• 151: “Deo Gratias” Means More Than “Thanks be to God”
    Apr 10 2026

    One of the common responses in the liturgy is “Deo Gratias.” And in this episode, Fr. Fessio reveals the lesser-known meaning of this phrase.

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    4 mins
  • 150: Vatican II Positively Changed the Readings
    Apr 3 2026

    Did you know that there is a three-year cycle to the readings and that the first reading is always connected to the Gospel? In this episode, Fr. Fessio explains why.

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    5 mins
  • 149: Why Do Catholics Have an Ambo?
    Mar 27 2026

    Fr. Fessio provides a detailed explanation of the development of the ambo and the Liturgy of the Word.

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    8 mins
  • 148: The Liturgy of the Word and Jewish Worship
    Mar 20 2026

    Today, Fr. Fessio begins his discussion of the Liturgy of the Word by outlining the development of the Liturgy of the Word. He explains how this part of the Mass has its roots in Jewish ceremonies and then how it developed over time from the earlier part of the Church until now.

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    9 mins
  • 147: The Conclusion of the Introductory Rites
    Mar 13 2026

    The collect has not only changed since Vatican II, but it has changed throughout the history of the Church. In this episode, Fr. Fessio explains what the development of the Collect from the very beginning of the Church.

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    6 mins
  • 146: Vatican II Changed the Collect
    Mar 6 2026

    Fr. Fessio explains the opening "Collect" prayer and how it has changed over the years.

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    5 mins
  • 145: What Are We Singing about in of the “Gloria”?
    Feb 27 2026

    Fr. Fessio reveals the dynamic movement that takes place in the second half of the Gloria that we sing at Mass.

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    5 mins
  • 144: The Origins of the Gloria
    Feb 20 2026

    Fr. Fessio explains the historical and Scriptural origin and meaning of the Gloria.

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    7 mins