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The Spirit of the Liturgy
Considered by Ratzinger devotees as his greatest work on the Liturgy, this profound and beautifully written treatment of the great prayer of the Church will help readers rediscover the Liturgy in all its hidden spiritual wealth and transcendent grandeur as the very center of our Christian life. In his own foreward to the book, Cardinal Ratzinger compares this work to a much earlier classic of the same title by Romano Guardini because Ratzinger feels that his insights here are similar with what Guardini achieved in his time regarding a renewed understanding of the Liturgy. My purpose here is to assist this renewal of understanding of the Liturgy. Its basic intentions coincide with what Guardini wanted to achieve. The only difference is that I have had to translate what Guardini did at the end of the First World War, in a totally different historical situation, into the context of our present-day questions, hopes and dangers. Like Guardini, I am not attempting to involve myself with scholarly discussion and research. I am simply offering an aid to the understanding of the faith and to the right way to give the faith its central form of expression in the Liturgy.
232 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 1999
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March 2, 2020
This was very helpful in understanding the place of the liturgy in the contemporary church. Both Ratzinger and Guardini emphasize the unity of disparate elements that make the liturgy appealing to large numbers of very different people. At the same time, there is an obvious demand to make the church more relevant and appealing. Many of the simple fixes that are proposed can jeopardize what is vital in the liturgy. Both authors propose that understanding the place and inner logic of liturgy can help renew a commitment to its essence. One funny thing about Ratzinger's contributions is how "hippie" they sound in a certain light - talking about the cosmos and eternity and love and all that. This is not the image that he has in the media - and he does complain about rock music in the book. But there is a lot of "mind-expanding" stuff in here which is fun to consider.
January 16, 2023
October 25, 2022: Rereading with Group, Catholic Thought
June 7, 2011 Update: Listened to the first podcast last night. I really like Fr. Riccardo. Thanks again for the recommendation Lynda.
May 31, 2011 Update: A friend just recommended this set of podcasts by Fr. John Riccardo as very helpful in understanding this book. Can't wait 'til I have some time to listen! Thanks Lynda!
I'm not sure if it was good or bad that it took me so long to finish this book. It isn't what I'd call a 'cover-to-cover' read anyway. By that I mean, you don't necessarily have to read it from start to finish, front to back to fully appreciate it. You certainly can do this and while it's probably the best way to read and appreciate the book, it's also possible to get a lot out of it by reading bite-sized sections of it and meditating on those. I took it with me to Adoration quite a bit. Although purportedly written for the average layperson, I found it challenging in several places. It did, however, motivate and strengthen my devotion to, and appreciation of, the Divine Liturgy tremendously!
=========================================
A very challenging book for me so far and yet it seems to be moving from the abstract to the concrete, which in my case is fortunate--as hopefully I shall be able to understand it better. The first second part of this book which I'm currently reading, Time and Space in Liturgy, is especially relevant in light of what happened today, the murder of George Tillman, a prominent late-term abortionist, as he was -- intentionally or not -- killed in a holy place on a holy day.
The first part dealt with the Essence of Liturgy and so far as I was able to gather dealt with basic questions such as: What is liturgy? What happens during the liturgy? and What kind of reality do we encounter there? The author, PBXVI, puts these questions to the reader first to allow us to consider them from our own perspective, then proceeds to answer them philosophically and theologically. This book is based on Guardini's earlier work of the same name, The Spirit of the Liturgy, although from my brief perusal of that document they are substantially different. In the next chapter, the Holy Father tells us, modern theology teaches religion may have one of two focal points: 1.) Cosmic: an appreciation of the orderly, harmonious universe, the complex self-inclusive system in which we dwell; OR, 2.) Historic: the unfolding story of man’s destiny within a mysterious and unpredictable universe. The first, Cosmic, signifies PLACE. The second, represents the essential TIME.
The idea of worship exists within both systems of belief. Worship is the act of giving and receiving on the part of God and man. It has always been more than just an opportunity for human interchange and congregation. These leads to these important terms: 1. CREATION: place; the goal of which is covenant, the love story of God and man. 2. COVENANT: relationship; God’s gift of Himself to man, but also man’s response to God.
