A Guide to the Celebration of Low Mass


Missale Romanum 1962


© 1998, 2000 The Latin Mass Society
First published February 1998
Revised second edition July 2000


The following are basic instructions for any priest wishing to learn to celebrate a Low Mass according to the Missale Romanum of 1962. They will help the priest find his way around the altar during Mass and explain the progression of events. These instructions are presented in 14 parts together with some introductory notes and an appendix on the Requiem Mass. Mass on Ember Days is not within the scope of these instructions.


      Introductory Notes.

    1. Preparation.
    2. The Prayers at the foot of the altar.
    3. The Introit to the Gradual.
    4. The Gospel to the Credo.
    5. The Offertory.
    6. The Canon of the Mass to the Consecration.
    7. The Canon of the Mass from the Consecration.
    8. The Pater Noster to the Agnus Dei.
    9. The Priest's Communion.
    10. The People's Communion.
    11. The Ablutions.
    12. The Communion Antiphon to the Ite Missa Est.
    13. The Blessing and Last Gospel.
    14. The Leonine Prayers.
    15. Appendix on the Requiem Mass.



These notes are based on an original draft by Mr Leo Darroch, editor of the Society's Newsletter, who also designed the typographical layout. The notes were amended and amplified by Mr Gordon Dimon, Principal MC of the Society. For this second edition the text has been very slightly revised and an appendix added on the Requiem Mass by Mr Dimon.



   

Introductory Notes

Bows:   These may be either of the head or of the body.

Bows of the head. Formerly bows of the head were subdivided between profound and simple but this subdivision is not mentioned in the rubrics of the 1962 Roman Missal.

Bows of the body. These may be either profound or moderate. The profound is made by bending the body from the waist. The moderate is made by bending the head and to some extent the shoulders.

Voices:   These may be either clear and intelligible or secret.

The clear and intelligible voice is such that when employed, the priest can be clearly heard by those attending Mass. The secret voice is such that when employed, the priest can be heard by himself but not by the others nearby. However he must really pronounce the words with the lips and tongue and not merely read them with eyes.

Altar Cards:   Although the entire text of the Mass can be found in the missal, various parts of it are also printed on one or other of the three altar cards for greater convenience. There may, however, be some slight variations in the number of texts printed and in their arrangement, particularly on the central altar card.

Veiling the Ciborium:   When exactly the ciborium should be veiled is a matter of some debate. The rules given are those judged by O'Connell "to be the better view".

Extra Collects, Secrets and Postcommunion Prayers:   When one or more extra Collects, and hence Secrets and Postcommunion Prayers, are to be said, the following is observed.

The Collect of the Mass is said, including the conclusion, as given in the instructions. The priest then says "Oremus" and the second Collect follows.

If there is no other Collect to be added the conclusion is made in the usual way.

If there is a third Collect the conclusion of the second Collect is omitted and the priest proceeds to say the third Collect, without first saying "Oremus". The appropriate conclusion is then added to the third Collect.

The same rules apply to the Postcommunion Prayers.

The same rules also apply to the Secrets. Here the Secret of the Mass, including the conclusion, is said as given in the notes with the exception that "Per omnia saecula saeculorum" is said in the secret voice, and "Amen" added, in the secret voice, by the priest. The priest then says the second Secret.

If there is no other Secret to be added the conclusion is made in the usual way and this time "Per omnia saecula saeculorum" is said in the clear and intelligible voice.

If there is a third Secret the conclusion of the second Secret is omitted and the priest proceeds to say the third Secret, to which the appropriate conclusion is added and "Per omnia saecula saeculorum" said in a clear and intelligible voice. ("Oremus" is not said in conjunction with the Secret).

Authorities consulted:   Missale Romanum.
Editio secunda juxta typicam 1963.

A. Fortescue & J. O'Connell:
The Ceremonies of the Roman Rite Described.
New edition 1962

F.R. McManus:
Handbook for the New Rubrics.
1961

J. O'Connell:
The Celebration of Mass.
1941.

P.I. Wapelhorst:
Compendium Sacrae Liturgiae
1889.

F. Zauldi & J. H. Murphy:
The Sacred Ceremonies of Low Mass.
17th edition 1961.

   

1. Preparation

In the Sacristy:   Prepare the missal, if necessary, marking the appropriate pages with ribbons. Wash your hands, saying the prayer "Da, Domine" and then, if necessary, prepare the chalice and paten. Then make the sign of the cross and as you vest say the vesting prayers. (It is expected that the priest is already wearing a cassock. If not it should be put on first, it is unbecoming to put vestments on over ordinary outdoor clothes.)

The amice is put on first, followed by the alb, the cincture, the maniple, the stole and lastly the chasuble. The cross on the amice, maniple and stole is first kissed before the vestment is put on. When putting on the amice it should first be placed on the head and then at once lowered and arranged around the neck. When vested put on the biretta.

Take the chalice with your left hand by the node, with the right hand supporting the burse on top of the chalice. The opening of the burse should be towards yourself. Bow, with head covered, to the cross or principal image in the sacristy and proceed.

Procession to Altar:   Entering the church receive holy water from the server and, with head covered, sign yourself with the right hand from forehead to breast and left shoulder to right shoulder. Arriving at the bottom step, remove the biretta with the right hand and pass it to the server, then genuflect if the Blessed Sacrament is present otherwise bow profoundly, and the ascend to the altar.

