New to Mass?
Welcome! If you’re new to the Catholic Mass, or you’ve been away for a while and want a refresher, we’re glad you’re here. This page covers the basics so you can feel at ease when you walk in.
Don’t worry if you don’t follow everything at first. It’s fine to sit, watch, and take it in. Most people find the Mass becomes familiar sooner than they expect. Below you’ll find videos about what to expect, plus a guide to the Breaking Bread Missal, the book that helps you follow along.
Come as you are.
A Word About Holy Communion
Catholics believe that the bread and wine offered at Mass become the Body, Blood, Soul, and Divinity of Jesus Christ. Because of that, Communion is reserved for Catholics who are properly prepared to receive it, including being in a state of grace.
If that isn’t you today, you have two good options. You can stay seated while your row goes up. Or you can come forward for a blessing. To show that you’re asking for a blessing, cross both hands over your heart as you approach.
Mass Videos
The basics: A short video on what to expect when you come to Mass.
The full walkthrough: A longer video that explains each part of the Mass in depth.
Following Along with the Breaking Bread Missal
Under the chair in front of you is a small blue binder we call the “Blue Book.” It holds the Breaking Bread missal, which has everything you need to follow the Mass.
Inside the front cover
You’ll find a quick-reference sheet for the prayers we say together. You’ll use it most at the start of Mass, for the Penitential Act, the Gloria, and the Nicene Creed.
The Order of the Mass
Starting around page 3, this section walks through nearly the whole Mass, except the Scripture readings. It includes some material we don’t use every week, but you’ll quickly get a feel for where we are. On weekends, we usually pray Eucharistic Prayer III.
Scripture Readings
The next section holds the readings for each Mass, including the Responsorial Psalm, which is usually sung. They’re organized by date through the liturgical year, which begins with Advent, and you’ll find the dates in the bottom corners of the pages. One thing to know: Saturday evening Vigil Mass uses Sunday’s readings, so look for the next day’s date.
Music
The Hymns and Songs make up about the last two-thirds of the missal. The cantor, who leads the music, will announce the hymn number ahead of time. Hymns are listed by hymn number, not page number. You can also see the upcoming selections on the hymn board to the right of the sanctuary.
Questions?
Nobody expects you to know all of this on your first visit. If you have questions before or after Mass, just ask an usher or stop one of us in the gathering space.
If Mass raises questions about the Catholic faith, or you’re thinking about coming back after time away, we’d be glad to talk. Call the parish office at 316-788-5525 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
We’re so glad you’re here!
