Do This in Rememberance of Me

A Step-by-Step Walk Through the Mass

Why is the Mass so important? Why do we stand, sit, and kneel at specific times during the Mass? Where did the prayers we say at Mass come from? When does Jesus actually become present in his Body, Blood, Soul, and Divinity? How do I pray better at Mass?

In this series of blog posts, Fr. Luke Spannagel walks us through the Mass answering these and many other questions about the Mass.

November 21, 2022

Do This in Remembrance of Me, Part 1: Holy Water and Sacramentals

Why do we bless ourselves with holy water upon entering the church? In this series, we’ll explore common things Catholics want to know about the Mass.

November 28, 2022

Do This in Remembrance of Me, Part 2: Genuflection

Before we slide into the pew, if the Blessed Sacrament is present in the sanctuary of the church, we genuflect. What is a genuflection?

December 2, 2022

Do This in Remembrance of Me, Part 3: Silence before Mass

If there is a little time before Mass begins, some moments of prayer will help prepare you for the graces of the Mass.

December 8, 2022

Do This in Remembrance of Me, Part 4: Opening Hymn

The Introductory Rites often begin with a hymn. Let’s explore the importance of music and singing in prayer.

December 14, 2022

Do This in Remembrance of Me, Part 5: Altar Kiss

Have you noticed that, during the entrance hymn or antiphon, the celebrant approaches the altar and kisses it? Why does he do that?

December 15, 2022

Do This in Remembrance of Me, Part 6: Sign of the Cross

There is a familiar gesture we do at every Mass and frequently with our prayers: we make the Sign of the Cross. Why?

December 20, 2022

Do This in Remembrance of Me, Part 7: Greeting

After the Sign of the Cross, the priest says, “The Lord be with you.” Why is the greeting so formal, and why do we say, “And with your spirit?”

January 5, 2023

Do This in Remembrance of Me, Part 8: Penitential Act

After the priest’s greeting and people’s response at the beginning of the Mass, we next share in the Penitential Act.

January 11, 2023

Do This in Remembrance of Me, Part 9: Forms of Penitential Act

The Penitential Act has three different forms. While they similarly acknowledge the truth about God, each does so in a different way.

January 17, 2023

Do This in Remembrance of Me, Part 10: Penitential Absolution

In this next installment of the Step-by-Step Walk through the Mass series, Fr. Luke Spannagel will explain what penitential absolution is.

January 24, 2023

Do This in Remembrance of Me, Part 11: Gloria

In this next installment of the Step-by-Step Walk Through the Mass, Fr. Luke Spannagel will dive into the meaning of the Gloria.

January 31, 2023

Do This in Remembrance of Me, Part 12: Collect

Fr. Spannagel continues to guide us through the Mass with an explanation of what the Collect is and how we can actively participate in this prayer.

February 7, 2023

Do This in Remembrance of Me, Part 13: Liturgy of the Word

Every Mass, after the Collect, we all sit down and begin the part of the Mass called the Liturgy of the Word.

February 16, 2023

Do This in Remembrance of Me, Part 14: Listening to God’s Word

As we continue to reflect on the Liturgy of the Word, we focus on the spiritual aspects of listening to God’s Word and receiving it into our hearts.

February 21, 2023

Do This in Remembrance of Me, Part 15: The First Reading

This week we begin looking more closely at each part of the Liturgy of the Word, beginning with the First Reading.

February 28, 2023

Do This in Remembrance of Me, Part 16: Responsorial Psalm

Did you know that Jesus prayed the Psalms? Learn more about the Responsorial Psalm in Fr. Luke Spannagel’s step-by-step walk through the Mass.

Do This in Remembrance of Me, Part 17: Second Reading

Fr. Luke Spannagel continues his series, “A Step-by-Step Walk through the Mass,” by addressing the Second Reading from the Liturgy of the Word.

Do This in Remembrance of Me, Part 18: Response After Readings

We resume Fr. Luke Spannagel’s series on the Mass with a reflection on the congregational response to the First and Second Readings.

Do This in Remembrance of Me, Part 19: Alleluia

Fr. Luke continues to take us through a study of the Mass with a reflection on a word we haven’t heard all Lent: the “Alleluia.”

