Liturgy is at the heart of the life of the Church, not only as an expression of faith but also as a fundamental element of the spiritual journey of the faithful. In a message delivered from his hospital bed to the participants of the course for those responsible for episcopal liturgical celebrations at the Pontifical Athenaeum of Saint Anselm, Pope Francis emphasized the central role of liturgy in ecclesial communion and its importance for prayer and evangelization.
The Pope reminds us that the mission of those responsible for liturgical celebrations is not limited to the strict application of norms or the material preparation of celebrations. They are called to be spiritual guides, and teachers of liturgical art, ensuring that each celebration allows the faithful to enter into the sacramental experience. This approach goes beyond the mere execution of rites to incorporate a mystagogical dimension, helping the faithful to understand and fully live the liturgy.
The Holy Father insists that each diocese finds its model of celebration in the bishop and the cathedral. Thus, the liturgical style must reflect the humility and simplicity of Christ, avoiding any excessive pageantry or personal prominence. Ministers, lectors, and cantors are also invited to adopt this posture of service, inspired by the words of Psalm 115: « Not to us, Lord, not to us, but to your name give the glory. »
Pope Francis highlights the importance of liturgy as a place of encounter between divine and human wisdom. To guide celebrations, it is essential to combine prayer, meditation, and contemplation with study and attentive listening to the needs of the faithful. It is through this synergy that liturgy becomes a true pastoral act, rooted in the reality of God’s people.
In his message, the Pope reminds us that liturgy cannot be a mere repetition of abstract rites but must be incarnated in the reality of the faithful. It must express its joys, sufferings, hopes, and concerns while remaining loyal to the Church’s faith. In this regard, he cites Abbot Salvatore Marsili, the first dean of the Pontifical Liturgical Institute, who stated in 1964 that « liturgy is the summit toward which all the Church’s action tends. »
Finally, the Pope exhorts liturgical leaders to carry out their ministry with wisdom and love, always keeping in mind the well-being of God’s people. He reminds them that caring for the liturgy is, above all, caring for prayer, and he invites them to pray for him.
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