COUNTDOWN!!! LESS THAN THREE WEEKS UNTIL THE SOLEMN LATIN MASS WITH CARDINAL COLLINS AT ST. MICHAEL'S CATHEDRAL 2PM SUNDAY OCTOBER 30. ALSO GUIDE FOR LAYPEOPLE FOR RESPONSES AND POSTURES DURING MASS.

Hello Everyone!!!

The countdown is on!!!

It is just a day less than three weeks away from the awesome event to occur in liturgical and Church history, happening in my Archdiocese of Toronto: A Solemn Latin Mass to take place with His Eminence present and as the homilist/preacher for the Sermon! I must also say that there is now a poster for this event, produced by St. Patrick`s Gregorian Choir for dismissal. Feel free to distribute, email, etc:

There is also a facebook page for the event, by the way, found here: https://www.facebook.com/events/683222405175712/

I do hope that you will attend this glorious event that will reach the heavens! Deo Gratias!!!

In the meantime, as I continue to post reminders here on the blog, I've decided I'll try to release some helpful hints and advice for the Latin Mass. I realize that with an event of such note, due to the presence of the Cardinal Archbishop of Toronto, some of you will be attending the Latin Mass for the first time.

You may not be familiar with what to do or say in the Latin Mass, what the "culture/atmosphere" will be like, and it will vary somewhat from your regular Mass in the Ordinary Form/Novus Ordo, and you'd perhaps, like to not look as nervous and out of place, looking for others for cues.

For the Latin Mass when I first started this blog, I did a series of Q and A postings, originally to help people navigate the Mass. The collection can be found above at the top of the blog in the "COLLECTION OF MY LATIN MASS QUESTION AND ANSWER POSTS AND ALTAR SERVING POSTS" tab. However I've also included the hyperlink anyways.

This week, I decided to create a new post, that lists the responses you may/will make during the Latin Mass, and some of the actions and postures you will need to make. While the level of this mass is "Solemn," the most common, large scale level Mass type for Sundays and Major Feast days, I also included the Low Mass, as this is often the daily Mass that is done in the Extraordinary Form, should you venture to a Latin Mass holding parish outside of Sundays/Feast Days.

The post is here: http://torontotlmserving.blogspot.ca/2016/10/basic-q-and-for-latin-mass-part-iv-how.html, and is now added to the collection page.

Enjoy the aids. May they be of use to you as you prepare for this major event.

Pax tibi Christ, Julian Barkin.

Basic Q and A for the Latin Mass Part III: How to Use the Basic Latin-English Missal With/Without Propers

Basic Q and A for the Latin Mass Part III: How to Use the Basic Latin-English Missal With/Without Propers

Hello Everyone.

Something I have been told by a friend or two visiting the Latin Mass, is that while they loved it, they wished they had known HOW to use the Latin-English Missal and propers provided at the Mass. Without instruction, they experienced confusion. I do realize that you do need a few Latin Masses to get the basic total experience, but knowing HOW to follow along with the prayers would likely improve one's desire to pursue the Mass on their own time.

Therefore, for the sake of my friends, and in the instances where a full booklet for that day's Masses (with propers) are not made, but rather the common little missalette with an additional page of proper is made, this Q and A will show you how to use the two aids to participate more fully in the Mass. This Q and A will not focus on how to use a full size hand Missal (e.g. Baronius Press 1962 Missal), as I am only focusing on basic inquiry for those who do not frequent the Latin Mass, or are just starting out.

Introduction

So, you have decided to come to a Low/High/Solemn Latin Mass. Great! Welcome! This may be your first or second or third time, and you have decided to pick up some visual/text aids that are provided by the Latin Mass parish/group providing the Mass. But, you don't know what exactly to do with these aids and you do not know a soul, or are a little shy to ask, or stay with your friend during this time. Well allow me to explain how to use these aids.

 

THE DIFFERENT TYPES OF AIDS

There are two types of aids/combinations that you will usually have at these Masses to assist you in understanding and praying with the Mass. They are:

 

1) A combination of the Red Latin-English Booklet Missal and a separate handout of the daily changing prayers called the "Propers", and the readings of Scripture for that Mass

      

This combination is likely the most frequent aids you will encounter at Latin Mass parishes, and if you are an occasional attendee of the Latin Mass, you will likely want/have purchased a red missalette of your own.

 





2) A full booklet which will have the Order of the Mass, the readings of Scripture, and the Propers all in one.

 



 

USING AID SET 1) THE MISSALETTE AND THE PROPERS

For the following, please refer to the figure below:



 

First, when the Mass begins, ensure that you are at the start of the Ordo of the Mass.

If it is a Sunday, and it is a High level Mass or higher (Solemn), then start at "The Asperges." If it is any other Mass (e.g. Low), and/or not a Sunday, then start at the "Mass of the Catechumens." (As seen in (1) )

 

Once you have gotten to the appropriate start of the Mass, ensure that you are in the correct posture. This could be standing, sitting, or kneeling. These missalettes have "cues" on the right hand Margin on the side with the English. This is indicated here, in (2). For a Low Mass, you would be kneeling.

 

In addition, as you follow along with the Latin/English text, you might do other actions, such as making the Sign of the Cross with the priest, as indicated by the Cross OR cross-dagger in books. This is seen in (3), after "In the name of the Father".

 

You then follow along with the Missal until you get to the appropriate point, requiring you to look at the handout with the propers and Scripture for the Mass. The first point in the Mass you will need it, is the Introit, after the prayers at the Foot of the Altar:

 

 

Once you get to this point, go to your Propers/Scripture handout. Now pray/read the Introit as highlighted here:



 

Once you've read the introit, then you will go back to the Missalette, and continue from the Kyrie onward, until the next part where you will need to refer back to the Propers/Scripture Handout. You will need to repeat this cycle of events for the Following:

• Any special prayers said before the duration of the Mass (e.g. the Candlemas Blessing on February 2 annually)
• The Collect
• The Epistle (Scripture Reading)
• The Gradual/Alleluia
• The Gospel (Main Scripture Reading)  
• The Offertory Prayer
• The "Secret" Prayer
• The Preface (after "dignum et justum est.")
• The Communion antiphon
• The Post-Communion prayer

Two more notes to mention:

1. Usually at most Latin Masses, the Priest will read at minimum the Gospel in English after the Latin and before the homily or sermon. He may also read the Epistle in English as well.

 

2. Certain responses are for the Laity at certain times, all other responses are for the servers/other clergy, unless your parish or organization putting on the Mass allows you to make them. It would be wise to follow along with the rest of the laity (most of whom know when to do so), as to when you respond in the pews.

 

USING AID SET 2) A FULL MISSALETTE WITH PROPERS AND SCRIPTURE INCLUDED

This does not need much explaining, as everything is in order and included. This will usually be provided by the organization or the Parish, and might look like this, for example, the Sacred Heart Mass of 2012 for the St. Patrick's Gregorian Choir, Toronto, ON:

 

 



When the book is opened, you follow it page to page, left to right, and the Latin is on the left pages or columns, while the English is on the right pages or columns, as seen below. The cues are also provided in the margins:

 

 



In addition, the propers (e.g. as above, the Introit ...), are included in the missalette, therefore there is no need to refer to a separate Propers and Scripture sheet. You simply follow along with the book.

 

Conclusion

I hope that this will help you navigate the missalettes, whether you are the occasional visitor to my site, your first time ever on Servimus, and/or an occasional or first time visitor to the Latin Mass, not be as lost when these aids are presented to you. I hope to also abridge this guide in future for my upcoming Masses I serve with, regardless of what the set-up of aids are.  