Preparing the Altar:   Place the chalice on the gospel side of the altar. Remove the burse and extract the corporal from it. Place the burse on the gospel side of the altar leaning it against the gradine or a candlestick, if possible. The opening should be towards the middle of the altar, unless the design on it requires some other arrangement. Unfold the corporal and place it in the centre of the altar, about an inch from the front edge. Place the veiled chalice on the corporal. If there is a ciborium, which should be covered and veiled and on the altar already, it is now placed on the corporal behind the chalice but a little to the epistle side. Go to the missal at the epistle corner and open it at the Mass to be said. Return to the middle of the altar, bow the head to the altar cross, then descend the steps to the lowest level in front of the first step, turn and face the altar and genuflect (or bow profoundly, as above). Stand erect. The server kneels on the floor at your left.

   

2. Prayers at the foot of the altar

Beginning the Mass:   Begin the Mass by signing yourself as you say, in a clear and intelligible voice, "In nomine...Amen". This voice is used for all the prayers at the foot of the altar up to and including "Oremus". Say "Amen" at the end of this formula, it is not said by the server. Join hands before your breast with the right thumb over the left and continue "Introibo ad altare Dei". (If a card is needed to prompt the prayers at the foot of the altar hold this in both hands before the breast). Say the prayers alternating with the server as indicated. Bow the head at "Gloria Patri...". Sign yourself at "Adjutorium nostrum...".

At the Confiteor bow profoundly, striking the breast at "mea culpa" and "mea maxima culpa". It is a mistake to turn towards the server as you say, "vobis, fratres" and "vos. fratres". Remain bowed as the server says "Misereatur tui..." and having answered "Amen" stand erect. During the server's Confiteor no acknowledgement is made when he turns towards you at "tibi, pater" and "te, pater". Sign yourself at "Indulgentiam...". Bow moderately for "Deus tu conversus..." etc.

Ascending to the altar:   As you say, "Oremus" extend and join the hands and then stand erect. Ascend to the middle of the altar while saying secretly the prayer, "Aufer a nobis..." [On the central altar card]. The server moves to kneel on the first step. On reaching the altar, bow moderately with the hands joined on the edge of the altar, with the little fingers touching the front of the altar.

Then say secretly the prayer, "Oramus te, Domine...". [On the central altar card]. As you say the words, "quorum reliquiae hic sunt" place the hands separated, palms downwards on the altar, outside the corporal, and kiss the altar. Then join the hands before the breast and go to the epistle corner while finishing the prayer.

   

3. The Introit to the Gradual

Introit:   Standing at the epistle corner and facing the missal sign yourself as you begin the Introit in a clear and intelligible voice. This voice is now resumed until noted. Bow the head towards the cross at "Gloria Patri...". At the end of the Introit return to the middle of the altar for the Kyrie.

Kyrie:   With hands joined before the breast say the Kyrie alternately with the server.

Gloria:   After the Kyrie, if the Gloria is to said, standing in the middle of the altar, extend the hands and elevate them to shoulder level as you say "Gloria in excelsis". At the word "Deo" join and lower the hands and bow to the cross. [On the central altar card]. Then standing erect with hands joined before the breast continue. At the words, "Adoramus te,", "Gratias agimus tibi", "Jesu Christi" (which occurs twice) and "suscipe deprecationem nostram" bow the head. At "cum Sancto Spiritu..." sign yourself

Collect:   After the Gloria, or if it is not said after the Kyrie, with hands separated, palms downwards and outside the corporal, kiss the altar in the middle. Then with hands joined at the breast and eyes cast down, turn to the people by your right and as you say, "Dominus vobiscum" extend the hands before the breast and join the hands. Turn back to the altar by your left and go to the missal. As you say, "Oremus" extend the hands before the breast, bow the head towards the cross and join hands. Extend the hands again and say the Collect. Join the hands again at the conclusion "Per Dominum... ", or other conclusion, of the Collect. Bow the head towards the cross at the name of Our Lord, towards the missal at the name of Our Lady or the Saint of the day, even when only commemorated, if any of these occur. (However at the votive Mass of a Saint no bow is made at the name of the Saint.) This rule is observed throughout the Mass.

Epistle:   After the Collect place the hands on the missal, or on the missal stand so that the palms are touching the missal, and read the Epistle. At the end of the Epistle give a sign to the server by raising your left hand or by laying it on the altar. The server responds, "Deo gratias". (If the name of the Saint of the day occurs in the title of the Epistle no bow is made at that mention of him. This rule is also observed at the Gospel.)

Gradual and Alleluia:   With your hands in the same place as for the Epistle say the Gradual, Alleluia, Tract, and Sequence, whichever of these occur. Go, with joined hands, to the middle of the altar to prepare for the Gospel. The server at this point transfers the missal to the gospel corner of the altar.

   

4. The Gospel to the Credo

Preparing for the Gospel:   Arriving at the middle of the altar raise the eyes to the cross and then immediately lower them. Bow profoundly with the hands still joined, but not laid on the altar, and say secretly "Munda cor meum...", "Jube Domine..." and "Dominus sit...". [On the central altar card]

Reading the Gospel:   With hands still joined at the breast go to the missal, which the server will have placed diagonally at the gospel corner, and facing the missal say in a clear and intelligible voice , "Dominus vobiscum". This voice is now resumed until noted. During this greeting the hands are not extended as usual, but remain joined, nor do you turn any further round to the people. Make the sign of the cross with the right thumb, first on the missal at the beginning of the Gospel to be read as you say, "Sequentia (or Initium)", the left hand meanwhile being placed palm downwards on the missal. Then, placing the left hand under the breast, make the sign of the cross on the forehead, mouth, and breast as you continue, "sancti Evangelii secundum N.", then with hands joined at the breast, read the Gospel. If a bow needs to be made at the name of Our Lord during the text it is made, by exception, to the missal.

