As an Orthodox Christian I giggled with the longer fast before communion. I think as well that you do not always need to feel so stronly the impact of the liturgy. As someone with anxiety who loves routine I find the liturgy and liturgical calendar itself soothing and comforting. There may be a lot of chaos in my life but divine liturgy is consistent.
I became Orthodox about the same time you became Roman. And the same thing happened to me (my priest told me ahead of that the honeymoon would end) I didn’t believe him at the time. But he was dead on. Now I experience the Divine Liturgy in a new way. It is very comparable to how after the honeymoon a husband and wife’s relationship changes. I love my wife deeper and more wholly now than I can put into words. But it’s different than the first year. I feel now I love and experience the Divine Liturgy and much deeper way than initially. And of course the culmination…the consecration where the bread and wine becomes the actual body and blood of Christ is still sublime.
definitely feeling this way lately & not meaning to... my new job has has me distracted.. which is no excuse but i loved this video! definitely inspired me & made me realize what things i should change in my routines! thanks Lizzie!!
It is good to see you back and recording on a regular basis. I have messed you. This is good practical advice. Now I just need to implement it. I got a kick on you talking about the different genres. I read a lot, but I don't think most people read much. Having them even read a book on testimonials might work for some that are not quite going as deep as you go into Catholic teachings and insight. I suspect you read even more than me and I read a lot.
You do not need to worry about being "passionate" in Mass. It is not about us or our emotions. Just pray along with the priest, or pray your rosary. That is what is so wonderful about the Traditional Latin Mass. The missel is full of prayers, and the language is beautiful, dignified, poetic.
Hi there, many Catholics go to Church for Mass like they go to any other public functions. This is especially so with be the NO Masses where there are more than one 'performer' in or near the sanctuary each competing for attention. The important thing many fail to realise and understand is that they are in the holy presence of Jesus, Almighty God and the heavenly court. How can we make ourselves always aware of this fact. First we need to build a real and intimate relationship with the Lord. For this, a systematic procedure would be a great help. Getting used to reciting the Liturgy of Hours is one way; may not appeal to all. The times set for the recitation lay down a framework for constancy in prayer. But, in the case of lay people like us, the rigid schedule may not work well - so we need to make suitable adjustments. With that, if we are going to Mass, making time to recite the particular Hour close to the Mass time would help us get into the mind-frame and mood for the Mass. I usually try to go to Mass early - one hour if possible. Reciting additional prayers will eventually become real as we get closer to the Lord. Next, during Mass, try to follow all the prayers and readings from your Missal, if you have one; don't rely on the screen projection - that's a major distraction as one cannot pause to ponder where necessitated. Besides, looking at the screen is just like one watching a TV at home. That ought not to take place at Mass. Attentive participation means make every action - prayers and reading as if they are between God and yourself alone. The actions become personal and alive. The most important thing thereafter is to make proper thanksgiving after Holy Communion. Since time given at Mass is too limited, it is good to remain in Church after Mass has ended and make a good thanksgiving all on your own. Consistency in the prayers used will over time open your heart to the realization of the Lord's True Presence and once that happens you will never be intimidated any more by the thoughts of restlessness or boredom. Read about the devotion of Blessed Carlo A'cutis to the Most Blessed Sacrament. The Mass is the most excellent gift the Lord had given to us; don't miss the chance to experience the heavenly joy that we can experience right now on earth. God bless.
JT Michael has given you some very important tips Lizzie! I would add please study and go to the Latin Mass, the Mass that developed organically from the Apostolic age
If the service at you church seems to be boring, not relevant to your spiritual needs, or is otherwise not fulfilling your spiritual needs. Read your Bible, Pray to God, and consider changing your church, or even changing your denomination. I know Catholics would in most cases be unwilling to consider that “The Church” might be wrong but most Protestants are completely convinced that it is!
Its so simple. Just go home and read your bible and read about our church fathers. Being bored and wanting to spice things up is how we get all these nutty prot churches with people running around the aisles. If someone isnt entertained by our Lord and Saviors presence then i cant help em.