 

Pax Tibi Christi, Julian



Q and A for the Latin Mass Part II No. 5 - From the Pater Noster Until the Post Communion Ablutions and Prayers

Q and A for the Latin Mass Part II No. 5 - From the Pater Noster Until the Post Communion Ablutions and Prayers

NO. 5
C. Pater Noster Till Ablutions
25. The Pater Noster
26. Libera Nos and Fraction of Host
27. Mixture of Body and Blood
28. Agnus Dei
29. Prayers for Holy Communion
30. Communion of priest and faithful.
31. Prayers during ablutions
32. Communion-verse
33. Postcommunion Prayers

25. The Pater Noster

Is this in the Novus Ordo? Yes. 

Cues for the Laity:

• LOW MASS: Everyone will be kneeling for this part. Near the end, after "Et ne nos inducas in tentationem", in the Low Mass, the server will reply, ``Sed libera nos a Malo.``
• HIGH MASS: in the higher level Masses from Missa Cantata up, the laity stand. At the end of the priest`s recitation or the singing of the prayer, ALL reply, "Sed libera nos a Malo."
• In all levels of the Mass, the priest will say Amen after.

 

General Gist: The priest and the choirs at High Masses and higher, say and/or chant the Our Father in Latin. The priest raises his voice and recited the prayer aloud with his arms extended

Relevance: 

• This is, of course, the specific prayer that our Lord gave to the Apostles, as well as to all of us, to pray to his Holy Father in Heaven. We find this scripturally starting in Luke 11:1-2 when one of His disciples asked Christ to teach them how to pray.

• Further, it is used by the Church on all solemn occasions, and is our support. Before this, in the Latin, is contained mention that we are "instructed by Thy saving precepts", and that we "dare" to say (just like in the Novus Ordo) the prayer. We dare to speak it, because we rely on the very precept which we have received so to pray, a precept given us by our great Master for our salvation (169, The Holy Mass).

• In the Lord's prayer, the first three petitions (after: Pater noster, qui es in caelis:) regard God Himself: Hallowed be His name, may His kingdom come, and His will be done (169, ibid).
• May His name be hallowed (sanctificetur nomen tuum:), as it deserves the appropriate honour and respect it deserves, as it His very right.
• May his kingdom in Heaven come (adveniat refnum tuum:), that His reign be established in all and over all, as He is truly King.
• His will be done (fiat voluntas tua, sicut in caelo, et in terra.), by men on earth, as it is in Heaven by the Angels and the Blessed.

• Next in the prayer, come four petitions, for those things necessary for our salvation (169-170, ibid):
• Give us this day our daily bread (Panem nostrum quotidianum da nobis hodie): This is stated in daily intervals, because we cannot know what will lie ahead each day. We may die tomorrow. Hence daily bread. While we also need our daily physical nourishment, the "bread" is also in the sense of spiritual nourishment: The Eucharistic Body of our Lord Jesus Christ, on the Altar.
• And forgive us our trespasses (et dimitte nobis debita nostra,): Because we are sinners before God, to forgive whatever we have done against Him
• As we forgive those who trespass against us (sicut et nos dimittimus debitoribus nostris): we ourselves mark the measure of the pardon we ask of God by begging Him to forgive us as we forgive others who sin against us.
• And lead us not into temptation (Et ne nos inducas in tentationem,): That is to say, ward and defend us when we are tempted by our concupiscence, or the devil and his minions, to kill our grace with our God, or to wound our relationship with Him and disobey his will. Yes, God, in His designs, does allow us to experience temptation and be tried, in order to gain merit, we still ask Him for his aid because we are so weak and easily fail Him.

• We finally ask him to deliver us from evil in the response given by all at the Mass in Missa Cantata or higher ``Sed libera nos a Malo.`` In this response, we ask to be delivered from the evil one, who constantly seeks to sin and fall so that our souls are wounded or worse, separated permanently from God in the afterlife. Moreover, if we have committed such evil, we beg of God mercifully to withdraw us from its grasp. (171, ibid)

• It is after the prayer of the Our Father that the actual Communion of the Mass is considered to begin. (157, The Latin Mass Explained)

26. The Libera Nos and the Fraction of the Host and 27. The Mixing of the Body and Blood

 

Is this in the Novus Ordo: Yes, though reduced from what it is in the Extraordinary Form.

 

Cues for the Laity:

Low Mass: None. Remain sitting. The server gives the responses.

High Mass: At the end of `per Omnia saecula saeculorum`, ALL say: Amen. After Pax domini sit semper vobiscum, ALL reply ``et cum spiritu tuo.`` The laity kneel after this response.

 

General Gist: The priest takes the paten between the first and second finger and says the Libera Nos prayer. He uncovers the chalice, genuflects, takes the host, and breaks it in the middle over the chalice, saying another prayer. He breaks off a particle from the divided host, says `per Omnia saecula saeculorum` with a reply of Amen from the server/people. Then he makes the sign of the Cross (3x) with the particle over the chalice saying ``Pax domini sit semper vobiscum`` to which the server/people replies ``et cum spiritu tuo.`` The Host is broken in half and a particle is dropped into the Precious Blood.

Relevance:
The Libera Nos

• ".... Communion is the means taken by Our Lord to unite all men one with the other, so as to make of them all, one whole .... In order to express this union, Holy church wishes that the result of that charity which reigns amongst the faithful, should be the object of very special attention. So now, she is about to ask it, in the following Prayer; [the Libera Nos] ...." (171-172, The Holy Mass).

• The priest asks at the beginning of the prayer, from Libera nos to et futuris, to strengthen us, because our past evils have caused us to contract spiritual weakness, and we are as yet by convalescents. Deliver us from those temptations which weigh us down spiritually, and others sins we're guilty of, and what may seek to allow us to fail again in future (172-173, ibid).

• Next, it is asked by mercy and intercession of the Saints, including in particular our Holy Mother, Peter and Paul, and St. Andrew.
• Here, the priest makes the Sign of the Cross on the Paten. He does so because it was by the Cross that Christ became ``our peace`` by the shedding of His blood upon the Cross (cf. Ephesians 2:14). (158, The Latin Mass Explained).
• After kissing the paten, the Sacred Host is placed upon it. The paten with the Host then is placed to the right of the Chalice, to indicate that blood and water issued forth from the opened side of our Redeemer. (ibid)
• Why specific reference to St. Andrew? The Holy church has had a very special devotion to this apostle since early Christianity in Rome, because he was the brother of St. Peter. Also, St. Andrew is connected to peace because his martyrdom resembled very much the Passion of Christ, in virtue whereof, peace is given to us. (173, The Holy Mass; 158, The Latin Mass Explained.)

The Fractionation of the Host & The Mixing of Body and Blood

• After the Libera Nos, the Chalice is uncovered, and the Host is broken in the middle. A small particle goes into the chalice from one of the halves. The priest is also imitating our Divine Saviour, when he did the breaking of bread at the Passover Seder, (159, The Latin Mass Explained) instituting the Priesthood and Eucharist.

• The little particle is dropped into the Host, and the breaking of the Host, has symbolism (160-161, The Latin Mass Explained).
• The breaking in half, represents the breaking of his humanity (in his crucifixion and death).
• The Peace of the Lord, Christ merited for us though the Sacrifice on the Cross. The Host broken over the Chalice indicates the Precious Blood flowed from the bruised body of Christ.
• The particle dropped into the Precious Blood shows our Lord's Body is not without His Blood, nor vice versa. Because we see them as separate species with the accidents of bread and wine, we might not believe in the Real Presence, or that the Body and Blood do not co-exist. The co-mingling dispels this illusion, reminding us that under such appearance, the one, living Victim of the Cross is present.
• This part of the Mass also reminds one of the dual nature of Christ: Divine and human in his Incarnation.



28. The Agnus Dei



Is this in the Novus Ordo? Yes. And in certain Novus Ordo Churches ... you might even get to hear it sung in the original text, in Latin!

Cues for the Laity? The Laity remain kneeling.

General Gist? The Priest repeats the words of St. John the Baptist. "Agnus Dei, qui tollis peccata mundi, miserere nobis." The priest covers the Chalice, genuflects and rises: then bowing down and strikes his breast each time he says the Agnus Dei. The altar servers should also have their heads slightly bowed as well.

