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A Devotional Journey into the Mass
If you're unhappy because the Mass has become for you routine or even boring and tedious these pages are for you. They teach you eight simple ways to make your every Mass a joyful time of piety and intense devotion.
Explaining the spiritual meanings behind the signs and symbols, words and actions of the Mass, author Christopher Carstens teaches you spiritually-enriching ways to enter the church building, make the Sign of the Cross, pray the Opening Prayer, listen to the Readings, prepare your soul at the Offertory, participate in the Eucharistic Prayer, receive Communion, and even respond to the Dismissal.
Soon with the help of author Carstens wise suggestions you will be surprised to find each Eucharistic Celebration a fountain of peace for you, a profound refreshment for your soul.
Among other things you'll learn from these pages:
-The meaning of the "sacramental principle": if you don't understand it, then Mass is almost surely flat for you
-How each element of the Liturgy has a sacramental quality about it, and can be for you a grace-filled encounter with Jesus
-How to transform your prayers at Mass into a conversation with God
-Why silence both within the liturgy and outside of it is a necessary element of that conversation with God
-There's a proper spiritual way to make the Sign of the Cross (do you know what it is?)
-How the Creed can be for you the highpoint of the Liturgy of the Word
-Why, during the collection, you should also explicitly offer Christ your heart
-The best way in the Mass to participate in Jesus' saving work: do you know what it is?
-What you should desire in order to receive the Eucharist most efficaciously (and what that desire presupposes in you)
-Coming and going through the church doors: what, each time, it should mean for you spiritually
Plus, at the end of each chapter, a list of action items for the next time you go to Mass, and much, much more to awaken in you the bright spirit of joyful devotion that we are all called to have at Mass.
Explaining the spiritual meanings behind the signs and symbols, words and actions of the Mass, author Christopher Carstens teaches you spiritually-enriching ways to enter the church building, make the Sign of the Cross, pray the Opening Prayer, listen to the Readings, prepare your soul at the Offertory, participate in the Eucharistic Prayer, receive Communion, and even respond to the Dismissal.
Soon with the help of author Carstens wise suggestions you will be surprised to find each Eucharistic Celebration a fountain of peace for you, a profound refreshment for your soul.
Among other things you'll learn from these pages:
-The meaning of the "sacramental principle": if you don't understand it, then Mass is almost surely flat for you
-How each element of the Liturgy has a sacramental quality about it, and can be for you a grace-filled encounter with Jesus
-How to transform your prayers at Mass into a conversation with God
-Why silence both within the liturgy and outside of it is a necessary element of that conversation with God
-There's a proper spiritual way to make the Sign of the Cross (do you know what it is?)
-How the Creed can be for you the highpoint of the Liturgy of the Word
-Why, during the collection, you should also explicitly offer Christ your heart
-The best way in the Mass to participate in Jesus' saving work: do you know what it is?
-What you should desire in order to receive the Eucharist most efficaciously (and what that desire presupposes in you)
-Coming and going through the church doors: what, each time, it should mean for you spiritually
Plus, at the end of each chapter, a list of action items for the next time you go to Mass, and much, much more to awaken in you the bright spirit of joyful devotion that we are all called to have at Mass.
128 pages, Paperback
Published January 18, 2018
150 people are currently reading
158 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
June 1, 2019
An excellent little introduction to the celebration of the Mass. Good for neophytes, fallen-away or cradle Catholics looking to realize, restore or refresh their understanding of this central celebration of our faith. I would rate it higher if it bore an imprimatur. Something this important needs to carry that official seal of approval. It was commissioned and edited by Dan Burke, who also writes the foreword. I have the greatest respect for Dan and the Avila Institute, reading their Spiritual Direction emails almost every day. With all of his credentials, and I do agree they are extensive, perhaps he thinks an imprimatur not necessary?* I was puzzled and disappointed.
One thing from this book which impressed me is that Jesus called Himself the Door (John 10:9). (Some also translate it 'gate' unfortunately.) Carstens recommends we walk into our church through the front door every time for Mass and acknowledge entering in through Jesus. Say hello to Him. A small thing perhaps, but it has changed my habit pattern as I was in the habit of entering through a side door (on week-days) and forgoing some steps, lazy me. Now I must climb those big steps, pull open those big heavy doors and enter into our 100+ year old cathedral. Hello Jesus! Thank you for welcoming me back to Your Father's House! The only Way, Truth and Life are Jesus! Let Him lead us to the Father!
May 17, 2019: Someone dropped this off on our Adoration table, a donation. Had not heard of it, so thought I would check it out.
*It was not an oversight because of this statement, 'No other texts in this work (aside from those previous mentioned, Sacred Scripture, the CCC, the Divine Office and other Liturgical texts) were formally reviewed or approved by the United Conference of Catholic Bishops.'
