Behold the Mystery: A Deeper Understanding of the Catholic Mass

As Catholics, the Mass should be a mountaintop experience for us. Often, though, we go through the motions at Mass without an appreciation for what has really happened. Popular speaker and author Mark Hart helps Catholics move beyond the repetition and ritual to see the Mass for what it really is: a heavenly banquet, a wedding feast, in which heaven and earth meet. In his engaging style, Hart guides readers toward a deeper understanding of the Mass—its roots in the Jewish Sabbath, its sacrificial character, and its signs and symbols. As we are told to “go in peace,” he inspires us to see the Mass as a place to be nourished so that we can further Christ’s mission in the world. In the last part of the book, Hart provides pithy answers to frequently asked questions, such as “Why can’t I leave right after Communion?” or “Why did the words change?” Finally, Hart offers ten things we can do to get more out of Mass.“The gift of Christ in the Holy Eucharist is real and true and beautiful. In Behold the Mystery, Mark Hart shares this truth in clear and practical terms. Read this book and discover the life-transforming power of the Mass.”—Scott Hahn, Scripture scholar and author, The Lamb’s Supper: The Mass as Heaven on Earth“Anyone who loves the Mass, and even those who think Mass is boring, need to read Mark Hart's newest book, Behold the Mystery. Hart's clarity, humor, and faith will help all Catholics become more engaged, active participants in liturgy—and in life. And for Mark, that’s one and the same.”—Fr. Leo E. Patalinghug, priest, author, TV & radio host, and founder of www.GraceBeforeMeals.com“You already know Mark Hart as a smart, funny, Spirit-filled leader and speaker. When you read this book, you will also know him as a pastoral theologian—in the style of Pope Francis—who can make you, me, and your non-practicing Catholic neighbor fall in love with God all over again through the Mass.—Fr. Jonathan Morris, program director, The Catholic Channel, SiriusXM 129, Fox News religion analyst, and author, God Wants You HappyMark Hart is executive vice president for Life Teen International as well as an award-winning author, a popular speaker, and the host of the SiriusXM Catholic radio show “Fired Up!” His weekly podcast and DVD Bible study resources have helped Catholics of all ages to read and study Scripture. He lives in Phoenix with his wife, Melanie, and their four children.