Relevance:

• In this thrice repeated part of the Mass, the priest repeats the words of St. John the Baptist, who proclaimed the Messiah to the Jews. In the old laws of sacrifice in Judaism, an unblemished lamb was used to atone for sin (and also, don't forget, lamb's blood was used for the Passover to indicate Jewish houses to the Angel of Death in the Book of Exodus). In the New Law, the heavenly Lamb, takes away the sins of the world. (41, Latin-English Booklet Missal).

• Also in the repeating of this prayer, the Church wishes to teach us how ardently and fervently we should desire to pray for peace of the Lord, and remission of our sins and all punishment due to them (161-162, The Latin Mass Explained). The priest is also striking his breast like in the Confiteor as a physical sign of repentance to this effect.

• The third time, the last words in Latin are "Dona nobis pacem" and not "miserere nobis" as the Eucharist is the Sacrament of peace, by means of which all the faithful become united together. (177, The Holy Mass).

29. Prayers for Holy Communion

Is this in the Novus Ordo? Yes. The third edition of the Roman Missal has these prayers even closer to the original translation of the Latin. However, the first prayer in the EF, is said before the Agnus Dei as the prayer before the "Sign of Peace" in the Novus Ordo.

Cues for the Laity? At all levels of the Mass, you are still kneeling.

General Gist: The Priest, with his eyes toward the Blood and Body of Christ on the altar, prays the "Prayer for Peace and Fidelity," "The Prayer for Holiness", and the "Prayer for Grace". This is before his own communion. Should the Mass level be a Solemn Mass, then the clergy and highest ranking servers will do a "Pax," two specific members at a time. This is not the shanking of hands but as I coin it a "fraternal, light, bear hug" with each other, which is very cordial and reverent at once.

Relevance:

• The Prayer for Peace and Fidelity
• This is a humble petition for the blessing of peace for the Church. (164, The Latin Mass Explained)
• There is also the implication of peace with fellow man in this prayer (which takes from Romans 16:16), and in fact peace with man is done today in the form of the Pax in Solemn and Pontifical level Masses. In these Masses The priest gives the Pax to a deacon, who then gives it to the sub-deacon, who gives it to any priests in choir, who then pass it onto the highest ranking servers. (178, The Holy Mass)
• The priest will also kiss the Altar, in front of the Sacred Host, whereby the Lord gives him. (ibid)
• The Pax is NOT done in Requiem Masses, Maundy/Holy Thursday, and Holy Saturday. With Holy Thursday, it's a protest against Judas' kiss of betrayal to Christ. With Holy Saturday, it is omitted as it was not till Christ was Risen, when he greeted his disciples saying "Peace be with you, or Pax Vobis". (178-179, ibid)

• The Prayer for Holiness
• This prayer expands the final words of the Lord's Prayer and implores peace. (41, Latin English Booklet Missal)
• This is one of the two prayers for direct preparation for Holy Communion. The priest is about to receive Christ in the Eucharist, both his humanity and divinity and professes in the liveliest of faith: O Lord, Jesus Christ, Son of the Living God. (165, The Latin Mass Explained)
• He also professes in the redeeming of the Blood of Christ, asking of the Lord's Blood to "Deliver me by this Thy most sacred Body and Blood from all my iniquities." This prayer, though said silently and inaudible to the Laity (but can be read via a full 1962 missal,) reminds us that the work of the Redemption was accomplished by Christ "according to the will of the Father" and "though the co-operation of the holy ghost." (ibid; 180, The Holy Mass). We should also desire the same remission of our sins that the priest does in the Holy Eucharist as well, when we approach for communion. (180, The Holy Mass).

• The Prayer for Grace
• While this prayer deals only with the Body of Christ, not the Blood, it nonetheless is important to both priests and laity. Holy Mother church is so completely occupied by the sacrifice on Calvary, that she recoils from renewing it on the altar. Therefore, She confines herself to partaking of the sacred mystery by communion. (182, The Holy Mass)
• In addition, this prayer can very appropriately be used by the faithful when about to communicate. (ibid). How so? It is quite similar in idea to the response at the Novus Ordo before the faithful communicating, but with more content.
• It claims us (the priest) as unworthy to receive and also includes judgement and condemnation as to consume the Eucharist unworthily, as proclaimed to us in Scripture in Paul's Epistles constitutes Mortal Sin: NRSV 1 Cor 11:28-29: "²⁸ Examine yourselves, and only then eat of the bread and drink of the cup. ²⁹ For all who eat and drink^[a] without discerning the body,^[b] eat and drink judgment against themselves. "
• It is hoped that by the Lord's mercy, it becomes our safeguard and healing remedy of soul and body (of which the Eucharist is. It does have the ability to remit venial sin upon consumption, AND it is our spiritual "nourishment as it were. Further how many a time, and clergy member, has stated that by the sacraments we remain close to Christ and are able to deal with our spiritual struggles, especially spiritual combat?)

30. Communion of priest and faithful.

Is this in the Novus Ordo? Yes.

 

Cues for the Laity?

• You are to remain kneeling.
• After the priest reveals the host to you by turning around, saying "Ecce agnus dei ..." You, the altar servers on your behalf, or the priest alone, might reply back publically with "Domine Non Sum Dignus (DNSD) ut intres sub tectum meua: sed tantum dic verbo, et sanabitur anima mea" three times.
• When it is time to receive communion, you are to proceed and line up at the altar rails/makeshift rows using prie-deuxs, the first pew, etc. You receive the Eucharist on your tongue AND kneeling, but do not say "AMEN" after the priest speaks in Latin the words "Corpus Domini Nostri Jesu Christi custodiat animam mean in vitam aeternam. Amen." 

General Gist:

• After the priest has said the communion prayers, he will then genuflect and take the host. He says a prayer in Latin that are a free rendering of Psalm 125 (182, The Holy Mass).
• While striking his breast, he says the response before self-communicating, which is in Latin what you would say in English in the Novus Ordo Masses with the 3rd translation of the Roman Missal. This prayer is, in Latin, the DNSD.
• He will then consume the Host, ensure minor particles are collected into the chalice, and then will self-communicate with the species of the Blood of Christ.
• If permitted, the altar servers will say a second Confiteor and the priest will repeat the prayers said in the first half of the Mass after the Confiteor. He then turns toward the people, elevates the host, and like in the Novus Ordo but in Latin, says "Behold the Lamb of God, behold him Who taketh away the sins of the world."
• You might be permitted to say the DNSD publically, but if not, then the altar servers might do that for you, or the priest alone. At the High/Solemn level Masses, the servers usually say this response publically.
• The priest then allows the servers to take Communion upon the altar, from right to left, with each server using the paten while receiving, and passing it along to the next server.
• The priest, with the server or left server at Low Mass, or the MC (+ Deacon) at the higher level Masses, will then take the paten(s) and serve communion to the Laity. The laity kneel and receive on the tongue at the designated altar rails or area, without replying Amen after the priest speaks.

Relevance:

• Well, this is obviously important as you are consuming the Body of Christ. Again, if you are not a baptized Catholic, or you are a Catholic who is NOT in the state of Sanctifying Grace/in the state of mortal sin (e.g. murder, excommunicated, masturbation with/without pornography, co-habitation before marriage or after re-marrying OUTSIDE of the Church [no annulment ...],) THEN DO NOT RECEIVE. In addition under the current Code of Canon Law (1983) of which is in force, communicants must abstain from food and drink (save water) for at least one hour before consuming the Eucharist.

• Should one not be able to receive the Eucharist due to not being a Catholic, being in the state of Mortal Sin, OR having broken the fasting rule, they can offer up a spiritual communion instead. Here is one for such a purpose:
• My Jesus, I believe that Thou are in the Blessed Sacrament. I love Thee above all things, and I long for Thee in my soul. Since I cannot now receive Thee sacramentally, come at least spiritually into my heart. As though Thou hast already come, I embrace Thee and unite myself entirely to Thee; never permit me to be separated from thee.

