By Alexia Andrew
SRI AMAN — On the evening of 30 July 2025, following the Wednesday Daily Mass, parishioners gathered once again at the Chapel of Mystical Rose for the second installment of the catechesis series on the Holy Mass, led by Rev Fr Henry Jimbey. This session titled, “Holy Mass Part 2”, focused on the Liturgy of the Word, inviting participants to explore more deeply the meaning and purpose behind this central part of the Eucharistic celebration.
Fr Henry opened the session by emphasising that the Liturgy of the Word is far more than a mere reading of Scripture – it is a sacred dialogue between God and His people. Each element, from the First Reading to the Responsorial Psalm, the Gospel, and the Homily, serves a specific spiritual function and is meant to draw the faithful into a deeper communion with God.
“The Word of God is not just to be heard -it is to be lived,” Fr Henry reminded those in attendance, encouraging them to listen attentively and allow the Scriptures to shape their daily lives. He also stressed the importance of preparing oneself to receive the Word with an open heart, as it is through the proclaimed Word that God speaks to each individual personally and powerfully.
Throughout the evening, Fr Henry guided the group through the structure and flow of the Liturgy of the Word, explaining the significance of each part. He pointed out how the readings are chosen in harmony and how the Homily serves as a bridge, connecting the Word to the lived experience of the community.
The session was not only informative but also engaging. Participants were encouraged to ask questions, share their reflections, and consider how the Sunday readings resonate with their own life situations. This created a rich atmosphere of dialogue, learning, and spiritual connection.
Many attendees said the session offered them a fresh and more meaningful perspective on the Scriptures they hear each week at Mass. Some shared that they felt more equipped to listen actively and prayerfully during the Liturgy, recognising it as a personal encounter with Christ through His Word.
The evening concluded with a communal prayer, followed by a warm invitation to continue participating in future catechesis sessions. As the parish journeyed together in faith, the session served as a beautiful reminder that the Liturgy is not merely a ritual, but a transformative experience – one that draws hearts closer to God and to one another.