Do This in Remembrance of Me, Part 20: Gospel

In this reflection, Fr. Luke talks about the importance of the Gospel reading—not just at Mass but in our daily lives as well.

Do This in Remembrance of Me, Part 21: The Four Gospels

Fr. Luke explains the main differences between the four Gospels as well as how their shared purpose unites them into one cohesive narrative.

Do This in Remembrance of Me, Part 22: The Harmony of the Gospels

Fr. Luke describes the harmony of the four Gospels and defines some important terms about our understanding of Sacred Scripture.

Do This in Remembrance of Me, Part 23: The “Fifth Gospel”

This week, Fr. Luke introduces us to the “fifth Gospel,” a term used to describe the Holy Land where Jesus lived and died for our sins.

Do This in Remembrance of Me, Part 24: The Homily

This week, we reflect on the purpose of the homily and how it functions as a link between the Liturgy of the Word and the Liturgy of the Eucharist.

Do This in Remembrance of Me, Part 25: A Deeper Look at the Homily

This week, we continue to reflect on the purpose of the homily to focus our hearts on Jesus’s presence with us and his love for us.

Do This in Remembrance of Me, Part 26: How to Engage with the Homily

Fr. Luke explains how we can engage more deeply with the homily during Mass—regardless of how long it is!

Do This in Remembrance of Me, Part 27: The Creed

Fr. Luke continues his series on the Mass with an introduction to the Creed—what it is, where it came from, and why we recite it at Sunday Mass.

Do This in Remembrance of Me, Part 28: The Creed as Profession of Faith

As we continue to learn about the Creed, Fr. Luke explains what the word “creed” means and why we stand to profess our faith in unison at Mass.

Do This in Remembrance of Me, Part 29: The Creed as Statement of Faith in the Trinity

Fr. Luke further unpacks the Creed as a statement of faith that affirms our believe in the Holy Trinity—One God in Three Persons.

Do This in Remembrance of Me, Part 30: Intercessions

Fr. Luke shows how us how powerful our prayers are when we offer them as a united Church during the General Intercessions at Mass.

Do This in Remembrance of Me, Part 31: The Liturgy of the Word and the Liturgy of the Eucharist

Fr. Luke invites us to “Taste and see the goodness of the Lord” (Ps. 34:8), who instructs, refreshes, and nourishes us at two tables at every Mass.

Do This in Remembrance of Me, Part 32: The Parts of the Liturgy of the Eucharist

Our journey through the Mass continues as Father Luke offers us a “road map” through the first parts of the Liturgy of the Eucharist.

Do This in Remembrance of Me, Part 33: Altar Setup

This week, Fr. Luke invites us to examine the many items that are needed for the Liturgy of the Eucharist.

Do This in Remembrance of Me, Part 34: Collection and Procession

Fr. Luke challenges us to consider how we can unite ourselves spiritually along with the physical gifts offered during the collection and procession.

August 11, 2023

Do This in Remembrance of Me, Part 35: Offertory Water and Wine

This week, we’ll learn about the prayers offered over the water and wine at Mass, as well as how these elements symbolize our union with Christ.

August 23, 2023

Do This in Remembrance of Me, Part 36: Bread and Wine

Have you ever wondered why we only use bread and wine for the Communion elements at Mass? Fr. Luke explains why in this week’s post.

August 30, 2023

Do This in Remembrance of Me, Part 37: Silent, Humble, Contrite

Fr. Luke unpacks the quiet prayer the priest prays after offering the bread and wine during the Offertory at Mass.

September 6, 2023

Do This in Remembrance of Me, Part 38: Incense

This week, Fr. Luke explains what incense is, where its roots come from in Scripture and Tradition, and why it is used in the liturgy of the Mass.

September 13, 2023

Do This in Remembrance of Me, Part 39: Incense—A Vision of Heaven

This week, Fr. Luke explains what incense is, where its roots come from in Scripture and Tradition, and why it is used in the liturgy of the Mass.

September 20, 2023

Do This in Remembrance of Me, Part 40: Washing Hands

This week, Fr. Luke explores the historic practicality as well as the enduring symbolism of the priest washing his hands during the Mass.