• When the priest takes the host before his DNSD, he refers to the Eucharist as the Bread of Heaven in his prayer. This is an allusion to the manna give to the Israelites in the desert, which was a figure/precursor/foreshadow of the Eucharist. He is also calling upon the Name of the Lord, which has its Scriptural Roots in the OT in Psalm 114:3-4 (167, The Latin Mass Explained).

• The DNSD prayer are the words relayed by the friends of the deathly ill centurion, who in Luke 7:6-7 felt unworthy to have Jesus heal him: (NRSV) "⁶ And Jesus went with them, but when he was not far from the house, the centurion sent friends to say to him, “Lord, do not trouble yourself, for I am not worthy to have you come under my roof; ⁷ therefore I did not presume to come to you. But only speak the word, and let my servant be healed."
• At the priest's utterings and thrice-fold repeats of this prayer, the altar server rings the bells, once per DNSD, though at a High/Solemn Mass, sometimes the number of rings increases by 1 each time. The bell ringing indicates this is an important part of the Mass and to excite your attention (168, The Latin Mass Explained).
• Implicit in this prayer is our own unworthiness to receive the Lord as he is the Word made Flesh, but we are sinful and of human frailty. (ibid).
• We say this prayer at Mass, because it is our own poor soul craving help for itself, and making use of these words, is a last appeal to God. We sorely need to be cured. As the Healer of all Healers, we must appeal to Him, and crave Him with true humility. (182-183, The Holy Mass).

• In the priest's saying to us before we communicate, the last few words of the Latin are in vitam aeternam, that is, in life everlasting. This is such, because One Communion would of itself be sufficient to preserve our soul unto Life Eternal, for such is the intrinsic efficacy of tis Divine Sacrament, provided for our wants by God. (184, The Holy Mass).

• While the priest is scraping the leftover particles of the Host into the Chalice, he asks himself what return he will make to the Lord for all He has given him? He can only reply that he will take the Chalice of salvation and call on the Name of the Lord.
• Again, with the name of the Lord, it refers to Psalm 125 Scripturally
• When the priests asks himself what to give for what God has given him, God in His infinite love has given an infinite gift in the Body and Blood of the Lord. God, in giving us the Lord Jesus, who sacrificed Himself for our sins, gave us everything in this act of infinite love.
• What can the priest give? God has no need for our goods (cf. Ps 15:2). All the priest can give in return is what he has been given, the Chalice of salvation, and so to God we can accept his gifts with kind and loving heart as sufficient thanks (170-171, The Latin Mass Explained.)
• The priest makes the Sign of the Cross over himself with the Chalice, to indicate again that it is from the Cross of Calvary that the redeeming grace of our Lord's blood flows upon us. The priest consumes under both species as he must consume the Sacrifice, which was offered up under the two species. "Do this in memory of me." (ibid)

 

 

31. Prayers During Ablutions

Is this in the Novus Ordo? Yes, there is one prayer said while purifying the chalice. For reasons unknown to me, wine is not used in the ablutions in the N.O., only water.



Cues for the Laity? You should be kneeling at this point, especially after having communicated. You are praying surely to the Lord after receiving him in the Eucharist while things are going on?

General Gist:

• After the priest places the remaining particles into the chalice from the patens used at communion, he will purify the chalice and cover it up.
• After the leftover hosts/ciboria are placed back in the tabernacle, the acolyte(s) will get up and pour some wine in to the chalice, the priest will drink it and say the Quod ore sumpsimus prayer, in what is the first ablution.
• Then the servers will pour wine and mostly water, over the priest's fingertips in the chalice. The priest drinks the remainder of liquid and wipes it clean, in what is the second ablution. He wipes his fingers with the purificator prior to consumption, and dries the chalice with the purificator.
• The servers/MC/deacon help to "rebuild" the chalice with the priest after the ablutions. In addition the MC/acolyte will transfer the missal back to the Epistle side.

Relevance

• In the first ablution, the priest is asking that our Communion is both physical and spiritual, that is, productive of grace in our souls, and that partaking in the Sacrament of the Eucharist in this life, may being eternal happiness in the next. (174, The Latin Mass Explained). Also in the prayer is reference to the Eucharist as temporali fiat, a temporal gift, as while God is eternal, this Communion is taking place at a specific point in time. By means of this temporal gift, Our Lord achieves the union of soul with Himself. The Lord uses this Singular Act as a remedy for our souls. (186, The Holy Mass).

• In the second ablution, we ask that we experience the efficacy of the Sacrament of the Eucharist. We ask it cleaves to its inmost parts of our soul, which are understanding, free will and memory, with cleaving meaning that it remains there for a long period of time. (175, The Latin Mass Explained). Also that it removes from us our sin (save lingering Mortal Sin, which is only removed upon Reconciliation). Also water is co-mingled with the wine, as the Blood of Our Lord is no longer there [as what the server poured in is unconsecrated wine.] (187, The Holy Mass).

• Why the ablutions anyways? It is mainly out of respect for the Holy Eucharist (175-176, The Latin Mass Explained).
• The wine and water are poured in and consumed to remove all existing traces of both species of Christ.
• Water is poured over his fingers to remove any trace particles of Eucharist from the priest's fingers. Until such time at the 2nd ablution, he remains with hands folded/fingers pinched at the forefingers so nothing is touched with those finger, where the priest used those fingers to handle the Sacred Host. He does not want any leftover parts of the Eucharist to be left on anything else.

32. Communion Verse

Is This in the Novus Ordo? Partially. The antiphon portion is present in the N.O., but only a "postcommunion" prayer is present. The antiphon is often ignored in the Novus Ordo (sadly.)

Cues for the Laity: Before the responses, you are kneeling, and continue to do so for the Low Mass. At the high Mass and higher, you will stand at the responses between Priest and server.  

General Gist: After the priest has finished the ablutions, he goes to the Epistle Side [where the Missal has been transferred since] and reads the communion verse/antiphon from the Missal. He then goes back to the middle of the altar saying "Dominus Vobiscum" with the reply being "Et cum spiritu tuo." The priest says "Oremus".

Relevance:

• When the priest says domunis vobiscum to the laity, he gives expression to his desire that the Lord Whom they have received, may always abide in them, according to His own promise in John 6:57: "He that eateth My Flesh, and drinketh My Blood, abideth in Me, and I in him."

33. Post Communion

Is This in the Novus Ordo? Yes. It also is a changing prayer for each day. It is tied with the Communion antiphon, but the prayer itself is simply titled, the ``Prayer after Communion.``



 

Cues for the Laity: If it is a Low Mass, you still are kneeling. If it is a High Mass or higher, you are still standing after the responses.

 

General Gist: The Priest returns to the Missal and prays once more. In number and subject the Post communion corresponds with the collect and the secret (178, The Latin Mass Explained). After the prayer, the server (sometimes laity) reply "Amen", and the D.V. and E.C.S.T. reply take place again.

 

Relevance:

• The prayer portion of this part always mentioned Communion that we have just received (188, The Holy Mass; 178, The Latin Mass Explained).
• This prayer is an act of thanksgiving and reminds one of Colossians 3:17: "All whatsoever you do in word or in work, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, giving thanks to God and the Father by Him." (178, The Latin Mass Explained).

 



Works Cited
1. Moorman, Msgr. G.J. The Latin Mass Explained. Tan Publishing: Charlotte, North Carolina, U.S.A. 2010.

2. Gueranger, D.P. The Holy Mass. Baronius Press Limited: London, United Kingdom. 2005.

3. Coalition in Support of Ecclesia Dei. Latin-English Booklet Missal for Praying the Traditional Mass. Coalition in Support of Ecclesia Dei: Glenview, Illinois, USA. 2008.

