Archbishop Burke: The dignity of the celebration of the Mass

Archbishop Burke's column this week touches upon many aspects of the celbration of the Holy Mass. He states that "The attitude and disposition of Christ at the Last Supper is best understood by recalling the account of the Anointing at Bethany." The explanation of this event in our Lord's life helps us to understand more clearly the reasons why we should do all we can to ensure that the church in which Mass will be celebrated is properly prepared.

He goes on to explain that St. Francis of Assisi shared this same attitude:

In his instructions, while requiring the strictest simplicity of life for himself and his friars, he urged that nothing should be spared in what is employed for the House of God and for the celebration of the Holy Mass and other Sacraments.

Archbishop Burke continues to teach us in the remaining paragraphs by explaining:
the Liturgical faith of our ancestors;
that the "Sacred banquet" is not merely a meal, but a sacred, sacrificial banquet;
liturgical law and its necessity;
the subject of "Inculturation";
and the responsibility of priests who act in the person of Christ.

Another great article.