It can be easy to overlook the significance of what is the first action of the Mass, which is the priest’s approach to the Holy Altar.  In the Traditional Mass, the approach was accompanied by the prayers at the foot of the altar.  There is an awareness that even by his ordination, the priest remains unworthy to approach such a sacred place, but God has admitted him, nonetheless.

The priest approaches slowly, acknowledging the weight of what he carries, offering silent prayers of humility, and with reverence, kissing the altar as a sign of his love and gratitude, like one returning home after many years away or in exile.