Perhaps the most used and taken-for-granted word in our Liturgy is “Amen.” It is a Hebrew term which means, “I agree,” “so be it,” or as the younger generation used to say, “right on.” So it is, so it shall be. The word ratifies our expression of faith— our creed, our prayer, and is our consent and approval. It is also the name of Jesus (Revelation 3:14). Whenever the celebrant holds his hands extended, at the width of his shoulders, it is special prayer time at Mass. Our first AMEN comes after the beginning prayer (Collect). It is said also at the prayer prior to the Preface (at the end of the Prayer Over the Offerings). Later it is said at the end of the Prayer After Communion. These three prayers the celebrant says on our behalf. Thus our AMEN should be audible and clear as we express our faith; we are saying that we agree with the prayer uttered in our name. The priest, extending his hands, recalls the incident in the Old Testament (Exodus 17:11-12) where Moses stood on a hill overlooking the battle that his people, the Jews, were fighting. Moses was praying for victory. As long as he prayed, the battle went in their favor. When Moses relaxed, because his arms grew weary from being extended in prayer, the tide turned against his people. Two men came up to him and held up his arms. Moses once again prayed in the accustomed Jewish manner. Try it sometime and see how long you can hold your arms extended. This will assist you in appreciating Moses’ need to have help in prayer. We voice our help for the celebrant’s prayer at Mass by our word, AMEN. In a sense, we uphold “the arms of the celebrant,” as the two men helped Moses pray. We support his hands by our response AMEN. Speak clearly and let your response be heard in support of the prayer. Do not just mumble the AMEN. At Communion time, we respond AMEN to the words, “The body of Christ,” spoken by the priest, deacon or Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion. This is our profession of faith, not only in the real presence but in all that the Catholic Church teaches. Only those who are practicing Catholics can give assent to the articles of faith. We say AMEN to the gift of Christ in the Eucharist, making a declaration of our faith at Communion. We should be appreciative and unashamed about this great gift, proclaiming the truth with an AMEN that resounds through the community and beyond. Our AMEN lends support to the faith of fellow believers and beckons to others that they might come and know what we have. It is not a time for silent approval. AMEN— “truly it is so,” “I believe,”— we are proud to profess our faith.
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