On Aug. 21, 2010, the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops announced the new texts for Mass contained in the Roman Missal - Third Edition, would be implemented beginning with Advent 2011.  The Roman Missal is the ritual text containing prayers and instructions for the celebration of the Mass.

Here in the Diocese of Buffalo, and in dioceses across the United States, the catechesis process is underway so priests and their parishioners are prepared for the first major changes to the Mass in decades. 

The new missal includes prayers for saints who were recently canonized, additional prefaces for Eucharistic prayers, additional Votive Masses and Masses and prayers for various needs and intentions, and some updated and revised rubrics (instructions) for the celebration of the Mass.

Translations of existing prayers, including some of the well-known responses and acclamations of the people, will also be included in the revised Missal.

“Proper catechesis will answer questions people will have about the pending changes,” said Bishop Edward U. Kmiec. “The end result will be a richer, truer liturgical experience for all.”