One thing from this book which impressed me is that Jesus called Himself the Door (John 10:9). (Some also translate it 'gate' unfortunately.) Carstens recommends we walk into our church through the front door every time for Mass and acknowledge entering in through Jesus. Say hello to Him. A small thing perhaps, but it has changed my habit pattern as I was in the habit of entering through a side door (on week-days) and forgoing some steps, lazy me. Now I must climb those big steps, pull open those big heavy doors and enter into our 100+ year old cathedral. Hello Jesus! Thank you for welcoming me back to Your Father's House! The only Way, Truth and Life are Jesus! Let Him lead us to the Father!
May 17, 2019: Someone dropped this off on our Adoration table, a donation. Had not heard of it, so thought I would check it out.
*It was not an oversight because of this statement, 'No other texts in this work (aside from those previous mentioned, Sacred Scripture, the CCC, the Divine Office and other Liturgical texts) were formally reviewed or approved by the United Conference of Catholic Bishops.'
January 12, 2025
A great book to help you engage at every moment of the Mass and everything around you! A guide to get the most out of Mass and to help spread it to everyone around you.
August 16, 2024
“The Church calls this heavenly journey a pilgrimage; we can call it our life - a life made all the richer and holier for participating in the Mass as the Church intends.”
I was recommended this book by a pastors wife, so I was definitely compelled to check it out. I love the way this book is sectioned out and how intentional the author is in highlighting certain parts of the Mass that can be overlooked, however I would consider this a better fit for RCIA candidates.
I think there could have been even further elaboration on certain concepts or even some of my favorite parts of the Mass weren’t mentioned. Truly no book could contain the beauty that is experienced in the Mass, but I was hoping for a little bit more. Will give this to the girl I’m sponsoring though. I think it’s a great start.
I was recommended this book by a pastors wife, so I was definitely compelled to check it out. I love the way this book is sectioned out and how intentional the author is in highlighting certain parts of the Mass that can be overlooked, however I would consider this a better fit for RCIA candidates.
I think there could have been even further elaboration on certain concepts or even some of my favorite parts of the Mass weren’t mentioned. Truly no book could contain the beauty that is experienced in the Mass, but I was hoping for a little bit more. Will give this to the girl I’m sponsoring though. I think it’s a great start.
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September 10, 2022This is a great book for anyone trying to gain a deeper understanding of the Mass and Roman Catholicism. It also has some great tips for growing in your spiritual life outside of the Mass, which (who would've thought it?) helps you get more out of the Mass.
Content is excellent (A++), but I wasn't a big fan of Christopher Carsten's writing style. It felt too flowery at times, but maybe that's just me. I ended up skimming sometimes.
Loved the sections on the Liturgy of the Eucharist and the Offertory.
Content is excellent (A++), but I wasn't a big fan of Christopher Carsten's writing style. It felt too flowery at times, but maybe that's just me. I ended up skimming sometimes.
Loved the sections on the Liturgy of the Eucharist and the Offertory.
February 15, 2018
With Lent here, it is not only a good time to give things up, but also a time to take things up. Maybe you could pray the Rosary more, or go to Mass more, or read the Bible/spiritual works more. All of these are good options, and perhaps you could combine some of the three or find some other spiritual pursuit that helps you grow closer to God. Recently, I received a book in the mail that while it is not specifically for Lent is definitely worth reading during Lent. It is called A Devotional Journey Into the Mass. The book is divided into nine chapters with the first eight giving you concrete ways to actively participate in Mass and the ninth a summation chapter. The eight active participation chapters are as follows:
1. How to Enter the Church Building
2. How to Make the Sign of the Cross
3. How to Pray the Opening Prayer
4. How to Listen to the Readings
5. How to Prepare the Heart at the Offertory
6. How to Participate in the Eucharistic Prayer
7. How to Receive Communion to the Fullest
8. How to Respond to the Dismissal
Each chapter begins with a verse to set the frame of reference. The material is presented in a straightforward tone, calling upon Scripture, Catechism, and personal reflections of the author. The advice giving in each section is concrete and simple to execute, if only a little effort is exerted on the part of the reader. For example, when entering the Church building, enter from the main entrance and not the side. Make the Sign of the Cross thoughtfully, recalling our Creation. For the Sunday Reading, use lectio divina and meditate throughout the week on the upcoming readings for Sunday. When we leave Mass, remember that we are not just leaving until next Sunday, but instead are given a mission to sanctify the world. A perfect way to remember this is with St. Francis of Assisi's "Peace Prayer," which starts off "Lord, make me an instrument of Your peace."
