Activity: Exploring Mass Responses and the Importance of Active Participation

Desired Outcome: By the end of this activity, students will understand that the Mass is at the heart of Catholic community life and will be able to actively participate in the celebration by responding appropriately.

Introduction: 1. Begin by discussing the importance of the Mass in Catholic Christianity. Explain that the Mass is a central act of worship where Catholics come together as a community to celebrate and remember the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. 2. Emphasize that active participation in the Mass is crucial for Catholics to fully engage with their faith and community.

Activity: 1. Provide students with a printed copy of the Order of Mass, which includes the responses and prayers said during the celebration. 2. Divide the class into small groups and assign each group a specific part of the Mass (e.g., Introductory Rites, Liturgy of the Word, Liturgy of the Eucharist, Concluding Rites). 3. In their groups, students should read and discuss their assigned part of the Mass, paying particular attention to the responses and actions required from the congregation. 4. Each group should create a short presentation or poster that highlights the key responses and actions for their assigned part of the Mass. 5. After the presentations, facilitate a class discussion to reinforce the importance of active participation in the Mass. Encourage students to share their thoughts on why participating in the Mass is significant for their faith and community. 6. As a class, practice the responses and actions for each part of the Mass, ensuring that students understand the meaning behind them. 7. Conclude the activity by encouraging students to actively participate in the next school Mass or a local parish Mass, using their newfound knowledge and understanding.

Extension: 1. Encourage students to reflect on their experience of actively participating in the Mass. Ask them to write a short reflection on how their understanding of the Mass has deepened and how their participation has enhanced their sense of belonging to the Catholic community. 2. Invite students to share their reflections with the class or in small groups, fostering a sense of community and encouraging further discussion on the importance of active participation in the Mass.

Assessment: Assessment can be conducted through observation during the group presentations and class discussions. Additionally, students’ written reflections can be used to assess their understanding of the Mass and their ability to actively participate.