HOW TO APPROACH THE MASS WELL

The key to getting more from each Mass isn't necessarily learning new prayers or spending extra time at church. Often, it's just approaching the Mass and the Eucharist more intentionally.

Here are simple practices that have helped me. I hope they help you too.

• Offer yourself with the bread and wine. As the priest prepares the gifts, offer your entire life to God: your work, prayers, joys, sufferings, family, plans, and everything that has happened since your last Mass. Unite your offering to Christ's perfect sacrifice.
• Choose one person to bring to Mass spiritually. Think of someone who is struggling, far from God, sick, or in need of prayer, and consciously carry them with you throughout the Mass.
• Prepare one concrete intention before leaving the house. Ask yourself, "What do I most want to place before Jesus today?" Bringing one clear intention helps you pray with greater focus.
• Meditate on the Gospel during the week. Spend a few minutes reading Sunday's Gospel before Mass and ask the Lord how He wants to speak to you through it.
• Before Communion, tell Jesus exactly what you're asking Him to change. Whether it's your patience, your faith, a relationship, a habit, or a fear, place one specific request before Him as you walk toward the altar.
• Read one of the Eucharistic Prayers beforehand. Becoming familiar with these beautiful prayers makes it easier to follow them attentively during Mass and appreciate the richness of every word.
• When the priest elevates the Host and the Chalice, make a personal act of faith. Quietly pray, "My Lord and my God," or, "Jesus, I believe You are truly present."
• Use the procession to Communion as a pilgrimage. Rather than simply waiting in line, remember that you are walking to meet Jesus Himself, truly present in the Eucharist.

None of these require extra time. They help us become more aware of the incredible gift already unfolding before us.

Pablo Licheri