mI wrote commentaries on the short prayers of most Sunday liturgies and selected feast days, published in The Tablet weekly from 2006 until 2011. On several instances my colleague James Leachman supplied the article because of his previous research on the prayer. Towards the end of that process, I began to publish a new study translation of each prayer in conjunction with Reginald Foster, OCD, and James Lechman, OSB.
I have begun to arrange these commentaries so that all the prayers and commentaries of any given Sunday or feast are grouped together. The list appears below in its beginning form. The title of each article appears in blue type; this is a hyperlink to the PDF which may be downloaded from The Tablet if you have a subscription.
The method of interpreting the prayers is given more fully in the following book:
Appreciating the Collect: An Irenic Methodology Euchology, ed. J.G. Leachman – D.P. McCarthy (Documenta rerum ecclesiasticarum instaurata, Liturgiam aestimare : Appreciating the Liturgy 1) St. Michael’s Abbey Press, Farnborough, England 2008 (buy here) (more info).
The commentaries on the opening prayer or Collecta have been produced in book form and supplemented with photos and explanations of the ambo of the fifth century basilica of Santa Sabina on the Aventine hill of Rome in:
D.P. McCarthy – J.G. Leachman, Listen to the Word: Commentaries on Selected Opening Prayers of Sundays and Feasts with Sample Homilies, Revised from articles that appeared in The Tablet, 18 March 2006 – 15 September 2007, (Documenta rerum ecclesiasticarum instaurata, Varia), The Tablet Trust, London 2009 (buy here) (more info).
Soon to be published is a study of the short prayer texts of the Easter vigil:
Transition in the Easter Vigil: Becoming Christians. Paschali in vigilia Christiani nominis fieri, ed. J.G. Leachman – D.P. McCarthy (Documenta rerum ecclesiasticarum instaurata, Liturgiam aestimare : Appreciating the Liturgy 2) St. Michael’s Abbey Press, Farnborough, England Forthcoming.
The several articles authored by James Leachman, OSB, are so indicated.
The following list is still in development.
Introduction / summary
Introduction to the prefaces
“Thanks be to God“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (20 November 2010) 14-15.
Advent 1
Collecta
“Between two comings“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (2 December 2006) 22.
Super oblata
“Gifts offered back to God“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet ( 1 December 2007) 17.
Praefatio: Advent I
“Two comings of Christ“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet ( 27 November 2010) 15.
Post communionem
“Among passing things“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (29 November 2008) 16.
Study translation of the four prayers
“First run, then walk“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (28 November 2009) 15-16.
Advent 2
Collecta
“From earth and from heaven“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet ( 9 December 2006) 17.
Super oblata
“Not by our merits alone“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (8 December 2007) 17.
Praefatio: Advent I
“Two comings of Christ“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet ( 27 November 2010) 15.
Post communionem
“Stick to heavenly realities“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (6 December 2008) 16.
Study translation of the four prayers
“Between two comings”, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (5 December 2009) 19.
Advent 3
Collecta
“Give us the grace for joy“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (16/23 December 2006) 29-30.
Super oblata
“Fulfilling his plan “, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (15 December 2007) 17.
Praefatio: Advent II
“Confession of the faith“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet ( 4 December 2010) 13.
Post communionem
“An appeal to gentleness“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (13 December 2008) 16.
Study translation of the four prayers
“Hidden in our midst“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (12 December 2009) 16.
Advent 4
Collecta
“The opening prayer: 4th Sunday of Advent“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (16/23 December 2006) 30-31.
Super oblata
“Sacred exchanges“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (22/29 December 2007) 28-29.
Praefatio: Advent II
“Confession of the faith“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet ( 4 December 2010) 13.
Post communionem
“A saving festivity“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet ( 20/27 December 2008) 30.
Study translation of the four prayers
“Born with ineffable love“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (19/26 December 2009) 30.
Christmas mass during the night
Collecta
Super oblata
“Prayer over the gifts: Nativity of our Lord mass during the night“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (22/29 December 2007) 29.
Praefatio I of Christmas
“Glory in humanity“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet ( 11 December 2010) 14.
Post communionem
Study translation of the four prayers
“Christmas mass during the night: Study texts“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet ( 19/26 December 2009) 31.
Christmas mass at dawn
Collecta
Super oblata
Praefatio
Post communionem
Study translation of the four prayers
Christmas day
Collecta
“The opening prayer: Christmas mass during the day“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (16/23 December 2006) 31.
Super oblata
Praefatio I of Christmas
“Glory in humanity“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet ( 11 December 2010) 14.
Post communionem
“Prayer after communion: Christmas, mass during the day“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (20/27 December 2008) 31.
Study translation of the four prayers
Christmas Season
Praefatio II of Christmas
“All things lifted up“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet ( 18/25 December 2010) 32.
