The First Pillar of Parish Life: Liturgy — The Source of Our Catholic Faith

The Catechism of the Catholic Church calls the Eucharist “the source and summit of the Christian life” (1324). During the Liturgy, we celebrate the Eucharist, hear readings and pray as a community.

Fr. Denzil Vithanage has chosen Seven Pillars to focus on to make St. Patrick’s the best it can be. In this month’s newsletter, we are delving into the First Pillar of the Liturgy.

First, Fr. Denzil plans to continue with the beautiful celebrations of the Mass to which we have grown accustomed. “Since the Liturgy is the summit of our faith, we want to make sure it is beautiful and holy,” he says.

He also hopes to do more teaching on the Liturgy and the sacraments, and to make sure all of our altar servers are well trained. Fr. Denzil also wants to be sure the art and environment at St. Patrick’s is beautiful — one way he will do this is by having the tabernacle moved to the middle of the sanctuary. He also wants our parish to provide more opportunities for adoration.

Deacon Ray Vann, who was ordained 2007, admits there are even times when he finds it hard to get out of bed and get ready for Mass.

“There has not been not one single time where I served at Mass or sat in the pews where I left saying I wish I didn’t go,” he says. “There hasn’t been one single time. Every time I go, I am so happy I was there.”

Deacon Ray says there is nothing in the Catholic faith more important than the Liturgy. He assists with English and Spanish Mass. He also works with Baptism formation for parents and godparents. In addition, he serves in police chaplaincy.

“I wouldn’t be able to do my work without the foundation of the Liturgy and the strength I receive from it,” he says.

The closures of churches in the wake of COVID-19 led many to realize the power of in-person Mass, says Deacon Ray. He looks forward to continuing to show people the gift of the Liturgy.

“We hear the words of the Mass over and over, but rarely do we actually listen to what is actually being said,” he says. “There is such a richness there that feeds us.”

Deacon Ray says everyone who is a part of the Mass adds to it in a beautiful way. Fr. Denzil takes his time to make sure each Mass is beautiful and special.

“We are here for the beauty of the Mass,” Deacon Ray says. “God gives us so much beauty, let’s give some back to Him.”