Bells The bell is rung before Mass to tell everyone that Mass
is about to start and to invite people to come along!
Slide 3
Holy Water Font On the way in and out of the church we dip our
finger into the holy water and make the Sign of the Cross to remind
us of our baptism.
Slide 4
Lets look around the church
Slide 5
Pews After we genuflect towards the tabernacle we find a seat
to sit on in the pew (which is a row of seats) and should kneel
down on the kneeler to pray.
Slide 6
Baptismal Font When a baby is baptised he or she is brought
here and Holy Water is poured on the babys head. The child is
welcomed as a member of the Church.
Slide 7
Ambo The priest stands here to read the Gospel. Others stand
here to read other readings and prayers.
Slide 8
Lectionary The priest reads from the Lectionary (a special
Bible) at Mass. This reading is called the Gospel. He holds it up
in the air and kisses it when he is finished to show our love for
Jesus words.
Slide 9
Altar The altar is a special table at the top of the church.
Candles and a tablecloth are put on the altar. The priest stands
here facing the people. At a very important time of the Mass called
the consecration Jesus becomes truly present in the bread and the
wine. They are changed into the Body and Blood of Jesus.
Slide 10
Sanctuary Lamp The red light, called the sanctuary lamp, is
beside the tabernacle. It reminds us that Jesus is really present
in the tabernacle. Look for it near the altar.
Slide 11
Tabernacle This is a very special place at the top of the
church. The Holy Communion hosts are kept here. Jesus is truly
present in these hosts. We should genuflect (kneel down on one
knee) towards the tabernacle when we come into the church.
Slide 12
Crucifix The Crucifix is near the altar. It reminds us that
Jesus died on the cross for us.
Slide 13
The Priests Chair This is a special chair used only by the
priest. It is near the altar
Slide 14
The Shrine Adults light candles and pray to Jesus, or Mary, or
a saint for their loved ones.
Slide 15
Thank you to the people of St. Mochtas parish, Porterstown,
Dublin, for letting us visit their parish church!