Liturgical renewal needs enculturation – Indian liturgists

(November 18, 2011) Indian experts in liturgy have stressed that enculturation is one of the directive principles to be kept in mind in the process of revitalizing liturgical life. The Indian Liturgical Association (ILA) made the observation during its 15th general body meeting in the southern Indian city of Bangalore. The theme of the November 15-17 meeting was, “Liturgical enculturation in India - Review and Prospects”. Fr. Donald D’Souza, President of the ILA said that the 3 days of “sharing, deliberations and discussions were extensive, fruitful and pastorally very enriching.” He urged that the Church in India take stock of the present situation and rise to the occasion to give Christ to people who truly are seeking truth, light and immortality. The meeting stated that the liturgy should enter every phase of daily life with its cultural expressions. Only in this way will liturgy become the “source and summit” of Christian Life in the true spirit of the Second Vatican Council, it added. Salesian Fr. Paul Puthangady, a participant, urged liturgists to give emphasis on liturgical catechesis in parishes, religious communities, seminaries, dioceses and among the youth and children.