Is the structure of the Mass biblical?
Catechism Meditation:
As early as the second century we have the witness of St. Justin Martyr for the basic lines of the order of the Eucharistic celebration. They have stayed the same until our own day for all the great liturgical families. St. Justin wrote to the pagan emperor Antoninus Pius (138-161) around the year 155, explaining what Christians did. ―No. 1345
REFLECTION. The structure and elements of the Mass have biblical foundations and have remained so for over the last two millennia. It is the worship given to us by Christ himself, where he becomes truly present and offers himself for us. The Mass is not a mere gathering but a sacred encounter with God. It enriches our spiritual lives and strengthens us to be the hands and feet of Christ in the world. By understanding its different elements, we can better appreciate its depth and beauty, deepening our relationship with God in the process.
St. Justin Martyr was one of the Church’s first great apologists, utilizing the power of philosophy and Scripture to argue in favor of Christianity. In the 2nd century, around AD 155, he described, in stunning detail, the early Mass, and the Church’s Eucharistic doctrine. In his First Apology, Justin describes Christian worship, and lays out the essentials of what remain Catholic doctrine on the Eucharist to this day.
PRAYER. Dear Lord, help us to fully appreciate the Mass and open our hearts to Your teachings. Unite us in worship as we gather in Your name. May our voices rise in harmony, and our prayers be a sweet offering to You.
Timeless Wisdom Quote:
“The Holy Mass is the most powerful way to be in communion with God and one another.” ― Venerable Fulton J. Sheen
Featured Video:
The Entire Mass is from Scripture! (8:29)
