Catholic Literature

  • The Latin Mass Explained by Msgr. George J. Moorman Forward By Msgr. Michael Schmitz
  • The Catholic Mass: Steps To Restore The Centrality of God In The Liturgy by Bishop Athanasius Schneider with Aurelio Porfiri
  • The Imitation of Christ By Thomas De Kempis
  • Padre Pio: The True Story by C. Bernard Ruffin
  • The Story of a Soul: The Autobiography of The Little Flower by St. Therese of Lisieux

Monday, March 25, 2024

Amen (Amen)

AMEN 


narrare


One word I never questioned was "Amen."  Whether in the English, or Spanish Novus Ordo Mass, or Traditional Latin Mass; I never understood why I always had to respond with "Amen,"  after every prayer. I have automatically responded with this term without ever thinking of the actual meaning, or significance. Honestly speaking, I believed this word to simply be a response equitably similar to the word "yes, or okay." When in actuality, perceiving a liturgical response in this way is ignorant. My curiosity to understand this term stems from having to repeatedly hear, and say, "Amen," throughout the Latin Mass. 

The word "Amen" has its roots in ancient Semitic languages, particularly Hebrew and Aramaic. In Hebrew, it is spelled אמן and in Aramaic, it is אמן (pronounced "amen" or "amēn").

In its original Semitic context, "Amen" signifies agreement, affirmation, or truth. It is derived from the Hebrew root א־מ־ן (aleph-mem-nun), which means "to be firm" or "to confirm." Essentially, when someone says "Amen," they are expressing their belief in the truthfulness or validity of what has been said.

Learning this insightful information led me to comprehend how impactful it is to proclaim, "Amen."  When one speaks this word, he or she is stating truth, affirmation, firmness, or  confirmation. Wholeheartedly accepting, and projecting truth for the world. In the Catholic Church, Christ is the truth, and only path to salvation. AMEN! 




AMEN

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