September 27, 2023

Do This in Remembrance of Me, Part 41: The Prayer over the Offerings

We continue our journey through the Mass by exploring the Prayer over the Offerings, remembering how we can unite our own sacrifices with this prayer.

October 5, 2023

Do This in Remembrance of Me, Part 42: The Eucharistic Prayer

Our journey through the Mass is reaching a climax as we explore the Eucharistic Prayer and the individual elements that compose this prayer.

October 11, 2023

Do This in Remembrance of Me, Part 43: The Preface

The beginning of the Eucharistic Prayer offers us an opportunity to anticipate with thanksgiving the miracle that is about to take place on the altar.

October 18, 2023

Do This in Remembrance of Me, Part 44: The Preface As Thanksgiving

Did you know there are different Preface prayers to be offered as thanksgiving throughout the year—each containing a beautiful truth of our faith?

October 26, 2023

Do This in Remembrance of Me, Part 45: Sanctus

The Sanctus is the part of the Mass where we can join with the angels and saints in heaven in praising God as we say, “Holy, Holy, Holy”!

November 2, 2023

Do This in Remembrance of Me, Part 46: Eucharistic Prayer Options

Did you know that there are ten different Eucharistic Prayers a priest can choose from to pray at Mass? Here’s what makes each one special.

November 7, 2023

Do This in Remembrance of Me, Part 47: The Background of the Eucharistic Prayers

How did the Eucharistic Prayers originate? This week, Fr. Luke shows how the roots of these prayers of gratitude precede Jesus and the Last Supper.

November 15, 2023

Do This in Remembrance of Me, Part 48: The Epiclesis

This prayer invoking the Holy Spirit upon the bread and wine on the altar is also a powerful moment reminding us of our need for his help.

November 29, 2023

Do This in Remembrance of Me, Part 49: Consecration

Through the Consecration, Jesus becomes truly, really, and substantially present on the altar!

December 6, 2023

Do This in Remembrance of Me, Part 50: Transubstantiation

How is ordinary bread and wine transformed into Jesus’ Body and Blood? In this post, we’ll explore the miracle of transubstantiation.

December 13, 2023

Do This in Remembrance of Me, Part 51: Institution Narrative

Did you know that the Institution Narrative is sourced from all four Gospels as well as St. Paul’s writings? Learn more about this part of the Mass.

December 19, 2023

Do This in Remembrance of Me, Part 52: Anamnesis, Mystery of Faith

Have you ever wondered about the meaning behind the Memorial Acclamation we pray after the Consecration at Mass? Fr. Luke unpacks it for us.

January 3, 2024

Do This in Remembrance of Me, Part 53: Offering

While Jesus is being offered as the ultimate sacrifice at the Mass, we have the opportunity to offer ourselves along with him on the altar.

January 11, 2024

Do This in Remembrance of Me, Part 54: Intercessions

The Intercessions cover a broad range of intentions in a brief portion of the Mass. Read on to learn what is prayed for during the Intercessions!

January 17, 2024

Do This in Remembrance of Me, Part 55: Saint Names in Eucharistic Prayer I

If you’ve ever wondered who all the saints are whose names are included in Eucharistic Prayer I, you’ll want to read the rest of this post.

January 23, 2024

Do This in Remembrance of Me, Part 56: Doxology

Out of gratitude for Jesus’ perfect sacrifice—and our participation in it—we give praise and glory to God through this special prayer.

January 31, 2024

Do This in Remembrance of Me, Part 57: The Great Amen

This week, Fr. Luke explains what the word “Amen” means as well as what makes the “Great Amen” at Mass so great.

February 7, 2024

Do This in Remembrance of Me, Part 58: The Communion Rite

We are finally approaching one of the most exciting parts of the Mass! Fr. Luke gives us context on what Communion is and why we partake of it.

February 14, 2024

Do This in Remembrance of Me, Part 59: The Lord’s Prayer

The Our Father was given to us directly from the mouth of Jesus and is an invitation to a close, personal relationship with God.

February 21, 2024

Do This in Remembrance of Me, Part 60: The Lord’s Prayer, Part 2

Did you know that there are three prayers and seven petitions in the Lord’s Prayer? Fr. Luke unpacks each one—including the two most special words.

