Organic Development
Wednesday, October 21st, 2009I’m a big fan of the organic development of the liturgy. I think it’s often very important to keep things that started out serving a practical purpose but eventually developed into part of the liturgy itself, taking on a theological meaning in the process. (For example, the dismissal: Ite, Missa est or Flectamus genua or the amice.) These details, even if they don’t seem necessary any more, still have their theological meaning and also connect us with the past.
I wonder sometimes whether the “extra-liturgical” things that have become common would, given a few centuries, ever be codified as part of the liturgy itself.
If things continue to develop without intervention, would the rubrics eventually include an instruction for the deacon to turn to the people after the announcements and give a monition to show a sign of appreciation for the choir? Relatis notitiis, diaconus ad populum conversus dicit Plaudite choro et sequitur plausus.) Would there be a vesting prayer for the wireless microphone? Would the extraordinary ministers of Holy Communion be required to process into the sanctuary in discreet groups, each group indicating to the congregation that X more are still needed, until all positions are filled?
Interesting thoughts.














