Let us pray (Oremus)

OREMUS

NARRARE

          There were times when the priest would say, "Oremus," before beginning certain prayers. Although I understood this Latin word, which translates to "Let us pray,"  I believe it to be a nice detail in the Latin Mass. Each time the priest proclaims this, I strongly feel this word emphasizes, and re-calibrates everyone once again to our God. In addition, the etymological description of this word reveals its significance as well. 

ETYMOLOGY &  PRONOUNCIATION

• "Oremus" is the first person plural present subjunctive form of the Latin verb "orare," which means "to pray" or "to beg" in English.
• Oremus: Oh-Reh-Moose

        

• "Orare" itself comes from the Latin noun "os," meaning "mouth."
• Orare: Oh-Rah-Reh

More formally, this word is often used in Catholic liturgy as an invitation for the congregation to join in prayer, signaling the beginning of a prayer or a prayerful intention led by the priest or other liturgical leaders.

OREMUS

And by the Holy Spirit, He was incarnate of the Virgin Mary: and became man (Et incarnatus est de Spiritu Sancto ex Maria Virgine: et homo factus est)

ET INCARNATUS EST DE SPIRITU SANCTO EX MARIA VIRGINE: ET HOMO FACTUS EST

NARRARE

          As a recent practicing Catholic, I was incognizant of kneeling during consequential parts of the Liturgy. I would just automatically stand, sit, or kneel to synchronize myself with the rest of the faithful. This was a problem, because I was losing focus on my God. It is imperative to understand your actions throughout certain parts of the Mass to properly demonstrate humility, and veneration. Although I would get a bit frustrated, I was not too self-critical. I reminded myself, "I did not grow up as a full-fledged Catholic, much less ever heard of Latin." Learning the language was going to be a steady process. 

          Nonetheless, my studious nature prompted me to learn the phrase, "Et incarnatus est de Spiritu Sancto ex Maria Virgine: et homo factus est," from the "Nicene Creed," prayer proclaimed during Mass. Mainly, because every time these words would be pronounced, all the faithful would genuflect to almighty God. I did so too, but very suddenly. Until I learned this translated to, "And by the Holy Spirit, He was incarnate of the Virgin Mary: and became man." It was then; I genuflected to my Lord with complete admiration.  As stated in the Catechism of the Catholic Church, "... out of reverence for the mystery that made our salvation possible (paragraph #461). Following this, I provided the etymological explanation for the contextual translation, and meaning behind this pure sentence as well. 

ETYMOLOGY

• "Et" means "and" in Latin, as in English.

• "Incarnatus" is the past participle form of the Latin verb "incarnare," which means "to be made flesh" or "to be incarnated." It's derived from the prefix "in-" meaning "into" and "caro" meaning "flesh."

• "Est" is the third person singular present indicative form of the Latin verb "esse," which means "to be."

• "De" means "from" or "by" in Latin.

• "Spiritu Sancto" translates to "Holy Spirit" in English. "Spiritu" is the ablative singular form of "Spiritus," meaning "spirit," and "Sancto" is the ablative singular form of "Sanctus," meaning "holy."

• "Ex" means "from" or "out of" in Latin.

• "Maria Virgine" refers to "Mary, the Virgin." "Maria" is the ablative singular form of the name "Maria," and "Virgine" is the ablative singular form of "Virgo," meaning "virgin."

• "Homo" means "man" in Latin.

• "Factus est" is the third person singular perfect indicative form of the Latin verb "facere," which means "to make" or "to become."

Visual Representation of the Nicene Creed In The Traditional Latin Mass

Traditional Latin Mass: Nicene Creed

Note: You will see everyone will kneel when everyone hears "Et Incarnatus est de Spiritu Sancto ex Maria Virgine: et homo factus est." 

ET INCARNATUS EST DE SPIRITU SANCTO EX MARIA VIRGINE: ET HOMO FACTUS EST

Thanks be to God (Deo Gratias)

DEO GRATIAS 

NARRARE

          In the Traditional Latin Mass, our priest eventually reads the Apostolic Epistle. Once he is finished, the faithful subsequently respond by proclaiming, "Deo Gratias." Fortunately, because of my Spanish language, I understood this phrase. I thought to myself, "We're being thankful. The Latin term, 'Gratias sounds exactly like the Spanish word, 'Gracias.' " However, I was unsure of what the word "Deo," could mean. 

           I soon researched "Deo," is Latin for "God." Then, I learned "Deo Gratias," translated to English means, "Thanks be to God." In addition, I provided a more profound explanation to grasp this liturgical response. 

Etymology

• "Deo" is the dative singular form of "Deus," which means "God" in Latin. It's related to the English word "deity."

• "Gratias" is the accusative plural form of "Gratia," which means "thanks" or "grace" in Latin. It's related to the English word "gratitude."