The end of the Gospel:   At the end of the Gospel, raise the missal and kiss the beginning of the text, saying secretly, "Per evangelica...nostra delicta". Meanwhile the server says "Laus tibi, Christe". Join the hands and return to the middle of the altar.

Credo:   After the Gospel, if the Credo is to be said, standing in the middle of the altar and resuming a clear and intelligible voice, extend the hands and elevate them to shoulder level as you say "Credo in unum". At the word "Deum" join and lower the hands and bow to the cross. [On the central altar card]. Then standing erect with hands joined before the breast continue. At the words "Jesum Christum" and "simul adoratur" bow the head. At "Et incarnatus est...Et homo factus est" slowly genuflect. with the hands meanwhile spread palms downwards on the altar and outside the corporal. At "Et vitam venturi saeculi. Amen." sign yourself.

   

5. The Offertory

Offertory Antiphon:   After the Credo, or the Gospel if the Credo is not said, with hands separated, palms downwards and outside the corporal, kiss the altar in the middle. Then, continuing in a clear and intelligible voice and with the hands joined at the breast and eyes cast down turn to the people by your right, and as you say, "Dominus vobiscum" extend and join your hands. Turn back to the altar by your left. As you say, "Oremus" extend the hands , bow the head towards the cross and join the hands. Then say the Offertory Antiphon.

Unveiling the chalice:   For the rest of the Offertory until the conclusion of the Secret the secret voice is used. Take the veil, fold it and lay it on the epistle side beyond the corporal and near the back of the altar. The veil should be folded, usually in three folds, so that the outside is uppermost. Take the chalice, with the paten etc, by the node and place it on the epistle side outside the corporal. Remove the pall from the paten and place it on the folded veil or against the corner of the central altar card. Uncover and unveil the ciborium, if there is one, placing the cover and veil separately outside the corporal.

Offering the host:   Take the paten with both hands, the thumbs, index and fingers being around it, the other fingers extended and joined beneath it. Hold it over the corporal at the height of the breast. Raise the eyes to the cross, lower them immediately and say the prayer, "Suscipe, sancte Pater...in vitam aeternam. Amen." [On the central altar card]. Having finished the prayer, lower the paten to about four inches above the corporal, make the sign of the cross with it over the corporal and slide the host on to the first fold in the middle of the corporal. Place the paten partly beneath the right hand side of the corporal. Cover but do not veil the ciborium, if the is one.

Taking the wine:   With hands joined go to the epistle corner. Facing the altar take the chalice by the node with your left hand and wipe it inside, and outside at the edge, with the purificator. Then holding the purificator, doubled in two, with the thumb of the left hand against the node, take the wine cruet from the server. Pour some wine into the chalice, taking care not to splash drops onto the side. Return the cruet to the server.

Taking the water:   Still holding the chalice and purificator, make the sign of the cross over the water cruet as you begin the prayer, "Deus, qui humanae substantiae..." [On the R. H. altar card]. Take the cruet, or the spoon, and pour some drops of water into the chalice as you say "da nobis per huius aquae et vini mysterium". Return the cruet or spoon to the server. With the purificator wipe away from the inside of the chalice any drops of water that may be separated from the wine. With your left hand place the chalice near to the corporal. At "Jesus Christus" join hands, holding the purificator between them, and bow the head to the cross. Then, as you finish the prayer, go to the middle and lay the folded purificator over the uncovered part of the paten.

Offering the Chalice:   Standing at the middle of the altar, with the right hand bring the chalice to yourself by the node. Then supporting the foot of the chalice with the left hand by placing the fingers beneath it, raise the chalice and hold it over the corporal, taking care that the top of the chalice is not higher than the eyes. Say the prayer, "Offerimus tibi...suavitatis ascendat. Amen.", throughout which the eyes should be raised to the cross [On the central altar card]. Having finished the prayer lower the chalice to about four inches above the corporal, make the sign of the cross with it over the back part of the corporal, not passing it over the host, and then place it in the middle of the corporal but behind the host.

In spiritu humilitatis:   With hands joined on the edge of the altar, with the little fingers touching the front of the altar, bowing moderately say the prayer, "In spiritu humilitatis..." [On the central altar card].

Veni sanctificator:   Stand erect, extend and elevate the hands to shoulder level and raise the eyes to the cross as you begin to say the prayer "Veni sanctificator..." [On the central altar card]. Immediately join the hands and lower the eyes and as you say "benedic" make the sign of the cross with the right hand over the host and chalice together while placing the left hand flat on the altar outside the corporal. Then join hands before the breast.

Lavabo:   Having finished the prayer go the epistle corner and face the server. As you say the psalm "Lavabo inter innocentes". [On the R.H. altar card] wash the ends of the thumb and forefinger of both hands as the server pours the water. Take the towel from the server's left arm, dry the thumbs and forefingers and fold the towel on the altar, returning it to the server's left arm. Join hands. At "Gloria Patri..." bow the head towards the cross and then while saying "Sicut erat..." move to the middle of the altar.

