GROW IN FAITH 26 – Preparing Our Hearts

Reverence and Readiness

Opening Prayer

Lord Jesus,
You are holy.
Prepare our hearts to meet You.
Teach us reverence,
attention,
and love.
Amen.

Part One

Why Preparation Matters

When something is important,
we prepare for it.

We prepare for a journey.
We prepare for a celebration.
We prepare for a guest.

The Mass is the most important moment of our week.

We are coming into the presence of God.

The Bible says:

“Put off the shoes from thy feet:
for the place whereon thou standest is holy ground.”

God is everywhere,
but in the Mass He draws especially close to us.

Preparation helps our hearts be ready.

Scripture

“Put off the shoes from thy feet:
for the place whereon thou standest is holy ground.”
(Exodus 3:5)

Think and Discuss

How do we prepare for something important?

What does reverence mean?

How can our bodies show respect in church?

Why is it good to arrive at Mass ready, not distracted?

Allow thoughtful answers.

Part Two

Preparing Before Mass

Preparation begins before we arrive.

We can:

Pray before leaving home.
Dress modestly and neatly.
Arrive a few minutes early.
Sit quietly before Mass begins.

Silence helps the heart focus.

If we have committed serious sin,
we go to Confession before receiving Communion.

Confession restores grace
and prepares us to receive the Lord worthily.

Preparation is not about fear.

It is about love.

When we love someone,
we prepare carefully to meet them.

Guidance for Adults

Model reverent behaviour.
Children absorb the meaning of the Mass by watching tone, posture, and attention.

Part Three

Reverence During Mass

Reverence is shown with the whole person.

We stand attentively.
We kneel with care.
We make the Sign of the Cross slowly.
We bow before receiving Communion.

Reverence is not about being stiff.

It is about remembering Who is present.

If our minds wander,
we gently bring them back.

If we feel distracted,
we quietly pray:

“Lord, help me focus.”

Preparation and reverence
open the heart to grace.

They help us receive more fully
what God gives.

The more carefully we prepare,
the more deeply we participate.

Quiet Reflection

Sit quietly for a moment.

Imagine entering a church.

The tabernacle is before you.

Now say quietly:

“Lord, I am in Your presence.”

Remain in silence together.

Practise This Week

Choose one:

• Arrive at Mass a few minutes early.
• Make a slow and careful genuflection.
• Pray briefly before leaving home for Mass.
• Go to Confession if needed.

Choose one and keep it steady.

Optional Response

Choose one:

Memory
Repeat slowly:
“Holy ground.”
Say it three times thoughtfully.

Action
Practise making the Sign of the Cross slowly and reverently.

Closing Prayer

Lord,
Teach us reverence.
Prepare our hearts for Your presence.
Help us worship You
with attention and love.
Amen.