The Mass in Scripture (Lectio Divina Bible Study),Used

Despite the frequency in which we attend Mass or the fervor in which we participate, how deeply do we truly understand this Eucharistic celebration?In an exceptional combination of one of the most ancient forms of Scripture study with the history, theology, and Scriptural perspective of the Eucharist, Stephen Binz leads us on an incredible journey of enlightenment.Lectio divina, the ancient practice of Scripture immersion, is at the heart of this process. Specifically, every chapter leads you forward through a sequence of:Listening Reading Scripture with expectancy, trusting that God will speak His Word to us through itUnderstanding Seeking to comprehend the meaning of the text, encountering God there and being changed by that encounterReflecting Linking the truth of the Scriptures to the experience of faith in the world in which we livePraying A dialogue with God: we listen to God then we respond in prayerActing After prayerfully listening to God through a passage of Scripture, we should be inspired to make a difference in the way we live"This book, the first in the Lectio Divina Bible Study series, is a timely gift to the People of God who worship in English. The Lectio Divina framework, as Stephen Binz applies it, is a marvelously apt guide for preparing individuals and worshiping communities for the new translation of the Roman Missal and for a more profound participation in the liturgy. The biblical and liturgical scholarship is solid yet accessible. Binz's approach is creative, nonpolemical, and traditional in the best sense of the word."Judith M. Kubicki, C.S.S.F., liturgical theologian, Associate Professor of Theology, Fordham University"Stephen Binz's timely book provides an integrated approach into the experience of worship, employing the Scriptures as a pathway to unfold the mysteries which engage the worshiper. Utilizing a creative method based on lectio divina to uncover the biblical roots of worship, Binz invites the reader to reflect on both the Tradition of the Church and personal memory, illuminating the experience of each part of the Mass. As a result readers are led to discover the implications worship has for their lives in the world." Rev. Thomas Ranzino, Pastor of St. Jean Vianney Church, Director of the Office of Worship, Diocese of Baton Rouge"Stephen Binz invites us to move beyond the surface words we say to the meaning of what we do. He has provided a remarkable tool for just such reflection. Using an ancient pattern of reflection, prayer and action, and grounding his work in the historical and theological underpinnings of what we celebrate today, he provides a unique exploration of the various parts of the Eucharistic liturgy, at once solid and accessible. Individuals and groups alike will profit immensely from this book." Kathleen Hughes, RSCJ, former Professor of Word and Worship at the Catholic Theological Union, Mission Consultant in the Network of Sacred Heart SchoolsA very serious yet user friendly prayerful appreciation of the Eucharist based on the Scriptures. Readers who apply themselves to the guided prayer and group discussions outlined here will have their experience of the celebration of the Eucharist enriched beyond words. Particularly helpful is the author s familiarity with the Old Testament bases for Christian worship. This initial offering in the Lifelong Mystagogy in the Catholic Way series augurs well for what promises to be a series that has the potential to change minds, hearts and souls.Rev. Msgr. Kevin Irwin, Dean of the School of Theology and Religious studies, The Catholic University of America