Suscipe sancta Trinitas:   Raise the eyes to the cross and immediately lower them and placing the fingers on the edge of the altar, with the little fingers touching the front of the altar, bowing moderately say the prayer, "Suscipe, sancta Trinitas..." [On the central altar card]. No bow is made here at the names of Our Lord, Our Lady or the Saint of the day should it occur as you have already bowed.

Orate fratres:   Having finished the prayer, with hands separated, palms downwards and outside the corporal, kiss the altar in the middle, join hands and then with eyes cast down, turn towards the people by your right, extend and then join the hands, while saying in a clear and intelligible voice, the two words, "Orate, fratres". The secret voice is then resumed for "ut meum ac vestrum..., as you turn by your right again to face the altar, thus making a full circle.

Secret:   When the server has finished his response answer secretly "Amen". Then with hands extended before the breast and continuing in the secret voice, and without first saying "Oremus", say the Secret, joining the hands at the conclusion "Per Dominum...", or other conclusion. Stop after saying, "Spiritus Sancti, Deus". With the left hand find the Preface in the missal, meanwhile placing the right hand flat on the altar, outside the corporal. When this has been found, lay the left hand also on the altar and continue with " Per omnia saecula saeculorum" in a clear and intelligible voice. The server responds "Amen".

Preface:   The clear and intelligible voice continues to be used until the end of the Sanctus. At "Dominus vobiscum" do not turn round to the people, the hands remaining flat on the altar. At "Sursum corda..." raise the hands, with one palm opposite the other, to height of the breast. At "Gratias agamus Domino" join the hands, without raising them any higher. At "Deo" raise the eyes to the cross and lower them immediately, bowing the head as you say "nostro". When the server has responded extend the hands before the breast and say the Preface.

Sanctus:   At "Sanctus, sanctus, sanctus..." join the hands before the breast and bow moderately, but without the hands touching the altar. At "Benedictus qui venit..." stand erect and sign yourself with the sign of the cross.

   

The Canon of the Mass to the Consecration

Te igitur:   Having finished the Sanctus place the right hand flat on the altar, outside the corporal while finding the Canon with the left hand. Join the hands before the breast, then extend and elevate them to shoulder level, raise the eyes to the cross and then immediately lower them. Join the hands again, and place them on the edge of the altar, with the little fingers touching the front of the altar. Then bowed profoundly, begin the Canon saying secretly, "Te igitur...". The secret voice is used for the entire Canon except as noted. After the words "petimus" and before "uti accepta habeas" with the hands separated, palms downwards and outside the corporal kiss the altar in the middle. Then stand erect with hands joined before the breast.

With the right hand make the sign of the cross three times over the host and chalice together at the words, "haec + dona, haec + munera, haec + sancta sacrificia illibata ". Meanwhile the left hand is placed flat on the altar, outside the corporal. Then with hands extended before the breast continue.

At the words, "una cum famulo tuo Papa nostro N" insert the name of the Pope, bowing towards the missal as you do so. At the words, "et Antistite nostro N" insert the name of the diocesan bishop. The name is added each time in the ablative case.

Commemoration of the Living:   At the words, "Memento, Domine..." slowly elevate and join the hands, holding them at the top of the breast or level with the lower part of the face. After the words "famulorum, famularumque, tuarum" (the phrase "N et N" being omitted) pause for a short while and pray secretly (or even only mentally) for those of the living you wish to remember. It is recommended that at this point you recall the intention for which the Mass is being offered, even if offered for a person or persons departed. Then with hands extended continue with "et omnium...".

Communicantes:   Still standing erect and with hands extended say the Communicantes. Bow the head to the cross at the name of Our Lord or to the missal at the name of Our Lady or the Saint of the day should it occur. At "Per eumdem...". Join the hands but do not make a bow of the head here.

Hanc igitur:   As you say "Hanc igitur" separate the hands, though keeping the right thumb crossed over the left, and spread the palms downwards over the host and chalice. Keep the hands thus extended until you say "Per Christum..." when they are rejoined and drawn towards yourself.

Quam oblationem:   With the right hand make the sign of the cross three times over the host and chalice together at the words, "bene + dictam, adscrip + tam, ra + tam" and then once over the host at "Cor + pus" and once over the chalice at "San + guis". Meanwhile the left hand is placed flat on the altar, outside the corporal. Then join the hands and continue, "fiat dilectissimi". At "Jesu Christi" bow to the cross.

Qui pridie:   Uncover the ciborium, placing the cover outside the corporal. Then, if necessary, wipe the tips of thumbs and forefingers along the edge of the corporal, as you say "Qui, pridie quam pateretur...". [On the central altar card]. Take the host with the right forefinger and thumb at the side and then hold it on the other side with the left forefinger and thumb. It is held at the bottom edge with the two thumbs side by side touching each other and with the other fingers extended and joined behind the host.

Standing erect and with the host slightly raised over the corporal say "accepit panem...manus suas". At the words, "et elevatis oculis..." raise the eyes to the cross and immediately lower them again. At "tibi gratias agens" bow the head to the cross. At "bene + dixit", holding the host between the thumb and index finger of the left hand, make the sign of the cross with the right hand. Then taking the host again in both hands continue "fregit...ex hoc omnes...".

Consecration of the Host:   Then still holding the host with both hands, bend over the altar, resting the forearms on the front part of the altar and with bowed head pronounce over the host (and over any other particles to be consecrated ) attentively, continuously, distinctly and reverently the words of consecration,

"HOC EST ENIM CORPUS MEUM".