Praefatio III of Christmas
“Preface III of the birth of the Lord“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet ( 18/25 December 2010) 33.
Holy Family
Collecta
“In your house“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (30 December 2006) 18.
Super oblata
Praefatio
Post communionem
“Prayer after communion: The holy family of Jesus, Mary and Joseph“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (20/27 December 2008) 31.
Study translation of the four prayers
Christmas Octave (1 January)
Collecta
Super oblata
Praefatio
Post communionem
Study translation of the four prayers
Epiphany
Collecta
“Our guided journey“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (6 January 2007) 17.
Super oblata
“Bread, wine and gold“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (5 January 2008) 14.
Praefatio: Epiphany
“Light of his glory“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (1 January 2011) 18.
Post communionem
“Lead, kindly light“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (3 January 2008) 14.
Study translation of the four prayers
“Immortal glory restored“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (2 January 2010) 17.
Baptism of the Lord
Collecta
Super oblata
“The Son revealed“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (12 January 2008) 15.
Praefatio
“Witness to marvellous signs“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (8 January 2011) 14.
Post communionem
“His daughters and sons“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (10 January 2009) 17.
Study translation of the four prayers
“Anointed by the Spirit“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (9 January 2010) 15.
Lent I
Collecta
“In thought and deed“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (24 January 2007) 17.
Super oblata
“Fitting offering“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (9 February 2008) 15.
Praefatio
“Ahead to Easter“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (12 March 2011) 18.
Post communionem
“Refreshment from heaven“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet ( 28 February 2009) 16.
Study translation of the four prayers
“Hunger to live“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet ( 20 February 2010) 18.
Lent II
Collecta
“A gift whole and complete“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (3 March 2007) 13.
Super oblata
“Act of mature faith“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (16 February 2008) 16.
Praefatio
“A different form“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (19 March 2011) 16.
Post communionem
“Good to be here“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet ( 7 March 2009) 18.
Study translation of the four prayers
“Glory here and now“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet ( 27 February 2010) 18.
Lent III
Collecta
“May we be raised up“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (18 March 2006) 18.
Super oblata
“Forgiven and so forgiving“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (23 February 2008) 17.
Praefatio
J. Leachman, “Kindling of love“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (26 March 2011) 14.
Post communionem
“Mystery within“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet ( 14 March 2009) 19.
Study translation of the four prayers
“Alive in us“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet ( 6 March 2010) 17.
Lent IV
Collecta
“Rejoice and hasten“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (25 March 2006) 21.
Super oblata
“Balm for the world“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (1 March 2008) 15.
Praefatio
J. Leachman, “About to be reborn“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (2 April 2011) 14.
Post communionem
“He enlightens all hearts“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet ( 21 March 2009) 15.
Study translation of the four prayers
“Illuminated by grace“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet ( 13 March 2010) 19.
Lent V
Collecta
“Ones who walk in love“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (1 April 2006) 22.
Super oblata
“Cleansed and inspired“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (8 March 2008) 15.
Praefatio
“Led to new life“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (9 April 2011) 18.
Post communionem
“Baptism affirmed“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet ( 28 March 2009) 18.
Study translation of the four prayers
“Inspired to give“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet ( 20 March 2010) 17.
Lent VI – Palm Sunday of the Passion of the Lord
Collecta
“Suffering Shared“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (8 April 2006) 16.
Super oblata
“Through Passion to glory“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (15 March 2008) 15.
Praefatio
“The Lord comes“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (16 April 2011) 16.
Post communionem
“Striving for the sacred gift“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet ( 4 April 2009) 16.
Study translation of the four prayers
“For the good of others“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet ( 27 March 2010) 19.
Holy Thursday
Collecta
“Sacrifice and banquet“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (31 March 2007) 14.
Super oblata
Praefatio
Post communionem
Study translation of the four prayers
Good Friday
Collecta
“In newness of life“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (7 April 2007) 26.
Super oblata
Praefatio
Post communionem
Study translation of the four prayers
Easter vigil
See chapter on each prayer in:
Transition in the Easter Vigil: Becoming Christians. Paschali in vigilia Christiani nominis fieri, ed. J.G. Leachman – D.P. McCarthy (Documenta rerum ecclesiasticarum instaurata, Liturgiam aestimare : Appreciating the Liturgy 2) St. Michael’s Abbey Press, Farnborough, England Forthcoming.
Easter mass during the day
Collecta
“Eternity unsealed“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (15 April 2006) PAGE NUMBER.
Super oblata
“Nourished by sacrifice“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (22 March 2008) 28.
Praefatio I: on the Easter mystery
“By the blood of the lamb“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (23 April 2011) 25.
Post communionem
“Called out of the darkness“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet ( 11 April 2009) 28.
Study translation of the four prayers
“Living in light“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet ( 3 April 2010) 22.
