The Mass: Ancient Liturgy
The Mass is the highest form of worship available to Catholic Christians. In the Mass, we take part in a sacred and ancient liturgy, a ritual tradition that has existed since the earliest days of Christianity. Therefore, when we say “the Liturgy,” we are simply referring to the Mass. We can also speak of additional aspects of liturgy beyond the Mass that penetrate the other sacraments and forms of prayer made available to the Church.
The Church explains liturgy as accomplishing the work of God in community. We all take part in liturgy as a way of worship, especially in the Mass. This worship is three-fold: direct worship of our Creator, proclamation of the Gospel, and active charity. The Catechism of the Catholic Church says of the Liturgy: “… it must be preceded by evangelization, faith, and conversion. It can then produce its fruits in the lives of the faithful: new life in the Spirit, involvement in the mission of the Church, and service to her unity” (CCC 1072). The liturgy is also a participation in Christ’s prayer to the Father and Spirit, and offers us communion with the Trinity.