Over time, however, I've developed a routine that has greatly enriched my participation in Mass and helps deepen my understanding of the Scriptures.
In this article, I will share how I use my missal throughout the week and how it influences my experience at Mass.
Preparing for the Next Sunday
Each week, I start by reading the readings and Gospel for the upcoming Sunday. I usually do this a few times during the week, often choosing quiet moments when I can sit without distractions. Reading through these passages in advance allows me to familiarise myself with the theme and message of the Mass.
The first reading, often from the Old Testament, frequently sets the stage for the Gospel. I take my time to read it slowly, reflecting on how God's covenantal love and the stories of faith connect with the Gospel passage.
The responsorial psalm often echoes these themes, and I might read it aloud to let the words sink in more deeply.
The second reading, usually from the New Testament, adds a different perspective that ties into the overall theme.
As I read, I look for connections between the readings, asking myself, "What message is God communicating to us this week?" By doing this, I begin to discern the theme that will likely be explored during the homily.
Reflecting on the Readings
Instead of rushing through the passages, I let the words resonate in my heart. I may read a passage several times, each time noticing something new. The Scriptures are living and dynamic, and when I read them prayerfully, I often experience new insights.
Throughout the week, I continue to reflect on the readings. If something confuses me, I might look it up or wait until the homily at mass where it's always clarified. But most of the time, I let the words sit with me, trusting that the Holy Spirit will illuminate their meaning.
Attending Mass Without My Missal
Interestingly, I don't bring my missal to Mass.
After spending time during the week engaging with the readings, I find that to follow along in the book during the Liturgy of the Word would now be a distraction and instead I now need to listen to the word of God.
Having already read the passages in the peace and quiet of my home, I'm now prepared to hear them and listen to them proclaimed aloud.
Listening to the readings at Mass provides a different experience than reading them alone. There's something powerful about hearing God's Word spoken in a communal setting. The cadence of the lector's voice, the emphasis on certain words, and the shared experience with the congregation all contribute to a richer understanding.
Listening with My Eyes Closed
When it comes time for the homily, I usually close my eyes. I find that by doing this it helps me focus more intently on Father's words. With my eyes closed, I'm less distracted by my surroundings and can more fully absorb the homily's message.
The homily ties the readings together, helping us see how the Old and New Testaments connect and how these ancient texts apply to our lives today. By the time the homily begins, I've already pondered the readings during the week and heard them proclaimed at Mass.
Now, with my eyes closed, I can concentrate on how Father interprets and applies these Scriptures to our faith journey.
The Fruits of This Practice
Over time, using my missal in this way has borne much fruit in my spiritual life. Here are a few key benefits I've noticed:
Deeper Understanding of Scripture: By repeatedly engaging with the readings throughout the week, I grasp the themes and messages more clearly. I'm no longer surprised by the readings at Mass but instead feel like I'm greeting familiar friends.
More Attentive Listening: Without the distraction of flipping pages during Mass, I can fully focus on the spoken Word of God. My attention is directed toward the lector, Father, and ultimately, the message God our Father wants me to hear.
Greater Spiritual Insights: Reading in advance allows me to listen for different nuances when I hear the readings aloud. The Spirit often reveals new insights when the Scriptures are proclaimed in the liturgical setting.
Increased Participation in the Mass: Mass feels more engaging now that I prepare for it during the week. I don't feel like a passive observer but an active participant in the Liturgy of the Word.
Practical Tips for Using a Missal
If you're considering a similar approach, here are a few practical tips that might help:
Set Aside Time: Choose a specific time each week to read the upcoming readings. Early mornings, quiet evenings, or afternoons can work well.
Pray Before Reading: Ask the Holy Spirit to open your heart and mind to the message God wants to convey through the Scriptures.
Read Aloud: Reading the passages aloud can help the words resonate more deeply.
Look for Themes: Pay attention to connections between the readings and the psalm. The Church selects these passages with great care to highlight a central message.
Listen Attentively at Mass: Once you've prepared at home, resist the urge to bring your missal to Mass. Instead, listen actively and attentively.
Close Your Eyes During the Homily: If it helps you focus, try closing your eyes as you listen to the homily. See if this practice enhances your understanding, as it has for me.
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If you haven't yet developed a routine for using your missal, I encourage you to try some of these practices. You might be surprised at how much more connected you feel to the Scriptures and the Mass itself. After all, God's Word is a gift meant to be received, pondered, and lived out in our daily lives.
With a little preparation and prayer, we can all grow closer to God through the beautiful readings we hear each Sunday.