Easter II
Collecta
“By water, Spirit and blood“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (22 April 2006) 14.
Super oblata
“Happiness without end“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (29 March 2008) 16.
Praefatio I: on the Easter mystery
“By the blood of the lamb“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (23 April 2011) 25.
Post communionem
“Grasping after God“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet ( 18 April 2009) 18.
Study translation of the four prayers
“Human actions done divinely“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet ( 10 April 2010) 16.
Easter III
Collecta
“With joy and expectation“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (29 April 2006) PAGE NUMBER.
Super oblata
“Four kinds of joy“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (5 April 2008) 16.
Praefatio V: on Christ the priest and victim
“In that great sacrifice“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (7 May 2011) 13.
Post communionem
“Mystery made personal“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet ( 25 April 2009) 18.
Study translation of the four prayers
“Flesh made glorious“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet ( 17 April 2010) 14.
Easter IV
Collecta
“Way of the shepherd“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (6 May 2006) 16.
Super oblata
“Power of the paschal mysteries“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (12 April 2008) 19.
Praefatio III: on Christ the one living and ever interceding for us
“Ever giving“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (14 May 2011) 15.
Post communionem
“God the shepherd“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet ( 2 May 2009) 21.
Study translation of the four prayers
“Unexpected shepherd“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet ( 24 April 2010) 17.
Easter V
Collecta
“Towards eternal joy“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (13 May 2006) PAGE NUMBER.
Super oblata
“A holy transaction“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (19 April 2008) 17.
Praefatio IV: on the restoration of all things through the Easter mystery
“Renewed and integrated“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (21 May 2011) 15.
Post communionem
“From old to new“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet ( 9 May 2009) 17.
Study translation of the four prayers
“Mystery ever growing“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet ( 1 May 2010) 20.
Easter VI
Collecta
“To the rising Lord“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (20 May 2006) 15.
Super oblata
“Growing into God“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (26 April 2008) 20.
Praefatio II: on the new life in Christ
“Return to the font“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (30 April 2011) 14.
Post communionem
“Sweet and strong“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet ( 16 May 2009) 19.
Study translation of the four prayers
“Living liturgy“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet ( 8 May 2010) 15.
Ascension of the Lord
Collecta
“Glory and Exultation“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (19 May 2007) 18.
Super oblata
Praefatio I: on the mystery of the ascension
“Lowliness on high“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (28 May 2011) 14.
Praefatio II: on the mystery of the ascension
“Cosmic praise“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (4 June 2011) 16.
Post communionem
“The unseen actor“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet ( 23 May 2009) 17.
Study translation of the four prayers
“Arrived already“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet ( 15 May 2010) 16.
Easter VII
Collecta
“Till the end of time“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (27 May 2006) 14.
Super oblata
“The greatest gift“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (3 May 2008) 16.
Praefatio
Post communionem
Study translation of the four prayers
Pentecost mass during the day
Collecta
“Gifts rain down from heaven“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (3 June 2006) PAGE NUMBER.
Super oblata
“With the boldness of the Spirit“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (10 May 2008) 18.
Praefatio
“A work completed“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (11 June 2011) 15.
Post communionem
“Both gift and giver“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet ( 30 May 2009) 18.
Study translation of the four prayers
“United in the Spirit“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet ( 22 May 2010) 16.
Second Sunday of Ordinary Time
Collecta
“On earth and in heaven“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (13 January 2007) 18.
Super oblata
“Worthy way to celebrate“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (19 January 2008) 15.
Praefatio IV of Sundays in Ordinary Time
“Heaven’s gates unlocked“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet ( 12 February 2011) 17.
Post communionem
“Feasting together“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet ( 17 January 2009) 15.
Study translation of the four prayers
“Made to govern Creation“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet ( 16 January 2010) 16.
Third Sunday of Ordinary Time
Collecta
“Human impulse divinely ordered“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (20 January 2007) 17.
Super oblata
“Deeper and deeper“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (26 January 2008) 18.
Praefatio V of Sundays in Ordinary Time
“Made to govern“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet ( 19 February 2011) 15.
Post communionem
“New life, freely given“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet ( 24 January 2009) 15.
Study translation of the four prayers
“Highly gifted, fully human“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet ( 23 January 2010) 17.
Fourth Sunday of Ordinary Time
Collecta
“Two commands, one love“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (27 January 2007) 15.
Super oblata
“How to consecrate the world“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (2 February 2011) 18.
Praefatio III of Sundays in Ordinary Time
“Glory to help, provide, save“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet ( 5 February 2011) 13.
Post communionem
“Sacred aid to faith“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet ( 31 January 2009) 16.
Study translation of the four prayers
“Out of mortality, a remedy“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet ( 30 January 2010) 15.
Fifth Sunday of Ordinary Time
Collecta
“Just for today“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (3 February 2007) 15.
