The Case for Liturgical Restoration, which gathers the complete and definitive texts of the widely-admired “position papers” of the International Federation Una Voce, tackles the questions: What is the point of the Extraordinary Form? What is its rationale? What can it contribute to the life of the Church here and now?
Taking up one by one the most controversial topics in liturgy today—among them, active participation, the role of the laity, eastward orientation, extensive silence, the use of Latin and Gregorian chant, male-only service of the sanctuary, communion received kneeling and on the tongue, the calendar, the lectionary, veiling, fasting, and the needs of the New Evangelization—the chapters argue that the traditional Roman Rite has its own internal logic, its own way of offering worthy worship to God and of sanctifying souls. It is a way often notably distinct from that of the reformed liturgy, and for this reason much in danger of being misunderstood or missed entirely by the casual critic.
This book therefore stands to benefit everyone. Catholics already attached to the usus antiquior will arrive at a deeper understanding of its merits and a better ability to articulate them. Catholics puzzled by tradition-loving coreligionists and their own predecessors in the Faith will acquire fresh perspective. All will grow in appreciation for the Church’s rich liturgical heritage.
