Liturgy Corner

Some of you may have heard of what has been called the “Liturgical Movement”, which was begun under Pope Saint Pius X in the early 1900s. In it, St. Pius called for greater knowledge and participation in the liturgy, particularly the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass. In fact, it was around this time that hand missals and missalettes began to be produced, of which many of us are thankful! For Pope Benedict, this meant even more a greater emphasis on the liturgy and the right way of celebrating it, both inwardly and outwardly.
 
Formerly, especially during the middle ages, the people were considerably less involved in the liturgy, had little knowledge, and even had no responses during its celebration. The Liturgical Movement helped to turn the tide, and gave the people greater knowledge and more participation, outwardly speaking.
 
However, what has always been most important is our internal disposition, that inward attitude that is prepared for and open to celebrate the liturgy. This is greater than any word that can be said or even sung.
 
Of course, we see the two extremes—one can make the outward responses, but without any inward devotion; conversely, one can be inwardly devoted, but ignore what is going on around them. As is always the case in our faith, virtue lies in the middle of the two extremes! We must strike the balance that will bear the most fruit in our celebration.

And so again we ask ourselves— am I preparing properly for the liturgy? Do I seek that inward devotion that is needed, or do I just “go through the motions”? Do I seek to join the congregation in responding andsinging, or am I too wrapped up in my own little world?
 

- Fr. Kyle