Every young adult wants to learn about the traditions of the church, even if they don’t say so. For so long (spiritually) I felt like that kid nagging his parents again and again, “But why?”
I had many questions about what the church teaches and even more questions about what she does. Many questions were born out of my experience and struggles with Mass. The problem was I didn’t ask. I wasn’t sure how to ask and, more importantly, I wasn’t sure where to ask.
This week’s tip is to ask your pastor to celebrate a “Teaching Mass,” where the priest would celebrate the liturgy while providing explanations on each part of the celebration, leading off with “We do this because…”
A teaching Mass provides an opportunity not only to learn about the Mass, but to be active participants and future leaders in liturgy as well. Knowing the significance of each part of the Mass is often what compels people to become ushers, environment coordinators, extraordinary ministers of the Eucharist, music ministers, lectors, and even priests and nuns!
When you know and understand the incredible gift that is the Holy Mass, eternity’s the limit.
Makana Aiona is the diocesan coordinator for Young Adult Ministry.