"The Roman Rite" is the form of the Mass celebrated by most of the world's Catholics. Here's what "rite" means, why we call it "the Mass," and how far back the Roman Mass goes.
Why Is It Called the Mass? The Catholic Mass of the Roman Rite and Where It Came From
The Mass most Catholics know is celebrated in the "Roman Rite" — the liturgical tradition of the Church of Rome. In this session of The Mass Explained, Dr. Brant Pitre explains why the liturgy is even called "the Mass" — from the Latin missa, taken from the dismissal "Ite, missa est" ("Go forth, the Mass is ended") (CCC 1332) — and how the Roman Rite stands alongside the other Catholic liturgical traditions the Catechism names: the Latin (Roman and Ambrosian), Byzantine, Alexandrian/Coptic, Syriac, Armenian, Maronite, and Chaldean rites (CCC 1202). Drawing on St. Justin Martyr's second-century description of the Sunday Eucharist — gathering, the readings, the homily, the prayers of the faithful, the kiss of peace, the offertory, the Eucharistic Prayer and "Amen," and Communion — he shows how the basic shape of the Mass has held firm from ancient times to our own day.
Key passages & sources examined: the meaning of missa / "Ite, missa est" (CCC 1332); the Ordo Romanus I (7th century); the diversity of Catholic rites (CCC 1202); and St. Justin Martyr's description of the Sunday liturgy (First Apology 65–67, c. A.D. 155; cited in CCC 1345).
What does "Roman Rite" mean? The form of the liturgy handed down from the Church of Rome, celebrated by most Latin-rite Catholics.
Why is it called "the Mass"? From the Latin missa, drawn from the dismissal "Ite, missa est" — "Go forth, the Mass is ended" (CCC 1332).
Is the Roman Rite the only Catholic way to celebrate Mass? No — the Church includes many rites (Byzantine, Coptic, Maronite, Chaldean, and others); the Roman Rite is simply the largest.
How old is the basic shape of the Roman Mass? Its outline is already described by St. Justin Martyr around A.D. 155.
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I told him I do not know what I would do without all the knowledge I have gained from this program. Period. Dr. Grant Pitre is phenomenal and an excellent teacher.
This video series helped me to more deeply enter into Mass. Understanding the biblical and historical context brings me attention back to the altar, even when the kiddos are at their most distracting!
This supported by doctrine study illuminates a personal struggle and provides the necessary coping mechanisms to overcome adversity. Doctor Brant has an exquisite methodology of presenting the material in an informative manner that keeps you engaged in the discussion.
Love this subscription. Dr Pitre’s explanations are so understandable and helpful. Michael in customer service is always available and quickly answers any questions I might have.
I told him I do not know what I would do without all the knowledge I have gained from this program. Period. Dr. Grant Pitre is phenomenal and an excellent teacher.
This video series helped me to more deeply enter into Mass. Understanding the biblical and historical context brings me attention back to the altar, even when the kiddos are at their most distracting!
This supported by doctrine study illuminates a personal struggle and provides the necessary coping mechanisms to overcome adversity. Doctor Brant has an exquisite methodology of presenting the material in an informative manner that keeps you engaged in the discussion.
Love this subscription. Dr Pitre’s explanations are so understandable and helpful. Michael in customer service is always available and quickly answers any questions I might have.
