Entering into the Mass | Second Sunday of Lent | Father David Neuschwander

2nd Sunday of Lent (03/01/26) – Entering into the Mass, Part 1 Have you ever thought, "Mass is boring?" Many of us have felt that way at times. But the reality is that the Holy Mass is anything but boring. Often the challenge is that we haven't learned how to fully enter into what is happening. In this first homily of a Lenten series on the Mass, we begin exploring how to participate more intentionally in the sacred liturgy. The Mass is structured in four parts: the Introductory Rites, the Liturgy of the Word, the Liturgy of the Eucharist, and the Concluding Rite. This week we focus on the Introductory Rites, which prepare our hearts, minds, and souls to encounter God. From the Entrance Procession and Opening Hymn, to the Sign of the Cross, the Greeting, the Penitential Act, the Gloria, and the Collect, each moment invites us to actively participate rather than simply observe. These opening moments help us bring our lives, struggles, and intentions before the Lord and prepare us to receive Him more fully in His Word and in the Eucharist. As you listen, reflect on how you approach the beginning of Mass. What parts of the Introductory Rites might God be inviting you to enter into more intentionally?