Igniting a Passion for Catholic Liturgy

"Faithful, Comprehensive, and Effective. Participation of the Heart enriched individuals’ encounters with Christ in the Eucharist and inspired liturgical ministers across the state of Maine. The book’s accessible content and thoughtful structure was well-suited for regional workshops that utilized prayer, learning, and practice to help participants reflect on their personal participation at Mass, deepen their understanding of why Catholics gather for worship, and become more mindful of how serving in a liturgical role invites others to living encounters with Jesus Christ. Parish leaders also found the book easy to use in  encouraging all parishioners to embrace their primary liturgical role as active participants in the assembly and forming liturgical ministers."

–Lori Dahlhoff, EdD, former Director of Lifelong Faith Formation for the Roman Catholic Diocese of Portland (Maine)

"As our parish planned for the Archdiocesan Synod Year II implementation focusing on the Mass, I knew we would not find a better resource than Participation of the Heart: Deeper Engagement in the Mass. It has been valuable for individual reflection and small groups, liturgical and music ministers, and parish staff. Vicki has made her deep knowledge of the liturgy and vast experience serving the Church at prayer so accessible to a great cross-section of people. I highly recommend her book."

–Michael Griffin, Director of Social Ministry, Saint Olaf Catholic Church, Downtown Minneapolis

"This book is exactly what I was looking for.  I needed something to help connect the Mass with my life—preparing for Mass and continuing after Mass.  Learning to reflect on words and phrases, along with the homily and how my life at this point ties in with the readings ahead of time and again after Mass has been a big help. The reflection questions  in the participation section are so helpful."

–Rosemary, A lifelong Catholic

"Participation of the Heart begins by providing fruitful instruction on alternative ways we can use to meditate on the words and our experience of the Mass.  It then leads us through each stage of the Mass, providing just right “bite-sized” bits of information about the purpose and meaning of each stage.  That then provides a means of reflecting on our experience of each part of the Mass and how it relates to our relationship with God and our daily lives outside of Mass.

The result for me has been a significantly sharpened focus as we go through each stage of the Mass, and a much deeper appreciation and experience of it that I expect will continue to grow."

–Kevin

"An OCIA candidate in our parish told me, It opened my eyes and ears, so now coming to Mass means so much more to me!  Small groups love the down to earth style and great background information on each part of the Mass. But what people have most appreciated is the way Vicki invites us to reflect on what we experience in the liturgy, and discover together what it means for us as a community today. One small group member said, “Vicki’s witness helps us witness our faith to one another.” We’re grateful for this terrific resource!"

–Virginia, Director of Social Ministry, Small Group Leader

"The Archdiocesan Synod Year II asked us to explore a deeper engagement in the Mass.  Vicki Klima’s book Participation of the Heart: Deeper Engagement in the Mass has been the instrument that has helped me and my small group members come to a deeper appreciation and love for the Mass.  As we explore each section of the Mass with the help of Vicki’s book, we realize the important role that each of us play in the celebration of the Mass.  We have learned through prayer and reflection that we are not just passive observers. Each section of the Mass is rich in prayer, symbolism, and worship.  Vicki’s book has opened our eyes and our hearts to the great privilege of not just attending but actually participating in the Mass. We look forward to continuing our journey through Lent concluding just before Easter. Thank you Vicki for responding to the promptings of the Holy Spirit to write this book."

–Vicki Costello, St Olaf Catholic Church, Downtown Minneapolis