Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Sacrament?
A Sacrament is a visible and external sign of an invisible spiritual event or change. For example, the pouring of water over the head of someone being baptised is a sign of a spiritual change, which is a cleansing from sin and a spiritual rebirth as a member of Christ's church.
What is the Sacrament of Reconciliation?
This is the Sacrament Jesus has given us through which our sins are forgiven, provided we are truly sorry. When we confess our sins in this sacrament the priest is in the place of Jesus himself and forgiveness comes from Jesus, using the priest as his instrument. Jesus said to his apostles: 'Whose sins you shall forgive they are forgiven, whose sins you shall retain, they are retained.'
What is the Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament?
In a special vessel called a 'monstrance' the bread (host) which has been consecrated (blessed) at a previous Mass is displayed on the altar and people are invited to come and pray quietly in church in front of this Blessed Sacrament. Exposition is frequently up to an hour but sometimes may be longer, even all day and/or all night.
What is the Mass?
The Mass is the central act of worship of the Catholic community. It is also referred to as the Eucharist (from a Greek word meaning 'thanksgiving'.) In the Mass we hear passages from the Bible read and we believe these are the inspired word of God. In the sermon or homily the priest explains these words and encourages us to put into practice the message they give us. Offerings of bread and wine are placed on the altar. These gifts represent the members of the congregation offering our whole selves back to God. The priest asks God the Father to send the Holy Spirit upon the gifts of bread and wine so that they truly become the body and blood of Jesus Christ. His one, eternal sacrifice on the cross is truly made present on the altar. When we receive Holy Communion we receive the body and blood of Christ himself, under the appearances of bread and wine.
Catholics are expected to go to Mass every Sunday (or Saturday evening) unless there is a serious reason for not going, such as sickness.
What is Liturgy?
Liturgy is the formal worship of the Church. Thus, we talk about the Mass as a liturgical celebration.