The key to connecting the two disparate theological worldviews, the Pope gives at the bottom of page 28: ‘…the goal of worship and the goal of creation are one and the same—divinization, a world of freedom and love. But this means that the historical makes its appearance in the cosmic. The cosmos is not a closed building, a stationary container in which history may by chance take place. It is itself movement, from its one beginning to its one end. In a sense, creation is history.’ (Underlining mine.) These two world views cannot be separated, despite the teachings of modern theology. I believe he is saying that while these two perspectives may be valid, may indeed exist, they should not persist nor be cherished above the one circle of being. ‘The historical liturgy of Christendom is and always will be cosmic, without separation and without confusion, and only as such does it stand erect in its full grandeur.’ (page 34)
June 7, 2011 Update: Listened to the first podcast last night. I really like Fr. Riccardo. Thanks again for the recommendation Lynda.
May 31, 2011 Update: A friend just recommended this set of podcasts by Fr. John Riccardo as very helpful in understanding this book. Can't wait 'til I have some time to listen! Thanks Lynda!
I'm not sure if it was good or bad that it took me so long to finish this book. It isn't what I'd call a 'cover-to-cover' read anyway. By that I mean, you don't necessarily have to read it from start to finish, front to back to fully appreciate it. You certainly can do this and while it's probably the best way to read and appreciate the book, it's also possible to get a lot out of it by reading bite-sized sections of it and meditating on those. I took it with me to Adoration quite a bit. Although purportedly written for the average layperson, I found it challenging in several places. It did, however, motivate and strengthen my devotion to, and appreciation of, the Divine Liturgy tremendously!
=========================================
A very challenging book for me so far and yet it seems to be moving from the abstract to the concrete, which in my case is fortunate--as hopefully I shall be able to understand it better. The first second part of this book which I'm currently reading, Time and Space in Liturgy, is especially relevant in light of what happened today, the murder of George Tillman, a prominent late-term abortionist, as he was -- intentionally or not -- killed in a holy place on a holy day.
The first part dealt with the Essence of Liturgy and so far as I was able to gather dealt with basic questions such as: What is liturgy? What happens during the liturgy? and What kind of reality do we encounter there? The author, PBXVI, puts these questions to the reader first to allow us to consider them from our own perspective, then proceeds to answer them philosophically and theologically. This book is based on Guardini's earlier work of the same name, The Spirit of the Liturgy, although from my brief perusal of that document they are substantially different. In the next chapter, the Holy Father tells us, modern theology teaches religion may have one of two focal points: 1.) Cosmic: an appreciation of the orderly, harmonious universe, the complex self-inclusive system in which we dwell; OR, 2.) Historic: the unfolding story of man’s destiny within a mysterious and unpredictable universe. The first, Cosmic, signifies PLACE. The second, represents the essential TIME.
The idea of worship exists within both systems of belief. Worship is the act of giving and receiving on the part of God and man. It has always been more than just an opportunity for human interchange and congregation. These leads to these important terms: 1. CREATION: place; the goal of which is covenant, the love story of God and man. 2. COVENANT: relationship; God’s gift of Himself to man, but also man’s response to God.
The key to connecting the two disparate theological worldviews, the Pope gives at the bottom of page 28: ‘…the goal of worship and the goal of creation are one and the same—divinization, a world of freedom and love. But this means that the historical makes its appearance in the cosmic. The cosmos is not a closed building, a stationary container in which history may by chance take place. It is itself movement, from its one beginning to its one end. In a sense, creation is history.’ (Underlining mine.) These two world views cannot be separated, despite the teachings of modern theology. I believe he is saying that while these two perspectives may be valid, may indeed exist, they should not persist nor be cherished above the one circle of being. ‘The historical liturgy of Christendom is and always will be cosmic, without separation and without confusion, and only as such does it stand erect in its full grandeur.’ (page 34)
February 27, 2008
"The Spirit of the Liturgy" will forever be within arm's reach. This simple statement of then-Cardinal Ratzinger's theology of liturgy opened my eyes to the genius and the beauty of Catholic worship--admittedly a dry subject but one that is increasingly important for Catholics to grow in appreciation of. One might claim that it is precisely the failure to convey the intention and meaning of the Council's revision of the liturgy that has created the confusion and apathy so many Catholics now face when they take an honest look at contemporary parish life. That liturgical renewal/reform was at least the most urgent matter for the council (if not the most important) is indicated by their choice to promulgate Sacrosanctum Concilium as their first document. Ratzinger poses a challenge to the faithful to look upon the common prayer of the Church with new eyes and to discern the riches there available; it is in continuity with the Council's express intentions that he does so, though with a clear grasp of the intervening thirty years since the project was first undertaken.