Reading through this book was quick and insightful and something you could probably do in an afternoon or an evening. However, even if you can read it this quickly, I encourage you to slow down and read it more thoughtfully, because within it you will find simple but profound wisdom. I encourage you to pick up this book and read through it during Lent, so that you may grow closer to God and actively participate in the Mass more fully, not only during Lent but always.
1. How to Enter the Church Building
2. How to Make the Sign of the Cross
3. How to Pray the Opening Prayer
4. How to Listen to the Readings
5. How to Prepare the Heart at the Offertory
6. How to Participate in the Eucharistic Prayer
7. How to Receive Communion to the Fullest
8. How to Respond to the Dismissal
Each chapter begins with a verse to set the frame of reference. The material is presented in a straightforward tone, calling upon Scripture, Catechism, and personal reflections of the author. The advice giving in each section is concrete and simple to execute, if only a little effort is exerted on the part of the reader. For example, when entering the Church building, enter from the main entrance and not the side. Make the Sign of the Cross thoughtfully, recalling our Creation. For the Sunday Reading, use lectio divina and meditate throughout the week on the upcoming readings for Sunday. When we leave Mass, remember that we are not just leaving until next Sunday, but instead are given a mission to sanctify the world. A perfect way to remember this is with St. Francis of Assisi's "Peace Prayer," which starts off "Lord, make me an instrument of Your peace."
Reading through this book was quick and insightful and something you could probably do in an afternoon or an evening. However, even if you can read it this quickly, I encourage you to slow down and read it more thoughtfully, because within it you will find simple but profound wisdom. I encourage you to pick up this book and read through it during Lent, so that you may grow closer to God and actively participate in the Mass more fully, not only during Lent but always.
February 12, 2018
Making the Mass User -Friendly
This is a delightful reflective journey through the Mass, laid out in bites that are easily digestible. In a clear down-to-earth style this short book hits all the essentials needed for an ordinary Catholic to develop a full understanding of how to participate fruitfully in the Mass. I was especially delighted by Carstens' chapter on joining in the sacrifice by offering ourselves with the bread and wine, which is clear and compelling. I would highly recommend this book for personal use or for small groups
This is a delightful reflective journey through the Mass, laid out in bites that are easily digestible. In a clear down-to-earth style this short book hits all the essentials needed for an ordinary Catholic to develop a full understanding of how to participate fruitfully in the Mass. I was especially delighted by Carstens' chapter on joining in the sacrifice by offering ourselves with the bread and wine, which is clear and compelling. I would highly recommend this book for personal use or for small groups
July 10, 2023
A wonderful book that explains all parts of the Mass, to standing in front of the church and looking at the doors, crossing the threshold, to how to respond to the dismissal. This was a required text for me in a course I just took on The Source and Summit from the Avila institute. This was the easier book in my course, but there were many great ideas, all of them explaining the spiritual meanings behind the signs and symbols, the words and actions of the Mass. I loved this book as a refresher for myself, and for any Catholic who says the Mass is boring. Oh my, it is not! Thank you, Mr. Carstens, and God bless you.
July 5, 2021
Fantastic! This helped me better enter more intentionally and prayerfully into the Holy Mass. The liturgy is an encounter with the person of Jesus Christ and how we fail to put ourselves into it more to get more out of it. I highly encourage any Catholic who wants to appreciate more what the Mass offers to read this book and practice the devotional tips that Chris Carstens provides in this short but fruitful book!
November 17, 2023
The subtitle describes it well, except that it refers to spiritual rather than physical nourishment. This is a very practical book. It helps the reader to understand the Catholic mass and how best to approach it. For example, it suggests meditating on the gospel reading several days ahead of time, and then reviewing your meditation during the following week. It describes the offertory as an occasion to offer ourselves to the Lord.
February 20, 2025
The book dives deep into 8 segments of Mass, from entering the church all the way to the dismissal, and helps us gain a better understanding of the significance of each segment.
This is a great book for those who find themselves going through the motions during Mass and is a great read to build a greater devotion to the Mass as a whole. As someone who converted to the Catholic Church last year, I would have enjoyed reading this book during my journey through RCIA.
This is a great book for those who find themselves going through the motions during Mass and is a great read to build a greater devotion to the Mass as a whole. As someone who converted to the Catholic Church last year, I would have enjoyed reading this book during my journey through RCIA.
August 27, 2018
As someone born into the catholic church it was a refresher on the mass and although there was nothing I was not aware of it was a great refresher for me.
It would be a good read for anyone interested in knowing what the mass is all about,not only Catholics but any interested person.
It would be a good read for anyone interested in knowing what the mass is all about,not only Catholics but any interested person.
April 6, 2023
A Must Read for Catholics
This excellent book is a must read for all Catholics and those interested in understanding what it means to be a Catholic.
