62 the needs of the age, foster an ecumenical spirit, and support evangelization efforts. This theological principle underscores liturgy as a crucial means through which Christians express their beliefs and live out their faith. The liturgy is also described as the mystery of Christ and the true image of the Church in terms of its earthly and heavenly dimensions. This insight contrasts with that of Bellarmine who emphasized the Church's juridical structure. Instead of focusing on the hierarchy of the church, this new perspective highlights the sacramental nature of the Church. In other words, the Church is not merely an organization but a place where people gather to encounter God, for "the Church is the image of her divine-human Bridegroom: The duality of natures in Him is reflected in her"62. By emphasizing the liturgy in this way, Christians are better equipped to engage with the world actively. At the same time, this understanding avoids the misconception that liturgy is merely a tool for converting outsiders. Rather, the liturgy is the life of worship for those who belong to the Church, strengthening them in their ability to reach out to others.63 The second theological principle states that: "Liturgy is first and foremost the action of Christ in the midst of his people"64. Whenever the Eucharist is celebrated, "the work of our redemption is accomplished" (SC 2). The document also connects the Incarnation with the Paschal Mystery- the Passion, Death, Resurrection, and Ascension, as the apex of Christ’s activity. The use of the term "Paschal" emphasizes the insight that the risen Lord is actively present in the liturgy. It is through making present the Paschal Mystery that Christ’s priestly office is exercised (SC 7). The document further states that Christ is present in four distinct ways: In the person of the ordained minister, in the Eucharistic elements, in the proclamation of the Word, and when the Church prays. Pope Paul VI reiterated this in his encyclical on the Eucharist, Mysterium Fidei. He emphasized that Christ’s presence in the minister and in the Word is as real as in the Eucharistic elements. The second paragraph of the SC’s article 7 highlights the Church's role alongside Christ who is described as the primary liturgist, with the Church incorporated into the work of Christ, as a visible order of the Church’s work and life expressing a ‘union with her Bridegroom to glorify the Father alongside him.’ (SC 7).65 The document defines two main purposes of Liturgy: the glorification of God and the sanctification of the people where the "Liturgy is the summit (glorification) toward which the activity of the Church is directed; it is also the fount (sanctification) from which all her power flows"66. As such, this is achieved by the "full, conscious, and active participation" of all faithful 65 Herbert Vorgrimler, 152. 64 Clifford and Faggioli, 151. 63 Herbert Vorgrimler, 9. 62 Herbert Vorgrimler, 9. 66 Clifford and Faggioli, 152.
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