Why does this happen? How did something so sacred, solemn, and rooted in divine encounter become, in places, so rushed and robotic? And more importantly, what can we do to rekindle reverence in our responses during the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass?
Let’s explore the roots of this issue - and what it tells us about our modern Catholic culture.
1. Habit Without Heart
The most straightforward answer is habit. Many lifelong Catholics grew up attending Mass weekly, even daily, and the responses became so ingrained that they now come automatically - without conscious thought or intention.
In some ways, this automaticity is a blessing. It allows us to participate even when we are tired, stressed, or distracted. But it can also become a problem when it leads to the recitation of prayers without reflection, like reciting a nursery rhyme or repeating a telephone number.
Christ warns us of this very thing in Scripture:
“This people honours me with their lips, but their heart is far from me” (Isaiah 29:13, quoted by Jesus in Mark 7:6, RSV-CE).
To pray without heart, even if it is the “right” prayer, misses the point.
The Mass is not a performance to get through, but a sacred encounter with Christ, who offers Himself to us anew in the Eucharist.
2. A Culture of Speed
We live in an age of speed. We expect fast service, quick answers, instant gratification. It’s only natural that this cultural mentality seeps into our worship.
In many parishes, the desire to “keep things moving” leads to shortened silences, clipped prayers, and rushed readings. Congregants, consciously or not, adapt to this rhythm. If the celebrant is trying to shave minutes off the Mass, why wouldn’t the people feel compelled to rush their parts too?
This is deeply problematic. The Mass is, quite literally, the most important thing we do. If we cannot afford to slow down and be present here, where else can we?
The psalmist says:
“Be still, and know that I am God” (Psalm 46:10, RSV-CE).
Yet how can we be still when we are in a hurry?
3. Fear of Silence
Another contributing factor is our discomfort with silence. Many people today are so accustomed to noise that a pause - even one lasting just a few seconds - feels awkward or uncomfortable. In the liturgy, where silence is supposed to be sacred and contemplative, this discomfort can lead both priests and people to avoid pausing at all.
But silence is not a mistake; it is a feature, not a flaw. The General Instruction of the Roman Missal (GIRM) specifically calls for silence at several points during the Mass - after the readings, during the penitential rite, and after Communion, among others.
Pope Benedict XVI often spoke of the “music of silence” and its importance in our relationship with God. True prayer arises not only in speaking, but in listening.
4. Poor Catechesis and Understanding
Too often, Catholics are not taught why we say what we say during Mass. They memorise the words but never reflect on their meaning. Without understanding, it’s easy to see the prayers as mere formalities.
For instance, when we say, “Lord, I am not worthy that you should enter under my roof…” - do we recall that these are the words of the Roman centurion who had such faith in Jesus' power that he believed a mere word from Christ could heal his servant? (cf. Matthew 8:8)
Or when we declare, “We proclaim your death, O Lord, and profess your resurrection until you come again,” do we realise we are echoing the mystery of faith that defines our very identity as Christians?
Without catechesis, these powerful affirmations become background noise. Proper formation - especially for children and those entering the Church - should not focus merely on what to say, but why it matters.
5. The Role of the Priest and Liturgical Leadership
Priests and deacons play a crucial role in shaping the rhythm and tone of the liturgy. If a priest rattles through his parts quickly, speaks in a monotone, or avoids silence, the people will tend to mirror that pace and energy.
Conversely, a priest who models reverence, who pauses intentionally, and who prays the words with attention and depth invites the congregation to do the same.
The priest acts in persona Christi - in the person of Christ - during Mass. His example matters. He can either inspire reverence or contribute to its erosion.
Similarly, lectors, cantors, and servers also help set the tone. When everyone treats the liturgy as sacred, the people begin to respond accordingly.
6. Reverence Takes Practice
We must remember that reverence is not something we stumble into; it is cultivated. Just as a musician practises scales or an athlete trains their body, the soul must be trained in the ways of prayer and worship.
Slowing down our responses, making eye contact with the crucifix, listening carefully to the priest’s words - these are small acts that help us stay attentive and rooted in the sacredness of the Mass.
Consider saying the prayers at home slowly as part of your daily prayer. Read the Mass readings in advance and reflect on them. Teach children to speak clearly and meaningfully, not just to “get it over with.” All of this helps build a culture of reverence.
7. The Eucharist Deserves More
At the centre of every Mass is the Eucharist - the real, living presence of Jesus Christ, body, blood, soul, and divinity. If we truly believe that, our entire attitude at Mass should reflect awe and humility.
“For as often as you eat this bread and drink the cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death until he comes” (1 Corinthians 11:26, RSV-CE).
And again: “Whoever, therefore, eats the bread or drinks the cup of the Lord in an unworthy manner will be guilty of profaning the body and blood of the Lord” (1 Corinthians 11:27, RSV-CE).
This is not casual. This is not routine. This is heaven meeting earth. Every prayer we say should echo with the knowledge that we are in the presence of the Almighty.
8. What Can We Do?
If you’re reading this and thinking, “That sounds like my parish,” don’t despair. Change begins with individuals. Here are a few practical steps:
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Pray slowly and clearly during Mass, even if others around you are rushing.
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Set an example for your children or fellow parishioners.
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Speak to your priest or liturgy committee if you feel the tone of the Mass could be improved with better pacing or catechesis.
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Engage with liturgical resources - like the Catechism of the Catholic Church, GIRM, and writings of the saints on the Mass - to deepen your understanding.
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Embrace silence. Don’t be afraid of pauses. Let them draw you deeper into God’s presence.
9. The Mass Is Heaven on Earth
The Catholic Mass is not just a weekly obligation; it is the summit of Christian life. In the Mass, we join with the angels and saints, we stand at the foot of the Cross, and we are fed with the Bread of Life.
Let us not reduce this mystery to something mechanical or rushed. Let us teach ourselves - and our parishes - to treasure every word, every moment.
As Pope St John Paul II wrote in Ecclesia de Eucharistia:
“The Church draws her life from the Eucharist. … The celebration of the Eucharist … cannot be the object of improvisation, left to individual initiative or arbitrary decisions.”
Let our responses reflect that life-giving mystery. Let them be full of faith, clarity, and love - not just noise and speed.
Slow down. Listen. Speak with meaning.
Christ is present.
Let us never forget it.