In accessible and lively prose, this book explains the ceremonies of the Catholic Mass and their meaning for lay people, including the young. It is designed to meet the widespread complaint that the Mass is boring, incomprehensible, or alienating. Fr. Randolph goes through the Mass step by step, looking at the origin and purpose of the various elements, and relating them to the reader's experience of prayer and the Christian life. Suggestions are made for ways to enhance our appreciation of the liturgy, how to prepare for Mass, and how to carry the grace of the Mass out into the world. A supplementary chapter looks at the use of Latin in the Mass, its past and present value, and explains it in the context of contemplative prayer.

"Fr. Randolph weaves together liturgical, doctrinal, historical, and spiritual themes, bringing the timeless truths of the Lord's Sacrifice and His Real Presence into the context of worship today. The mysteries of the Mass are presented with detailed information that inspires devotion while gently correcting error. Fr. Randolph has a strong 'sense' of our liturgical tradition when he explains post-conciliar developments. This book is not only adult reading. It is an ideal resource for teachers and catechists working with young people."
- Msgr. Peter Elliott
Author, Ceremonies of the Modern Roman Rite

"This very instructive book brings the Mass to life. He points out the significance of every word, gesture, and ritual, making the Mass very personal."
- Catholic Herald

"The riches of the Mass are unfurled thoroughly, systematically, and with great lucidity. May heaven grant an immensely wide circulation to this book. It seems to me to be unquestionably the best of its kind."
- Thomas Howard
Author, On Being Catholic

"Father Randolph does not hide his passion for the Mass. The book is a work of love: both for the Lord he serves and for the people he serves in the Lord. It throws open the treasury of the Mass to those who have been living in poverty for far too long."
- Stratford Caldecott
Centre for Faith & Culture, Oxford

Fr. Francis Randolph studied Classics and Theology in Oxford and Rome. He has traveled widely, and worked as a parish priest, hospital and military chaplain, and six years as a university chaplain. He currently works in a busy parish in central England.