MyCatholicSource.com: Attending the Latin 'Tridentine' Mass for the First Time

Attending the Latin Mass for the First Time

Attending the Latin 'Tridentine' Mass for the First Time
Important Notice: The following is provided for informational purposes only and is not comprehensive. We make no guarantees regarding any item herein. By using this site you agree to all terms. For more terms information, click here.

Now that you've found an approved Latin Mass (and it might be quite a drive), you find that you're not really sure what to do once there. Fortunately, Latin/English missals are usually available which provide both the Latin and English version of what is being said. Some of these missals are generously filled with information about what is occurring during different parts of the Mass (which may be especially helpful during silent periods). These missals may also instruct you when to sit, kneel, or stand. So, simply follow along in the book. Note: It might be wise to contact the parish before attending to confirm that they provide missals. If not, they may be purchased from various sources for a nominal amount or may be printed at no charge from online sources.

To best see what is going on at Mass, you may want to sit towards the front of the church (although you might want to initially avoid the very first couple of pews, since you may not yet know when to kneel, stand, or sit). If possible, sit near a friendly person who is familiar with the Mass and can quietly assist you in finding your place in the missal.

Before the Mass begins, you should privately offer various prayers (usually contained in the Missal) and be recollected and prepared for the day's Mass. Note that you should determine whether the Mass will be a High or a Low Mass, since the posture differs depending upon which type of Mass you attend (Low Mass involves more kneeling). Probably the easiest way to determine whether you will be attending a High or Low Mass is to observe the number of lit candles. Six lit candles on the altar indicates a High Mass, while two lit candles on the altar indicates a Low Mass.

Once the Mass begins, simply follow along in the Missal. Try to pay attention especially to what the priest is doing. Even if you don't understand (or hear) the words, you should be able to pick up what is going on by the externals. And, should you accidentally "mess up" by sitting, standing, or keeling at the wrong time, don't feel too bad - it's probably happened to everyone at least once. Sometimes it's most helpful to follow another parishioner who does know when to sit, stand, or kneel (sadly, not all will).

Remember that the reaction to one's first 'Tridentine' Mass may vary from tears ("I can't believe they took this away from me", "It's so beautiful", etc.) to mixed feelings ("It was okay, but..."), or even to disapproval ("I don't get it"). Should your first experience of the 'Tridentine' Mass be in any way unfavorable, remember that the most important thing is not to give up. Remember that your tastes may be influenced by regular attendance at the Novus Ordo Mass of the 1960's, which has a very different focus (click here). The 'Tridentine' Mass, on the other hand, may be compared with fine wine - one's appreciation of it grows over time. Note that it is also helpful to learn as much as possible about the 'Tridentine' Mass. It seems that the more one knows about it, the more one loves it. To this end, we recommend you consider the resources on this site as well as other appropriate resources. Whatever you do, don't let a negative first impression turn you away from what might be one of the biggest blessings in your entire life.

Once you've attended "the Mass of the Saints" a few times, you should begin to feel more comfortable. If you keep attending, pay attention, and participate through interior prayer, it is likely that your appreciation for it will begin to grow rapidly. In fact, the 'Tridentine' Mass may soon capture your heart like it has so many other Catholics over the centuries.

Welcome to the 'Tridentine' Latin Mass - the Mass of our Fathers and "the most beautiful thing this side of Heaven"!

Note: It is very possible that one's conduct in church may have been conditioned by regular attendance at various Novus Ordo Masses. Therefore, it may also be helpful to review information on proper church behavior before attending the 'Tridentine' Mass (click here for information on 'proper behavior in Church').

Also See...

Why the Latin Mass?

Latin Mass Facts

Traditional Latin Mass (Topic Page)

Parts of the Latin Mass (Summary)

Latin Mass Postures: When to Sit, Stand & Kneel at the Traditional Latin Mass (User-Submitted Article)

The Traditional Latin Mass vs. the Novus Ordo (New) Mass

The Traditional Liturgical Calendar

Status of the Latin 'Tridentine' Mass

How to Find a Latin 'Tridentine' Mass

How to Learn More About the Latin 'Tridentine' Mass

Latin Mass & Catholic Tradition: Q & A

The Traditional Latin Mass: A Brief History

The Holy Eucharist / Mass (Sacraments Section)

Encouraging News for Traditionalists

'Traditionalist Testimonies'

What to Do / How You Can Help

Proper Church Behavior

Cautionary Statement Regarding "Illicit" Latin 'Tridentine' Masses

Latin Language Facts & Pronunciation Tips

Benefits of the Latin Language

The above is provided for informational purposes only and is not comprehensive. We make no guarantees regarding any item above. By using this site you indicate agreement to all terms. For terms information, click here.

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