The Structure of the Zairian Liturgy
The structure of the Mass in the Zairian Rite is similar to that of other liturgies in the Catholic Church, as it is also composed of two main parts: the Liturgy of the Word and the Liturgy of the Eucharist. However, the Zairian Rite features slight variations, particularly in the placement of certain events within the celebration.
The Introductory Rite
– Entrance of the announcer: He/she welcomes the assembly, invitation to worship
– Entrance procession of the Presider and ministers
– Veneration of the altar
– Salutation of the people and introduction of the liturgy
– Invocation of ancestors
– Song of acclamation (Gloria)
– Opening prayer
The Liturgy of the Word
– The first reading, responsorial psalm, and second reading
– The enthronement and proclamation of the Gospel
– The Homily
– Profession of faith (Credo)
– The penitential rite
– The rite/kiss of peace
– The prayer of the faithful
The Liturgy of the Eucharist
– Procession to the altar with the gifts
– The Eucharistic Prayer
– The Lord’s Prayer
– Communion and Thanksgiving
– Prayer after communion
The concluding rite
-Final Blessing
– Recession