Dear Catholic Exchange:
Does the Mass offered up on someone’s behalf and paid for have the same graces as a Mass offered up silently without paying for it?
Mrs. Tilburg
Dear Mrs. Tilburg,
Peace in Christ!
Whether or not a monetary offering is made for an intention in a Mass does not change the graces that are received from that Mass. The reason that an offering is made is not to ensure a blessing, but to support the priest and the parish. The Code of Canon law states, “The faithful who make an offering so that Mass can be celebrated for their intention, contribute to the good of the Church, and by that offering they share in the Church's concern for the support of its ministers and its activities” (Can. 946). The Canon further states that whether or not an offering is received, the priests should be offering the Mass for the needs of the faithful. “It is earnestly recommended to priests that, even if they do not receive an offering, they celebrate Mass for the intentions of Christ's faithful, especially of those in need” (Canon 945§2).
The benefit of making an offering for a Mass is that a priest usually states the intention out loud during the Mass, which allows the congregation to participate in prayer for that intention. Christ promises us, “Amen, I say to you, if two of you agree on earth about anything for which they are to pray, it shall be granted to them by my heavenly Father” (Matt: 18:19). In this way, the whole congregation can offer their Mass in union for one intention.
United in the Faith,
Mary Ann Wiesinger
Information Specialist
Catholics United for the Faith
827 North Fourth Street
Steubenville, OH 43952
800-MY-FAITH (800-693-2484)
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