Catechism of the Liturgy

This little work deserves a warm welcome from Catholic schools and homes, for it gives in small compass the rudiments of a subject which has been too little studied amongst us, but which is happily regaining its lawful place. This growing appreciation is a matter for congratulation, for where the Liturgy of the Church is loved and lived, Christian principles are sure to be vigorous.

The Liturgy is the form of public worship prescribed and arranged by the Church… In it she offers to God homage and expiation, draws down His blessings, renders Him thanks. Through it she sanctifies every part of the day and night, and converts the whole year into a continuous circle of prayer.

The centre is formed by the Holy Mass, in which the Adorable Sacrifice is surrounded by a magnificent set of prayers and actions. Round the Mass, in a wider circle, we have the Canonical Hours, i.e., forms of prayer distributed over the hours of day and night. Then dividing the mystery of the divine work of the Redemption into its various phases, as the prism divides the light into colours, it establishes a series of festivities encircling the whole year…

We can frame no better wish for this little catechism than that it may serve as an introduction to the Church’s treasure-house.

(from the Foreword)