Jame., L. Empereur, S.J.
The Theological Experience Liturgy is a mystery of faith that can be dealt with only in terms of sym bois, models and paradigms. The author describes five possible modeL• of liturgical theology and sketches the practical implications of each of them
INTRODUCTION: MODELS OF LITUHGICAL THEOLOGY
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Liturgy is a mystery and cannot be defined according to visible components alone. A definition of the liturgy which would proceed from clear and univocal concepts is impossible. As with everything else in the area of faith there are no categories which exhaustively express the meaning of the liturgy. It is a mystery of faith and can only be dealt with in terms of symbols, models and paradigms. But because the liturgy as mystery is a rich and complex reality, it is possible to speak about it in terms of several models. Models by their nature are inadequate. They attempt to clarify reality in terms of our human experience. No single model can ·be used alone. One should not absolutize any particular model to the detriment of the others. What one model might be ohscure·about; another will serve to enlighten. This pluralism of models is a theological necessity today. For instance, in the last few decades there have been several operating models to describe the Church that have been popular: Mystical Body, People of God, Sacrament of Christ and Church as Servant. The models change as the Church seeks to find its identity in a changing world. There are obvious limitations to the use of models in theology hut the value of this 45