Additionally, this phrase is stated after readings, prayers, to express gratitude, or acknowledgment of God's blessings. The usage of "Deo Gratias" dates back to ancient Christian traditions and remains a common expression of thanksgiving in Latin, and vernacular languages. In conclusion, I will respond to my Lord in Latin to demonstrate my gratitude in the official language of the Catholic Church.

DEO GRATIAS

 

Glory be to God on high (Gloria in excelsis Deo)

GLORIA IN EXCELSIS DEO

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          Soon after the "Kyrie," there commences another pulchritudinous Catholic prayer my inexperienced mind never captured during mass. I remember my mind slightly drifting off, and trying to understand each word as it was being pronounced. However, I knew as long as I could identify, and educate myself on these words, I could understand the purpose of the following prayer, "Gloria in excelsis Deo." By deciphering this short phrase's etymology along with its importance. I could comprehend why this prayer was being recited, or sung so fervidly. 

        "Gloria in excelsis Deo" is a Latin phrase translated to "Glory to God in the highest." Derived from the ecclesiastical Latin prayer "Gloria," translated to "Glory." This phrase originates from the Gospel of Luke in the New Testament of the Bible, specifically on the account of the birth of Jesus Christ. In Luke 2:14, it is written:

"Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men."

To emphasize the importance of this prayer, it is crucial to insert words from ecclesiastical men, especially from one of our most reverent Holy Fathers. In an online article "The Gloria: Beautiful, and Biblical," posted by the Catholic News Agency, Bishop Arthur Serratelli states:

        "The Gloria recalls the mystery of the Incarnation. In this prayer, we give praise to God by recalling how great He is, and how worthy he is to be worshipped. Despite our sinfulness, God loved us enough to send His Son. Hence, our joy in praying the Gloria."

Also, this source reminds of us of what Pope Benedict XVI proclaimed about this prayer when it is noted, "The Church, in the Gloria, has extended this song of praise, which the angels sang in response to the event of the holy night, into a hymn of joy at God's glory-'we praise you for your glory' " (Homily at Midnight Mass, Christmas, 2010).

Link:https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/column/51974/the-gloria-beautiful-and-biblical

Etymology

• In Latin, "gloria" took on various related meanings, including "fame," "honor," "renown," and "praise."

• "In" retained its basic meaning of "in" or "into."

• "Excelsis" is "excelsus," which is derived from the verb "excello" or "excellere," meaning "to rise" or "to be eminent."

• The prefix "ex-" in Latin signifies "out" or "beyond," indicating a sense of elevation or superiority.

• The suffix "-cello" or "-cellere" is related to the verb "cello" or "cellere," meaning "to rise" or "to stand out."

• The Latin word "Deo" is the dative singular form of "Deus," which means "God."

          Altogether, the origins of this prayer, translation, and etymological breakdown humbled me. I am grateful of listening to one of the liturgy's most sacred prayers be recited to praise our God. To begin this prayer with "Gloria, in excelsis Deo," is a blessing, for I am professing my love for Christ. I will remember the words of Pope Benedict XIV, "This song of praise, which the angels sang in response to the event of the holy night..." Now, as I attend Holy Mass, I know I am reciting these words with the angels, and saints of the Catholic Church; with a meek, and humble heart.

 

VISUAL REPRESENTATION OF THE GLORIA IN THE TRADITIONAL LATIN MASS

Traditional Latin Mass: Gloria

GLORIA IN EXCELSIS DEO

Lord, have mercy, Christ, have mercy. (Kyrie eleison, Christe eleison.)

KYRIE ELEISON, CHRISTE ELEISON

NARRARE

          As a new attendee of the Tridentine Mass, I always felt a profound sense of admiration, and appreciation for a constituent known as, "Kyrie." Which translates to "Lord." More importantly, because during the Tridentine High Mass; the Gregorian Choir magnifies this prayer with a reverent, and diligent performance. While simultaneously demonstrating a complete parallel with the priest on the altar as he is fulfilling his function. 

          I felt this immense respect for the "Kyrie," even without understanding, or being educated on why this part of the mass resonated with me so much. I recall kneeling on the kneelers with my hands in prayer during the Mass, and being showered with a sensational wave I cannot describe. However, my focus would be aggrandized as the Choir sung: 

"Kyrie eleison

Kyrie elesion...

Christe eleison

Christe eleison...

Kyrie eleison

    Kyrie elesion."  

       It was not until I learned the English translation of this Catholic Greek prayer; which gracefully compelled me to understand the emotional response those words triggered in my mind, body, and soul. Below is the etymological outline of this liturgical prayer. 

Etymology

• "Kyrie" (Κύριε) is the vocative form of the Greek word for "Lord" (Κύριος, Kyrios).

