A Commentary on the General Instruction of the Roman Missal - by Edward Foley & Nathan D Mitchell & Joanne M Pierce (Paperback)

Book Synopsis

2008 Catholic Press Association Award Winner!

The 2002 Institutio Generalis Missalis Romani(IGMR) comes at an important moment in the history of Roman Catholicism. The Church has come through the dramatic reforms of Vatican II and more than a generation has engaged in the contemporary liturgical practices. New churches have been built and texts and songs written that reflect the post 'Vatican II approach to liturgy. In view of these many changes there are yet concerns about what norms best articulate the liturgical Vision embedded in the documents of Vatican II and what directives are most appropriate for shaping the full, active, and conscious participation of the faithful.

This commentary by members of the Catholic Academy of Liturgy is attentive to these concerns. While maintaining a balanced view of the reVisions, the authors provide thoughtful analysis of the theological, pastoral, and ecclesial implications of the 2002 IGMR. Several prefatory chapters reflecting on the overall significance of the current Instruction are followed by a concise and meaningful chapter-by-chapter commentary.

In addition to the full text of the Instruction in Latin and English, readers will find a varied and rich commentary by top liturgical scholars. No single author's viewpoint dominates, and yet the authors offer a consistent, readable text for everyone interested in the current state of liturgy in the Catholic Church.

Review Quotes

[T]he commentary is outstanding.Emmanuel

[T]his durable, convenient volume should be in every rectory; it would also serve well as a textbook in every seminary. Don't leave home without it.Parish Liturgy

The commentary brings to light the current norms for Eucharistic celebrations. All those interested and involved in liturgy will one day own this resource. It successfully demonstrates that the GIRM is more than rubrics. In fact, it lays out a theology for worship--worship that is intended to transform hearts and make us more in the likeness of God.Pastoral Liturgy

This book is a major systematic liturgical and theological commentary on the text itself of the General Instruction. It significantly raises the awareness of the reader and worshippers in general to this underrated yet central liturgical text. Further it brings out the complexity inherent in the GIRM, while the various appraisals given provide avenues for further development and refinement. The Catholic liturgists and theologians of the North American Academy of Liturgy have provided bishops with a key text in their Episcopal duty 'to foster the spirit of the sacred liturgy' (GIRM 387).The Australasian Catholic Record

This is a reference book that contemporary and future generations will need in order to understand the General Instruction as well as its implementation. It is a landmark achievement by some of the best Catholic liturgical minds of our day.Pastoral Music

This valuable book is the most complete commentary available and will probably not be superseded for years. It should be read and studied by every priest, seminarian, liturgist, liturgy committee, and anyone else interested in celebrating the Eucharist properly.Catholic Books Review