Course 4, Chapter 15: Christianity visible. — Processions and the first part of the Mass

1. What are processions?

Processions are solemn religious marches of tho clergy and people.

2. Is the custom of processions very old?

The custom of processions existed under the law of Moses; for instance, those of David and Solomon for the transportation of the ark of the covenant to Jerusalem.

3. What do processions signify?

Processions are a picture of our life, and remind us that we are only travelers on earth. The cross, which heads the procession and is followed by banners, teaches us that we cannot reach heaven except by following in the footsteps of Jesus Christ and his saints.

4. Why is it that in some countries a procession is made before high mass?

It is made before high mass on Sundays in remembrance of the resurrection of Jesus Christ.

5. Into how many parts is the mass divided?

The mass is divided into six parts: the first comprises the preparation which is made at the foot of the altar; the second from the introit to the offertory; the third from the offertory to the canon; the fourth from the canon to the Pater: the fifth from the Pater to the communion; the sixth from the communion to the end of the mass.

6. What does the word mass mean?

The word mass means sent away, because, in the first ages, the deacon sent away the catechumens at the offertory, and the faithful at the end of the sacrifice. To the former he said, catechumens, go away; and to the latter, go away, the time for separating has arrived.

7. Of what is the first part of the mass composed?

The first part of the mass is composed of the sign of the cross, a psalm, the confiteor, and several other prayers. In all these prayers the priest confesses his imworthiness, and accuses himself of his faults: the people imitate him, for it is by repentance we must prepare for the holy sacrifice.

8. What does the priest say next?

The priest next says, the Lord be with you> word? 31

362 CATECHISM OF PERSEVERANCE.

which he repeats eight different times during the mass, and the people each time reply, and with thy spirit These words contain all that we can desire, and w« will not fail to hear mass well, if we oppose no obstacle to this blessing wished us by the priest.