The First Part of the Mass, or the Mass of the Catechumens
The term “catechumens” designates those who have been receiving religious instruction, but have not yet been admitted to Baptism. In the early days of the Church these candidates were allowed to be present only for the first part of the Mass, being dismissed just before the Offertory. This preparatory part of the Mass consists: (1) of the prayers, and confession of sins, made at the foot of the altar; (2) of the prayers which the priest says on going to the book, namely, the Introit or entrance hymn, Kyrie, and Gloria; (3) of the Collect, or prayer, expressing the central thought of the feast; and (4) of the lessons of instruction chosen from the Epistles and Gospels. The Mass of the Catechumens terminates with the Nicene Creed, which is said on Sundays and greater feasts.
The purpose of the Mass of the Catechumens is threefold: (1) to praise God; (2) to pray for the various needs of the Church; (3) to instruct the faithful.
1. PREPARATORY PRAYERS AT THE FOOT OF THE ALTAR
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IN nomine Patris, ✠ et Filii, et Spiritus sancti. Amen. |
IN the name of the Father, ✠ and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost. Amen. |