4. The Ordinary of the Mass. The Daily Missal and Liturgical Missal with Vespers For Sundays and Feasts From the Editio Typica of the Roman Missal and Breviary, 1962 With Supplements Containing The Additional Masses for Englang and Wales, Scotland, United States and Australasia. Summorum Pontificum Edition. Baronius Press: London. 2009.

Small Personal Altar Serving News and Developments on S.U.D.

Hello Everyone.

Just a couple of quick notes.

As of Wednesday, June 10, I started to do a bit of Low Mass serving again with St. Lawrence the Martyr in Scarborough. It'll be once a week, maybe twice a week if I am lucky to get 4 or more day stretches without work between weekends.

I was a bit rusty from my last Solemn Mass so I think it's time to beef up on the basics and become proficient, as well as gain experience on my spiritual mission to become proficient in the Latin Mass as a Master of Ceremonies. Further, such experience will allow me to, hopefully, in future, be able to teach the TLM from a serving perspective (and maybe clerical if I must understand the priest parts???). Right now in my Archdiocese, it seems that MCs are having to teach the TLM to servers and priests, and the Archdiocese has no established EF division. As for VALID AND LICIT EF preaching organizations, the FSSP are in Thorold, Ontario, which is somewhat far from the core of the Archdiocese of Toronto.

In addition, I am working on the 5th part of my Q and A series about the parts of the Latin Mass. You can find the first 4 parts in the right hand side of the page in my "Latin Mass serving posts" area. It's about 1/2 way done. I also want to finish the 6th and final part of it. Then .... we get back to actual serving ... with the Thurifer posting.

Things are underway here at Servimus Unum Deum. Pax, Julian.

Basic Q and A for the Latin Mass Part II No. 1: Breakdown of the Parts of the Mass

Q and A Part II: What is Going On at the Latin Mass?

Hello Everyone. 

Here is part two of the Q & A of the Latin Mass. While many of you are used to the Novus Ordo, due to the way the liturgy is carried out in the Latin Mass, you might think you are seeing something completely different that isn't a Catholic Mass. Well, it is a Catholic Mass, just not what you are used to with the Latin Rite Novus Ordo. 

To give you an overall idea of what is happening in the Extraordiary Form liturgy so you aren`t totally off guard when you attend, I`ll be breaking down the Mass in parts according to the Baronius Press 1962 Roman Missal. Each Part will have a name, whether it is present in both forms of the Roman Rite or removed, your cues if any, what is happening generally, and then some description of what is going on and any relevant notes (e.g. better meaning,  Scripture correlations ...).

Since this will turn into a huge post, I'll break it down into each sub-section. 

The Parts are as follows:
NO. 1

The Asperges (only before High/Solenmn Mass on Sunday)

I. Mass of the Catechumens

A. Preparatory prayers at the Foot of the Altar

1. The Sign of the Cross

2. The Psalm 42 - Judica Me.

3. The Public Confession

4. The Priest Goes up to the Altar.

NO. 2

B. From the INTROIT TO THE OFFRETORY

5. The Introit

6. The Kyrie

7. The Gloria in Excelsis

8. The Collects

9. The Epistle

10. The Gradual

11. The Gospel

12. The Credo

NO. 3

II. Mass of The Faithful/Canons

A. Offretory to Preface

13. The offretory verse

14. The offretory of the Bread and Wine

15. The Incensing of the Offerings of the Solemn Mass

16. The Washing of the Hands

17. The Prayer to the Most Holy Trinity

18. The Orate Frates

19. The Secrets

NO. 4

B. Preface to the Pater Noster

20. The Preface

21. The Sanctus

22. The prayers before the Consecration

23. The Prayers at Consecration

24. The Prayers after consecration

NO. 5

C. Pater Noster Till Ablutions

25. The Pater Noster

26. Libera Nos and Fraction of Host

27. Mixture of Body and Blood

28. Agnus Dei

29. Prayers for Holy Communion

30. Prayers at Communion and Communion of priest and faithful.

31. Prayers during ablutions

32. Communion-verse

33. Postcommunion Prayers

NO. 6

III. Conclusion of Mass

34. Dismissal

35. Blessing

36. Last Gospel

[37. Low Mass - Prayers from Leo XIII]

Aspereges

Does this happen in Novus Ordo? Rarely. Only on specific occasions or parts of the N.O. Liturgical Calendar. 

Cues for Laity: The laity stands for the Asperges.

General Gist: The Priest sprinkles clergy, inferior ministers, and the laity with holy water. 

Relevance

• During the Asperges, a reference to Psalm 51 verse 7 (NRSV-CE: "7 Purge me with hyssop, and I shall be clean; wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow.) is used in the text, almost verbatim:
• Hyssop is a tufted plant which the Jews use for ritual sprinkling (9, Latin-English Booklet Missal)
• Holy Water is a sacramental, the devout use of which is able to remit venial sins. (9, Latin-English Booklet Missal)
• Catechism Reference to Sacramentals, CCC 1667-1679: http://www.vatican.va/archive/ccc_css/archive/catechism/p2s2c4a1.htm  
• Catechism Reference to Holy Water tied into our Baptisms: CCC ``694 Water. The symbolism of water signifies the Holy Spirit's action in Baptism, since after the invocation of the Holy Spirit it becomes the efficacious sacramental sign of new birth: just as the gestation of our first birth took place in water, so the water of Baptism truly signifies that our birth into the divine life is given to us in the Holy Spirit. As "by one Spirit we were all baptized," so we are also "made to drink of one Spirit." <sup>27</sup> Thus the Spirit is also personally the living water welling up from Christ crucified <sup>28</sup> as its source and welling up in us to eternal life. <sup>29</sup>``

I. Mass of the Catechumens Part A

I. Preparatory Prayers at the Foot of the Altar

1. The Sign of the Cross

Does this happen in the Novus Ordo? Yes. 

Cues for the Laity: You will stand upon hearing the sanctuary bell ring, or if the choir begins to sing at a Missa Cantata/High Mass or Missa Solemnis/Solemn Mass. Low Mass - Immediately after the priest and server take their place, then you will kneel till the Gospel. 

General Gist - N/A

Relevance

• Each time one makes the Cross, they are revisiting an essential core Catholic belief: That we believe in the Holy Trinity of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit: 3 divine persons with one divine nature. 
• The Sign of the Cross is done by the priest 52 times during the Mass, the emblem of the bloddy sacrifice on the Cross, which the Mass represents and renews. (11,  Latin-English Booklet Missal).
• The priest begins to speak Latin at this point

2. Psalm 42 - Judica Me

Does this Happen in the Novus Ordo? No, this was stripped from the N.O. 

Cues for the Laity: Low Mass - You kneel until the Gospel. High/Solemn Mass- You will be Kneeling

General Gist - The priest recites a number of parts of Psalm 42, with the server responding after the priest says something. In a Solemn mass this will be done with the Master of Ceremonies (head server) and the Deacon and Subdeacon. 

Relevance - 

• The Priest alternates with the server in reciting this Psalm to express his desire, joy, and confidence in going to the Altar of the Sacrifice (900, The Daily Missal and Liturgical Missal ...)
• This psalm is chosen in particular because of the line introibo ad altare Dei: I will go unto the Altar of God. (3, The Holy Mass)
• When the priest says the Psalm, it refers to Our Lord, and it is in His name, that the Priest recites it. (3, The Holy Mass)
• The Psalm is, of course, like most or all others, composed by David, the great king of Israel from Biblical times and Scripture. He composed this Psalm in his youth, hence the lines about his youth in it in Latin. Furthermore, these parts are chosen to reflect the foresight of David/history of out salvation that are present, especially in the the Lord is our Light and Truth: Emitte lucem tuam et veritatem tuam. (3, The Holy Mass)
• The bottom line of why our Priest is asking God for his aid in meeting Him in the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass is that Man is a sinful creature, unworthy and of nothing. The Priest is determined to humble himself and confess his sinfulness to the Lord and thus needs God's aid to carry out the Holy Mass, and further to repent for his (and collectively, our) venial sins. (3, The Holy Mass)

3. The Public Confession - Priest's and Server's Confiteor

Does this Happen in the Novus Ordo? Yes, though it's abridged, even with the New Translation's longer form. Cool part is in the Novus Ordo we are at "through my fault x 2, through my most grevious fault to (decently but not heavily) beat our chests near our hearts with a closed fist, as is done in the EF with the Novus Ordo. Our Novus Ordo confiteor is now closer to the exact Latin translation of the EF mass.

