Episode Details

Episode 17 – The Mass Part II

In this episode (Part two of two episodes) of the Understanding Catholicism Series, our presenter, James Seghers, discusses The Mass.

The Liturgy of the Word and the Liturgy of the Eucharist, when viewed as a whole, evokes a profound sense of reverence and awe. The liturgy of the word, in its preparation, guides us to enter into Jesus’ offering of himself to the Father. The priest at the altar, functioning in the person of Christ, the head, reminds us of the eternal high priest who operates in and through the human priest. During the offertory, as we make the gift of ourselves, we understand that our heavenly Father joyfully accepts the gift of broken men and women, further deepening our sense of reverence and awe.

As the priest holds up the Host, it is a moment for each parishioner to offer themselves, to personally connect with Jesus through the heavenly Father. Jesus, in his incarnation, opened the door for us to become partakers of the Divine nature and God’s adopted children.  James explains the role faith plays in the mass and the deeper meaning behind the communion preparation and their mystical natures—mixing water with the wine, the priest washing his hands, the acknowledgment of parishioners offering themselves, the four eucharistic prayers approved by the Vatican, the words of consecration, and the miracle of transubstantiation. This personal connection and transformation is what makes the Mass a truly unique, divine, and engaging experience.

James also discusses the Divine offering of Christ—why it was necessary and eternal, how Jesus acts as an intercessor, and how the Mass is the offering and sacrifice of Christ and parishioners to the Father.

This is the 17^th Episode in the (20 Episode Series) of Understanding Catholicism.

Jimmy Seghers was born in New Orleans. Jimmy has devoted much of his life to the pursuit of learning, teaching, and mentorship. Jimmy has taught Sacred Scripture and Apologetics (that is, the defense of the Catholic faith). Jimmy frequently gives retreats, parish missions, and talks on biblical subjects. He is seen on FOCUS with Lisa Flood discussing biblical and religious topics. His classes are approved by the Archdiocese of New Orleans for certification credits for religion teachers. Each week, Jim is heard on the Radio Maria network. He can also be heard each morning on Catholic Community Radio as he gives the daily Gospel reflection. His essays have