Olier’s The Mystical Meaning of the Ceremonies of the Mass,
first published in 1657, and presented here with an Introduction by Abbé
Claude Barthe, is an outstanding example of the application—to the
liturgy and its actions—of the search for a deeper meaning that has also
been so influential throughout the history of contemplative
Christianity in the resonant, anagogical reading of the Bible. Olier
shows us that there is nothing in the traditional Catholic Mass that
lacks its own progressively deeper levels of meaning, and that for this
reason cannot inspire in us new spiritual insights: new “visions of
heaven.” Olier writes as eloquently as he spoke; the flow of his
eloquence carries us with him as he brings to light many a sparkling gem
lying too long concealed in the spiritual treasure-trove of the Mass.
To follow him in his inspired excavations is an unforgettable spiritual
adventure of discovery.
Hardcover
Pages: 288