• "Eleison" (ἐλέησον) comes from the Greek verb "ἐλεέω" (eleeo), meaning "to have mercy" or "to show compassion."

• "Kyrie Eleison" translates to "Lord, have mercy."

• "Christe" (Χριστέ) is the vocative form of the Greek word for "Christ" (Χριστός, Christos).

• "Eleison" (ἐλέησον) has the same meaning as mentioned above.

• "Christe Eleison" translates to "Christ, have mercy."

I recognize now why this liturgical prayer had a very deep impact on my soul. As a sinner, my spirit pleas for Christ's divine mercy, and compassion. Moreso, because of the venial, or grave sin my flesh wants to, or has committed in the past. As I listen to these words, I grow closer in wanting God's mercy, and compassion so I may live a holy life, and die a holy death. So I sing along now in mass with the Gregorian Choir in a low voice "Kyrie eleison, Christe eleison," and do my absolute best to avoid any occasion of sin. So I may not take for granted God's mercy, and compassion.

VISUAL REPRESENTATION OF THE SUNG KYRIE ELEISON, CHRISTE ELEISON IN THE TRADITIONAL LATIN MASS

TRADITIONAL LATIN MASS: KYRIE ELEISON, CHRISTE ELEISON

KYRIE ELEISON, CHRISTE ELEISON

Confiteor Deo (I Confess)

 CONFITEOR DEO

NARRARE

          At Catholic Mass, when the English vernacular language is used, the priest recites the Penitential Act in order to forgive all our venial sins in order to be in a complete state of grace. A more formal explanation noted in the 1962 Latin Roman Missal is, "It is an acknowledgement of his guilt before God and that of all others assisting a the divine Sacrifice." This is important to be aware of, because an individual must contemplate, and bring to mind all venial sin they committed throughout the entire day, or since their last time at Mass. This occurs a few minutes after the priest steps up on the altar. 

          At the Tridentine Mass, I completely missed the Public Confession (Penitential Act), because I never knew when the prayer exactly began. I was oblivious to this, because of my insufficient knowledge of ecclesiastical Latin. This led me to attend many masses without bringing to mind the contrite, and humble heart I must possess. At least, not to its fullest. One does not need to be an expert in Latin, all they need to learn is the phrase, and its translation to follow along. 

          The Public Confession begins when the priest states, "Confiteor Deo," which translates to "I confess to almighty God." In addition, the etymological explanation of this phrase is outlined to educate us on the meaning of this important phrase. 

Etymology 

• "Confiteor Deo" is a Latin phrase that translates to "I confess to God."

• "Confiteor" comes from the Latin verb "confiteri," which means "to confess" or "to acknowledge." It is formed from the
• Prefix "con-" (together) and the verb "fateri" (to confess).

• "Deo" means "to God" or "of God."

 

This concise delineation helps us understand the words our priest pronounces. At this moment in the Latin Mass, he is asking God, and asking us to plead to God for the forgiveness of our sins. Now, this moment will be even more beautiful. With Latin being a ancient language; along with the beauty, and reverence inside the Church. We may ask God in the most humble way to forgive us for our sinful actions. We will forever recognize the phrase, "Confiteor Deo."

CONFITEOR DEO

Et Cum Spiritu Tuo (And With Your Spirit)

 

ET CUM SPIRITUO TUO

NARRARE

          As I continued attending Latin Mass, there would be several times I would listen to everyone say another appealing phrase; “Et cum spiritu tuo.” This time, I had no idea what this short response actually meant, but I knew it was important. Mainly, because the Gregorian choir would sing more intensely in unison with the faithful. I tried to contemplate, and contextually resolve the meaning of this phrase. I could not even think of a phrase in Spanish that would sound close to, “Et cum spirituo tuo.” Simply saying the phrase was not enough for me, because I wanted to be completely aware of my participation. It was not until I researched what it meant that I found the profound meaning of this prayer in the liturgy.

          "Et cum spiritu tuo" is a Latin phrase used in Catholic liturgy, particularly in the context of the Mass. It translates to "And with your spirit" in English. 

Etymology

• Et" means "and" in Latin, as in the English language.

• "Cum" means "with" in Latin.

• "Spiritu" is the ablative form of "Spiritus," which means "spirit" or "breath" in Latin. 

•  "Tuo" is the ablative form of "Tuus," which means "your" in Latin.

           This phrase is used in various parts of the Catholic Mass, such as in responses to greetings or blessings from the priest. Its usage reflects a form of greeting/acknowledgment of the spiritual authority/presence of the priest, thus, invoking God's blessings upon them. The phrase has been part of Catholic liturgy since ancient times, and remains an integral aspect of the Latin Mass.

