LITURGICAL MOVEMENT Meaning and
Definition
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The term "liturgical movement" refers to a significant reform and renewal movement within the Christian Church, particularly in the context of Western Christianity. It emerged during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, aiming to restore a sense of reverence and authenticity to the worship practices of the Catholic Church and certain Protestant denominations.
The liturgical movement sought to revive and restore the traditional elements of Christian worship, emphasizing the centrality of the Eucharist, the sacraments, and the liturgical calendar. It aimed to foster a deeper spiritual connection and engagement among worshipers, emphasizing the active participation of the faithful in the worship services.
This movement introduced reforms in liturgical practice, architecture, and music, seeking to enhance the beauty and transcendence of the worship experience. It prompted greater involvement of the laity in the liturgy, encouraging them to understand and participate in the various rituals and prayers.
The liturgical movement was also concerned with liturgical inculturation, allowing for adaptation and contextualization of the liturgy to the diverse cultural and historical backgrounds of Christian communities. This led to the development of regional liturgical traditions and practices, while retaining the essential elements of the global Christian liturgical heritage.
Overall, the liturgical movement aimed to revitalize Christian worship by emphasizing its symbolic and communal nature, reconnecting the faithful with the rich liturgical traditions of the past, and fostering a deeper spiritual experience within the corporate worship of the Church.
Etymology of LITURGICAL MOVEMENT
The word "liturgical" comes from the late Latin word "liturgicus", which in turn is derived from the Greek word "leitourgikos". "Leitourgikos" combines the Greek words "leitourgos" (meaning "public servant" or "minister") and "ergon" (meaning "work" or "action").
The term "movement" refers to a collective action or effort to bring about change or advance a cause.