Both practical and sublimely theological, "The Spirit of the Liturgy" will invite you into a "full, active, and conscious participation" that may have escaped your best efforts in the past.
Both practical and sublimely theological, "The Spirit of the Liturgy" will invite you into a "full, active, and conscious participation" that may have escaped your best efforts in the past.
May 4, 2008
Benedict XVI surely puts the "Lit" back in "Liturgy" with this fascinating and refulgent view of the recently watered down Catholic Mass. With unabashed defenses of incense, gregorian chant and literary scriptural roots, His Holiness expresses a much needed return to the basics of liturgy and provides the Cliff's Notes of how to get the Mass back on track. I for one will regurgitate at the next "Folk Mass" I am obligated to attend.
October 10, 2017
Even though I grew up Catholic, I had no idea how important the Liturgy and Mass was. This book brought my one-dimensional understanding of what we do at Mass into reality. There is much more meaning to the Liturgy, one that connects us with the past, present, and with the future as heaven on Earth.
July 22, 2020
One of the many ways COVID-19 has affected our lives is preventing the Body of Christ from gathering in person to worship Our Lord. This makes the timing of reading Pope Benedict XVI's "The Spirit of the Liturgy" less than ideal; I am grateful to have read this work by such a keen and thoughtful theologian, but it makes me wish I could experience the splendor of worship he describes in the pages of this book. Then again, I am a low-church evangelical and some of the elements of worship he takes as meet and right I would object to such as eucharistic adoration (in affirming eucharistic adoration, the pope emeritus affirms the liturgical developments of the medieval period; whereas some "paleo-orthodox" Protestants such as the late Thomas Oden privileged the first five centuries of the Church as normative over later theological innovations, clearly Benedict diverges from this view, as is understandable given Catholic thinking about doctrinal development) and vestments. Still, this is a wonderful exposition of the liturgy. I appreciated Benedict's XVI explanations of the liturgy and perhaps most of all his discussion of good vs. bad forms of inculturation (pp. 200-203).
January 13, 2024
First, it is a very heady and truly wonderful book. It takes reading in small parts (in my case, listening), and then reading it again. -- at least for me. I would refer one to booklady's review, which is excellent and well-said. Also, I love PBXVI.
January 18, 2008
As a Protestant, despite some high church leanings, I find plenty to disagree with here. But this book wasn't written for me, and I greatly respect Ratzinger's learned, devout approach to his topic. This is the best overview of Catholic worship I have found.
He named this book intentionally after his hero, Guardini's 1918 book of the same name. It is divided into four parts (The Essence of the Liturgy, Time and Space in the Liturgy, Art and Liturgy, Liturgical Form)
It is very important to note at the onset, Ratzinger clearly is NOT giving some call to return to the Medievel past, but is giving a dynamic new expressions of ancient practices. He is not a reactionary grasping for nostalia, but a modern Neo-orthodox catholic. (Conservative neoorthodox, but neoorthodox).
Conservative Catholics tend to rail against all changes in the liturgy the past 40 yrs, but w/o a theological basis to weigh the good from the bad. Ratzinger gives a helpful framework to evalute these developments, whether you agree with them or not.
For those who find RoCatholic theological discourse thin on thoughtful and intense exegesis, this book will be a pleasant surprise. Scriptures are explored often and deeply.
Sadly, there are no footnotes, but a good bibliography is provided for each chapter.
Some random notes
p. 107ff.: debunks the craziness about Christmas' date being tied to the Mithras myth and Saturn's b-day etc. He shows why Dec. 25 developed in the 3rd cent. West. Pegging Christmas to December 25th related to the time of the winter solstice. This was important as up to this day, dark days increase, but from this day, the darkness decreases! Theologically: As Jerome says in the 4th cent: "The light advances while the night retreats; Christ must increase but I must decrease."
pp. 177ff. Argues for making the sign of the cross in prayer. Goes into OT foreshadowing with the Hebrew letter Tav etc. (p. 179) Some of it is strained and weird and too clever for its own good. But bottom line - many Xians make the sign of the cross to remind ourselves and tell a watching world that our prayers are PARTICULARLY XIAN. I Co. 2:2. It is the CROSS that sets us apart from that imam that Ratzinger pretended to pray with in the Blue Mosque last week! Our prayers are to a PARTICULAR God - not some Universal god!
