AJ the Irish Lass' Ramblings

The priest begins with an ancient (going back to the 2nd century) responsive prayer called the Sursum Corda. He or she then prays a prayer known as a preface, which recounts God’s acts in a way that relates to the season or occasion being celebrated. The congregation joins in singing the Sanctus, which is drawn from Isaiah 6:3 and Matthew 21:9 9the video below uses traditional language).

The prayer continues with a telling of man’s creation and fall into sin, along with God’s act of redemption in the person of Jesus. This prayer also recounts Jesus’ words of institution when he gave us in Mark 14:22-26. It’s the participation of both the priest and the people assembled that makes it a sacrament.

Next fellows The Lord’s Prayer, given to us by Jesus (Matthew 6:9-13)