A Method of Hearing Mass for the Absent

T often happens that Christians, thro’ distance of place, indisposition, or other unavoidable impediments, are hindered from being able to be present at the great sacrifice of the Mass: in which cases it is proper that they should endeavour to assist thereat, least in spirit, which may be done with great fruit to their souls in this manner:

Let them make choice of a proper time in the morning, and either by themselves (or, if they have a family, summoning them together) let them go into their oratory, and there present themselves in spirit before the altar ` of God: and after having bewailed their misfortune in being kept at a distance from these heavenly mysteries, let them join themselves in heart and affection with all that are offering this sacrifice to God at that time; representing more particularly to themselves that Mass which is then offered, in the place where they commonly hear Mass; and applying themselves to the same devotions they — commonly use in time of hearing Mass.

Thus for example: at the Confiteor let them confess their sins with a hearty repentance; at the Kyrie eleison, let them cry out to God for mercy; at the Gloria in excelsis, let them give adoration and glory to God; at the Collects, let them recommend to him their — own and the church’s necessities; at the Epistle and Gospel, let them beg God’s grace, that they may conform their lives to his holy word; and so with proportion let them accommodate their devotion to all the other parts of the Mass; remembering always the four intentions of the sacrifice;; the Passion of Christ, and a spiritual communion; uniting themselves in every part of this sacrifice with Jesus Christ, and offering themselves to God with him and through him.

The Te Deum 109