What Are the “Propers” of the Mass?

At every Mass, some prayers and readings change from day to day, while others remain the same.
These changing elements are called the Propers of the Mass.

The Propers include:

• Introit – the entrance antiphon that sets the spiritual tone of the day

• Collect – the opening prayer that “collects” the intentions of the Church

• Epistle – the appointed Scripture reading

• Gradual / Alleluia or Tract – chants that respond to the reading

• Gospel – the proclamation of Christ’s words and deeds

• Offertory – the chant accompanying the offering of bread and wine

• Secret – the prayer over the offerings

• Communion – the antiphon sung during the reception of Holy Communion

• Postcommunion – the concluding prayer of thanksgiving

These texts are not chosen at random. They are the fruit of centuries of prayer, Scripture, and theological reflection, carefully arranged so that the Church meditates on particular mysteries at particular times of the year.

Posting the Propers allows the faithful to:

• Prepare for Mass more deeply

• Understand the Church’s intention for each day

• Pray the Mass before, during, and after it is celebrated