After having read this book, one will never participate in this most beautiful of all prayers (the Mass) the same way again. Your experience will be enriched far beyond any Mass you've ever experienced.
This excellent book is a must read for all Catholics and those interested in understanding what it means to be a Catholic.
After having read this book, one will never participate in this most beautiful of all prayers (the Mass) the same way again. Your experience will be enriched far beyond any Mass you've ever experienced.
July 21, 2024
This book brings new insights into the sacramental meaning of the steps of the mass and how to personalize it to become more actively involved. I learned things about the purpose of certain prayers and how I could bring my concerns to the encounter with Christ. A book to study & review often to get the most out of it to make each mass a joyful devotion.
February 23, 2019
As a cradle Catholic, this gave me a depth of understanding I didn’t have before and I thought I was pretty knowledgeable about the Mass. will reread it to get an even deeper understanding and to truly internalize the meanings of the Mass.
February 19, 2020
A Devotional Journey Into the Mass offers advice on simple ways a person can prepare himself to get the most out of weekly mass. It's not a bad book; I had just hoped for more of an explanation of the content and history of the mass as well as how I can get more out of the experience.
September 9, 2020
A wonderful book about the Holy Mass
I have read this book twice and I will probably read it again and again, it is so inspirational, each time I gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of Holy Mass.
I have read this book twice and I will probably read it again and again, it is so inspirational, each time I gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of Holy Mass.
April 2, 2025
This is a great entry level book. Perfect for those in OCIA or those who were not properly catechized. I wish I had read this book in my high school years. I didn't learn much from it now but it was beautifully written albeit, at times, too wordy.
September 11, 2022
A beautiful guide that all the faithful to use to get more out of Mass and to understand what happens during the Liturgy. This guide should be used time after time. I am delighted!
March 7, 2024
This is a nice little introduction to exploring the mass on a deeper level.
December 7, 2025
Short, but Sweet!
Christopher Carstens makes understanding the Mass accessible to any Catholic. This book focuses on the fundamental attitudes one should foster at Mass.
Christopher Carstens makes understanding the Mass accessible to any Catholic. This book focuses on the fundamental attitudes one should foster at Mass.
January 15, 2019
My prayer partner at work gave me this for Christmas and I read it eagerly. I was hoping for more detail and symbolism within the mass and I didn't get as much as I'd hoped out of it. If I had read the book as part of a bible study I probably would have gotten more out of it. However, I read it by myself from cover to cover without any discussion with others.
I do like the idea of reading the scripture readings before mass so that I'm not hearing them for the first time. I probably would get more out of them if I read through them a few times.
I never really knew why the priest added a drop of holy water to the wine. I now know that it is man's sacrifice for God and the wine is Jesus's sacrifice.
I do like the idea of reading the scripture readings before mass so that I'm not hearing them for the first time. I probably would get more out of them if I read through them a few times.
I never really knew why the priest added a drop of holy water to the wine. I now know that it is man's sacrifice for God and the wine is Jesus's sacrifice.
June 2, 2019
Being a cradle Catholic, I take a lot of what goes on during Mass for granted. I find myself doing things because I was told to in Catholic school and I never really knew why (nor did I ever ask). As a 30 year old devout Catholic, this book has helped me become more spiritually aware of the actions that take place during Mass; from making the sign of the cross, to properly responding to the dismissal to “Go forth” into the world, this book is a gem for anyone who wants to deepen their understanding of the Catholic Mass.
August 2, 2021
Informative and worth reading to go deeper into the mass - has changed the way I enter into the mass! (Even literally, through the front door) However, feels more like a collection of good things that the author has found out than a cohesive, compelling work in its own right. Still worth appreciating this collection of thoughts and quotes though.
June 22, 2018
This was a good book. At times I felt his writing was a little hard to follow. Some chapters really gave me something new and helpful to work on at Mass or a new way of looking at things, but some left me uninspired. Overall a good read. I was hoping for more concrete aids.
March 17, 2018
Walks readers through the Mass in a way that encourages active participation.
February 12, 2019
Easy read to get you back into the Mass. Even after 13 years of Catholic schooling, this book helped me better understand the scripture behind the Sacrament of the Mass.
December 14, 2019
Absolutely fantastic! It makes the Mass even more beautiful and meaningful.
March 14, 2020
4.5 stars
November 12, 2021
Very enlightening. There were some takes on parts of the Mass I had not thought of or heard.
February 5, 2018
This book is short and sweet. It is packed with a lot of big ideas behind what is done at Mass but is all accessible at the same time. This book is for Catholics that may have forgotten the point of the Mass or for those that what to explore the mysteries behind the ritual. While I have heard many of things in the book before, I thought it was well laid out and extremely practical guide.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews