Responses to 101 Questions on the Mass [Paperback]

Kevin W. Irwin (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: November 1999

The popular Responses to 101 Questions series now turns its attention to a topic that will have wide appeal and interest among Catholics. It is a thorough explanation of the parts of the Mass-its historical, theological, and liturgical aspects, and how it derives from and relates to daily life.

Writing in a popular style, and using questions that have actually been asked in various educational settings, the author tackles questions in the following broad areas: Background and Terminology; Liturgical Roles; Reform of the Liturgy; Introductory Rites; Liturgy of the Word; Liturgy of the Eucharist; Communion Rite; Music at Mass; Eucharistic Doctrine and Discipline; and Eucharist and Daily Life. Questions range from the simple "Are Masses in Latin still allowed?" to the more involved "How can the real presence of our Lord continue in the bread and wine after the Eucharistic celebration has ended?"

Clear, timely, and interesting, this book fills a need in education about the liturgical reform of the Mass. Ideal for college courses on the sacraments, adult education, and RCIA programs, its subject matter will also be informative and edifying reading for the person in the pew.

Editorial Reviews

Review

A comprehensive project, well researched and clearly written. -- New Zealand Catholic

A valuable resource for anyone interested in understanding more fully the central movement of faith. -- Catholic Library World

A very good book. -- Pastoral Music

In clear, concise language Kevin W. Irwin provides a thorough explanation of the central sacrament of Catholic worship. -- Forum Newsletter

This book is highly recommended to pastoral leaders who are constantly bombarded with such questions. -- Liturgical Ministry

About the Author

Kevin W. Irwin, who holds an S.T.D. from the Ateneo of San Anselmo, Rome, is professor of liturgy and sacramental theology at The Catholic University of America.

Product Details

• Paperback: 208 pages
• Publisher: Paulist Press (November 1999)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0809138883
• ISBN-13: 978-0809138883
• Product Dimensions: 7.8 x 5.3 x 0.5 inches
• Shipping Weight: 8 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (2 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #1,480,429 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

56 of 57 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars A "Must-Read" for Liturgical Commissions and RCIA Teams, April 6, 2000

By 

Rev. Kenneth J. Martin, Chair, FDLC (USA) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Responses to 101 Questions on the Mass (Paperback)

In a style reminiscent of the late Scripture scholar, Raymond Brown, SS., whose "101 Responses to Questions on the Bible" shaped many adult education/faith-sharing groups, Kevin W. Irwin, Professor of Liturgy and Sacramental Theology at The Catholic University of America, provides an equally formative book on the Mass in the Roman Catholic Church. After a brief introduction, Irwin divides his book into ten sections ranging from "Introductory Background and Terminology" necessary before answering any questions about the Mass and Liturgy in general, to a concluding section on the Eucharist and Daily Life. Interspersed in his decalog of explanations, Irwin provides a methodological development of the Mass as he answers a myriad of questons with the precision and scholarship that endear him to both his students and his readers. Beginning with the various liturgical roles necessary for the celebration of the Eucharistic liturgy, Irwin details the change from the "Tridentine" Mass to the novus ordo Missae of Paul VI. He presents each structural element of the Mass, from the Introductory Rites, and continuing with the Liturgy of the Word, the Liturgy of the Eucharist, the Communion Rite and Dismissal by his clever answers to questions ranging in their perspective from the curious to the historical. Chapters VIII and IX, on Music and Eucharistic Discipline and Theology, respectively, present two issues which are critical not only for an understanding of the ritual action of the Mass but also for a full, active and conscious participation in the mysteries being celebrated on the part of those who gather as a community keeping the memorial command of Jesus. Although the entire work exudes a depth of understanding of the nature of the Liturgy, Irwin makes a particular contribution to contemporary liturgical spirituality in chapters IX and X, with his theological insights into the questions of the "real presence" of Christ in the Eucharist, intercommunion among Christians, and a lex vivendi that demands both a communal and individual response to go forth from the Mass to "love and serve the Lord." This book is easily understood by those who have some foundation in Liturgy as well as by those who seek to deepen their knowledge of the present reform of the Roman Liturgy. It is especially helpful as a reference for RCIA coordinators and team members. As such, it deserves to be found on the shelves of every Diocesan Office of Worship, in parish libraries and resource centers.

1 of 1 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars great book, April 11, 2008

By 

R. Sykes (Mt. Airy, MD) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

Amazon Verified Purchase

This review is from: Responses to 101 Questions on the Mass (Paperback)

This is a terrific book. I'm currently in a small faith group and while our topic this year is not about the Mass specifically, practices at Mass do frequently become part of the discussion. I'm taking this book to our next meeting to recommend it as a resource to my fellow members.