On VESTMENTS, pp. 216ff., interested me. "The liturgical attire worn by the priest during mass should make clear that he is not there as a private person, as this or that man, but stands in place of Another - Christ. What is merely private, merely individual, about him should disappear and make way for Christ." P. 216. Christ who incarnated (as a male, Ratz. notes).
Paul Gal. 2:20 "It is no longer I , but Christ who lives in me." On priests in worship "It is not he himself who is important, but Christ. It is not he himself who is communicating to men, but Christ. HE MAKES HIMSELF THE INSTRUMENT OF CHRIST, ACTING, NOT FROM HIS OWN RESOURCES, BUT AS THE MESSENGER, INDEED AS THE PRESENCE OF ANOTHER - IN PERSONA CHRISTI, AS THE LITURGICAL TRADITION SAYS..."
Ratz. ties vestments to Paul in Gal. 3:27 "putting on Christ" (also in Rom. 13:14). Eph. 4, Col. 3 "putting on new nature." May overplay his hand a little there, but overall he is convincing.
ON APPLAUSE: "Wherever applause breaks out in the liturgy because of some human achievement, it is a sure sign that the essence of the liturgy has totally disappeared and been replaced by a kind of religious entertainment."
232pp., but no index. GREAT binding, and cover art.
He named this book intentionally after his hero, Guardini's 1918 book of the same name. It is divided into four parts (The Essence of the Liturgy, Time and Space in the Liturgy, Art and Liturgy, Liturgical Form)
It is very important to note at the onset, Ratzinger clearly is NOT giving some call to return to the Medievel past, but is giving a dynamic new expressions of ancient practices. He is not a reactionary grasping for nostalia, but a modern Neo-orthodox catholic. (Conservative neoorthodox, but neoorthodox).
Conservative Catholics tend to rail against all changes in the liturgy the past 40 yrs, but w/o a theological basis to weigh the good from the bad. Ratzinger gives a helpful framework to evalute these developments, whether you agree with them or not.
For those who find RoCatholic theological discourse thin on thoughtful and intense exegesis, this book will be a pleasant surprise. Scriptures are explored often and deeply.
Sadly, there are no footnotes, but a good bibliography is provided for each chapter.
Some random notes
p. 107ff.: debunks the craziness about Christmas' date being tied to the Mithras myth and Saturn's b-day etc. He shows why Dec. 25 developed in the 3rd cent. West. Pegging Christmas to December 25th related to the time of the winter solstice. This was important as up to this day, dark days increase, but from this day, the darkness decreases! Theologically: As Jerome says in the 4th cent: "The light advances while the night retreats; Christ must increase but I must decrease."
pp. 177ff. Argues for making the sign of the cross in prayer. Goes into OT foreshadowing with the Hebrew letter Tav etc. (p. 179) Some of it is strained and weird and too clever for its own good. But bottom line - many Xians make the sign of the cross to remind ourselves and tell a watching world that our prayers are PARTICULARLY XIAN. I Co. 2:2. It is the CROSS that sets us apart from that imam that Ratzinger pretended to pray with in the Blue Mosque last week! Our prayers are to a PARTICULAR God - not some Universal god!
On VESTMENTS, pp. 216ff., interested me. "The liturgical attire worn by the priest during mass should make clear that he is not there as a private person, as this or that man, but stands in place of Another - Christ. What is merely private, merely individual, about him should disappear and make way for Christ." P. 216. Christ who incarnated (as a male, Ratz. notes).
Paul Gal. 2:20 "It is no longer I , but Christ who lives in me." On priests in worship "It is not he himself who is important, but Christ. It is not he himself who is communicating to men, but Christ. HE MAKES HIMSELF THE INSTRUMENT OF CHRIST, ACTING, NOT FROM HIS OWN RESOURCES, BUT AS THE MESSENGER, INDEED AS THE PRESENCE OF ANOTHER - IN PERSONA CHRISTI, AS THE LITURGICAL TRADITION SAYS..."
Ratz. ties vestments to Paul in Gal. 3:27 "putting on Christ" (also in Rom. 13:14). Eph. 4, Col. 3 "putting on new nature." May overplay his hand a little there, but overall he is convincing.
ON APPLAUSE: "Wherever applause breaks out in the liturgy because of some human achievement, it is a sure sign that the essence of the liturgy has totally disappeared and been replaced by a kind of religious entertainment."