Cues for the Laity: Low Mass - You kneel until the Gospel. High/Solemn Mass- You will be kneeling 

General Gist -

• The priest recites a public confiteor, where he confesses to us (his fellow Man) and all the Saints, Mary, and the Holy Trinity for his sins (and collectively ours too, for venial sins). 
• The server or the other Clergy + MC follow(s) after the Priest. They kneel to either his right side, or both sides if it is a Solemn Mass/2 server Low Mass. 

Relevance - 

• The Confiteor is a memorial of Our Lord's sorrow in Gethsemani when he was experiencing the Agony in the Garden. We also confess our sins through our fault that doing this with all our hearts, we may be confident that all our sins will be forgiven immediately at this beginning of Mass, provided we go to Confession later for Mortal sin (though ideally we do this prior to receive the Sacrament of Eucharist worthily) (7-8, I Like Mass)
• The recitation produces the forgiveness of venial sins, provided we are contrite for them. (5, The Holy Mass)
• When the Confiteor is done, besides the Priest or server availing himself to the Holy Trinity, Mary, and the Saints, he avails himself to his fellow human, all through his own fault with his free will in the phrase ``mea culpa x 2, mea maxima culpa`` which translates to ``through my fault x 2, through my own grievous fault`` he also strikes his breast three times to testify to his inward repentance while saying those words. (6-7, The Holy Mass). 

4. The Priest Goes up to the Altar
Does This Happen in the Novus Ordo? No. The priest is usually at the "presider's chair" or stand when he says the confiteor in the Novus Ordo.

Cues for the Laity - At all levels of the Latin Mass, the laity kneel at this part.

General Gist - "with a prayer for pardon on his lips the Priest goes up to the Altar which he kisses ... begging for the intercession of the Saints whose relics repose in the altar stone." (906, The Daily Missal and Liturgical Missal ...). The priest will bow down over the altar and say a prayer over the relics in the altar stone, and if the Mass is a Solemn Mass, the first incensing of the Mass will take place, requiring the aid of the other clergy, the Master of Ceremonies, the thurifer, and a boatbearer if there is one.

Relevance

• The priest will say ``Oremus`` in Latin or ``let us pray`` before the prayer. He does so as this is preceeding a prayer he will make to God. He lifts his hands to God, in Heaven, to whom he will speak.  (10-11, The Holy Mass) 
• When he is praying in a hushed tone a secret prayer, his thought is to be all pure or to go up to the altar with a pure soul (15, Latin-English Booklet Missal) for as he says, he is entering in to the Holy of Holies (historically, the most holiest part of the old Jewish temple, that kept the Ark of the Covenant), asking that everyone`s sins be taken away by all the saints and for forgiveness.  (10-11, The Holy Mass) 
• He prays the iniquities prayer again, a doubling, because he`s closer to God, and the closer you get, any little sin is like an intolerable blot on the soul. (10-11, The Holy Mass) 
• The reason that the Saints are associated with the prayers at this time, including kissing the altar stone and the prayers over it, is that the early church offered Mass on the tombs of the martyrs, associating their sacrifice with that of Christ`s  (10-11, The Holy Mass).

Solemn Mass: Incensing of the Altar

• When the incensing of the altar occurs at the Solemn Mass, this takes one back to the Old Testament, Leviticus, when it is mentioned that incense was used in divine worship. The New Testament biblical reference for incense in the Mass comes from the book of Revelation/Apocalypse Chapter 8, verse 3, where he saw an Angel standing, with a golden censer, near the Altar, on which was the Lamb (Jesus) and 24 elders around him. The prayers of the Saints are symbolized by incense. 
• Since the Mass is our highest form of prayer, under our Holy Mother the Church that wishes to do as Heaven does (13, the Holy Mass) therefore the incense also symbolizes the priest's and our prayers going up to the Saints and the others in Heaven. 
• When the priest blessed the incense, it raises the incensing action to the supernatural order. (13, The Holy Mass)

END PART II NO. 1

Works Cited

1. Coalition in Support of Ecclesia Dei. Latin-English Booklet Missal for Praying the Traditional Mass. Coalition in Support of Ecclesia Dei: Glenview, Illinois, USA. 2008.

2. The Ordinary of the Mass. The Daily Missal and Liturgical Missal with Vespers For Sundays and Feasts From the Editio Typica of the Roman Missal and Breviary, 1962 With Supplements Containing The Additional Masses for Englang and Wales, Scotland, United States and Australasia. Summorum Pontificum Edition. Baronius Press: London. 2009. 

3. Gueranger, D.P. The Holy Mass. Baronius Press Limited: London, United Kingdom. 2005.

4. Sheil, Rev. L. S.J. I Like Mass. Irish Messenger Office: Dublin, Ireland. 1951.

Basic Q and A for the Latin Mass: The Bare Bones of it

Hello Everyone.

I'd figure that before I start adding specific altar serving sections on the Latin Mass, there are likely curious people who don't even know the basics of the Latin Mass itself, including servers. So I'm going to do in this part a Basic Q and A for the Mass, based off of a primer I did for a friend, and in the other part I'll break down each part of the Mass (according to the parts in the Baronius 2010 reprint of the 1962 Missal) and give a brief description of what is taking place.

Part 1: Basic Q and A for the Latin Mass

1) So what is this Latin Mass thing I keep hearing about? I go to Mass on Sundays (or occasionally errr ...)

- The Latin Mass, also known as the Extraordinary form of the Roman Rite, is the form of the Latin Rite of the Mass that has been said for centuries before the post-Vatican II Novus Ordo of Bugini et al. was propagated. In this form, the Mass is said in the Church's primary language, Latin (not English or otherwise), sacred music is used and not modernized hymns, also sung in Latin, and there is an obvious God and Christ  centred approach and mentality to the Mass by all involved (including servers). It is NOT the form said in most Latin rite Catholic Churches today with the whole mass in the vernacular, those modern hymns, female altar servers, the priest faces you, etc. 

2) Um, wow, a Mass in Latin and fancy stuff .... um, before I even Set out, what should I know? I'm nervous already thinking about it ....

- Fear Not! Here's some general tidbits:

• - For one, you are participating in a renewal of the faith, in the Mass of many of the Church’s saints, martyrs, etc. of all time. 
• Most of the Mass is in Latin, save the re-reading of the epistle and Gospel and the Sermon/Homily, but there are translation aids available online or at the parish for certain prayers and the regular order of the Mass. 
• Many who have experienced this Mass have come away joyful, and some even immediately switch over to the EF/TLM and never go back to the regular Mass unless out of Sunday obligation, even children, due to its awesome reverence, and allowance of private and concentrated prayer.
• Confession is usually offered prior to Mass during regular Sunday Latin Masses. 
• The general atmosphere is one of reverence, quiet, and contemplation. Further the crowd for regular (not Sunday Masses) low TLMs are usually elders and the more devoted people to that form. However, the Sunday crowd is a mix of all ages, but is especially becoming popular among younger people, say 35 yrs and under. 
• This form of mass also tends to be one for those who are serious and joyful about their Catholic Faith, or who seek more spiritually fulfilling worship (not received usually at parishes),  
• With the MAJORITY of TLM goers, you'll find they are well-meaning and faithful Catholics who are proud of their faith and actually practice it fully, and happily participate in the Mass and believe all that is taught by the Magisterium.
• As a first timer, be prepared to see things that are rare, or not the norm like the Novus Ordo mass you usually attend. 