February 28, 2024

Do This in Remembrance of Me, Part 61: Embolism

Have you ever wondered why there seem to be different versions (and lengths) of the Our Father? Fr. Luke explains why in this post on the embolism.

Do This in Remembrance of Me, Part 62: Rite of Peace

This week, we explore the significance of the Rite of Peace as well as why it occurs at this point in the Mass.

Do This in Remembrance of Me, Part 63: Exchanging the Sign of Peace

This week, we continue to explore the significance of the Rite of Peace, as well as why it occurs at this point in the Mass.

Do This in Remembrance of Me, Part 64: Lamb of God

This week, Fr. Luke unpacks the Agnus Dei, or “Lamb of God,” that we recite at Mass—a fitting image to prepare us to receive the Eucharist.

Do This in Remembrance of Me, Part 65: Fraction

Have you ever wondered why the priest breaks the consecrated host and places a piece in the chalice during Mass? Fr. Luke explains why in this post.

Do This in Remembrance of Me, Part 66: Preparation of the Priest

Have you ever wondered what the priest prays privately at the altar before Holy Communion? Fr. Luke unpacks this powerful prayer for us in this post.

Do This in Remembrance of Me, Part 67: Showing the Host

Fr. Luke explores the significance of the moment during Mass when the priest raises the chalice and consecrated host before the congregation.

Do This in Remembrance of Me, Part 68: Holy Communion

In this first post about Holy Communion, we’ll explore how it is a union with Christ’s sacrifice and how the Old Testament pointed to this sacrifice.

Do This in Remembrance of Me, Part 69: Disposed to Receive Communion

How do we know if we’re disposed (ready) to receive Holy Communion? The Church gives us these simple guidelines.

Do This in Remembrance of Me, Part 70: USCCB Guidelines for Receiving Holy Communion

Who exactly can receive Holy Communion at Mass? Fr. Luke shares the guidelines from the U.S. bishops for Catholics, Christians, and non-Christians.

Do This in Remembrance of Me, Part 71: Spiritual Communion

What should we do when we aren’t able to receive the greatest gift in the world? This week, Fr. Luke explains what Spiritual Communion is.

Do This in Remembrance of Me, Part 72: How to Receive

Do we receive Communion on the tongue or by the hand? Do we bow first or not at all? Fr. Luke addresses these common questions in this post.

Do This in Remembrance of Me, Part 73: Communion under Both Forms

When and why do we receive the Precious Blood from the chalice during Communion—and why don’t we always receive in this way? Fr. Luke has the answers.

Do This in Remembrance of Me, Part 74: Private Silent Prayer

What do we do right after receiving Our Lord in Holy Communion? While this may be the most quiet time of Mass, we are called to actively participate.

Do This in Remembrance of Me, Part 75: Purification of Vessels

Do you wonder why priests clean the vessels after Holy Communion is distributed? This simple act is a powerful expression of faith in the Eucharist.

Do This in Remembrance of Me, Part 76: Prayer after Communion

The prayer after communion, while often brief, is a powerful way to affirm what we have just received and prepare us to share that fruit with others.

Do This in Remembrance of Me, Part 77: Concluding Rites and Blessing

Why does the priest bless us during the Concluding Rites at the end of Mass? Fr. Luke answers this and gives some examples of different blessings.

Do This in Remembrance of Me, Part 78: The Dismissal

The final piece of the Mass is the one from which the Mass derives its name, reminding us what we’re called to do next as we go forth from worship.

Do This in Remembrance of Me, Part 79: Recessional

The recessional after Mass isn’t merely a cue to exit church; it’s an extension of the liturgy that reminds us of our mission!

Do This in Remembrance of Me, Part 80: Personal Thanksgiving

The Mass is over, but before you leave, take advantage of this time to thank Our Lord who is still present within you.

August 13, 2024

Do This in Remembrance of Me, Part 81: Carrying Jesus with Us

When we exit church, we are not alone—Jesus is with us. Fr. Luke helps us reflect on why this is true and what this means for us as we leave Mass.

August 20, 2024

Do This in Remembrance of Me, Part 82: Summary and Farewell

Fr. Luke concludes our journey through the Mass with some final thoughts and reflections on how we integrate the Mass with the rest of our lives.

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