232pp., but no index. GREAT binding, and cover art.
January 23, 2015
Third (maybe fourth) time reading this, but first time reviewing. It's still five stars and always will be. Along with Introduction to Christianity, this is, in my mind, the classic Raztinger/Benedict title. Up front, it really is a Catholic insider baseball book with a tiny secular audience, so may not be everybody's cup of tea - in other words, you may want to move on from this review and book.
That being said (or his dictis since we're in a Catholic realm) it should live on the shelf of all Catholic priests and lay people interested in liturgy. Not only does Ratzinger debunk, in the most gentlemanly way possible, all the post "Spirit of Vatican II" myths around the liturgy, but it provides a solid grounding in the Mass. The history, spirituality, and theology of Catholic worship is neatly summed up in this little volume, that points always to the centrality of Christ in a Christian life.
I'm on Twitter:@Dr_A_Taubman
That being said (or his dictis since we're in a Catholic realm) it should live on the shelf of all Catholic priests and lay people interested in liturgy. Not only does Ratzinger debunk, in the most gentlemanly way possible, all the post "Spirit of Vatican II" myths around the liturgy, but it provides a solid grounding in the Mass. The history, spirituality, and theology of Catholic worship is neatly summed up in this little volume, that points always to the centrality of Christ in a Christian life.
I'm on Twitter:@Dr_A_Taubman
February 5, 2019
Absolutamente imprescindible. La falta de formación litúrgica en los fieles es cada vez mayor. Si queremos evitar subjetivismos, innovaciones arbitrarias y una liturgia que sólo se mira a sí misma e intenta "atraer a la gente" como un espectáculo más, es fundamental que conozcamos qué es la liturgia y cuál es su función, su espíritu y su contenido. Este libro debería ser de obligada lectura para todo el pueblo de Dios.
April 11, 2013
Prayers, music, postures, gestures, history, and development of the liturgy. Immensely readable. Best part: "Liturgical dance has no place in Christian worship." I feel so validated.
September 19, 2023
"The Spirit of the Liturgy" by Pope Benedict XVI is a magnum opus that delves deep into the heart of Christian worship, offering readers an insightful exploration of the theology and spirituality that underpin the liturgical practices of the Catholic Church. In this thought-provoking book, Pope Benedict XVI (formerly Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger) demonstrates his profound understanding of the liturgy, its history, and its profound significance for the life of the Church.
The book is divided into two main parts. The first part lays the foundation for the discussion by addressing the historical and theological aspects of the liturgy. Pope Benedict XVI skillfully navigates through the evolution of Christian worship, highlighting the organic development of the liturgy and its roots in the Jewish tradition. He stresses the importance of understanding the liturgy not as a human invention but as a divine gift handed down through the ages.
One of the book's most captivating aspects is Pope Benedict XVI's explanation of the liturgy's intrinsic connection to the incarnation of Christ. He argues that the liturgy is not merely a collection of rituals but a living encounter with the person of Jesus Christ. Through his insightful analysis, he reiterates the centrality of Christ in the liturgical celebration, emphasizing how the liturgy draws the faithful into a deeper relationship with Christ.
The second part of the book focuses on various elements of the liturgy, including the Eucharist, the importance of silence, and the role of art and music in worship. Pope Benedict XVI's discussion of the Eucharist is particularly enlightening, as he explores the profound mystery of the real presence of Christ in the Blessed Sacrament. His insights on the need for silence and reverence in the liturgy are a refreshing reminder of the sacredness of worship, inviting readers to reflect on the distractions that can sometimes diminish the spiritual experience of the Mass.
Throughout the book, Pope Benedict XVI's writing is clear and erudite, making complex theological concepts accessible to a wide audience. His deep love for the liturgy and his desire to see it celebrated with the utmost reverence and authenticity shine through in every page.
"The Spirit of the Liturgy" is a book that not only informs but also inspires. It calls on Catholics and Christians of all denominations to reevaluate their understanding of the liturgy and to approach it with a renewed sense of awe and devotion. Pope Benedict XVI's scholarly approach, coupled with his deep spirituality, makes this book a must-read for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of Christian worship and its significance in the life of the Church.
In conclusion, "The Spirit of the Liturgy" is a theological masterpiece that invites readers on a profound journey into the heart of Christian worship. Pope Benedict XVI's wisdom and insight make this book a valuable resource for theologians, clergy, and laypeople alike, and it stands as a timeless contribution to the study of liturgy and spirituality within the Catholic tradition.
