DEVELOPMENTS
As the many generations of Catholics within societies continue to evolve/modify their practices and teachings to suit the needs of the times, the Liturgy of the Eucharist also adapts to properly respond to the requirements of its context. Below is a timeline that lists some of the many developments that the Eucharist underwent through its existence in order to be regarded as an appropriate celebration of Christ's sacrifice for us:
Timeline
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STRUCTURE
Although there are minor structural components that differ between churches from different locations and cultural backgrounds, there is a basic system that all masses held under the Roman Catholic Church will follow. The usual structure for a mass is split into four distinct segments, with each one allowing the priest and the attending congregation to truly experience the presence of Christ within the celebration. The four parts go as follows:
Introductory Rites
Liturgy of the Word
The Liturgy of the Eucharist
Concluding Rites
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