Super oblata
Praefatio VIII of Sundays in Ordinary Time
“Drawn up to the Trinity“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet ( 20 August 2011) 14.
Post communionem
J. Leachman, “Unifying fruit“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet ( 7 February 2009) 17.
Study translation of the four prayers
“Guarded by goodness“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet ( 6 February 2010) 15.
Sixth Sunday of Ordinary Time
Collecta
“Self-transcending gift“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (10 February 2007) 18.
Super oblata
Praefatio I of Sundays in Ordinary Time
“Naming our glory“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet ( 15 January 2011) 15.
Post communionem
“Daily bread from Heaven“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet ( 14 February 2009) 16.
Study translation of the four prayers
“Robed with new dignity“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet ( 13 February 2010) 14.
Seventh Sunday of Ordinary Time
Collecta
“Giving as one and many“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (17 February 2007) 15.
Super oblata
Praefatio V of weekdays of Ordinary time
“Undetermined by death“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet ( 30 July 2011) 14.
Post communionem
“Salvation assured“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet ( 21 February 2009) 18.
Study translation of the four prayers
Eighth Sunday of Ordinary Time
Collecta
“Self-transcending gift“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (10 February 2007) 18.
Super oblata
Praefatio
Post communionem
Study translation of the four prayers
Ninth Sunday of Ordinary Time
Collecta
Super oblata
J. Leachman, “Through a glass clearly“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (31 May 2008) 15.
Praefatio
Post communionem
Study translation of the four prayers
Tenth Sunday of Ordinary Time
Collecta
Super oblata
“In which we serve“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (7 June 2008) 16.
Praefatio
Post communionem
Study translation of the four prayers
Eleventh Sunday of Ordinary Time
Collecta
“Without him we falter“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (17 June 2006) 23.
Super oblata
“Food for heart and soul“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (14 June 2008) 17.
Praefatio VII of the Sundays of Ordinary Time
“Loved through the Son“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (5 March 2011) 18.
Post communionem
Study translation of the four prayers
“May they be one“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (5 June 2010) 16.
Twelfth Sunday of Ordinary Time
Collecta
“Love and awe“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (24 June 2006) 16.
Super oblata
“Gifts freely made“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (21 June 2008) 16.
Praefatio III of weekdays of Ordinary Time
“From thanks to praise“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (16 July 2011) 16.
Post communionem
“God of gentleness“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet ( 20 June 2009) 16.
Study translation of the four prayers
“Creator and recreator“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet ( 12 June 2010) 16.
Thirteenth Sunday of Ordinary Time
Collecta
“Liberating light“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (1 July 2006) 23.
Super oblata
Praefatio II of Sundays in Ordinary Time
“Living eternally now“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet ( 22 January 2011) 14.
Post communionem
Study translation of the four prayers
“Life that bears fruit“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet ( 19 June 2010) 16.
Fourteenth Sunday of Ordinary Time
Collecta
“By humility to eternity“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (8 July 2006) 15.
Super oblata
“The heavenly life“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (5 July 2008) 16.
Praefatio IV of weekdays of Ordinary Time
“Saved by praise“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (23 July 2011) 15.
Post communionem
“Unending in our praise“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet ( 4 July 2009) 16.
Study translation of the four prayers
“From day to day“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet ( 26 June 2010) 15.
Fifteenth Sunday of Ordinary Time
Collecta
“Guided by the light of truth“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (15 July 2006) PAGE NUMBER.
Super oblata
“Food of sublime realities“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (12 July 2008) 18.
Praefatio III of Eucharistic Prayers for Masses of Various Needs and Occasions
3. Jesus, way to the Father
“Reasons to serve“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (8 October 2011) 19.
Post communionem
“Transforming mystery“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet ( 11 July 2009) 17.
Study translation of the four prayers
“Discerning Light“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet ( 3 July 2010) 16.
Sixteenth Sunday of Ordinary Time
Collecta
“Gifts of the Lord’s favour“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (22 July 2006) 17.
Super oblata
“Sacrifice perfected“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (19 July 2008) 21.
Praefatio IV of Sundays of Ordinary Time
“Heaven’s gates unlocked“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet ( 12 February 2011) 17.
Post communionem
“From oldness to newness“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet ( 18 July 2009) 16.
Study translation of the four prayers
“From inflamed to renewed“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet ( 10 July 2010) 16.
Seventeenth Sunday of Ordinary Time
Collecta
“The Lord is our steersman“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (29 July 2006) 16.
Super oblata
“Plentiful bounty“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (26 July 2008) 13.
Praefatio
Post communionem
“Saved by a gift“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet ( 25 July 2009) 16.
Study translation of the four prayers
“Divine echo“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet ( 17 July 2010) 16.
Eighteenth Sunday of Ordinary Time
Collecta
“To our Creator and keeper“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (4 August 2007) 17.
