limited church services that are seen in the movies and on television, even Catholic masses, never highlight that point of the Catholic Mass.

So why do we do this if it feels awkward to American culture?

As an initial point, we always must remember that the Catholic Church is truly an international and universal Church. As per Christ's command, we've spread the Gospel to ALL nations. Because of this, we must be careful to remember this. Maybe Church is one place we should put our normal American pride aside and be willing to adapt to cultures outside of our own.

Beyond that, we have very good reasons for having the entire congregation recite the prayers. One of the most important things to remember about Mass is that it is not a presentation or show, it is a more like a dinner party. It is for everyone to participate in. It is not about the Priest's actions on the altar, but about the congregations actions.

Just about everything in the Catholic Mass reflects this mindset. As some examples:
-We don't distribute communion to the congregation in the pews, everyone comes forward to participate in it.
-The collection plate and the bread and wine are brought forward by members of the congregation to the altar.
-No songs are sung without the chorus of the congregation.

Similarly, the prayers and professions of the Church include the entire congregation. When we profess that we believe in Jesus Christ, we ALL profess that belief. When we pray for forgiveness, we ALL pray for forgiveness. When our petition prays are brought forth, we ALL pray for those things.

The challenge for Catholics is to make sure we remember this and to really believe and participate in the Mass as opposed to just repeating what we're told to. However, this is a challenge for all of us, and a challenge that the Catholic Church calls all of us to answer. When we all strive for this goal the work of the Church becomes the work of the entire Church.