Liturgy Day

Fr. Paul began the day by teaching us the psalms and responses for Morning Prayer which we then prayed together in song giving praise and worship to God with reverence and thanksgiving.  Fr. Christopher introduced us to the changing texts in different parts of the Mass explaining the significance of the language now being used. Language is very significant and shapes how we think about life. This input was very enlightening as we reflected on various new ‘words’ that have been introduced. The response, ‘And with your Spirit’ he explained is really about having the mind and heart of Christ and recognising in our lives that the Spirit of God is within each person. The Spirit is all around us and about and this Spirit is the sacred presence of God in our midst. As he brought us on a journey of new language the significance and power of each word was explained as we travelled through the prayers of the New Roman Missal. Fr. Paul then taught us the revised editions of the Bodley, and Lourdes Masses and also ventured to teach us a new Mass setting by Bernard Sexton. In the afternoon we had a session on what constitutes good liturgical practice and a reflection on the Eucharistic Congress whose theme is ‘One in Communion with Christ and one another. The day concluded with a Celebration of the Eucharist during which the congregation sang the Bernard Sexton’s Mass composition and his newly composed Eucharistic Hymn, ‘Though we are many’. This was a very informative day during which we learned about the importance of the dignity with which we celebrate the sacraments and the care that we need to give to every aspect of our liturgical celebrations.

Throughout the day Sr. Angela Doyle provided the music for all our practices and learning and played for our Eucharistic Celebration. As always she took part generously both in the planning and preparation of this day and throughout the course of the day also.

Thanks to all who attended this day and may God continue to bless us with people who continue to promote good liturgy, through which we give fitting praise to God.