Benedict XVI and beauty in sacred art and architecture

D. Vincent Twomey SVD & Janet E. Rutherford, editors

‘A remarkable collection of essays by experts in architecture, art, history, philosophy and theology, all of whom are thoroughly dedicated to assisting Pope Benedict XVI in restoring “the liturgical movement” to its integrity, in carrying out “the reform of the reform” of the Sacred Liturgy. Studying the essays, the reader comes to a fuller appreciation of the irreplaceable role of sacred art and architecture in the celebration of the Sacred Liturgy, which is the highest and most perfect expression of our life as Christians. This volume uncovers for us, in a wonderful way, how the beauty of sacred art and architecture points to the infinitely greater beauty of Jesus Christ and of His dwelling with us through the celebration of the Sacred Liturgy', Raymond Leo Cardinal Burke, Prefect of the Apostolic Signatura.

‘Treating of such diverse themes as the face of Christ as the criterion for Christian beauty, noble simplicity revisited, the theological foundations for and nuptial meaning of classic church architecture, the galilee chapel come of age, the revival of new Gothic and Romanesque architecture in North America, this book is a great resource for anyone interested in these topics', Michael Carroll, The Furrow (January 2012).

‘Provides a sophisticated theoretical perspective on our current dilemma over the buildings and objects we use in worship … especially noteworthy is Alcuin Reid’s study of the vicissitudes of “ noble simplicity” … this collection of scholarly papers moves beyond simple lamentation over the uninspiring architecture, vesture and music which seem to be the fate of contemporary American Catholicism. It provides theological depth for an accurate discernment of the sources of this malaise and for successful resistance to the kitsch iconoclasm threatening to overwhelm us', Rev. John J. Conley SJ, Homiletic & Pastoral Review (May 2013).