Responses to 101 Questions on the Mass

This is a terrific book. I'm currently in a small faith group and while our topic this year is not about the Mass specifically, practices at Mass do frequently become part of the discussion. I'm taking this book to our next meeting to recommend it as a resource to my fellow members.

In a style reminiscent of the late Scripture scholar, Raymond Brown, SS., whose "101 Responses to Questions on the Bible" shaped many adult education/faith-sharing groups, Kevin W. Irwin, Professor of Liturgy and Sacramental Theology at The Catholic University of America, provides an equally formative book on the Mass in the Roman Catholic Church. After a brief introduction, Irwin divides his book into ten sections ranging from "Introductory Background and Terminology" necessary before answering any questions about the Mass and Liturgy in general, to a concluding section on the Eucharist and Daily Life. Interspersed in his decalog of explanations, Irwin provides a methodological development of the Mass as he answers a myriad of questons with the precision and scholarship that endear him to both his students and his readers. Beginning with the various liturgical roles necessary for the celebration of the Eucharistic liturgy, Irwin details the change from the "Tridentine" Mass to the novus ordo Missae of Paul VI. He presents each structural element of the Mass, from the Introductory Rites, and continuing with the Liturgy of the Word, the Liturgy of the Eucharist, the Communion Rite and Dismissal by his clever answers to questions ranging in their perspective from the curious to the historical. Chapters VIII and IX, on Music and Eucharistic Discipline and Theology, respectively, present two issues which are critical not only for an understanding of the ritual action of the Mass but also for a full, active and conscious participation in the mysteries being celebrated on the part of those who gather as a community keeping the memorial command of Jesus. Although the entire work exudes a depth of understanding of the nature of the Liturgy, Irwin makes a particular contribution to contemporary liturgical spirituality in chapters IX and X, with his theological insights into the questions of the "real presence" of Christ in the Eucharist, intercommunion among Christians, and a lex vivendi that demands both a communal and individual response to go forth from the Mass to "love and serve the Lord." This book is easily understood by those who have some foundation in Liturgy as well as by those who seek to deepen their knowledge of the present reform of the Roman Liturgy. It is especially helpful as a reference for RCIA coordinators and team members. As such, it deserves to be found on the shelves of every Diocesan Office of Worship, in parish libraries and resource centers.