Stand erect and continuing to hold the Host over the corporal, withdraw the arms to the edge of the altar, while keeping the hands up to the wrist on it, step back slightly, genuflect and adore the Most Holy Sacrament. Having genuflected and continuing to hold with the thumb and index finger of each hand, the thumbs being side by side, touching one another, slowly raise it in a straight line over the corporal, so that It can be seen by the people. The eyes should be fixed on It during the elevation. On lowering the Host, when It is near the corporal, withdraw and place It in Its usual place. Then genuflect, meanwhile laying the hands on the corporal but towards the edge. This is observed from now until the ablutions, whenever you genuflect. From the consecration of the Host until the ablutions hold together the thumb and index finger of each hand, except when actually touching the Host.

Cover and veil the ciborium. Uncover the chalice, taking the pall between the index and middle fingers (or between the middle and ring fingers) of the right hand, meanwhile steadying the foot of the chalice with the tips of the left hand fingers. Place the pall on the folded veil or against the corner of the central altar card. Rub the thumb and forefinger of the right hand, together with those of the left hand, over the cup of the chalice to purify them.

Simili modo:   Then standing erect say, "Simili modo..." [On the central altar card]. At "accipiens" take the chalice, so that the right hand is just above and the left beneath the node. The thumbs and index fingers of each hand will be joined in front of, the other fingers behind, the stem of the chalice. Raise the chalice slightly and immediately replace it on the corporal, and while still holding the chalice with both hands continue "in sanctas...". At the words "tibi gratias agens" bow the head towards the Host. At "bene + dixit" make the sign of the cross over the chalice with the right hand (the thumb and index fingers joined , the other three fingers extended) while continuing to hold the chalice with your left hand between the index finger (the thumb being joined to it in front) and the middle finger, the other fingers being placed behind to steady it. Then again holding the chalice with both hands continue "deditque...".

Consecration of the Chalice:   Then leaning both arms on the table of the altar and supporting the chalice by the node, the last three fingers of the left hand beneath its base, raise it slightly. Then with bowed head, pronounce attentively, continuously, distinctly and reverently the words of consecration,

"HIC EST ENIM SANGUINIS MEI...IN REMISSIONEM PECCATORUM".

Then place the chalice on the corporal, stand erect, step back slightly and placing the hands flat on the corporal, genuflect while saying "Haec quotiescumque...". Having genuflected, take the chalice by the node with the right hand, and its base with the left hand, and keeping the eyes fixed on it, raise it in a straight line over the corporal, so that it can be seen by the people. Lower the chalice on to the corporal, taking care not to touch the Host with the maniple, cover it with the pall and genuflect.

   

The Canon of the Mass from the Consecration

Unde et memores:   Stand erect and with hands extended before the breast say the prayer, "Unde et memores...". At the words, "de tuis donis, ac datis" join the hands before the breast and make the sign of the cross three times with the right hand over the Host and chalice together, at the words "hostiam + puram, hostiam + sanctam, hostiam + immaculatam". Then once over the Host at "Panem + sanctum" and once over the chalice at "Calicem + salutis". Meanwhile the left hand is placed on the corporal.

Supra quae:   Again extend the hands before the breast and continue with "Supra quae...".

Supplices te rogamus:   Bow profoundly, with hands joined and placed against the edge the altar, with the little fingers touching the front of the altar, as you begin "Supplices te rogamus...". Having said the words "ut quotquot" place the hands one on the left side and one on the right side of the corporal and kiss the altar, taking care not to touch the Host. Then stand erect and join the hands. At "Cor + pus" make the sign of the cross over the Host and immediately after at "San + guinem" over the chalice. Meanwhile the left hand is placed on the corporal. Immediately after this, placing the left hand under your breast, with the thumb and index finger still joined, and taking care that these do not touch the chasuble, make the sign of the cross on yourself while saying the words "omni benedictione caelesti et gratia repleamur". At "Per eumdem..." join the hands before the breast.

Commemoration of the Dead:   As you say "Memento etiam...somno pacis", slowly extend the hands, elevate them to the face, join them and bowing the head, pause for a short while, and with eyes fixed on the Host, pray secretly (or even mentally) for those of the dead you wish to remember. (The phrase "N et N" is omitted.) Then with hands extended before the breast continue "ipsis, Domine...". At "Per eumdem..." join the hands before the breast and by exception, since the name of Our Lord does not occur, bow the head.

Nobis quoque:   Placing the left hand on the corporal, strike the breast with the last three fingers of the right hand as you say in a clear and intelligible voice the three words, "Nobis quoque peccatoribus". Then continue secretly, with hands extended before the breast, "famulis tuis...largitor admitte". Should the name of the Saint of the day occur in this prayer a bow of the head is made to the missal. At "Per Christum Dominum nostram" join the hands before the breast. (Note that "Amen" is not said here.)

Per quem haec omnia:   Continue "Per quem haec omnia" with hands still joined. At "creas" separate the hands and placing the left hand on the corporal make the sign of the cross three times with the right hand over the Host and chalice together at the words "sancti + ficas, vivi + ficas, bene + dicis".

Per ipsum:   Uncover the chalice with the right hand, meanwhile steadying it at the base with the left, and genuflect. Then take the Host, below the centre, between the thumb and index finger of the right hand, and hold the chalice by the node with the left hand, make the sign of the cross with the Host in the horizontal plane three times over the chalice from the lip to lip as you say, "Per ip + sum, et cum ip + so, et in ip + so".

