The Contribution of Rev. Prof. Adam Ludwik Szafrański in the Development of the Theology of Liturgy

Abstract

Professor Adam Ludwik Szfrański's theology of liturgy is an example of an integrated treatment of the whole theology. The basic term in his theological research is participation which is a philosophical idea used by him in theology to define the notion of sacramental character. This term is connected with three sacraments: baptism, confirmation and ordination. This is one of a few attempts of explaining this theological problem. For Szafrański this is the sacramental character, which comes from the baptism, that allows believers to participate in Christian worship and celebrate the liturgy. For him it is the basis for describing universal and ministerial priesthood, too. Szafrański presents both of them as the participation in the only priesthood of Christ. This has consequences in celebrating the liturgy which, first of all, is celebrated by Christ. The man is only included in Christ's activity. In Szafrański's opinion the most important among all sacraments is the Eucharist in which foremost aspect is Christ's Sacrifice. Believers' participation in the Eucharist consists in spiritual sacrificing which leads to the community with Christ in the Holy Communion. Szafrański's theology of liturgy has solid dogmatic foundations and connects the celebration with the Christian life and the Mystery of Christ. These attributes of his theology of liturgy allow it to be seen as an example of liturgical spirituality.