Praise at Mass, not pedagogy

April 1, 2019
Mary Pecci 
San Francisco
 
It’s no wonder that there is in an ever-increasing exodus from Mass. 
 
The major cause? Boredom – the long sermons after the Gospel, which attempt to teach Bible study. Recently, the priest gave a 25-minute commentary on the Gospel. Many parishioners were squirming in their seats, while others looked for an escape hatch. After Mass, the priest claimed, in answer to protests, “Parishioners need to be taught.”
 
Bible study needs to occur during special Bible classes in Catholic schools up through the years or after-school Bible classes for those who don’t attend Catholic schools. They can also be taught in RCIA classes and adult Bible study classes. Many priests seem to assume that most people know zero about the Bible and try to educate them during the Mass. However, to attempt to do it during the Mass is totally impractical because it’s not weekly developmental or interactive. It takes away from the solemnity of the Mass. 
 
The Mass is to praise and honor Jesus – as we listen to his word during the Gospel and become gradually transformed by Jesus through the beginning confession, leading to the reception of Communion – becoming one mind and body – God’s hands on earth to complete the work he has begun. It’s not a time for Bible study.
 
Bring people back to the church by not underestimating their Bible knowledge or by encouraging personal ongoing Bible study and limiting Gospel commentary to 10 minutes of “on target” support of the Gospel.

 

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