Last weekend saw a momentous change in the Church — the New Roman Missal was initiated at all English-speaking countries throughout the world. What an exciting time to be a part of Roman Catholic history! Of course, as with any change, it will require time to adjust. But we all know that practice and repetition will help us more each week.
As I looked down from the loft last weekend I noticed that most people in the congregation were using the “help cards." Those cards are a useful tool, as the new words are printed in red. For those who prefer to hold only one reference tool, the Order of Mass begins on page 3 of the Heritage Missal. Some said it was a bit confusing shifting back and forth between too many items in the pews so they used the missal.
Others asked for the song booklets containing the “Mass of Christ the Savior” to be returned to the pews. They were removed to make room for the help cards. For those of you who need the music, the “Mass of Christ the Savior” is found on page 42 of the Heritage Missal. I will also try to remember to inform the congregation before Mass begins as to which Mystery of Faith we’ll be using (in the Eucharistic Prayer) until the organ introductions are more familiar.
Last weekend I found that I, too, had to really concentrate on what I was doing and work very hard at keeping it all straight. On the organ’s music stand sat the accompaniment book for the Mass of Christ the Savior, my song and prayer roster, the Heritage Missal, a copy of a page out of the Sacramentary, the Mass help card, and the choral arrangement of the Mass! Again, we’re in this together! In time we will see the fruits of our labor. With each passing week we will become more comfortable and be able to worship with praise and rejoicing!
