In the March issue ML interviews James Dallen about what is happening today with the Rite of Penance. He speaks about reconciliation, confession, and recognizing the need for ongoing conversion in our lives. Dallen teaches at Gonzaga University in Spokane, WA and has written a number of books on the subject of penance.
"What Does the Catechist Need to Know about Liturgy" is the first of two articles on the relationship between liturgy and catechesis, Gael Gensler, a pastoral associate at The Church of the Magdalene, Wichita, KS, writes of the catechist's role in liturgy. Recognizing the interdependence of liturgy and catechesis, the catechist prepares others to celebrate liturgy and respond in service.
"From Nunsense to Chant" is the title of the last of ML's articles on Generation X spirituality, Jacob Ledwon, pastor of St. John's University Church in Buffalo NY, writes of liturgical music and young adults. What was very familiar to the Baby Boomers has radically changed for Gen Xers. He writes of the changes and of how to bring liturgical music alive for this generation.
In the next feature article, we are reminded that the Eucharistic Prayer is a prayer of the entire community, not just the presider. Steve Obarski, of the Office of Worship in the diocese of Kansas City/St. Joseph, MO, writes of the ways that shape the rite and bring people into the Eucharistic Prayer; making connections and reducing the distance between the assembly and presider.
"Liturgy Q & A" comes from a new book by me, ML's editor. I answer questions about receiving communion, applause for music ministers, and liturgical colors. These excerpts are from *Modern Liturgy Answers The 101 Most-Asked Questions About Liturgy* which will be available from Resource Publications, Inc., in March.
Also in this issue is ML's annual Church Improvement Guide, a listing of new products that can help you in your ministry.
And every month ML's pages are filled with helpful advice from our regular columnists. The Planning Guide authors provide background in spirituality, ritual planning and music selection from Easter to Pentecost. Readers get monthly help from the "Lector Workshop." Homilists and catechists won't want to miss "Year of Matthew." And "View from the Pew" always has an interesting slant on current liturgical topics. For liturgical catechesis for the whole parish, turn to the "Bulletin Inserts." ML also includes reviews of current books, audio-visuals, and music in every issue. And there is still more. Take a look for yourself.
MODERN LITURGY is a professional magazine for members of the parish ministry team. It is dedicated to exploring the connection between liturgy and life, unpacking the treasures of the Roman liturgy, and helping ministers use the visual, musical, lively, poetic, and environmental arts to shape liturgies to their local culture.
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--Nick Wagner
Editor