Vierteljahresschrift für das Gesamtgebiet der katholischen Theologie
Begründet von Kardinal Leo Scheffczyk • ISSN 0178-1626
Navigation

Abstract

Manfred Hauke:
What is the Holy Mass?
(FKTh 2014-1, p. 6–29)

The article continues a precedent contribution of the author who describes the sacrifice of Christ as the “basic structure” of Eucharistic celebration. Now he studies the question of the “essence” of Eucharistic sacrifice. After a historical sketch, he clarifies the concept of sacrifice, which assumes a visible and social dimension in the liturgy. The representation of Christ’s sacrifice succeeds in the sacrifice of Mass with the words of consecration as its constitutive element. The Eucharist meal is an integral part of the sacrificial action, but does not constitute its essence. The consecration establishes the “visible sacrifice” instituted by Christ. At the same time, it is the heart of every spiritual sacrifice offered by the Church in the Eucharistic celebration. It is prepared especially by the offertory and finds its expression in the prayers and liturgical signs of offering that are concluded by the holy banquet of communion.

© FKTh 2024