𝙊𝙉 𝙎𝙋𝙀𝘾𝙄𝘼𝙇 𝙄𝙉𝙏𝙀𝙉𝙏𝙄𝙊𝙉𝙎 𝘿𝙐𝙍𝙄𝙉𝙂 𝙃𝙊𝙇𝙔 𝙈𝘼𝙎𝙎

The Holy Mass, also known as the Eucharist, is a sacred sacrifice in which all of us are called to partake and benefit. The power of the Eucharistic table is meant to unite those who share in the Body and Blood of Christ, fostering the growth of love within the Church and lifting up those who have died in the hope of eternal life.

The Canon Law permits the faithful to request priests to offer Mass for specific intentions, whether for the living, the deceased, or other special intentions such as birthdays and anniversaries. Priests are allowed to accept an offering, or stipend, for the celebration of these Masses.
It is important to understand that while requests for Mass intentions are welcomed, they should be made with respect for the liturgical norms, especially during Sunday Masses in our parishes.

Canon Law stipulates that a priest is generally required to celebrate one Holy Mass per day, except in cases where the law permits otherwise. Therefore, when requesting a Mass for a particular intention, it is advisable to ask the priest about the time and location of the celebration.

If the number of intentions exceeds the capacity of one priest, these intentions may be transferred to another priest to ensure that they are offered reverently and in accordance with the norms of the Church.

In the Philippines, the tradition of “Pamisa” or Mass Intentions has long included the practice of announcing these intentions during the Mass. However, there has been ongoing debate regarding the most appropriate way to do this.

The guidelines for announcing Mass Intentions can vary between dioceses. While some dioceses have established guidelines, many have yet to do so.

In light of this, it is important for the Holy Mother Church to emphasize the significance of the Missa Pro Populo.

Canon Law (cf. 534.2) mandates that each parish priest must celebrate at least one Missa Pro Populo on Sundays and Holy Days of Obligation for the people entrusted to their spiritual care. This Mass does not require a stipend, allowing those who cannot afford to offer one to still have their intentions prayed for.

The faithful are still welcome to request a priest to offer a Mass for a specific intention with an offering, and these intentions should not be included during the Missa Pro Populo.

Regarding the announcement of intentions during the Mass, it is my opinion that they should not be read aloud during any part of the liturgy. Instead, it may be more appropriate to announce them before the celebration begins or to post them in a bulletin for everyone to see. Parishes might also consider creating a designated space where Mass-goers can write down their intentions.

The reading of intentions during the Mass should not give the impression that those who have offered stipends are somehow more special, nor should it cause discomfort to those who are unable to offer a stipend. The Mass is a celebration for everyone.

In conclusion, while there are no official rulings regarding the announcement of Mass intentions, we should strive to handle them in a way that avoids distracting those who are praying with us during the celebration of the Eucharist.