The Mass Explained CORMAC BURKE The following commentaries on the Holy Mass — one for each day of the month — were first prepared for school use. They can easily be adapted for other uses. ContentsIntroductionChrist's actionLove for the MassFaith The purposes of the MassThe first purpose: adoration The second purpose: to give thanks The third purpose: to make up for our sinsThe fourth purpose: petitionReadingsGospelCreedPresentation of the giftsPresentation of the giftsOrate, fratresSanctusConsecrationConsecration-CommunionThe Our FatherPreparation for CommunionCommunionHoly Mass: self-givingOpening prayer, prayer over the gifts, Prayer after communionMass: presence of God Sorrow for one's sin Thanksgiving IntroductionTo judge the...