Book Study: Ratzinger’s “The Spirit of the Liturgy” – Begins January 16th
Jan 14, 2023

Book Study: Ratzinger’s “The Spirit of the Liturgy” – Begins January 16th

The next selected title for the FORMED Book Club is The Spirit of the Liturgy.

In honor of its fortieth anniversary (1978–2018), Ignatius Press presents a special Commemorative Edition of one of the most important works written by Joseph Ratzinger, The Spirit of the Liturgy.

This edition includes the earlier classic work with the same title by Servant of God Romano Guardini, a book that helped Ratzinger to “rediscover the liturgy in all its beauty, hidden wealth and time-transcending grandeur, to see it as the animating center of the Church, the very center of Christian life.”

Considered by Ratzinger devotees as one of his greatest works, this profound and beautifully written treatment of the liturgy will help readers to deepen their understanding of the “great prayer of the Church.” The cardinal discusses fundamental misunderstandings of the Second Vatican Council’s intentions for liturgical renewal, especially about the priest’s orientation of prayer to the Father, the placement of the tabernacle in churches, and the posture of kneeling.

Other important topics are the essence of worship, the Jewish roots of Christian prayer, the relationship of the liturgy to time and space, sacred art and music, and the active participation of the faithful in the Mass.

Tune in on Monday, January 16th, as Fr. Fessio, Joseph Pearce, and Vivian Dudro begin their discussion of The Spirit of the Liturgy.

If you have already enrolled in a previous book club, you are all set to receive updates on this book. If this is your first time participating in the club, please enroll.

Order your book now and prepare for the discussion!

The Editors