In this brilliantly taught course, you will explore the theology and practice of the Catholic Mass with one of the world''s leading liturgical professors as your guide. Catholics believe that every time they gather to celebrate, they are acting in obedience to Jesus' command to "do this in memory of me." Catholics have obeyed this command for nearly two thousand years, and now you can explore anew the spiritual and theological meaning of this vital celebration. Your guide is Fr. John Baldovin, S.J. (Ph.D., Yale), a celebrated professor of liturgical theology at Boston College and past president of the North American Academy of Liturgy. Under his guidance, you will gain powerful answers to the most important questions about the Mass. How did Vatican II influence Eucharistic Liturgy? How does what we celebrate today find its roots in the life, ministry, death, and resurrection of the Lord? How has the celebration of the Mass developed over the centuries? How were the Scripture passages used in the Sunday lectionary chosen? What language and ritual gestures are suitable for our celebrations? How does the Mass unite us to the Lord and to one another? How does it participate in the Paschal Mystery? What is the meaning of transubstantiation? Fr. Baldovin answers these and many more questions. Anyone looking for a deeper understanding of the Liturgy of the Eucharist will treasure this course. This course is part of the Learn25 collection and includes a free PDF study guide.