3) So you say it's not like my normal mass, that Novus Ordo thingee??? How so? Is this Mass “different” from the Novus Ordo, or what I get usually every Sunday?

The similarities or "equalities" I can whip off easily without consulting a theologian or a liturgical theology textbook are:

• A canonically valid and licit Mass, said by a priest with proper faculties (under the Diocesan Bishop) with the proper form, matter, and intention, is sacramentally valid.. In other words as long as those conditions applied, your Novus Ordo OR the Latin Mass/EF is acceptable to fulfil your Sunday Mass obligation. 
• Furthermore, the new mass came from the old, though abridged with the removal of certain parts. Some parts will be familiar to you, such as the Glory to God, (ad gloriem majroiem dei) the Our Father, etc. Direct Latin to English translations are present in dual-language missals/missalettes. 
• There are altar servers who do some of the same actions as in the Novus Ordo (e.g. carry up cruets to the side of the altar and wash the priest`s hands, bell ringing, etc.) However they do much more than that ....
• You are receiving the Eucharist at the Mass. The way you do is different though ...

Here`s just a few relevant differences between the two forms, with the EF having different things or enhanced versions of the Novus Ordo (one could also say those roles were stripped down so to speak too ...)

• Most of the mass will be said in the TRUE language of the Roman Catholic Church: Latin. 
• There are more overall actions on parts of the servers, the priests, etc. They will move and perform the mass in a physically different manner than the Novus Ordo. (specifics in later posts). 
• There is more "action" in a sense in the laity at the higher forms of the Masses, in terms of sitting, standing, etc. 
• Unlike our Novus Ordo, the EF focuses on more of a “vertical” type of prayer with the clergy (particularly the priest) offering up our prayers on our behalf to Christ, and we unite our prayers with those of the priest to God.  
• There are also more parts to the overall Mass liturgy, sadly that were taken out of the Novus Ordo Mass that may be unfamiliar to you, e.g. Prayers at the foot of the altar, the gradual, the introit, additional prayers said at the end of Low Masses as dictated by Leo XIII, etc.

4) So I don't want to embarrass myself or have some old person or stodgy priest yell at me. What do I do so I can come prepared?

Generally:

• First, you got to have a spirit of openness and sound mind. Obviously if you are biased against new forms of CANONICALLY VALID AND LICIT forms of worship in the Church, you will not be receptive to this experience. 
• DO NOT believe the rumours, lies, etc. that many liberal challengers, be they laity or clergy, throw against the EF/TLM to deter people from participating. In other words, go in with a clean slate. Do realize however that there is always a few "rotten apples in any bunch" but they will likely be identifiable and pointed out to you once you start to get involved. If you do happen to find problems with the priests, choir, inferior ministers, etc. then either support the TLM by being laity in the pews, or do not support that community and find another one who embraces a more charitable spirit to the Latin Mass. 
• Get ready to be used to praying in quiet and silence a bit more vs the noise and clamour of the Novus Ordo. Also it's not a social hall, so please be courteous of the main body of the Church and others around you.

Written Materials:

• Borrow an old 1962 Missal or prayer book that coincide with the Latin Mass from one’s parents/grandparents, if you can.  
• There are also smaller red missals that might be for sale in the city or at the Latin Masses (usually $4-5 CDN). Do buy one if you are planning on coming to a few, or would like the standard (non-changing) parts of the Latin Mass. The Missalette also has other prayers, has notes on the side briefly talking about individual parts of the Mass or servers'/priests' actions and cues for the Laity as to sit, stand, etc. 
• If you like you could bring a rosary, but I have not seen anyone of the TLM bring them to the Latin Mass and pray with them DURING the Mass. Before or after though happens frequently, usually in the form of a prayer group. 
• If you plan on coming more than a couple times a year, and/or to Solemn TLMs, the best option is a 1962 bulk Missal and there are a few reprints that are for sale on the internet and around the EF parishes/communities in the city. 
• The most well noted is the FSSP's Baronius Press Missal, and that "other group's" printing company, Angelus Press. 
• Other older one's are around too like old St. Joseph's Missals (pre 1965), Fr. Lasange's, St. Andrew's Missals, etc. though the best access will be to the reprints from the FSSP and Angelus Press. 
• I personally use AND ENDORSE the FSSP Baronius Press Missal, of which the FSSP is in canonical standing with the Vatican (a.k.a. approved). 

 Appropriate Attire and the dreaded “Fashion Police”

Sorry to have to bring it up this way, but there IS a general expectation of dressing a level better on average to the Latin Mass, especially on Sundays and Solemn Feast days or Solemnities.  

• The majority of people dressing up in minimum business casual, all the way up to the “standard:” suit for men; skirt and feminine top for women (full leg coverings optional but desired.) 
• For a first timer, more likely this is what you would opt to wear: MEN> a minimum of a golf shirt or long sleeve shirt (tie-less) and slacks or chinos with decent shoes (NOT sneakers); WOMEN> a feminine modest top with little to no cleavage (no HUGE V-necks or tightness around the breasts), and feminine slacks with flats or proper heel-sandals in summer, NO flip-flops. 
• For women, just be mindful in some TLM communities of a few weirdos that think pants on woman = sinful. Bleech. This is damn wrong to think so, but most diocesan parishes, lay-organized efforts, and FSSP, ICKSP communities won't scold you publicly for doing so. They know that kind of nit-picking is what kills the Latin Mass. 

Sub-question: So why dress up man? I love my H-Co tee and sweats and I hate dressing up unless it's hitting the clubs or taking my girlfriend out to a restaurant ... 

Answers:

• You are showing your respect and reverence for the Lord in the tabernacle, as well as for the sacrifice that is re-presented in the Mass for all our sins that our Lord carried out.

• Here’s an analogy: Let's say that dinner you will take your girlfriend too is a private invite to 24 Sussex drive in Ottawa with the Prime Minister and his/her family. The private family has world-renowned chefs cooking the most amazing food for your stomach. Are you and your girlfriend going to show up in sweats and a tee shirt, when your other guests have dressed appropriate for the occasion to give respect and dignity to all parties involved? The same principle applies spiritually for the Mass, where the most spiritual food in the form of the Consecrated Host and Blood are offered and consumed in the Holy Mass of all time. 

Latin?????

You likely know not one ounce of Latin or forgot most of it except for Caecilius est pater and Grumio ancillam delectat (from your Cambridge Latin course back in grade 10). Do you need to know it? 

• Not necessarily by heart. It helps though. The language should not just be heard as “nostalgic symbols” or a sign of counter-(church)culture rebellion. 
• As mentioned before, likely there will be offered “programs” or missalettes for sale/donation with the bulk of the non-changing part of the Mass called the “Ordinary”. This is the same for all levels of the EF, (Low, High, or Solemn Mass.) 
• Most of the time the priest doing the Gospel will say the reading (Epistle) and the Gospel in English after the reading in Latin, and the homily is in the vernacular language (English). 
• If you have a 1962 bulk Missal, You’ll have everything, albeit you will have to navigate to different parts of the Missal, that is from the Ordinary, to the specific readings or prayers, back to the Ordinary, a number of times. 
• For non-frequent attendees, the best strategy would be to buy a missalette with the Ordinary in it in Latin and English and to take the handout or the mini “programme” with the readings/prayers for the day for those parts if you are an occasional attendee. If you go at least once a month, get the bulk 1962 Missal. The bulk missal has additional prayers and devotions too, with many in Latin. For example, if one purchases a Baronius Press Missal, they will even have the prayers of the Chaplet of the Divine Mercy in there, with Latin and English. 

