Masses for special groups in the life of local churches

Abstract

The post-Vatican II emphasis on the proper participation of the faithful in the Holy Mass, the deepened understanding thereof and some properly applied modifications aimed in enabling the full participation determine the purpose and the importance of the Masses for special groups. The formative value of these liturgical celebrations is manifested in their influence on spiritual growth and the preparation to the Christian apostolate. Masses for special groups ought to encourage the local Churches to facilitate such celebrations every time, when there is a pastoral need for them. These Masses celebrated for small groups give an opportunity to appreciate such liturgical signs as, for example, the Procession with the gifts. The proper pastoral use of the celebrations for particular groups is a result of observing the guidelines for this kind of Masses and working towards the pastoral goals they are to achieve. The details concerning the celebration depend on the profile of the particular group but the purpose – the active participation – always remains unchanged.