The Mass The Glory, the Mystery, the Tradition

An insightful and practical exploration of Catholicism's most sacred tradition. The Mass: The Glory, the Mystery, the Traditionis an engaging and authoritative guide to Catholicism's most distinctive practice. And now, with the Church introducing revised language for the Mass, Catholics have a perfect opportunity to renew their understanding of this beautiful and beloved celebration. With eloquent prose and elegant black-and-white photography, bestselling authors Archbishop Donald Wuerl and Mike Aquilina guide readers through the different parts of the Mass, from the entrance procession to the blessing and dismissal, capturing the deep meaning of elements that are at once ordinary and mysterious: bread and wine, water and candles, altar cloths and ceremonial books. Step by step, they explain the specifics, such as the order of the Mass, the vessels used, the unique clothing worn, the prayers and responses, the postures and the gestures. Then they explore the rich historical, spiritual and theological background to each. Prayerful but practical, fact-filled but readable, The Massprepares readers to participate more fully and appreciatively in the sacred rite at the heart of Catholic life.

DONALD CARDINAL WUERL is the Archbishop of Washington, D.C., and the bestselling author of The Catholic Way. He is known nationally for his catechetical and teaching ministry and for his efforts on behalf of Catholic education.
 
MIKE AQUILINA is the author of over 20 books, including The Mass of the Early Christians and Fire of God’s Love: 120 Reflections on the Eucharist. He appears regularly on EWTN with Scott Hahn.