Understanding the beauty of the Holy Mass

Mar 14, 2025

SANDAKAN: A talk on the Liturgy of the Holy Mass was held on February 21 and 22, at the Cathedral of St Mary, with speakers from the parish clergy and religious engaging over 100 parishioners, including attendees from the outstation parishes of St Paul, Ulu Dusun and St Mark. The participants, serving in roles such as commentators, lectors, altar servers, extraordinary ministers of Holy Communion and laity, gathered to deepen their understanding of the Mass.

On the evening of Feb 21, Fr Simon Kontou discussed the role of sacred music in the liturgy, highlighting how music helps parishioners unite with God and participate in the Mass. He distinguished sacred music from spiritual or worldly music, emphasising its role in reflecting biblical texts and elevating the liturgical celebration. He used the Our Father prayer as an example, explaining the appropriateness of the traditional Mass rendition over versions with refrains.

Deacon Ricky Boy Hasim’s session, titled Adakah Misa itu Indah? (Is the Mass Beautiful?), addressed the perception that the Mass can be boring, especially for those attending out of obligation. Deacon Ricky encouraged participants to prepare for Mass with a deeper understanding of its mysteries, as it is a celebration where believers recognise Jesus as King. He also explained the sacred vessels used in the Mass, allowing participants to view and touch them during the session.

On the morning of Feb 22, which was the Feast of the Chair of St Peter, Sr Dorothy Aron shared insights on St Peter’s role in the Church, explaining that the Catholic faith began when Jesus entrusted the keys of the kingdom to St Peter. She encouraged Catholics to appreciate their faith, quoting, “For those who believe, no explanation is necessary; for those who do not believe, no answer is possible.” Sr Dorothy also discussed the significance of the Sacrament of Baptism as the beginning of our spiritual journey and the blessings of the Holy Trinity and Mother Mary’s intercession.

The participants were also encouraged to actively participate in singing during Mass, as the choir’s role is to lead, not perform for, the congregation. Christopher Aban, the Choir leader, demonstrated proper microphone techniques, and Fr Mitchelly Kiun addressed questions raised by the participants. The event was interactive, informative, and fostered a warm, friendly atmosphere where clergy, religious, and parishioners engaged positively.