It’s a Catholic tradition that is almost as old as the Church itself. Records dating back to as early as the year 180 show evidence of early Christians having a Mass offered for a loved one. Yet, it is one of the most commonly misunderstood practices in our faith.
Here’s what you should know about having a Mass offered for a family member or friend.
A Mass can be offered for a living person.
Though we often think of having a Mass offered for those who have passed away, Masses can be offered for those who are still alive. The Council of Trent says that Mass may be offered “for the living and the dead, for sins, punishments, satisfactions, and other necessities.” In other words, if you know someone who could benefit from the spiritual graces that come with having a Mass offered on their behalf, there is no need to delay in doing so.
It’s not a long or difficult process to request a Mass.
Though the practice of offering a Mass is ancient, the method for doing so is not! You can submit your Mass request on the Seraphic Mass Association website in less than five minutes.
Because the Mass is the highest form of worship on Earth, there are many fruits and graces that result from having a Mass offered.
The reason that this tradition has been passed on for centuries is because of the many spiritual fruits that result from this form of prayer. The celebration of the Eucharist is the highest form of worship in the Catholic Church because we unite ourselves with Christ’s sacrifice on the cross in worship of His Father.
The of our mass offering in our parish is $2. More may offer mass if the fee shall be reduced to $1.