Explain how going to mass helps an individual to develop a personal relationship with God.

certain time and place shows our intention to develop our relationship with God and how we need to practice our faith and rely on him. The penitential rite is the time when we express our sorrow and regret to God through prayer. Just like any other relationship we are admitting something has gone wrong and we are sorry, therefore breaking down the barrier allowing the relationship to progress and develop. The Gloria reinforces this because praise is required. The Liturgy Of The Word is teaching the messages of God. By listening and communicating we are developing the skills required to have a successful relationship. We are also being taught, that being obedient to the will of God and having a belief in having faith is developing the relationship, the important teaching being that you cannot change another person. The creed expands the relationship further because by professing our faith we are admitting what we believe in, just like in other relationships we should always express what we feel. Bidding prayers give the chance to convey our problems and ask for help, in doing so we are increasing the communication in our relationship. In the Liturgy of the Eucharist the praising, thanking and giving of gifts is highly important. So to is the recognition of the tremendous sacrifice God made for us. We are acknowledging Christ’s suffering and death to save us from sin, letting the relationship develop further as we show our gratitude. In the concluding rite we have accepted our relationship with God is going well, giving us a pleasant feeling. We have developed our relationship fully and this will have a good effect for other people as we go out into the world.    In conclusion, mass is an experience that develops the characteristics required for an everlasting relationship with God. We have allowed ourselves to open up to God, receiving him willingly into our lives and letting Christ’s power work with us and destroy all negative aspects of our lives. Caroline Blundell