The History of the Catholic Mass: The Evolution of the Church's Most Vital Celebration

By: John Francis Baldovin

Narrated by: John Francis Baldovin

Length: 4 hrs and 44 mins

Publisher's summary

From world-renowned liturgical theologian Fr. John Baldovin, S.J.

In this erudite and inspiring 12-lecture audio course, you will take a riveting journey through the history of the Catholic faith’s most vital celebration. The Liturgy of the Eucharist has deep roots in tradition. But the Mass has also enjoyed a dynamic history over the centuries. As you will discover, its ongoing evolution reflects the ever-changing world and Christ’s presence in it.

Like many inquisitive Catholics, you probably have questions about this powerful celebration. Now, you’ll find enlightening answers in this series. Under the tutelage of Father John Baldovin, you’ll learn how the first Christians celebrated the Mass, why it has changed over time, and which practices have remained constant. Along the way, you will find a wealth of insights into wider Church history and the cultural developments that shaped current practices.

This series is perfect for anyone - especially groups - interested in gaining a deeper understanding of theology and liturgical practices. Each time we celebrate the Mass, we honor Christ’s command to “do this in memory of me”.

Now is your chance to explore the history of the liturgy - the marvelous story of the Church’s obedience to that command.

This course is part of the Learn25 collection and includes a free PDF study guide.

PLEASE NOTE: When you purchase this title, the accompanying PDF will be available in your Audible Library along with the audio.

©2017 Now You Know Media Inc. (P)2017 Now You Know Media Inc.

Critic reviews

"With a keen grasp of liturgical history and a profound love for the Church, Fr. John Baldovin’s scholarly work and masterful teaching faithfully address some of the more contested ecclesial issues of our time and open up the iconic depths of worship in spirit and in truth for a contemporary age." (Fr. Paul A. Janowiak S.J., Associate Professor of Liturgical and Sacramental Theology, Jesuit School of Theology of Santa Clara)

Outstanding in every way!

Fr. Baldovin is one of the most erudite and engaging professors I've ever heard. In this series, he traces the history of the Eurcharist from its from the Last Supper through modern reforms. Whether you are interested in history, theology, or worship practice, you will find each lecture fascinating, insightful and inspiring. This course isn't just interesting, it will rev up your faith. Highly recommend it.

Informative, interesting, well read.

Concise and well presented. Fairly neutral bias, although secularists, and Protestants may disagree with the author.

The most in depth lectures are in the beginning. He expounds on the early church, and even presents non catholic arguments. As it progresses the later lectures focus less on individuals as the focus is on the mass not Popes. This left me wanting to know more about individual Popes... All that aside the presentation is given in a concise manner in later lectures which left me wanting more details.

Overall I found the historical quality of the lecture very informative. You will learn about traditions that have survived, and others that have been discarded. You will learn about the mass, and how it evolved. You will even learn about how the Catholic mass influenced the worship of Protestant branches that formed relatively early on in the Protestant reformation era.

Well worth the purchase. Definitely will listen to at least a second time.