The Benefits of Regularly Attending Catholic Mass
Attending Mass can seem like a daunting task, especially when our society is set up in a way that promotes a hustle culture filled with obligations that take up all of our free time. It can also feel overwhelming if you have never attended a Catholic Mass before, and may be unsure of how to engage and follow along in our weekly worship. In a separate post I will cover from start to finish how to attend Mass for a newbie to the practice of our faith (because I was once there too!) However, Jesus promises us to meet us where we are at, so simply showing up is a great way to get started! Attending Mass regularly bring immense benefits to your life. Despite the world becoming increasingly secular, people all over continue to find comfort and security within our community of faith. In this blog post, we'll explore some of the benefits of regularly attending Mass.
Why practice Catholicism over other denominations of the Christian faith?
The word “Catholic” translates to universal, meaning the Catholic Church was established by Jesus Christ, and is meant for all people for all of time. Roman Catholicism originated with the very beginning of Christianity. Our faith is rich in Apostolic tradition, Scripture, prayer. Devotions, and social teachings. The Church teaches a practice of self-discipline and adherence to the Commandments and Christian way of life as taught through the Gospel. Our study of our faith is achieved through CCD (Confraternity of Christian Doctrine) or RCIA (Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults) if you are entering into the faith later in life to meet the educational requirements for Sacrament. The educational guide throughout our Sacraments provides us with the essential information on God’s intended way of life, as well as clearly defined morals and behaviors necessary for our salvation. As someone who was baptized Catholic, raised protestant/evangelical due to my parent’s, and returned to my Catholic practice later in life completing the RCIA Program I personally can attest to the positive impact of this structure, practice, and traditional community that I felt was lacking when attending various non-denominational or alternative forms of Christianity throughout my lifetime.
A sense of community
One of the most significant benefits of attending Mass regularly is the sense of community. The Catholic church provides a safe and welcoming environment where you can connect with other people who share your beliefs and values. During church services and events, you can meet new people and build relationships grounded in shared morals, beliefs, and most importantly our faith that can last a lifetime. Having a community of people who care and support you can significantly improve your mental and emotional well-being. Most parishes host weekly bible study, young-adults social events, and general gatherings intended on bringing us together in a world that so many feel isolated and hopeless in.
Spiritual growth
Another benefit of attending Mass regularly is the opportunity to grow spiritually. By attending Mass, you can learn more about your faith and deepen your relationship with God through our practice of prayers, song, readings from the Old Testament, Gospel, and interpretation through the Homily. You can attend Bible studies, prayer groups, and other faith-based activities that can help you gain a deeper understanding of our Catholic beliefs. This can help you find peace and purpose in your life as you grow in your personal and intimate relationship with the Lord.
Increased positivity
Attending Mass regularly can also increase positivity in your life. Encouragement through prayer, Bible verses, and interpretation of the Living Word to modern issues in the Homily can offer hope and guidance going forward in our weeks. While the community of believers can additionally provide the necessary love and support many of us are lacking. When you surround yourself with positivity and good energy, it can have a significant impact on your mental and emotional well-being and improve your overall outlook on life.
Improved sense of purpose
By taking part in the practice of the Catholic faith, you can gain a sense of purpose and make you feel like you are part of something bigger than yourself. When you attend Mass and participate in community activities, you are contributing to something that has a positive impact on society. This sense of purpose can give you a drive and motivation to make a difference in the world.
Increased accountability
Attending Mass regularly can also help you stay accountable to our Christian beliefs and values. The Catholic community provides a supportive environment where you can hold yourself accountable through our practice of repentance via confession, thereby gaining the support and guidance needed to stay true to our Commandments and faith. This can help you live a more fulfilling and purposeful life. One of our Commandments illuminates the importance and calling to a weekly day of worship and praise through Exodus 20:8-11, “Remember the Sabbath day, maintaining its holiness. Six days you are to labor and do all your work, but the seventh day is a Sabbath to the Lord your God. You are not to do any work—neither you, nor your son, nor your daughter, nor your male or female servant, nor your livestock, nor any foreigner who lives among you- because the Lord made the heavens, the earth, the sea, and everything that is in them in six days. Then he rested on the seventh day. Therefore, the Lord blessed the Sabbath day and made it holy.”
Attending Mass regularly can bring immense benefits to your life. From a sense of community and spiritual growth to increased positivity and a sense of purpose, there are many reasons to make Mass a part of your life. If you haven't already, consider giving the Catholic church a try. You may be surprised at how much it can enrich your life. So, let's go to church and be a part of something greater!