Today, as I continue our discussion o fthe meaning of each of the four separate ways we experience Christ’s presence in the Mass, we’ll discuss Christ’s presence in the community that is gathered. This is a fairly straightforward assertion, since it was Jesus who said, “For where two or three are gathered together in my name, I am there among them” (Matthew 18:20 -NRSV). Christ is present in the group of people who gather to offer the Mass. Not only did Jesus promise to be with his followers whenever they gathered in his name, but the people who gather at Mass are members of the Church, the Body of Christ, his continuing presence in the world! In gathering, we are demonstrating this unity of the body in a symbolic and actual “communion.” There are several ways that this unity is stressed in the gathering. When we sing together, when we say prayers together, when we stand together, when we all sit, etc., we reinforce this union. (More on “unity” at Mass, later) It is in “showing up” at Mass that we are acknowledging our place in Christ’s body and stressing that we all matter.
As a matter of fact, it bears mentioning that our church architecture changed after Vatican II, not because there was a lack of skilled workers, as is often said. Instead, the layout, and décor of Catholic churches changed in order to emphasize this unity of the community gathered, and to clearly symbolize the unity that gathering was intended to foster, among other things. Now, when we gather, we aren’t just looking at people’s backs. We are doing things together as a single, unified Body of Christ. Each part of that body is important, and it is good for us to see those gathered with us. We can see the gifts and talents of others, acknowledging their presence, and the presence of Christ in them. People aren’t just blocking our view of the altar! On the contrary, they are with us in our collective celebration. We are ALL bringing our gifts and talents, and OURSELVES -offering them as part of the sacrifice of the Mass. Joining them with Christ’s sacrifice at the altar.
So much more could be said! If there is any aspect of the liturgy that you’d like to know more about, just let me know. Let me also take this opportunity to encourage you to join me in participating in the “Catechism in a Year” discussion that will gather on the second and fourth Wednesday evening, or Thursday morning each month. There is still time to join the study. Contact me with any questions that you might have.