The Roman Liturgy

Christ’s silence in his Passion—and in his Church

The Church stands before the world, as Christ stood before Pilate to be judged—and she stands in silence.

Apr 15 •

Why Palm Sunday’s joy ends at the church door

The triumph of the procession on Palm Sunday does not spill over into the Mass. But why?

Apr 12 •

Passion Sunday: The Composure of Christ

The Roman liturgy presents a Christ who suffers with majesty, silence, and strength.

Apr 6 •

Laetare Sunday commemorates the Church as Mother and Bride

We are not ready to enter Passiontide and Holy Week until we have passed through the Sundays of Lent beforehand.

Mar 30 •

Before Passiontide, Lent asks us: ‘What think ye of Christ?’

This is the most important question of our lives, and each man must give an answer to it. Lent both asks the question, and gives us the answer.

Mar 20 •

Why the Lenten Ember Days impose ‘a double law’ of fasting

The Ember Days in Lent sanctify Spring through fasting and penance, preparing us for Easter.

Mar 13 •

The surprising start to the Sundays of Lent

After the dread of Septuagesima and the death sentence of Ash Wednesday, the Roman Liturgy takes a surprising change in tone.

Mar 8 •

Septuagesima, Babylonian Captivity, and the end of the crisis

Could the post-conciliar crisis nearly be over?

Mar 3 •

Septuagesima: The 'real' beginning of the liturgical year?

There is no greater break in tone than that between Epiphanytide and Septuagesima. What does this tell us about the liturgical year, and the spiritual…

Feb 16 •

Epiphanytide: 'Ordinary Time' or something much better?

The Sundays after Epiphany aren't 'ordinary': they are our preparation to enter into eternity.

Feb 8 •

Epiphany as the manifestation of Christ’s Kingship

Fascinating links with the Roman Empire reveal Epiphany as a great feast of Christ as King, and as the eternal Bridegroom of the Church.

Jan 6 •

Christmas as God's triumph over darkness and evil

The Roman Liturgy presents the feast of Christmas not so much about Christ's historical birth in Bethlehem, but his duel with darkness, and triumph over…

Dec 24, 2024 •

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