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Question Title Posted By Question Date
Another query regarding Mass Intentions Joshua Monday, March 29, 2010

Question:

When a mass is offered for a certain intention I have noticed that many priests will mention the intention either before the mass or during the Eucharistic Prayer where appropriate whether living or deceased. I also have noticed that some priests do neither. I know some people that have told me they have requested a priest to please make a mention, especially if the mass is offered for a deceased, because many relatives of the deceased will be in attendance and they would like to hear the deceased name mentioned. Those persons have told me that they have approached the priest and he flatly refuses to mention any names at all, either before or during the mass. Is there a law concerning this?
I heard a priest once just say that the mass was offered for whoever was in the intention book. Apparently he forgot who the intention was for.
I understand that the priest that refuses to mention any names is that he said whatever is in the intention book that who the mass is for so there is no need to mention any names. Should they, as a courtesy since they are getting the stipend, make mention when requested or is the priest right in refusing? Should I get a clarification also from the Bishop as to what his policy is?

Thanks.



Question Answered by Mr. Jacob Slavek

Dear Joshua,

The priest doesn't need to make a mention of the name at any time other than the eucharistic prayer, from what I understand, but even during the prayer the priest doesn't have to mention the name aloud.

In my opinion though if there is a request to mention the name aloud, then the priest should comply.

There may or may not be a local policy in place by the bishop, someone is his office would know and could tell you.

Mr. Slavek


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