Christ and the Triumphant Victims: Relics and the Altar in the Ordo dedicationis ecclesiae et altaris
Christ and the Triumphant Victims: Relics and the Altar in the Ordo dedicationis ecclesiae et altarisSuzanne Sarah Herold, Ph.D.Director: Michael G. Witczak, S.L.D.This dissertation examines the use of relics in the Ordo dedicationis ecclesiae et altaris in light of the Second Vatican Council's liturgical theology. The dissertation utilizes the method described by Kevin Irwin in Context and Text. The dissertation begins with a historical study of the extant rites of dedication of a church. It studies how the rite of dedication developed and how relics became a required element of the ritual, including the translation, vigil and deposition of relics. The work looks at the meanings associated with relics as well as the perceived relationship between relics and the altar. Beginning with the Medieval period, relics were understood to be necessary for dedication, with the celebration of Mass a festive completion of the rite. Rites of dedication include the deposition of relics as a central ritual moment from the fourth century through the middle of the twentieth century.Through historical study, the use of Conciliar documents, and the examination of the role of relics in the schemata of the Consilium, this dissertation presents an analysis of the shifts in the understanding regarding the dedication of a church. The Ordo dedicationis ecclesiae et altaris is then examined in light of the Council's teaching that the liturgy is the source and summit of Christian life. Renewed attention to the importance of the Eucharistic celebration led to the situation of the revised rite of dedication within the Mass and to relics becoming an optional element. The sacrifice of saints and martyrs are once again viewed in light of the Paschal Mystery. This dissertation presents the liturgical and theological implications of including relics in the Rite of Dedication of a Church and an Altar.This dissertation presents a new study of the liturgical role of relics in the rite of dedication of a church in light of the reforms of the Second Vatican Council. It aims to contribute an understanding of the liturgical theology expressed by the use of relics in the Ordo dedicationis ecclesiae et altaris.
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