MISSA Meaning and
Definition
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Missa is a religious Latin term that refers to a specific form of the Catholic Eucharistic liturgy. The word originates from the phrase "Ite, missa est" which means "Go, she [the Church] is sent." It is commonly used to describe the celebration of Mass, the central and most important sacramental ritual in Catholicism.
Missa encompasses the entirety of the Mass, encompassing various liturgical elements and prayers, such as the readings from Scripture, the consecration of bread and wine into the body and blood of Christ, and the reception of Holy Communion by the faithful. It includes different parts like the Introductory Rites, Liturgy of the Word, Liturgy of the Eucharist, and Concluding Rites.
The term Missa also refers to different musical compositions inspired by or composed for the Mass. These musical works, known as Masses, are typically composed in multiple movements and utilize various vocal and instrumental combinations to enhance the liturgical experience.
In addition to its liturgical and musical connotations, the word Missa can also be used in a broader context to represent the act of being sent forth or dismissed. In this sense, it denotes a sense of mission or sending, often associated with the belief in spreading the Christian faith to others.
Common Misspellings for MISSA
Etymology of MISSA
The word "Missa" is derived from the Latin phrase "Missa est", meaning "It is dismissed" or "It is sent forth". The term has its roots in the practice of the early Christian church, where the dismissal of the congregation at the end of the eucharistic liturgy was called "Missa". Over time, "Missa" became associated with the entire eucharistic celebration, and by the 6th century, it referred to the entire liturgy rather than just the dismissal. This word eventually developed into various European languages, such as French ("messe"), Italian ("messa"), and Spanish ("misa"), all continuing to refer to the same religious service.
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