At the heart of the Mass is the re-presentation (not representation) of Christ’s self-sacrifice on the cross, and the congregants’ participation in it.

After the liturgy of the word (Bible readings and homily), the priest offers Christ’s life on the cross to the Father in atonement for our sins; and the congregation offers themselves with Him as His extended body.

Then, in the ultimate thanksgiving peace meal between the Offended and the reconciled, the Father feeds His people with the divine Life of His incarnate Son in the Eucharist. It is (also) the Father’s Life and the Holy Spirit’s Life by virtue of the Trinity being consubstantial. This salvific grace is dispensed to those present and participating.

THIS is why regular participation in the liturgy is SO important. It is why, by the authority of Christ, the Church declares Sunday Mass attendance obligatory – as a minimal necessity in maintaining one’s spiritual life and relationship with God (CCC 2041, 2042).