The book is divided into two main parts. The first part lays the foundation for the discussion by addressing the historical and theological aspects of the liturgy. Pope Benedict XVI skillfully navigates through the evolution of Christian worship, highlighting the organic development of the liturgy and its roots in the Jewish tradition. He stresses the importance of understanding the liturgy not as a human invention but as a divine gift handed down through the ages.
One of the book's most captivating aspects is Pope Benedict XVI's explanation of the liturgy's intrinsic connection to the incarnation of Christ. He argues that the liturgy is not merely a collection of rituals but a living encounter with the person of Jesus Christ. Through his insightful analysis, he reiterates the centrality of Christ in the liturgical celebration, emphasizing how the liturgy draws the faithful into a deeper relationship with Christ.
The second part of the book focuses on various elements of the liturgy, including the Eucharist, the importance of silence, and the role of art and music in worship. Pope Benedict XVI's discussion of the Eucharist is particularly enlightening, as he explores the profound mystery of the real presence of Christ in the Blessed Sacrament. His insights on the need for silence and reverence in the liturgy are a refreshing reminder of the sacredness of worship, inviting readers to reflect on the distractions that can sometimes diminish the spiritual experience of the Mass.
Throughout the book, Pope Benedict XVI's writing is clear and erudite, making complex theological concepts accessible to a wide audience. His deep love for the liturgy and his desire to see it celebrated with the utmost reverence and authenticity shine through in every page.
"The Spirit of the Liturgy" is a book that not only informs but also inspires. It calls on Catholics and Christians of all denominations to reevaluate their understanding of the liturgy and to approach it with a renewed sense of awe and devotion. Pope Benedict XVI's scholarly approach, coupled with his deep spirituality, makes this book a must-read for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of Christian worship and its significance in the life of the Church.
In conclusion, "The Spirit of the Liturgy" is a theological masterpiece that invites readers on a profound journey into the heart of Christian worship. Pope Benedict XVI's wisdom and insight make this book a valuable resource for theologians, clergy, and laypeople alike, and it stands as a timeless contribution to the study of liturgy and spirituality within the Catholic tradition.
February 12, 2017
The more I read of Pope Emeritus Benedict Ratzinger the more I love and appreciate him.
I learned so much about the liturgy and I am a Catholic priest! I think the lay faithful would benefit as well. He writes so clearly with great wisdom, insights and understanding. It's helping me to pray the mass with even more reverence and awareness.
I wanted more when it ended!
I learned so much about the liturgy and I am a Catholic priest! I think the lay faithful would benefit as well. He writes so clearly with great wisdom, insights and understanding. It's helping me to pray the mass with even more reverence and awareness.
I wanted more when it ended!
October 11, 2015
Remarkable book, by one of the greatest, and most unappreciated, humans of the past 150 years.
July 8, 2021
compulsory reading for all diocesan and parish ‘liturgists’
June 10, 2011
Liturgy is the heart and apex of Christian life. And even though it is not true that we take away from it as much as we are willing to give (we always gain more than we could ever hope to give), it behooves us to know and understand deeply and thoughtfully the significance and importance of liturgy's various parts. Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger (now pope Benedict XVI) has set out in this relatively slim volume to examine and meditate on various aspects of the Liturgy, and to defend it from various challenges that have been raised in recent years. Although he clearly comes from Catholic perspective, this book is general enough that can be used and appreciated by all Christians who hold to the importance of Liturgy.
Cardinal Ratzinger uses his entire intellectual prowess in guiding us through various aspects of Liturgy. He is equally at home as a biblical scholar, a theologian, an exegete and a pastor. This combination of talents and worldviews makes him uniquely qualified to take a look at the liturgy that is both deep and wide. Although a teacher and a guardian of faith, his statements are not "dogmatic" in the pejorative sense of the term. Throughout the book one gets the impression that the ideas and the statements promulgated are ultimately propositional in nature, although they come with all the authority that he has. This frees him to make statements about many contemporary topics, such as the use of modern music and dance for which he doesn't seem to have much use. Nonetheless he presents his views in a tone of voice and with an attitude that implies that he would be open for discussion, although it is not very likely that he would be much swayed from his positions.