Super oblata
“Unity through the Spirit“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (2 August 2008) 18.
Praefatio I of Sundays of Ordinary Time
“Naming our glory“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet ( 15 January 2011) 15.
Post communionem
“Transformed and redeemed“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet ( 1 August 2009) 18.
Study translation of the four prayers
“From the beginning“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet ( 24 July 2010) 15.
Nineteenth Sunday of Ordinary Time
Collecta
“Intimate with a majestic God“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (12 August 2006) 16.
Super oblata
“Gifts given and received“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (9 August 2008) 17.
Praefatio VIII of Sundays in Ordinary Time
“Drawn up to the Trinity“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet ( 20 August 2011) 14.
Post communionem
“Through the course of life“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet ( 8 August 2009) 16.
Study translation of the four prayers
“Our promised inheritance“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet ( 31 July 2010) 15.
Twentieth Sunday of Ordinary Time
Collecta
“From him all good things come“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (19 August 2006) 16.
Super oblata
“Glorious exchanges“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (16 August 2008) 15.
Praefatio
Post communionem
Study translation of the four prayers
Twenty-first Sunday of Ordinary Time
Collecta
“Hearts and minds freely won“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (26 August 2006) PAGE NUMBER.
Super oblata
“Once and for all“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (23 August 2008) 16.
Praefatio I of Eucharistic Prayers for Masses of Various Needs and Occasions
1. The Church moving ahead toward the way of unity
“Towards the way“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (24 September 2011) 15.
Post communionem
“Healed through love“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet ( 22 August 2009) 16.
Study translation of the four prayers
“Come together“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet ( 14 August 2010) 15.
Twenty-second Sunday of Ordinary Time
Collecta
“Nourish good things in us“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (2 September 2006) PAGE NUMBER.
Super oblata
“Life-giving remedy“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (30 August 2008) 16.
Praefatio V of Sundays of Ordinary Time
“Made to govern“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet ( 19 February 2011) 15.
Post communionem
“For God in others“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet ( 29 August 2009) 14.
Study translation of the four prayers
“Awakening to serve“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet ( 21 August 2010) 15.
Twenty-third Sunday of Ordinary Time
Collecta
“Reborn into freedom“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (9 September 2006) 16.
Super oblata
“In clouds of glory“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (6 September 2008) 15.
Praefatio III of Sundays in Ordinary Time
“Glory to help, provide, save“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet ( 5 February 2011) 13.
Post communionem
“A shared life“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet ( 5 September 2009) 16.
Study translation of the four prayers
“Divinity in humanity“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet ( 28 August 2010) 15.
Twenty-fourth Sunday of Ordinary Time
Collecta
“The gift of service“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (16 September 2006) 16.
Super oblata
Praefatio of Eucharistic Prayer IV
“Give thanks and glorify“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (27 August 2008) 13.
Post communionem
“An abiding gift“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet ( 12 September 2009) 16.
Study translation of the four prayers
“Getting results“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet ( 4 September 2010) 19.
Twenty-fifth Sunday of Ordinary Time
Collecta
“Love of neighbour“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (29 September 2006) PAGE NUMBER.
Super oblata
“In love and duty“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (20 September 2008) 17.
Praefatio VI of Sundays of Ordinary Time
“Awaiting fulfilment“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet ( 26 February 2011) 14.
Post communionem
“Living the mysteries“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet ( 19 September 2009) 17.
Study translation of the four prayers
“Take hold of life“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet ( 11 September 2010) 19.
Twenty-sixth Sunday of Ordinary Time
Collecta
“Running towards God“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (30 September 2006) 23.
Super oblata
“Accept and bless“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (27 September 2008) 18.
Praefatio I of weekdays of Ordinary Time
“Symphony of voices“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (2 July 2011) 16.
Post communionem
“From suffering to glory“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet ( 26 September 2009) 17.
Study translation of the four prayers
“In giving, we receive“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet ( 18 September 2010) 24.
Twenty-seventh Sunday of Ordinary Time
Collecta
“Abundant in his compassion“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (7 October 2006) 16.
Super oblata
“Sanctified by service“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (4 October 2008) 14.
Praefatio VI of weekdays of Ordinary Time
“Traditions united“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (6 August 2011) 16.
Post communionem
“Out of captivity“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet ( 3 October 2009) 17.
Study translation of the four prayers
“Hands extended“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet ( 25 September 2010) 34.
Twenty-eighth Sunday of Ordinary Time
Collecta
“God’s love unfolding“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (14 October 2006) 17.
Super oblata
“Prayers that rise like smoke“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (11 October 2008) 18.
Praefatio
Post communionem
“Divinity flies down“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet ( 10 October 2009) 16.
Study translation of the four prayers
“Reaching out in love“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet ( 2 October 2010) 14.