Then make the sign of the cross similarly with the Host twice between the nearest lip of the chalice and the breast as you say "est tibi Deo Patri + omnipotenti, in unitate Spiritus + Sancti".

Then, holding the Host over the centre of the cup of the chalice with the right the hand, and still holding the chalice with the left hand, raise the Host and chalice some few inches above the corporal as you say, "omnis honor et gloria". Immediately put the chalice and the Host down on the corporal and having purified the thumb and index finger of the right hand, by rubbing them together over the mouth of the chalice, cover the chalice with the pall and genuflect, meanwhile placing the hands on the corporal.

Stand, and with the hands on the corporal, say in a clear and intelligible voice, "Per omnia saecula saeculorum". The server responds "Amen".

   

8. The Pater Noster to the Agnus Dei

Pater Noster:   The clear and intelligible voice is now resumed. After the server's response, join the hands together, bow the head towards the Host as you say, "Oremus". Then raising the head and keeping the hands joined, continue with "Praeceptis salutaribus...dicere". Then extending the hands before the breast and with eyes fixed on the Host say the Pater Noster. When the server has responded "sed libera nos a malo", say secretly "Amen".

Libera nos:   With the right hand, but without separating the thumb and forefinger, draw the paten from under the corporal. Place the paten just outside the corporal and, while steadying it with the second and third fingers of the left hand, wipe the concave surface with the purificator using the second and third fingers of the right hand to do so. Then, taking the paten between the index and middle finger of the right hand and holding it under the palm of the hand and resting it on its edge just outside the corporal, the concave part being turned towards the corporal, say secretly, "Libera nos...et Sanctis". The left hand meanwhile being placed on the corporal. The secret voice is used throughout this prayer until the end. Bow the head towards the missal at the name of Our Lady and the Saint of the day should it occur.

Then having said "et omnibus Sanctis" place the left hand under the breast as you sign yourself with upper edge of the paten saying "da propitius pacem in diebus nostris,". Having signed yourself, kiss the paten at the upper right edge. Then, while saying "ut ope misericordiae...", slide the paten under the Host, taking care not to pass the Host over the part of the paten you have just kissed, until It lies in the centre of the paten and with the right hand (or both hands) place the paten resting on the foot of the chalice, so that the paten slopes a little. Uncover the chalice and having genuflected, take the Host between the thumb and index finger of the left hand and hold It over the cup of the chalice. Break it reverently down the middle as you say "Per eumdem" . At the name of Our Lord bow to the Host. Having divided the Host place the right hand part on the paten.

Then with the thumb and index finger of the right hand break off, from the lower part of the remaining half of the Host, a small particle saying meanwhile "Qui tecum vivit et regnat" and no more. Holding this particle over the chalice and meanwhile placing, with the left hand, the other part of the Host beside and joined to that part already on the paten, say "in unitate Spiritus Sancti Deus". Then, taking hold of the node and still holding the particle, say in a clear and intelligible voice "Per omnia saecula saeculorum".

Pax Domini:   Make the sign of the cross three times with the particle from lip to lip of the chalice as you say in a clear and intelligible voice, "Pax + Domini sit + semper vobis + cum".

The Commixture:   When the server has responded, let the particle fall into the chalice as you say secretly, "Haec commixtio...vitam aeternam. Amen". Bow the head at the name of Our Lord and having finished the prayer purify the thumbs and index fingers over the chalice. Cover the chalice with the pall and genuflect.

Agnus Dei:   Then standing, with hands joined before the breast, and with head bowed towards the Host say in a clear and intelligible voice the Agnus Dei. Strike the breast each time at "miserere nobis" and "dona nobis pacem", remembering to keep the thumb and first finger joined throughout. Meanwhile the left hand is placed on the corporal.

Prayers before Communion:   Then moderately bowed and with hands joined and placed on the edge of the altar, with the little fingers touching the front of the altar, and with eyes fixed on the Host say secretly the three prayers before Communion, "Domine Jesu Christe, qui dixisti...", "Domine Jesu Christe, Fili Dei..." and "Perceptio Corporis tui...". [On the central altar card]. Which having said, genuflect and when standing again say secretly, "Panem caelestem accipiam, et nomen Domini invocabo".

   

9. The Priest's Communion

Preparing to receive the Host:   Reverently take the two halves of the Host from the paten and hold them between the thumb and index finger of the left hand so that the parts may form a circular figure. Then taking the paten with the right hand, place it between the index and middle finger (and resting on the other fingers) of the left hand. Holding the left hand in this way about three or four inches above the corporal bow moderately and say three times in a clear and intelligible voice "Domine, non sum dignus" while striking the breast with the right hand, remembering to keep thumb and first finger joined, and continuing again each time secretly, "ut intres...anima mea". The secret voice is continued until the People's Communion.

Receiving the Host:   Then standing erect transfer the two halves of the Host from the left hand to the right hand placing the right half over the left. Then holding the paten, which remains in the left hand, sign yourself with the sign of the cross with them, ensuring that you do not go beyond the limits of the paten, as you say, "Corpus Domini...vitam aeternam. Amen", bowing the head at the name of Our Lord. Then bowing down, with forearms placed upon the altar, reverently receive the Most Holy Sacrament. Having received It, stand erect, place the paten on the corporal, purify the thumbs and forefingers over the centre of the paten, rejoin them, and then, with hands joined near the face, remain for a short while meditating on the Most Holy Sacrament.