5) Okay, what should I know when I actually arrive at Mass?

Prior to Start of Mass

• Arrive hopefully at least a ½ hour before Mass begins. 
• Usually, but not always, there is a priest available (at least 15 min before Mass) for confessions. People take their reception of the Eucharist SERIOUSLY as a Catholic is obligated to do so. The rules are actually well known and taught openly in the EF communities. 
• To do so, one must: 
• Be a baptized Catholic (not Christian), in the state of sanctifying grace and 
• Free of mortal sin (some are are listed in the Catechism, others require application of the three conditions for Mortal sin: Willingly do it, knowledge, and objectively the act is of grave matter.) If one has mortal sin, to consume the Host is a sacrilege and in essence “digs a deeper hole for you” for your soul. If you die without sanctifying grace, you will go to Hell (this has NEVER been abolished from the teachings of the Church and it is in the Catechism). So therefore, you must put yourself in the state of sanctifying grace to receive. If one doesn’t receive confession for this matter, many EF people are reverent to the Eucharist and will not receive at that time and offer up spiritual communion (AS ONE SHOULD!). 
• If this is your first time, or even second or third time, arriving early to Mass will help you get used to the atmosphere and you can also pray to Jesus before the Mass begins. At the very least, you can watch the servers set up the altar for the EF.
• If you can, buy a missalette (usually a red one) with the ordinary in it, but at the very least, take the Latin-English “programme” or the handout with the changing prayers for that day`s Mass. 
• The Mass will begin when the Sanctuary bells are rung or if there is no sanctuary bell, the Choir will start singing with the servers in place to process to the altar.

During the Mass

I`ll get into some brief specifics for each part of the Latin Mass liturgy in my next Q and A post. But right now, I`d rather give you some general `heads up` material. 

• The Mass, like the Novus Ordo, is divided into the two halves: The Mass of the Catechumens (MOC), as they DID not stay for the second half in Church History (which is The Liturgy of the Word in the N.O.), and the Mass of the Canons (MOCa) (which is the Liturgy of the Eucharist in the N.O.)

• In the MOC:
• It mainly consists of multiple prayers including remission for sins, as well as the main readings of the Mass and serves to prepare us for reception of the Eucharist by bestowing unto us the Word of the Lord, and through the Gospel and Homily, the teachings of the Lord. 
• The Homily may also touch on facets of the Catechism or even moral theology.
• BIG WARNING!!!: The Homily will likely be longer than an N.O. at High Masses, and can and likely touch upon hard to swallow teachings of Christ and the Catholic Church. It is not intended to appeal to you, it is meant as spiritual reflection or catechesis on the feast day and if needed, major moral issues, counters to anti-Church arguments, etc. You will not be fed “fluff” here and the priests actually mean business
• When the Gloria is sung at higher forms of the Mass/Sundays, you might be standing and sitting in rotation, which will depend on the celebrant/priest when he stands and sits.
• There is only one reading of either the Old Testament or non-Gospel New Testament Scripture in Latin (first, before English) in the EF. The N.O. has two readings. This is really the only disadvantage the EF has.
• Like the Novus Ordo, you will do the three crosses of the thumb at "Sancti evangelium ________" when the gospel is read.
• The Creed (Credo) is usually recited by the priests at the altar, and also the choir. Normally people don’t  say the creed out loud like in the N.O., however thanks to Summorum Pontificum and with more lax EF societies/communities/parishes, you might sing it with the choir. Ask someone who`s a regular what they do.
• You will KNEEL at the words “Est Incarnatus est” until “Homo Factus Est” during the Creed.
• 
  
• MOCa: 
• Like the NO, this is the part of the Mass, where you re-experience the sacrifice that Christ did on Calvary, albeit in an unbloody form. The bread and wine are consecrated into HIS body and blood in this part. Many of the basic, key parts are similar to the N.O:
• There is more incensing of the altar in higher forms of the Mass.
• Much of this part of the mass is said in silence amongst the laity, though the priest is praying and doing his thing in quiet speech.  Generally, this part of the Mass is where one offers up their personal intentions or prayers in the silence.
• When the priest elevates the host for consecration, you say silently, “My Lord and My God.”
• When the priest elevates the chalice, you say silently “Be Mindful, O Lord, of thy creature, whom thou hast redeemed by thy most precious blood.”
• The clergy, servers, and even the people at one point, always in high and solemn masses, will be incensed. When they incense you, you bow before they perform the action, and after. You bow when they bow with just your head.
• COMMUION FOR THE LAITY: This is the biggest, difference you will perform, and hear complaints about. In the EF/TLM, communion is received on the tongue. No protesting or complaining will change that. You will be likely refused if you try to do it with hands only (unless you are lucky that you get a non-caring priest or he’s rushing or he’s sympathetic). Also you do not say “Amen” after the priest speaks his phrase in Latin which is NOT “the body of Christ.”
• To Receive the Host Properly, Kneel at the Altar Rail or the first Step up to the altar/in the first row of pews, listen to the priest’s saying, then tilt your head back slightly, stick out your tongue a good distance, let the host touch your tongue, and pull back after a second. Then bring your tongue back into your mouth, close, get up, and go back to your spot. 

7) Anything else I should know?
Well, since you asked ....

• Generally, follow the priest/laity when it comes to whether to sit, stand, kneel, etc. This is your first mass so let the experienced people help you in terms of cues.
• There is NO SIGN OF PEACE amongst the Laity. There is a ``Pax`` but it is done amongst clergy and looks like a sort of fraternal ``bear hug.`` The S.O.P. with us shaking hands and hugging and stuff, was purely a Novus Ordo innovation. There is also NO extending of the hands outward or chaining of hands during the Our Father. The priests are up there, not in the body and this isn't "kumbaya, love and peace, man" time.
• All the music in the higher levels of the EF mass involves organ and choir. Much of it is classical, baroque, or Romantic era compositions, though on occasion there may be a composition by the choirmaster used or placed in there (e.g. Surinder has made some for his TLMs with St. Pats.) However, the music is almost All Gregorian Chant in the Mass, as in Musicam Sacram (1968) Vatican document, it`s got the highest place in the Mass of Church music. There are no folksy songs, no theologically deficient hymns, guitars, piano, etc. The ending hymn might be a classical, but beautiful hymn like Immaculate Mary or Ave Maria on a Marian feast day, that is, something that was created Pre-Vatican II but is still sung between both the NO and the EF. Sorry but you won't be hearing Lord of the Dance or Eagle's Wings here to your liking.
• There are NO female altar servers, as was custom to the EF before the NO came in. Furthermore a chapel, either at Cambridge University or in Cambridge, UK, tried using female altar servers for the EF and was stopped by one of the Vatican’s pontifical councils or Ecclesia Dei (who deal with Latin Mass issues.) The vocal choirs can be of both sexes, though usually males prefer to serve and choirs tend to be made of all females (men are always welcome to contribute a good tenor or base though!).
• There are in most of the EF mass churches an altar rail, or the first row of pews is used for Communion. This IS NOT A SEPARATION or representation of clericalism (Priest rules, you are all peasants in his kingdom) where Priest and servers are better than laity and ``closed off`` from the Mass. Think of it in terms of the sanctuary being Heaven, and the body of the Church being Earth (reality), with the Eucharist being the bridge (via Jesus) or the ``little taste of what is to come in Heaven``.  Also historically, even the Jewish temple had separations, even to the Ark of the Covenant where the Commandment tablets were kept. 

Z

Anyways, I think that I've covered most of the most basic things a new person to the Latin Mass might want to know. If I have left out any questions, or you have content to add or valuable feedback, please leave it in the comments section or if longer, a valid e-mail. As for the second part, that will take me quite a bit of time as I'll be looking at other book sources to complement it, so please be patient. That and I do work part-time and between work's numbness and my other commitments, I simply am not able to be a full time blogger 24-7.

Pax Tibi Christi, Julian.