What is a Mass intention, and why do people have Masses said?

A Mass intention is a particular person or need for which a priest offers the Eucharistic sacrifice. Catholics commonly request Masses for the dead, the living, thanksgiving, healing, anniversaries, or other worthy needs.

What happens at the Mass. Every Mass makes present the one sacrifice of Christ on Calvary in an unbloody manner (CCC 1367). The Mass always benefits the whole Church, living and dead. At the same time, the priest may apply the fruits of that celebration to a specific intention entrusted to him. The intention may be announced publicly, printed in the bulletin, or kept private.

Why Masses are offered for the dead. From its earliest days, the Church has prayed for the faithful departed. Because those being purified after death can be helped by the prayers of the Church, the Eucharistic sacrifice is offered for them so that they may enter the fullness of communion with God (CCC 958, 1032, 1371). Requesting a Mass for someone who has died is therefore a profound work of mercy. It does not presume that the person is lost or deny hope in God's mercy.

Why an offering is sometimes given. A parish may suggest a customary monetary offering, often called a Mass stipend. This money does not purchase grace, forgiveness, or the Mass. The Church permits such offerings because they help support the Church and her ministers, while uniting the donor with the sacrifice being offered (Canons 945-946). A priest must not refuse a reasonable request merely because someone cannot afford an offering. Any appearance of selling sacred things must be carefully avoided.

How to request one. Contact a parish office and give the intention, such as, "For the repose of the soul of Maria Lopez," or, "For John Smith's recovery." The parish may offer an available date, but the spiritual value of the Mass does not depend on whether it falls on an exact anniversary. You may attend that Mass, but your presence is not required for the priest to offer it.

Having a Mass said is one of the greatest gifts Catholics can offer. Consider requesting one for a deceased loved one, a family member in need, or in thanksgiving for a grace received.