Father Fessio in Five

The Easter sequence was recently sung at the Easter liturgies, but what are these “sequences” and what happened to the rest of them? In this episode, Fr. Fessio explains. . . .

Fr. Fessio explains the development of the modern-day responsorial psalm from the psalms, gradual, and Schola Cantorum.

One of the common responses in the liturgy is “Deo Gratias.” And in this episode, Fr. Fessio reveals the lesser-known meaning of this phrase.

Did you know that there is a three-year cycle to the readings and that the first reading is always connected to the Gospel? In this episode, Fr. Fessio explains why.

Fr. Fessio provides a detailed explanation of the development of the ambo and the Liturgy of the Word.

Today, Fr. Fessio begins his discussion of the Liturgy of the Word by outlining the development of the Liturgy of the Word. He explains how this part of the Mass has its roots in Jewish ceremonies and then how it developed over time from the earlier part of the Church until now.

The collect has not only changed since Vatican II, but it has changed throughout the history of the Church. In this episode, Fr. Fessio explains what the development of the Collect from the very beginning of the Church.

Fr. Fessio explains the opening "Collect" prayer and how it has changed over the years.

Fr. Fessio reveals the dynamic movement that takes place in the second half of the Gloria that we sing at Mass.

Fr. Fessio explains the historical and Scriptural origin and meaning of the Gloria.

Fr. Fessio explains the only Greek phrase we say at Mass.

In this episode, Fr. Fessio discusses the forgiveness we receive at every Mass.

Fr. Fessio explains the lesser known connection between the Mass and the Divine Office or the Liturgy of the Hours, which traditionally lead to the Mass being celebrated at a specific time.

Fr. Fessio explains the Confiteor at the beginning of the Mass.

Since Vatican II, the use of Latin in Mass has radically decline. . . . But in this episode, Fr. Fessio reviews what Vatican II said about using Latin at Mass.

In the not-so-distant past, the Church began saying “and with your spirit” instead of “and with you.” In this episode Fr. Fessio explains these opening words of the Mass.

Have you ever reflected on why we begin the Mass with the sign of the Cross? Fr. Fessio explains the deep significance behind this often overlooked opening.

Father Fessio begins to unpack the beginning of the Mass by reflecting the priest’s first action in the Mass—he kisses the altar.

Ever wonder what is the significance of the priest’s vestments? In this episode, Fr. Fessio explains what these vestments are and symbolism behind them.