Publikacja w numerze Rok XXIII (2017) nr 50
Streszczenie:
The theological meaning of the gestures and signs in the new
Rite of Dedication of an Altar
This article is the theological and liturgical reflection over the gestures and signs present in the Liturgy of Dedication of an Altar. The new Rite of Dedication of an Altar is very rich in the signs which cause that liturgy is very vivid and solemn. We should also notice that all gestures and signs are connected with contents of Prayer of Dedication very closely and indicate the presence of Christ. Moreover, the form of words which accompany the gestures and signs and music are very clear and pass on the proper commentary to the liturgical actions. The gestures and signs which occur in the Liturgy of Dedication of an Altar emphasize very strongly that an altar is the most important structure of celebration in each church. The new Rite of Dedication of an Altar expresses its all theological aspects. Procession to the Altar symbolizes the pilgrimage of God’s People to the Father’s house. In this, Risen Christ accompanies the believers with whom he is connected through the sacrament of baptism forever. The Rite of the Sprinkling with Holy Water the People and altar reminds us about it. Unity of the sacramental and heaven’s liturgy reveals the depositing of the Relics of the Saints. The Rites of Anointing, Incensing, Covering and Lighting the Altar emphasize Christological dimension. The Altar is by its very nature the sign of Christ’s presence and the table of sacrifice and of the paschal banquet. It stands as a special sign the Church dwelling in heaven.
Key words
altar, dedication, water, purification, relics, anointing, incensing, the covering of the altar,
the lighting of the altar, sacrifice, banquet.