Formation towards transformation : receiving the spirit of the liturgy

Abstract

It is a fact that the case that the Christian faith in Malta has undergone a sea change as a result of various factors, especially the social and democratic factors. The celebration of the liturgy is one of the foremost areas where the change can be felt. Although it is important not to make general assumptions, at the same time it is a fact that various representations of outer society, such as individualism have had an impact on the meaning and the participation in the liturgical life of the faithful, especially with regard to the Eucharist and also the reception of the former. On the other hand, certain Maltese expressions, such as “Immur nisma’ l-quddies!” (literally, “I go and hear Mass”) certainly attest to a particular passive attitude towards Mass going back a number of decades.