What is the General Instruction of the Roman Missal?

It is the handbook for how to celebrate the Mass. While it's not the only resource, most questions about the Mass can be answered with the help of the General Instruction of the Roman Missal.

It covers such topics like the structure of the Mass, its elements and parts; postures, processions and gestures; silence and singing; liturgical furnishings; the role of the deacon, liturgical ministers, and laity, and much more.

The General Instruction of the Roman Missal provides instruction for how to celebrate the Mass throughout the world. That's why you can walk into Mass anywhere in the world and recognize certain elements . . . no matter the language or cultural norms.

This sums it up: "Liturgy is a prayer like no other. It is the source and summit of our life as Catholic Christians. So let our words and actions, our prayers and music, our worship spaces and liturgical furnishings and art, be worthy of the profound mystery we celebrate."

Subjective decisions about the Holy Mass can occur within liturgy meetings and by good and well intentioned Catholics if the General Instruction of the Roman Missal is not referenced..

Here are some suggestions to help guide liturgical decisions.

Have a copy of the General Instruction of the Roman Missal available during liturgy planning meetings and reference it. Whenever a question arises such as: "What are the guidelines of the Church?", the General Instruction of the Roman Missal can be referenced and quickly provide answers and insights.

Lay Ministers can read the appropriate sections of the General Instruction that pertains to your ministry.

For the laity, the General Instruction can help better engage you in the Mass.

Parents can utilize this resource to help their children better understand the Holy Mass.

Catechists and School Teachers can help a planning session to teach about the Holy Mass.

The Holy Mass is a profound mystery. Why not give it the proper attention it deserves?