These introductions, homilies, reflections, and prayers are not theory, but a priest's experience of a liturgical approach that works. The testimony of the faithful who say, "what a lovely mass.. what a moving homily, could I have a copy?", is his touchstone. So is the popularity of the homilies on his internet,web, "A Priest Reflects". This book works because it treats each Sunday liturgy as a seamless robe of rich interwoven themes. Thus, the introduction identifies the links between the Old Testament reading and the Gospel, and adds any gems from the second reading. Then, when the scripture is read, people, clued in to the overall import, listen more profitably. The homily elaborates the key themes from the readings further, and relates them to life, with stories, anecdotes, newspaper headlines, references to common events etc. The aim is that the Word should light up our contemporary experience.. The final doxology reinforces the point that the Word is life for this world, not just the next; The creed introduction summarizes the whole, and the prayers carry that on into petitions for church leaders, civil authorities, youth, the sick, the dead, and special needs. There are special prayers for our youth, that gaps in our congregations there will be bridged. And the presiding minister should add other topical issues of the day. The reflection after holy communion again reinforces the overall message, but also leaves the people of God with something spicy and memorable to take home. So, all in all, this book should light up our masses, or services, and make them gospel based, relevant, inspirational, and focused.. The homilies are timed at about five minutes, people's normal attention span. So don't miss out on this innovative book. Buy it, and it will light up your Sunday mass, and provide spiritual food for the following week.