Twenty-ninth Sunday of Ordinary Time
Collecta
“Perfect freedom“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (21 October 2006) 16.
Super oblata
“Maturing towards God“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (18 October 2008) 16.
Praefatio for the unity of Christians
Post communionem
“Sacred patterns of life“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet ( 17 October 2009) 16.
Study translation of the four prayers
“With increasing clarity“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet ( 9 October 2010) 16.
Thirtieth Sunday of Ordinary Time
Collecta
“Constant promise“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (28 October 2006) PAGE NUMBER.
Super oblata
“Worship and service“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (25 October 2008) 18.
Praefatio of Eucharistic Prayer for Masses of Reconciliation I
“Eagerly serving all people“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (3 September 2011) 16.
Post communionem
“Out of the embers“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet ( 24 October 2009) 16.
Study translation of the four prayers
“Realising hopes“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (16 October 2010) 11.
Thirty-first Sunday of Ordinary Time
Collecta
“The one we serve“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (4 November 2006) 17.
Super oblata
Praefatio
Post communionem
Study translation of the four prayers
Thirty-second Sunday of Ordinary Time
Collecta
“Freed from snares“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (11 November 2006) 19.
Super oblata
Praefatio II of Eucharistic Prayer for Masses of Various Needs and Occasions
2. God leading his church together on to the way of salvation
“Guiding hands of God“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (1 October 2011) 15.
Post communionem
“Truth without pretence“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet ( 7 November 2009) 14.
Study translation of the four prayers
“In our humanity, divinity“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet ( 30 October 2010) 15.
Thirty-third Sunday of Ordinary Time
Collecta
“A talent for joy“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (18 November 2006) 18.
Super oblata
“To a blessed eternity“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (15 November 2008) 16.
Praefatio IV of Eucharistic Prayer for Masses of Various Needs and Occasions
4. Jesus, who went about doing good
“Caring for people“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (15 October 2011) 16.
Post communionem
“Renew your love life“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet ( 14 November 2009) 20.
Study translation of the four prayers
“For love of God“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet ( 6 November 2010) 16.
Trinity Sunday
Collecta
“Three into one is One“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (10 June 2006) PAGE NUMBER.
Super oblata
“They also serve“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (17 May 2008) 16.
Praefatio
“Distinction without division“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (18 June 2011) 15.
Post communionem
“A spark of majesty“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet ( 6 June 2009) 16.
Study translation of the four prayers
“Distinct but undivided“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet ( 29 May 2010) 15.
Solemnity of the Body and Blood of Christ
Collecta
“Through veneration to redemption“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (9 June 2007) 15.
Super oblata
“One bread, one cup, one Church“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (24 May 2008) 16.
See: Preface on the fruits of the Most Holy Eucharist 2
“Cosmic intentions“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet ( 25 June 2011) 16.
Post communionem
“Share in divinity“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet ( 13 June 2009) 17.
Study translation of the four prayers
2 February, Presentation of the Lord
Collecta
Super oblata
Praefatio
“Drawn in by candlelight“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (29 January 2011) 13.
Post communionem
Study translation of the four prayers
29 June, Solemnity of Sts Peter and Paul
Collecta
Super oblata
“Apostolic defenders“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (28 June 2008) 18.
Praefatio
Post communionem
“In the household of God“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet ( 27 June 2009) 16.
Study translation of the four prayers
6 August, Transfiguration of the Lord
Collecta
“Show us the splendour“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (5 August 2006) PAGE NUMBER.
Super oblata
Praefatio
Post communionem
Study translation of the four prayers
15 August, Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary
Collecta
“Taken up in glory“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (11 August 2007) 14.
Super oblata
Praefatio of the Assumption
“Brought to glory“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (13 August 2011) 14.
Post communionem
“Mary lights our way“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet ( 15 August 2009) 15.
Study translation of the four prayers
“The road to perfection“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet ( 7 August 2010) 18.
14 September, Triumph of the Cross
Collecta
“Delivered and brought to redemption“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (15 September 2007) 16.
Super oblata
“Humbled yet exalted“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (13 September 2008) 16.
Praefatio
“Sins blotted out by his blood“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (10 September 2011) 15.
Post communionem
Study translation of the four prayers
9 November, Dedication of the Lateran Basilica
Collecta
Super oblata
“Great among the nations“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (8 November 2008) 19.
Praefatio
“Fit for a nuptial feast“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (5 November 2011) 16.
Post communionem
Study translation of the four prayers
Dedication of a church
Praefatio: at the dedication
“Temples of the soul“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (12 November 2011) 14.
Praefatio: anniversary of the dedication
“Place for a banquet“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (22 October 2011) 15.
1 November, All Saints’ Day
Collecta
Super oblata
“Before us in glory“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (1 November 2008) 16.
Praefatio
“Saints among us“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (29 October 2011) 16.
