Mass is the “Paschal mystery” making present the sacrifice of Christ and the banquet of the Kingdom. Sunday — the day of the Resurrection — is not a “weekend rest” in a secular sense but the Lord's Day, when the entire people of God gathers to hear the Word of God and to take part in the sacrifice. Canon law reminds Christians of the obligation to attend Mass on Sundays and holy days of obligation (unless there is a serious reason such as illness, care of a critically ill young child, etc. — specific guidance from a priest is needed). See the Code of Canon Law and diocesan guidelines.
“Participate,” not just “be present”
Prepare by reading the readings beforehand, regular confession, dressing and behaving in a way that shows this is the most important thing of the week. Singing, responding, reverent silence after Communion are all active participation. After Mass, take the “Amen” out to serve the poor and bring peace home — the Liturgy extends into life.
“For as often as you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the death of the Lord.”
— 1 Corinthians 11:26 (reference)
Liturgical seasons and family life
Advent, Lent, and other seasons teach the Christian body how to rhythm with revelation. Families can light candles, pray together, briefly discuss the homily — making the home a “support” to the church, not a replacement. When one must miss Mass for a valid reason, ask the priest for guidance and still keep the desire for communion through reading the Word of God and the prayer of the Church.
Sunday with the disabled, the elderly, and large families
Many parishes have wheelchair-accessible areas, cry rooms, or early Masses — ask the liturgy committee for sustainable participation. If it gets noisy because of young children, remember that children's voices are also the voice of the Church; do not exclude yourself out of embarrassment. Pastors are usually happy when families make the effort to come even if not “perfect.”
After Mass: five minutes of thanksgiving in the car or on the bus
Turn the trip home into a bonding moment: ask each other “what does today’s Gospel say to me?” — one question is enough so that the Liturgy does not end at the church door. This supplements the “take the Amen into life” point already mentioned without repeating it at length.
