About the Mass Series: Concluding Rite no 1- Announcements

The giving of announcements has occurred at various locations within the Mass.  In the late 7^th century papal liturgy, it was immediately after the communion of the pope, and before the communion of the clergy and congregation, that the archdeacon announced the time and place of the next papal Mass, because non-communicants were accustomed to leave the church at this time.  

Another place, which was considered appropriate for announcements, was after the homily. For example, Pope Leo the Great (440-461) at the conclusion of his sermons reminded the faithful of the fast days during the week ahead, and invited them to attend the vigil on the eve of the next Sunday.

Nowadays, the announcements are made immediately after the prayer after communion, so that they are kept completely separate from the homily. These announcements are meant to be short, necessary and generally of concern to the whole community.  Longer and more particular information is considered better communicated in other ways, such as, through the parish bulletin and/ notice board.

Since the lectern is reserved for the proclamation of God’s word, it is preferable that the announcements are given elsewhere, although for practical reasons, this may not always be possible.  

Apart from the practical issues related to announcements, they are important also because it helps to build a sense of community and highlight the unity of purpose, which is crucial for the vitality of parish life.  Announcements are not a ‘switch out’ time, rather a ‘switch in’ time to see how YOU can make a difference.