Learn with Via · Understanding the Mass
Small gestures.
Deep meaning.
The kiss of the altar. A little water in the wine. The words you’ve heard a hundred times. Explore the meaning behind the moments of the Mass.
Understanding the Mass
06 explainers · Church sources includedWhy does the priest kiss the altar?
The priest’s kiss honors Christ, whom the altar represents. Learn why this small gesture matters at the beginning and end of Catholic Mass.
Read the explainer 02Prayer & postureWhy do Catholics stand, sit, and kneel at Mass?
Standing, sitting, and kneeling are ways of praying with the body. Understand their meaning at Mass, including what to do if you cannot kneel.
Read the explainer 03The EucharistWhy does the priest add water to the wine at Mass?
A little water is mixed with the wine before the Eucharistic Prayer. Discover how the accompanying prayer connects this gesture to Christ and our life in him.
Read the explainer 04Scripture at MassWhy do Catholics make three crosses before the Gospel?
The small crosses on the forehead, lips, and heart are a prayer to receive God’s word in our thoughts, speech, and lives. Here is what to do and why.
Read the explainer 05The words we prayWhat does “The Lord be with you” mean at Mass?
The priest’s greeting and the response “And with your spirit” are a prayer, not just a welcome. Explore the meaning of this familiar exchange at Mass.
Read the explainer 06Signs & symbolsWhy is incense used at Catholic Mass?
Incense at Mass expresses prayer and reverence. Learn its biblical meaning, why people as well as the altar are incensed, and whether every Mass needs it.
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