Post communionem
“For all the saints“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet ( 31 October 2009) 14.
Study translation of the four prayers
“How to become a saint“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet ( 23 October 2010) 16.
Christ the King
Collecta
“True kingship, truly shared“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (25 November 2006) PAGE NUMBER.
Super oblata
“Beyond conflict“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (22 November 2008) 18.
Praefatio
“Justice, love, peace“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (19 November 2011) 14.
Post communionem
“His endless reign“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet ( 21 November 2009) 16.
Study translation of the four prayers
“Thy kingdom come“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet ( 13 November 2010) 16.
Other prefaces
Praefatio: Advent I
“Two comings of Christ“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet ( 27 November 2010) 15.
Praefatio: Advent II
“Confession of the faith“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet ( 4 December 2010) 13.
Praefatio I of Christmas
“Glory in humanity“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet ( 11 December 2010) 14.
Praefatio II of Christmas
“All things lifted up“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet ( 18/25 December 2010) 32.
Praefatio III of Christmas
“Preface III of the birth of the Lord“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet ( 18/25 December 2010) 33.
Praefatio: Epiphany
“Light of his glory“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (1 January 2011) 18.
Praefatio of Baptism of the Lord
“Witness to marvellous signs“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (8 January 2011) 14.
Praefatio Lent I
“Ahead to Easter“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (12 March 2011) 18.
Praefatio Lent II
“A different form“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (19 March 2011) 16.
Praefatio Lent III
J. Leachman, “Kindling of love“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (26 March 2011) 14.
Praefatio Lent IV
J. Leachman, “About to be reborn“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (2 April 2011) 14.
Praefatio Lent V
“Led to new life“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (9 April 2011) 18.
Praefatio Lent VI: Palm Sunday of the Passion
“The Lord comes“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (16 April 2011) 16.
Easter vigil
See chapter on the preface in:
Transition in the Easter Vigil: Becoming Christians. Paschali in vigilia Christiani nominis fieri, ed. J.G. Leachman – D.P. McCarthy (Documenta rerum ecclesiasticarum instaurata, Liturgiam aestimare : Appreciating the Liturgy 2) St. Michael’s Abbey Press, Farnborough, England Forthcoming.
Praefatio of Easter I: on the Easter mystery
“By the blood of the lamb“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (23 April 2011) 25.
Praefatio of Easter II: on the new life in Christ
“Return to the font“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (30 April 2011) 14.
Praefatio of Easter III: on Christ the one living and ever interceding for us
“Ever giving“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (14 May 2011) 15.
Praefatio of Easter IV: on the restoration of all things through the Easter mystery
“Renewed and integrated“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (21 May 2011) 15.
Praefatio of Easter V: on Christ the priest and victim
“In that great sacrifice“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (7 May 2011) 13.
Praefatio of the Ascension I: on the mystery of the ascension
“Lowliness on high“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (28 May 2011) 14.
Praefatio of the Ascension II: on the mystery of the ascension
“Cosmic praise“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (4 June 2011) 16.
Praefatio of Pentecost
“A work completed“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (11 June 2011) 15.
Prefaces of Sundays of Ordinary Time
Praefatio I of Sundays of Ordinary Time
“Naming our glory“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet ( 15 January 2011) 15.
Praefatio II of Sundays of Ordinary Time
“Living eternally now“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet ( 22 January 2011) 14.
Praefatio III of Sundays of Ordinary Time
“Glory to help, provide, save“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet ( 5 February 2011) 13.
Praefatio IV of Sundays of Ordinary Time
“Heaven’s gates unlocked“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet ( 12 February 2011) 17.
Praefatio V of Sundays of Ordinary Time
“Made to govern“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet ( 19 February 2011) 15.
Praefatio VI of Sundays of Ordinary Time
“Awaiting fulfilment“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet ( 26 February 2011) 14.
Praefatio VII of the Sundays of Ordinary Time
“Loved through the Son“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (5 March 2011) 18.
Praefatio VIII of Sundays in Ordinary Time
“Drawn up to the Trinity“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet ( 20 August 2011) 14.
Prefaces of Weekdays of Ordinary Time
Praefatio I of weekdays of Ordinary Time
“Symphony of voices“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (2 July 2011) 16.
Praefatio II of weekdays of Ordinary Time
“Redeemed with mercy“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (9 July 2011) 15.
Praefatio III of weekdays of Ordinary Time
“From thanks to praise“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (16 July 2011) 16.
Praefatio IV of weekdays of Ordinary Time
“Saved by praise“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (23 July 2011) 15.
Praefatio V of weekdays of Ordinary time
“Undetermined by death“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet ( 30 July 2011) 14.
Praefatio VI of weekdays of Ordinary Time
“Traditions united“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (6 August 2011) 16.
