A dramatic shift took place in the Catholic Church almost sixty years ago.  For those in the pews, it was first experienced at Mass—the priest no longer had his back to us.  Instead, he was leading us in prayer and speaking in a language we could understand.  These changes and others happened because of an ecumenical council--Vatican II--convened by St. John XXIII.  The Council Fathers believed that if we revitalized our common prayer and helped Catholics to become full, active, and conscious participants in the liturgy we, as individuals and communities, would become more converted to Jesus Christ and be like him in our words and actions.

     The Mass is still the Mass, but is now called the Eucharistic Liturgy. Why the name change? Eucharistic Liturgy better names what it is we are doing.   The word “Eucharist” comes from the Greek word for giving thanks and “liturgy” comes from another Greek word, meaning the public work of the people.   So, naming it the Eucharistic Liturgy puts the emphasis on our communal “work” of giving thanks to the Father in the Mass. What is the work we do at Mass?

     First and foremost, it is our faith that we bring to each celebration.  Then, it is our “work” in praising and thanking God for all God has done for us especially in sending Jesus Christ.  What an incredible gift!  How can we stir up this gift?

     Our faith gets expressed in our active, conscious participation as we sing, gesture, and pray our responses.  The special ministers at the Eucharist have additional work which they do, not only by their graceful presence to the mystery but in ways specific to their ministry.

• The priest who leads us in prayer must work at being a transparent prayerful presence.
• Lectors must prepare the readings and proclaim them in an audible, meaningful way.
• Ushers not only take up the collection, but also work at welcoming people, especially the stranger.
• Music ministers must work at doing their music well, and through the manner of their presence invite all to join in singing.
• Eucharistic ministers must work at being a faith-filled presence who invites our “Amen” to the body of Christ.
• Altar servers must work at being focused on the liturgy and assisting the priest in a quiet and undistracting presence.