Inviting a Personal Response to Ite, missa est: Developing and Offering a Focused Retreat to Extend the Sensory Experience of the Holy Mass

Author

Celina ChavezFollow

Date of Award

Spring 5-17-2026

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Theological Studies (MTS)

First Advisor

Dr. Christina Spahn

Second Advisor

Louise Nielsen

Third Advisor

Rev. Patricio Chacon, O. Praem.

Abstract

Holy Mass is a deeply sensory experience, connecting the human with the divine by way of the human senses. At its close, the faithful are sent forth with the final blessing and dismissal; however, some may not understand what this entails.

This thesis examines the necessity of a relationship with Jesus Christ in and stemming from the Eucharist with reference to the Catechism of the Catholic Church, spiritual writings regarding the liturgy and Christian love, and reflections on the missionary nature of the Catholic Faith. It proposes catechesis in the form of a teatime retreat, engaging the senses as a familiar avenue for encounter and evangelization.

Recommended Citation

Chavez, Celina, "Inviting a Personal Response to Ite, missa est: Developing and Offering a Focused Retreat to Extend the Sensory Experience of the Holy Mass" (2026). Master of Theological Studies Honors Theses. 10.
https://digitalcommons.snc.edu/mtshonors/10