Community education program returns to San Leandro Public Library following positive response in Castro Valley and San Leandro
Have you ever attended a Catholic Mass and wondered what was happening, why certain things are done, or what the prayers, gestures, and traditions mean?
There is far more happening during a Catholic Mass than meets the eye. Behind its prayers, gestures, symbols, and traditions are centuries of history, biblical foundations, and theological meaning. Much of this can easily go unnoticed without an opportunity to understand what is taking place and why.
Local residents will have another opportunity to explore these questions when "A Friendly Introduction to the Catholic Mass" is presented at the San Leandro Public Library on Thursday, November 19, 2026, from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
The free, two-hour community education presentation offers a straightforward introduction to the Catholic Mass, its history, and the meaning behind its prayers, symbols, and traditions. It is designed for people with little or no knowledge of Catholic worship, as well as those who have attended Mass for years but would like a better understanding of its deeper meaning.
The upcoming session follows two previous presentations at the Castro Valley and San Leandro Public Libraries, which together attracted 23 participants. Attendees included Catholics, Protestants, and people with little or no Catholic background. Feedback from both presentations was very positive, and several participants expressed interest in additional sessions so their family members and friends could attend.
The presentation was developed by Thom Fresquez, a local Catholic layperson who attends Mass daily. His motivation grew out of his own experience of attending Mass for many years without fully understanding its deeper meaning.
"As I learned more about the Mass, I realized how much there was to understand and how many people, including Catholics themselves, might have questions about it," Fresquez said. "I wanted to create the kind of introduction I wish had been available to me many years ago—a simple, approachable explanation in a setting where people could feel comfortable asking questions."
Participants will be introduced to:
- The history and purpose of the Catholic Mass.
- The meaning behind its prayers, gestures, and rituals.
- The symbolism found in Catholic churches.
- The significance of the Eucharist and what Catholics believe about it.
The presentation welcomes everyone, whether they have no religious background, belong to another faith tradition, are former Catholics, or simply want to better understand a tradition that remains central to the lives of Catholics around the world.
The class is educational in nature. It is not intended to persuade anyone to adopt the Catholic faith, but simply to help participants better understand the deeper meaning of the Mass and its significance to Catholics.
Fresquez has chosen to offer the presentation in a public library to provide a neutral, welcoming setting outside a church.
"I believe understanding another person's beliefs doesn't require us to adopt them," Fresquez said. "But taking the time to understand those beliefs can help us better understand the people who hold them. My hope is simply that everyone who attends leaves with a clearer understanding of the Catholic Mass and why it is so meaningful to Catholics."
Attendance is limited to 15 participants to create a relaxed, conversational atmosphere where everyone has an opportunity to ask questions and participate in the discussion.
Event Details
A Friendly Introduction to the Catholic Mass
Thursday, November 19, 2026
10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
San Leandro Public Library
300 Estudillo Avenue
San Leandro, CA 94577
Admission is free, but registration is required.
For more information, visit bit.ly/massclassinfo.
To register, visit bit.ly/massclassregister.