Journeying in Faith - DMC Annual Journal [December 2024]

65 has fostered a stronger connection between the celebrant and the congregation, with both focusing on the centrality of the Eucharist. The practice remains a legitimate and widely accepted norm in the Church today. Fourthly, SC marked a significant turning point in the cultural adaptation of the Church in terms of the liturgy. Before the SC, liturgical adaptation was generally forbidden, for instance in China and India in the 17th century.73 However, the SC emphasized the need to avoid a "rigid uniformity of rites" and allowed for "legitimate variations"74. In some cases, even more radical adaptations were permitted if necessary (SC 40). This change was well-received, especially in diverse societies. For example, in the United States, the liturgical reform greatly contributed to ecumenical efforts. The interaction of liturgical reform with contemporary culture is indeed an ongoing process.75 Finally, Evangelii Gaudium (EG), issued by Pope Francis in 2013, also shows the continuing relevance of the SC to the modern Church by emphasizing the importance of inculturation within the Church including the liturgy. (EG 115). Conclusion SC highlights key theological principles related to the liturgy, including it being the primary manifestation of the Church and, most importantly, the action of Christ in the midst of His people. The purpose of the liturgy is to glorify God and sanctify the people, serving as both the culmination of the Church's activities and the source of its spiritual power. From this foundation, the Church calls for the full, conscious, and active participation of the faithful and emphases the importance of faith and 74 Clifford and Faggioli, 155. 75 Massimo Faggioli, ed., The Legacy of Vatican II (New York: Paulist Press, 2015), 123-124. 73 Clifford and Faggioli, 155.

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