All of Pope Benedict's writings have an imprint of a careful and systematic thinker, who has a lot to offer to the modern world. This book is a further testament to this, and a wonderful and worthwhile read for anyone interested in deeper exploration of our Christian heritage.
Cardinal Ratzinger uses his entire intellectual prowess in guiding us through various aspects of Liturgy. He is equally at home as a biblical scholar, a theologian, an exegete and a pastor. This combination of talents and worldviews makes him uniquely qualified to take a look at the liturgy that is both deep and wide. Although a teacher and a guardian of faith, his statements are not "dogmatic" in the pejorative sense of the term. Throughout the book one gets the impression that the ideas and the statements promulgated are ultimately propositional in nature, although they come with all the authority that he has. This frees him to make statements about many contemporary topics, such as the use of modern music and dance for which he doesn't seem to have much use. Nonetheless he presents his views in a tone of voice and with an attitude that implies that he would be open for discussion, although it is not very likely that he would be much swayed from his positions.
All of Pope Benedict's writings have an imprint of a careful and systematic thinker, who has a lot to offer to the modern world. This book is a further testament to this, and a wonderful and worthwhile read for anyone interested in deeper exploration of our Christian heritage.
December 30, 2022
This was fascinating on so many levels! He certainly has a beautiful way of connecting the different parts of the Liturgy, as well as explaining the origins of many aspects. I have been a Roman Catholic my entire life, but I realized after reading this book how little I actually know. There's a surprise! The older I get, the more ignorant I seem to be.
I am so grateful that my Catholic Thought book club selected this one to read. Excellent resource for fellow Catholics, and well worth reading.
This was the first book by Pope Benedict Emeritus that I've read, but it won't be the last!
I am so grateful that my Catholic Thought book club selected this one to read. Excellent resource for fellow Catholics, and well worth reading.
This was the first book by Pope Benedict Emeritus that I've read, but it won't be the last!
October 25, 2009
This book was wonderful. I've taken several classes on liturgy and though I had a firm grasp of the mysteries, but there were chapters that really amazed me. The stuff about cosmology and the liturgy is facinating. I particularly enjoyed the chapter about history. This is a wonderful read if you want to learn to love liturgy more.
June 2, 2016
The following sections were strong ones in the text: the cosmic and historical dimensions of the liturgy; liturgical art; corporal gestures in the liturgy.
Well written, but can be challenging for those who have not had much experience in academic and theological writings (though this book isn't so much theological as theoretical about liturgy...).
Well written, but can be challenging for those who have not had much experience in academic and theological writings (though this book isn't so much theological as theoretical about liturgy...).
April 8, 2015
This book was awesome even if it was a deep study. I understand so much more
October 6, 2015
The liturgy is a pretty big deal. This is a nice introduction/meditation on it.
May 8, 2023
This was super. A real review to come in the future.
April 13, 2023
On the use of olive oil, wine, and wheaten bread (distinctively Mediterranean things) for the sacraments: "[The Incarnation] binds us to the history of a particular time. Outwardly, that history may seem fortuitous, but it is the form of history willed by God, and for us it is the trustworthy trace he has imprinted on the earth, the guarantee that we are not thinking up things for ourselves but are truly touched by God and come into touch with him."
November 22, 2024
‘A alma sozinha seria um fragmento triste.’
June 15, 2017
This is a fantastic treatise on the Catholic Liturgy by Pope Emeritus Joseph Ratzinger (Benedict 16).
This book is amazing.
This book is amazing.
Read
August 5, 2021RIP Summorum Pontificum.
October 20, 2021
A must read if you desire to go deeper in your prayer and worship.
November 25, 2019
"Christians see themselves as people who truly live. They have found their way out of an existence that is more death than life. They have discovered real life."
Cardinal Ratzinger (Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI) is a man with immense intellectual gifts. The depth of his theological thinking is truly astounding and this book is a fine example of the breadth of his knowledge. As someone who has recently experienced the very, very beautiful (usually in the form of the Tridentine Mass) and the very, very banal (Novus Ordo Protestant Style), I've become very interested in the importance of the liturgy in the life and expression of Christianity. I don't think it's a coincidence young people are so drawn to the mystery and beauty of the Latin Mass. They've seen the Novus Ordo - they aren't impressed.
It's important to note here that I am not just talking about aesthetic styles or in any way trying to say that the Mass needs to have all the glamour of a Mega Church to draw people in. Quite the opposite. In fact Ratzinger devotes a considerable portion of his meditations to times of silence in the Mass - and how we need much, much more "full silence" in order to truly enter into the Paschal Mystery.
