Essays in Liturgy and Theology, Volume 5

In every generation the Church is obliged to test the depths, to analyze, interpret, and evaluate the various components of the sacred rites through serious theological reflection in order that the vitality of the liturgy may be sustained appropriately, genuine piety may be formed rightly, and liturgical practice may be enriched properly, thereby facilitating the incorporation of the Church's authentic tradition into the contexts in which the people live and worship. The goal of liturgical renewal is to distinguish between the theological core of the liturgical tradition and its historical incarnations - its forms and shapes - mindful of the fact that the rule of prayer rests ultimately within the rule of faith, of which the liturgy is a significant expression.