Preparing to receive the Chalice:   Separating the hands say, "Quid retribuam...".

Meanwhile uncover the chalice, genuflect and take the paten between the index and middle fingers of the right hand. Inspect the corporal and collect with the paten any fragments which are on there. Having gathered any fragments, bring the paten over the chalice, transfer the paten to the left hand, holding it between the index and middle finger and with a slight inclination towards the chalice. Then, using the thumb or forefinger or both, purify the surface of the paten, causing any fragments to fall into the chalice.

Having purified the paten, place the left hand still holding the paten on the corporal and take the chalice, at or under the node, and say, "Calicem salutaris...salvus ero".

Receiving the Chalice:   Then, still holding the paten, raise the chalice and sign yourself with the sign of the cross with it as say, "Sanguis Domini...vitam aeternam. Amen." bowing the head at the name of Our Lord. Then holding the paten under the chin and standing erect reverently receive the Most Holy Blood including the particle of the Host that was dropped into It earlier. It is best that the contents of the chalice are consumed in one draught. Then cover the chalice with the pall and place it towards the gospel side on the corporal. No pause is made after the reception of the Most Precious Blood.

   

10. The People's Communion

Ecce Agnus Dei:   The clear and intelligible voice is now resumed. If Holy Communion is to be given with Hosts consecrated at the Mass, unveil and uncover the ciborium. If Holy Communion is to be given with Hosts from the tabernacle, having unlocked and opened the tabernacle, genuflect and take out the ciborium and place it on the corporal, then close but do not lock the tabernacle. The ciborium is then unveiled and uncovered. In either case, holding the ciborium in the left hand at the node, take one Host and hold it above the ciborium and so turn to face the people. Here say once "Ecce Agnus Dei...", adding three times, "Domine non sum dignus...".

Communicating the People:   Go down to the epistle end of the row of communicants and still holding the one Host above the ciborium face the first communicant. Make the sign of the cross with It in the vertical plane over the ciborium, taking care to remain within the diameter of the ciborium, while saying, "Corpus Domini nostri...vitam aeternam. Amen." and give Holy Communion to the first communicant. Move to your right and taking another Host proceed as before. At the end of the row return to the epistle end.

After Communion:   After the faithful have communicated, return to the altar, place the ciborium on the corporal and receive the communion plate from the server (or the server may place it on the corporal). Genuflect unless the ciborium is empty. If the ciborium is to be put back into the tabernacle first cover and veil it, put it into the tabernacle, genuflect and then close and lock the door. The Blessed Sacrament must never be placed outside the corporal for any reason.

   

11. The Ablutions

First ablution:   Move the chalice back to the centre of the corporal, remove the pall and drink any drops of the Most Precious Blood that may have gathered in the bottom of the chalice, meanwhile holding the paten with the left hand under the chin. Then, without moving from the centre of the altar, hold out the chalice with the right hand over the table of the altar to the server at the epistle side, meanwhile saying secretly, "Quod ore sumpsimus...sempiternam". (The quantity of wine should be about equal to that consecrated.) Then purify the ciborium, which must remain over the corporal, and, if necessary, any fragments on the communion plate into the chalice. Cover and veil the ciborium and place it and the communion plate outside the corporal. Turn the chalice about gently so that the wine of the ablution may pass over the surface that has been touched by the Most Holy Precious Blood. Then holding the paten with the left hand under the chin drink the ablution.

Second ablution:   Lay then paten on the corporal towards the gospel side. Then put the thumbs and forefingers of both hands over the cup of the chalice and grasp the cup with the other fingers. Go to the epistle corner and rest the chalice on the altar but still holding it as before. As you say secretly, "Corpus tuum, Domine...", wash the thumb and forefinger of both hands (and not just the tips) as the server pours first the wine and then water. Then still holding the thumbs and forefingers over the mouth of the chalice, place this near the corporal and lightly shake the fingers over the mouth of the chalice. Take the purificator and dry the thumbs and forefingers. From now on the thumbs and forefingers are no longer joined. Then holding the purificator in the left hand under the chin, take the chalice in the right and drink the ablution. Finally replace the chalice on the altar, lightly wipe the lips with the purificator, and then holding the chalice with the left hand, and with the right hand dry it with the purificator.

Veiling the chalice:   Having dried the chalice, lay the folded purificator over the chalice, place the paten over the purificator and then the pall over the paten. With the left hand place the chalice outside the corporal on the gospel side. Fold the corporal. Take the burse, holding it by the left hand resting on the altar while with the right hand place the corporal in it. Place the chalice veil over the chalice and place the burse, with its opening away from you, on top of the veil. Finally, with the left hand take the chalice by the node, with the right hand on top to keep it steady and place it in the centre of the altar. Place the ciborium behind and a little to the epistle side of the chalice.

   

12. The Communion Antiphon to Ite Missa Est

Communion Antiphon:   With joined hands go to the epistle corner and having found the place in the missal, read the Communion Antiphon in a clear and intelligible voice. This voice is now resumed until noted. Then, with hands still joined at the breast, return to the middle of the altar.

Postcommunion Prayer:   With hands separated, palm downwards kiss the altar in the middle. Then with hands joined at the breast and eyes cast down, turn to the people by your right and as you say, "Dominus vobiscum" extend and join the hands. Turn back to the altar by your left and go to the missal. As you say, "Oremus", extend the hands before the breast, bow the head towards the cross and join the hands. Extend the hands again and say the Postcommunion Prayer. Join the hands again at the conclusion "Per Dominum...", or other conclusion, of the Postcommunion Prayer.