Praefatio Trinity Sunday
“Distinction without division“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (18 June 2011) 15.
Prefaces of the Sanctoral Cycle
2 February, Praefatio of the Presentation of the Lord
“Drawn in by candlelight“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (29 January 2011) 13.
15 August, Praefatio of the Assumption of the BVM
“Brought to glory“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (13 August 2011) 14.
14 September, Praefatio of the Triumph of the Cross
“Sins blotted out by his blood“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (10 September 2011) 15.
1 November, Praefatio All Saint’s Day
“Saints among us“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (29 October 2011) 16.
9 November, Praefatio of the Dedication of the Lateran Basilica, Rome
“Fit for a nuptial feast“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (5 November 2011) 16.
Praefatio: at the dedication of a church
“Temples of the soul“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (12 November 2011) 14.
Praefatio: anniversary of the dedication of a church
“Place for a banquet“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (22 October 2011) 15.
Prefaces of specific eucharistic prayers
Proper preface for Eucharistic Prayer IV
“Give thanks and glorify“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (27 August 2008) 13.
Eucharistic Prayers for Masses of Various Needs and Occasions
1. The Church moving ahead toward the way of unity
“Towards the way“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (24 September 2011) 15.
2. God leading his church together on to the way of salvation
“Guiding hands of God“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (1 October 2011) 15.
3. Jesus, way to the Father
“Reasons to serve“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (8 October 2011) 19.
4. Jesus, who went about doing good
“Caring for people“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (15 October 2011) 16.
Eucharistic Prayers for Masses of Reconciliation I
“Eagerly serving all people“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (3 September 2011) 16.
Eucharistic Prayers for Masses of Reconciliation II
“Divine Reconciliation“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (17 September 2011) 15.
Preface on the fruits of the Most Holy Eucharist 2
“Cosmic intentions“, Listen to the Word, The Tablet ( 25 June 2011) 16.
Praefatio for the unity of Christians (See the article on all the prayers for the Twenty-ninth Sunday of Ordinary Time)
Concluding Remarks
Concluding remarks on this series were first published in The Tablet:
“Faithful lines”, Listen to the Word, The Tablet (26 November 2011) 13-14.
A fuller conclusion was later published in article form with extensive footnotes:
“Seeing a reflection, considering appearances: The history, theology and literary composition of the Missale Romanum at a time of vernacular reflection”, Questions Liturgiques / Studies in Liturgy 94 (2013) 109-143.
Abstract:
Much attention has been given to the new English translation of the Missale Romanum. Because the English is closer to the Latin text than the former translation, it reveals the qualities of the Latin in new ways. Just because the vernacular edition directly represents the Latin, does not mean that the resulting prayer is worthwhile, because the Latin may be faulty, which is implied whenever the new vernacular edition deviates significantly from the Latin. When the vernacular sticks close to the Latin, the burden of meaning shifts to the quality of the Latin text, which must be composed clearly and accurately so that it may be readily rendered into so many vernacular editions for the direct pastoral care of all who celebrate the liturgy. This article considers the historical composition of the current Missale Romanum, derives from its prayers a theological reflection and considers the quality of its Latin expression in the hope of improving its subsequent vernacular linguistic impression.
Original cycle of publication of these prayer commentaries
Each year the weekly column “Listen to the Word” focused on a specific prayer of the mass so that over five years I examined: first the opening prayer, then the prayer over the gifts, the prayer after communion, all four prayers and finally the preface. Here are the dates for each series:
Series on the Opening Prayer or Collecta
The Tablet (weekly from 18 March 2006 – 4 March 2007, thereafter occasionally.
These commentaries have been collected into book form and supplemented with photos and explanations of the ambo of the fifth century basilica of Santa Sabina on the Aventine hill of Rome in:
D.P. McCarthy – J.G. Leachman, Listen to the Word: Commentaries on Selected Opening Prayers of Sundays and Feasts with Sample Homilies, Revised from articles that appeared in The Tablet, 18 March 2006 – 15 September 2007, (DREI, Varia), The Tablet Trust, London 2009.
Series on the Prayer over the Gifts or Super oblata
The Tablet (weekly from 1 December 2007 – 22 November 2008.
Series on the Prayer after communion or Post communionem introducing a new study translation
The Tablet (weekly from 29 November 2008 – 28 November 2009.
Series on all four prayers with a new study translation
The Tablet (28 November 2009 – 13 November 2010.
Series on the Preface or Praefatio with a new study translation
The Tablet (20 November 2010 – 19 November 2011.
What others say about my work:
“Daniel McCarthy OSB identified this elephant in the room of formal equivalence, writing in The Tablet (26 November 2011 page 13 ff; written by Janet Elaine Rutherford “‘Putting ashes on our heads’: Anglican reflections on the problem of liturgical English”, One in Christ 45:2 [2011] 184, accessible here).