Published: 2025-04-30

The Liturgical Movement as a Social Movement in the Light of the Activity of Virgil Michel OSB (1890–1938)

Andrzej Megger
Collectanea Theologica
Section: Articles
https://doi.org/10.21697/ct.2025.95.2.03

Abstract

This article analyzes the liturgical movement as a social movement, focusing on the work of Virgil Michel OSB (1890–1938), a pioneer of the American liturgical movement. This movement, which began in the 19th century, sought to renew the liturgy through the conscious and active participation of the faithful in the celebration. Working in the context of the American economic crisis, Virgil Michel saw in the liturgy the potential to transform both the Church and society. His thinking was grounded in the concept of the Church as the Mystical Body of Christ and emphasized the social dimension of participation in the liturgy. The article shows how Michel combined liturgical ideas with social reform, influencing the integration of immigrants, fighting individualism, and building community. The text also reflects on the contemporary relevance of his thought, pointing to the need for further research into the relationship between the liturgy and the Church’s social mission.

Keywords:

Virgil Michel,, liturgical movement, society, Mystical Body, liturgical theology

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Citation rules

Megger, A. (2025). The Liturgical Movement as a Social Movement in the Light of the Activity of Virgil Michel OSB (1890–1938). Collectanea Theologica, 95(2), 317–339. https://doi.org/10.21697/ct.2025.95.2.03

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