by Rev. Michael Rennier (Author)
Poetics represents the art of living. For the Christian, it also demonstrates the art of learning to live as a saint, exploring what it means to claim that God is remaking us through grace. This delicate and delightful book serves as a poetic confession. It's the meditation of a man moving uncertainly from chaos toward beauty who is seeking to connect earth to Heaven--and who found the poetry hidden in the form and beauty of the Mass, and of life itself. With profound insights, Fr. Rennier illuminates the things of earth with the eyes of Heaven. He will help you add shape, structure, and heart to your prayer life as he reflects upon the meaning behind the actions in the Mass, the sacred objects, and the sacramentality we find in daily life.Through Scripture and his own reflections, Father unveils: The key to discovering the truth and real mystery of poetryThe skill you need to quickly progress in your interior lifeHow the Mass aids us in ascending rung by rung up the ladder to HeavenTwo ways to determine if you are seeking God (You will never guess them!)How the world of nature reveals biblical truths and the mysteries of GodThe only means through which God speaks to usYou will learn how to develop a listening heart, rightly order your priorities, and experience joy in completing even the humblest daily tasks. Fr. Rennier offers methods to let go of your desire to master everything, grow in contemplation, and find your true self. Most assuring, he convinces you that in whatever you are going through or have experienced, God is there with you drawing you to His Heart.Father also explains your vocation during Mass and the most efficacious way to inflame your Eucharistic love. In page after page, you will see how you are healed and transformed through the Mass and learn ways to participate in the Sacred Mysteries more attentively and lovingly. You will find tips on how to appreciate the splendor and meaning of the Mass until it becomes pure poetry, a personal relationship, a conversation between your soul and God.Every life is a story, a single, unified poem waiting to be told, listened to, and fully lived. Fr. Rennier brilliantly relates how by being still and aware of the details of the Mass your faith will be reawakened, and you will be reminded of Christ's victory on the Cross. The Mass forevermore will remind you of your lasting home and provide a glimpse of the Heavenly rest that awaits you.
In his book "The Forgotten Language: How Recovering the Poetics of the Mass Will Change Our Lives," Rev. Michael Rennier delves into the profound significance of the Mass, unveiling its hidden poetry and transformative power. He asserts that the Mass is not merely a ritual or a set of prayers, but rather a dynamic encounter with the divine, a sacred drama that unfolds in the heart of every believer.
Rennier's exploration begins by examining the etymology of the word "Mass," tracing its roots back to the Latin "missa," which means "to send." This linguistic connection highlights the central purpose of the Mass: to send forth believers into the world, empowered by the grace and love they receive during the Eucharistic celebration.
The author meticulously analyzes the various elements of the Mass, revealing their profound symbolism and interconnectedness. He sheds light on the significance of the readings, the prayers, the gestures, and the music, demonstrating how each component contributes to the overall tapestry of the liturgy.
Rennier argues that the Mass is not simply a passive experience, but an active participation in the life of Christ. He encourages readers to approach the Mass with a spirit of openness and receptivity, allowing themselves to be drawn into the mystery of the Eucharist and to encounter the transformative power of God's love.
The book also delves into the historical and cultural context of the Mass, tracing its evolution over the centuries and examining the diverse ways in which different communities have celebrated this sacred ritual. Rennier emphasizes the importance of preserving the rich traditions and rituals associated with the Mass while also embracing the need for renewal and adaptation to the changing needs of the contemporary world.
"The Forgotten Language" is a thought-provoking exploration of the Mass, inviting readers to rediscover its timeless beauty and relevance. Rennier's insights shed new light on this central sacrament of the Catholic faith, inspiring readers to deepen their understanding and appreciation of its transformative power.