Closing the missal:   When this prayer is finished close the missal from right to left so that the opening is towards the cross and with hands joined before the breast return to the middle of the altar.

Ite missa est:   With hands separated, palms downwards kiss the altar in the middle. Then with hands joined at the breast and eyes cast down, turn to the people by your right and as you say, "Dominus vobiscum" extend your and join your hands. Then, after the response, with hands still joined and still facing the people say, "Ite, Missa est". ("Benedicamus Domino" will not normally occur, since it is no longer associated with the omission of the Gloria). When the server has responded to this turn back to the altar by your left.

 

13. The Blessing and Last Gospel

Placeat:   Standing in the middle of the altar, with hands joined on the edge of the altar, with the little fingers touching the front of the altar, bowing moderately say secretly the prayer "Placeat tibi...Dominum nostrum. Amen". [On the central altar card].

The Blessing:   After saying this, with hands separated, palms downwards kiss the altar in the middle. The clear and intelligible voice is now resumed for the rest of the Mass. Then standing erect, join the hands momentarily, extend and elevate them to shoulder level and at the same time raise the eyes to the cross as you say, "Benedicat vos". Then as you say, "omnipotens Deus", join and lower the hands and bow the head to the cross. Then with hands joined before the breast and eyes cast down turn to the people by your right and when facing them, the left hand being below the breast and the right hand raised aloft so the little finger is towards the people, make a sign of the cross once over them saying, "Pater, et Filius, et Spiritus Sanctus". Then join the hands and turn by your right again and go to the gospel corner to read the Last Gospel.

The Last Gospel:   At the gospel corner, turned partially towards the people, as at the first Gospel, say, "Dominus vobiscum". During this greeting the hands are not extended as usual, but remain joined, nor do you turn any further round to the people. Make the sign of the cross with the right thumb, first on the table of the altar as you say, "Initium", the left hand being placed palm downwards on the altar. Then, placing the left hand under the breast, make the sign of the cross on the forehead, mouth, and breast as you continue, "sancti Evangelii secundum Joannem". Then with hands joined read the Last Gospel.[On the L.H. altar card]. At the words, "Et Verbum caro factus est," genuflect, meanwhile placing your hands on the altar. At the end of the Last Gospel the server responds, "Deo Gratias" and the Mass ended.

   

14. The Leonine Prayers

The Leonine Prayers:   It is the customary practice after a Low Mass to recite the Leonine Prayers. Hence immediately after the end of the Last Gospel go to the middle of the altar, bow the head to the cross and then descend to the foot of the steps, kneel on the bottom step in the centre, and say in a clear and intelligible voice:

(a) the Hail Mary (three times);

(b) the Hail, Holy Queen;

(c) God, our refuge and strength;

(d) the Prayer to St Michael; and

(d) the Invocation to the Sacred Heart (three times). Strike the breast each time at "have mercy on us".

The Leonine Prayers may be said kneeling on the predella if preferred. It is not necessary to remove the maniple but it may be removed if you wish.

Leaving the sanctuary:   When the Leonine Prayers have been said ascend to the altar, take the chalice in the left hand, hold the burse over it with the right hand, descend before the lowest step and accept the biretta from the server and placing it momentarily on top of the burse genuflect to the altar (or bow profoundly), cover your head, and then with the server leading, return to the sacristy, meanwhile reciting the canticle Benedicite. On reaching the sacristy, still covered, bow to the crucifix and then turn and bow to the server

   

Requiem Mass

Requiem Missal:   It is usual to use a Requiem missal, where one is available, as this is convenient and helpful. The following omissions and changes should be noted.

Vesting:   The cross on the amice, stole and maniple is kissed as usual when vesting and unvesting.

Beginning of Mass:   The psalm "Judica me" is omitted. After saying the antiphon "Introibo" and the server having replied, say immediately "Adjutorium nostrum" during which make the sign of the cross on yourself as usual.

Introit:   Do not sign yourself as you begin the Introit but instead make the sign of the cross some few inches over the missal.

Gloria:   The Gloria is omitted.

Gospel:   "Munda cor meum..." is said as usual, but "Jube Domine..." and "Dominus sit..." are omitted. At the end of the Gospel do no kiss the Missal or say "Per evangelica dicta".

Credo:   The Credo is omitted.

Taking the water:   The sign of the cross is not made over the water cruet as you begin the prayer, "Deus, qui humanae subtantiae...".

Lavabo:   The psalm "Lavabo inter innocentes..." is said as usual, but "Gloria Patri..." and "Sicut erat..." are omitted.

Agnus Dei:   There is a special form of the Agnus Dei. The breast is not struck and hence the hands remain joined at the breast.

Prayers before Communion:   There are only two prayers before Communion, instead of the usual three, the first "Domine Jesu Christi, qui dixisti...", being omitted.

Ite Missa Est:   "Ite missa est" is replaced by "Requiescant in pace". (The plural form is always used even when the prayers of the Mass are in the singular).

The Blessing:   The Blessing is omitted. After saying the prayer "Placeat tibi...", go to the gospel corner to read the Last Gospel. The clear and intelligible voice is now resumed for the Last Gospel and the rest of the Mass.

Absolutions:   When the Absolutions are given the Last Gospel is omitted.


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