A missal is the service book used to celebrate Mass. In a Roman Catholic church, it contains the ordered prayers, responses, and rubrics that tell the priest and congregation what to say and do. A large copy usually rests on a stand at the altar; it is not the hymnal or the Bible.
What Is Inside a Missal?
The Roman Missal contains the prescribed texts and rubrics for the Liturgy of the Eucharist, including the Eucharistic Prayers and prefaces, together with prayers and directions for the rest of Mass. Rubrics are short instructions such as when to stand, kneel, sit, make a sign of the cross, or begin the Communion rite. Scripture readings are normally found in a separate lectionary. Some parish editions also print music, responses, or explanatory notes.
Which Churches Use a Missal?
The term is most strongly associated with Roman Catholic parishes, where the Roman Missal is the official book for the Roman Rite of Mass. Eastern Catholic churches use books for their distinct Eastern rites, though they may not call these books missals. Some Anglican and Episcopal churches also use a missal for the principal Eucharistic service. Many other liturgical churches call the principal book an altar book or service book instead. The English word comes from Latin missalis, meaning “of or pertaining to the Mass.”
How Is a Missal Used During Mass?
During Mass, the priest uses the missal to follow the approved sequence of prayers and actions. The priest announces the preface, gives cues for the congregation’s responses, and proceeds through the offertory, Eucharistic prayer, Communion, and final blessing. The book does not mean that every word is read by the congregation. People may follow a booklet, a printed hymnal that includes Mass responses, or prayers projected on a screen. A bound volume, looseleaf binder, or digital display can all serve as the parish’s missal.
How Does a Missal Differ From Other Church Books?
- Missal: the official ordered prayers and rubrics for the Eucharistic celebration.
- Lectionary: the assigned Scripture readings, which are usually announced and read rather than printed in the missal.
- Hymnal: hymns and songs; some Catholic hymnals also include Mass responses.
- An order of service is the congregation’s guide to a particular service and may reproduce parts of the missal.
What Will You See at the Altar?
Visitors may see a large missal on a stand, a book stand, or a shelf near the altar, especially in a Catholic church. It may remain open during the Eucharistic prayer so the priest can find the current prayer quickly. The book’s title page may identify the Roman Missal, a regional edition, or an approved language translation. You do not need to bring it or follow every response; simply listen and join the congregation as invited. A first-time visitor guide can help with the setting. Weddings and funerals that include Mass draw their Eucharistic prayers from the missal, with additional rites added as needed.