          Overall, this special prayer informs me of the grace the faithful receives while being present at Mass. As we repeatedly state this, we are reminding ourselves of the spiritual union we are sharing with Christ as His Mass is being celebrated. We're all aware Mass is Christ on cavalry once again, and saying "Et cum spirituo tuo," means we witness the sacrifice he made for us to save our souls. 

ET CUM SPIRITUO TUO

In Nomine Patris, et Fillii, et Spirtu Sancti (In The Name of The Father, and The Son, and The Holy Spirit)

 

IN NOMINE PATRI ET FILII ET SPIRITU SANCTI

NARRARE

          As a Catholic striving to pursue his faith, it is imperative I understand my faith even more, because I want to love God as much as I can. Even if this means learning an entirely different language, and since this is the official language of the Church; I feel obligated to do so. This brings me to mention a very important Latin phrase, "In Nomine Patris, et Fillii, et Spiritu Sancti."  I heard this short prayer in mass, and I understood this phrase's translation, because I am a well-versed Spanish speaker, writer, and reader. 

          However, if I had no previous experience in the Spanish language, this would have been very difficult for me to decipher. In addition, I strived to learn the etymological roots of this collection of words, because I wanted to thoroughly comprehend its meaning. More importantly, because this is the initiating prayer of the Latin Mass. 

The phrase "In nomine Patris et Filii et Spiritus Sancti" is Latin and translates to "In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit" in English.

Etymology

• "In nomine" translates to "in the name of," with "nomine" derived from the Latin word "nomen," meaning "name."

• "Patris" is the genitive form of "Pater," which means "Father" in Latin. It's related to the English word "paternal."

• "Et" means "and" in Latin.

• "Filii" is the genitive form of "Filius," which means "Son" in Latin.

• "Spiritus Sancti" translates to "of the Holy Spirit" in Latin. "Spiritus" means "spirit" or "breath," and "Sancti" is the genitive form of "Sanctus," meaning "holy," or "sacred."

So, the phrase "In nomine Patris et Filii et Spiritus Sancti" is a formal invocation or declaration used in Catholic liturgy, particularly in the context of blessings, prayers, and the Sign of the Cross, affirming the belief in the Holy Trinity. Its use dates back to early Christianity, and is a central aspect of Catholic worship.

With this knowledge, I am able to confidently verbalize this Latin phrase, and wholeheartedly pour out my participation during the Mass. Rather than feeling I'm reciting a phrase I believe to understand what it means, I know I am stating a powerful affirmation of my faith is Jesus Christ.

IN NOMINE PATRI ET FILII ET SPIRITU SANCTI

Why the Latin Mass? BUT why LATIN?

LATIN MASS

NARRARE

In April of 2023 I attended my first Latin Mass in Sacramento, CA out of pure curiosity, and desire, because I would hear about it on online Catholic news channels. As a recent practicing Catholic, I was estranged by the fact the entire mass was in Latin. As I stood, sat, and kneeled in the pews during my first mass, I listened to the consecrated priest recite every single word in Latin. Throughout this sacred celebration I enjoyed the mass, but not to the fullest. Obviously, there was a problem, I did not understand Latin, nor did I understand why such a beautiful ritual was specifically in an ancient language. At times, I found lost, and could not coordinate myself with the rest of the faithful. Which made me nervous, and feel like I was not completely in unison with my brothers, and sisters. I remember slightly turning around hoping someone, or somehow I would find help. As a Mexican-American, whom started practicing the Catholic faith at 23 years-old, and never even heard a word of Latin in his life; I knew I had to research why Latin was utilized in the Mass.

Then I learned, the use of Latin in the Catholic Mass traces its origins back to the early centuries of Christianity when Latin was the lingua franca of the Roman Empire and the official language of the Church. Over time, as Christianity spread across different regions with their own languages, Latin remained the unifying language for liturgical purposes, ensuring uniformity, and continuity in worship practices across diverse cultures and languages.

Moreover, Latin was perceived as a sacred language, imbued with a sense of timelessness and reverence, which lent an aura of solemnity and sanctity to the Mass. It also served to emphasize the universality of the Church, transcending linguistic and cultural barriers, fostering a sense of unity among believers worldwide.

It was in learning this information, I realized I was truly a part of the Catholic Church. Mainly, because one language unifying all of us made perfect sense! Especially if that language is completely separate from the always-changing secular languages of the world. This encouraged me to continue attending Latin Mass, and to progressively learn ecclesiastical Latin so I could comprehend what was going on throughout this ritualistic sacrifice. I know many individuals who've attended Latin mass feel left out, or insignificant due to never having learned Latin. However, your attendance is immense, because your presence is experiencing the Catholic Mass as it was celebrated more than 1,500 years ago!

VISUAL REPRESENTATION OF THE TRADITIONAL LATIN MASS

TRADITIONAL LATIN MASS

LATIN MASS