I especially enjoyed the chapters on time, space, and the cosmos. Did you know Plato describes the shape of the universe as a Cross? I also was fascinated to learn about the origins of Easter celebrations (and their significance in both the Jewish calendar and in the weather patterns both in the southern and northern hemispheres). Pope Benedict insists on the incarnation - Christ entered history and therefore saves Christianity from the vagueness of Myth. This means there will always be temporal and geographical realities to Christian Liturgy - and they will (and should) reflect the time of Christ's incarnation.
Such beautiful meditations on the "in-between" time of the Christian Liturgy, the "not-yet" - the shadow lifted, the curtain parted - but temporal realities still governing the movement of the stars. How elegantly he described such immense realities!
My only criticism is that he sometimes makes quite sweeping statements about the nature of art and music (not clarifying if he is only referring to the liturgy or speaking more generally). This led to a rather heated debate with my husband about aesthetics that I'm still a bit confused about.
All in all, a BEAUTIFUL exploration of the significance and role of the liturgy in Catholic life.
Cardinal Ratzinger (Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI) is a man with immense intellectual gifts. The depth of his theological thinking is truly astounding and this book is a fine example of the breadth of his knowledge. As someone who has recently experienced the very, very beautiful (usually in the form of the Tridentine Mass) and the very, very banal (Novus Ordo Protestant Style), I've become very interested in the importance of the liturgy in the life and expression of Christianity. I don't think it's a coincidence young people are so drawn to the mystery and beauty of the Latin Mass. They've seen the Novus Ordo - they aren't impressed.
It's important to note here that I am not just talking about aesthetic styles or in any way trying to say that the Mass needs to have all the glamour of a Mega Church to draw people in. Quite the opposite. In fact Ratzinger devotes a considerable portion of his meditations to times of silence in the Mass - and how we need much, much more "full silence" in order to truly enter into the Paschal Mystery.
I especially enjoyed the chapters on time, space, and the cosmos. Did you know Plato describes the shape of the universe as a Cross? I also was fascinated to learn about the origins of Easter celebrations (and their significance in both the Jewish calendar and in the weather patterns both in the southern and northern hemispheres). Pope Benedict insists on the incarnation - Christ entered history and therefore saves Christianity from the vagueness of Myth. This means there will always be temporal and geographical realities to Christian Liturgy - and they will (and should) reflect the time of Christ's incarnation.
Such beautiful meditations on the "in-between" time of the Christian Liturgy, the "not-yet" - the shadow lifted, the curtain parted - but temporal realities still governing the movement of the stars. How elegantly he described such immense realities!
My only criticism is that he sometimes makes quite sweeping statements about the nature of art and music (not clarifying if he is only referring to the liturgy or speaking more generally). This led to a rather heated debate with my husband about aesthetics that I'm still a bit confused about.
All in all, a BEAUTIFUL exploration of the significance and role of the liturgy in Catholic life.
May 23, 2017
Absolutely phenomenal work on Liturgical theology. This is a must read for anybody who wants to understand Liturgy in all its hidden spiritual and historical wealth. My experience of the Mass has been changed forever. I would give it 10 starts if I could. Pope Benedict, I love you!
September 28, 2015
Written by Cardinal Ratzinger in 2000. Wonderful book that really gets to the heart of Catholic liturgy as God-focused not human-focused. Four parts: The Essence of the Liturgy, Time and Space in the Liturgy, Art and Liturgy, and Liturgical Form. The first section is the most esoteric but the last three parts are increasingly more practical. Anyone discouraged by the density of some of the early pages should plow through anyway, picking up nuggets here and there. For regular Mass-goers, the last three parts, but especially the very last part (my favorite) will have you nodding or wagging your head. Ratzinger delves into the deepest meanings of even the shortest phrases and smallest gestures of the Mass to give the reader an appreciation for why things are to be done just as the missal requires. this is based on long-standing tradition, even going back to pre-Christian Jewish understanding and celebration. On the way he dismisses the desire by liturgists and worshipers for unsanctioned novelty.
A blessed and authoritative affirmation of "holding fast" to tradition for those disturbed by liturgical innovation.
A blessed and authoritative affirmation of "holding fast" to tradition for those disturbed by liturgical innovation.
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