The Pastoral Dynamics of Great Ecclesial Celebrations

Abstract

A gathering together in communion with the ecclesial community is a framework for Christian life and a constant which represents the unavoidable and constitutive basis for activity motivated by faith. We are referring here primarily to a gathering at the centre of which is the celebration of the sacraments (especially of the Eucharist) and hearing the Word of God. God, Who is a communion of three Persons, providentially gathers together his people. A gathering in communion with the Church is a crucial expression of the dynamics of gathering together of the faithful. It is a constant which essentially determines the pastoral work of the Church. In this respect, a gathering in ecclesial communion is not only a sign and expression of the faith of the community, but also the principle guideline of its life and activity, the principle guideline for pastoral work. Pastoral work is realised in the dynamics of a gathering together. This fact is particularly evident in larger ecclesial gatherings, especially great celebrations, but also on other occasions. This article examines the relationship between such larger gatherings of the ecclesial community and the regular dynamics of pastoral activity, since it is in this very relationship that certain fundamental problems occur with regard to the connection between gatherings and regular pastoral work at the present moment in time, as do also the perspectives for improvement of the relationship.