The Love of the Mass and Its Theological Motivation

The world-wlde interest in the Liturgical Movement with its ever growing influence points to a definite recognition of the need of making the Mass a more vital part of the life of every Catholic. A thorough acquaintance with the purpose of that Move­ment reveals that its main concern is not with the externals of the liturgy for their own sake, but a deeper love and greater appreciation for the marvelous truths underlying the external ceremonies. A proper understanding and deep love for the Mass have likewise been the personal concern of our recent Holy Fathers. Pius XI pleaded for a fuller understanding of the liturgy, chiefly the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass, and a more intelligent participation in it. The Mediator Dei of Pius XII is replete with urgent admonitions concerning the necessity of understanding in order that the richness of the liturgy be properly appreciated. The purpose of the present study is to present the basic doctrines concerning the Mass which constitute the most impel­ling motives for loving it. It is theological speculation which unfolds the rich content of what has been revealed to us about the Holy Sacrifice and in so doing has contributed the most im­portant motives for its love. In principle that true love and appreciation depend upon a solid understanding of that which is to be loved, the Mass will only be loved when its sacrificial character is understood. For the Mass is essentially a sacrifice, so that it is primarily a thorough grasp of this concept which will ultimately lead to the realization of a true and rational love. The present paper makes no pretense of being a complete investigation of the dogmatic aspect of the Mass. The points that have been selected for discussion are those which appear essential in motivating a true love for the Mass. Though at times there may seem to be too much emphasis on what appear to be purely academic questions, it should be remembered that only when we have wrestled and struggled with the theology of the Mass will we begin to appreciate its magnificent beauty. This study has not been approached from an apologetical angle, therefore there has been no attempt to vindicate truths generally accepted by members of the Church. Neither is there any desire here to favor either one or the other of the various opinions Oi theologians regarding the essence of the Sacrifice of the Mass. It is entirely possible to consider the grandeur of the Mass quite apart from these discussions, so that varying opinions will be mentioned only if required for the clarity of the point under consideration