What Really Happens at Catholic Mass? Dr. Edward Sri Explains

May 18, 2026

How to Get More Out of Mass: Dr. Edward Sri Explains the Meaning of the Catholic Liturgy

Many Catholics attend Mass every Sunday but still feel distracted, disengaged, or unsure how to pray more deeply. In this episode of Godsplaining, Fr. Gregory Pine and Dr. Edward Sri explore the biblical and theological meaning of the Catholic Mass and explain how understanding the liturgy can transform your spiritual life.

Listen to the full episode and checkout Dr. Sri’s new book, Pocket Guide to the Mass and his latest podcast, The Mass in a Month on the Ascension App.

Why the Mass Matters

The Mass is the source and summit of the Christian life. Every prayer, posture, and ritual is designed to prepare us for a profound encounter with Jesus Christ in both Scripture and the Eucharist.

Dr. Sri shows how familiar phrases like “The Lord be with you” and “Blessed are those called to the supper of the Lamb” carry deep biblical significance that often goes unnoticed.

Key Themes in This Episode

The Liturgy of the Word

God speaks personally to each believer through the readings at Mass, offering guidance, encouragement, and conversion.

The Homily

Even when a homily seems ordinary, God can still use it to reveal an important message.

The Sacrifice of the Mass

The Eucharistic Prayer makes present Christ’s one sacrifice on the Cross, allowing us to unite our joys and sufferings with His perfect offering.

Holy Communion

Receiving the Eucharist is an intimate union with Jesus Christ, the Bridegroom of the Church, at the wedding feast of the Lamb.

Learn to Pray the Mass More Deeply

If you’ve ever wondered how to focus better at Mass, understand the Eucharist, or grow closer to Christ through the liturgy, this episode offers practical and inspiring guidance.

Listen now and discover how the Mass can become the center of your spiritual life.