The Mystery & Meaning of the Mass [Paperback]

Joseph Champlin (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: April 25, 1999

Father Joseph Champlin answers many common questions in this fascinating primer. He explains the particulars of the Mass and the symbols surrounding it as well as its history and theology through an interesting narrative spiced with stories, analogies, and photos.

Editorial Reviews

From Library Journal

Champlin, a widely published Catholic author and rector of the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception in Syracuse, NY, has written an extremely able, clear, and well-informed guide to the modern Catholic Mass. As much instruction in faith as how-to, this highly competent work should attract Catholic and non-Catholic readers alike. For collections strong in religion.
Copyright 1999 Reed Business Information, Inc.

From Booklist

Champlin, a Catholic priest, provides an accessible guide to the intricacies of the Roman Catholic mass. The author analyzes the philosophical basis of the mass as the center of Christian life and dissects and defines the seemingly esoteric elements and rituals of the eucharistic celebration. Dividing the mass into four basic units, he examines and explains the various components of the Introductory Rite, the Liturgy of the Word, the Liturgy of the Eucharist, and the Concluding Rite. Designed to appeal to a broad spectrum of laypersons, this informative, nonpatronizing text answers virtually every occasional question visitors could think to ask. Recommended where interest runs high. Margaret Flanagan

Product Details

• Paperback: 128 pages
• Publisher: Crossroad Publishing Company (April 25, 1999)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0824517822
• ISBN-13: 978-0824517823
• Product Dimensions: 8.2 x 5.4 x 0.4 inches
• Shipping Weight: 6.2 ounces
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (1 customer review)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #2,956,006 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)
  • #39 in Books > 4-for-3 Books > Religion & Spirituality > Christianity > Church History > Catholic
  • #41 in Books > 4-for-3 Books > Religion & Spirituality > Christianity > Worship & Devotion > Rites & Ceremonies

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

22 of 23 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars The Mountains of the Mass, March 24, 2000

By 

Pastor Bill (Thousand Oaks, California) - See all my reviews

This review is from: The Mystery & Meaning of the Mass (Paperback)

As a Protestant pastor, I am not very familar with the Mass. Father Champlin clearly explains all aspects of the Eucharist celebration He likens the Mass to two mountains. The prayer that begins the celebration begins the first ascent. The worshipers speak to God. The Scripture that is read is the descent as God speaks to His church. The second mountain is climbed as the priest prays over the bread and wine and is descended as God makes these to be the body of Christ. Particularly helpful was Father Champlim's explination of the changes from the pre-Vatican II to the post-Vatican II Mass. He shows the reader why the changes were made and how they have effected the worship experience for today's Catholic. This book is well suited for those wanting a greater understanding of the Mass. Father Champlin's book will help anyone - Catholic or Protestant - to a deeper appreciation of the Eucharist.