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Nothing Superfluous
An Explanation of the Symbolism of the Rite of St. Gregory the GreatIn clear language, Fr. Jackson reveals the rich theological meaning behind the art, architecture, words and gestures of the Extraordinary Form of the Roman Rite, the Rite of St. Gregory the Great.
358 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2016
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
April 11, 2019
This is one of the most informationally dense books I have ever read. It takes you through the Rite of St. Gregory step by step from entering the building through the closing procession (or even through the funeral Mass, if you want to travel all the way through Appendix IV like I did).
The most wonderful thing about this book is the depth of love for Christ and His Church that so obviously inspires every word from Fr. Jackson's pen. He revels in each intricacy of the rite, not because it possesses some esoteric knowledge to which he has the key, but because it is an oblation to God's glory born out of that holy instinct to brush the hem of His garment. Truly nothing is superfluous in this liturgical feast—every word, every gesture is pregnant with meaning. The whole of the Mass has a supernaturally unfolding aspect to it, making it an experience of devotion not created by humans but revealed by God. Jackson writes, "Just as it takes centuries of meditation and prayer to unlock the mysteries of Sacred Scripture, so it took centuries to unlock the wisdom and beauty of the Rite of St. Gregory" (118).
This has become one of the more underlined and annotated books in my library. There is a richness in the traditions of the Extraordinary Mass that bears remembering and celebrating. Makes me yearn for a trip to Tacoma. :-) In the penultimate appendix, Fr. Jackson writes, "The Mass is like heaven, where the lowest angel and the lowest saint join their voices with the highest angels and saints, all of the singing, 'Sanctus, sanctus, sanctus.'" May we all enter the sacred mysteries with as much reverence as we join our voices to theirs.
The most wonderful thing about this book is the depth of love for Christ and His Church that so obviously inspires every word from Fr. Jackson's pen. He revels in each intricacy of the rite, not because it possesses some esoteric knowledge to which he has the key, but because it is an oblation to God's glory born out of that holy instinct to brush the hem of His garment. Truly nothing is superfluous in this liturgical feast—every word, every gesture is pregnant with meaning. The whole of the Mass has a supernaturally unfolding aspect to it, making it an experience of devotion not created by humans but revealed by God. Jackson writes, "Just as it takes centuries of meditation and prayer to unlock the mysteries of Sacred Scripture, so it took centuries to unlock the wisdom and beauty of the Rite of St. Gregory" (118).
This has become one of the more underlined and annotated books in my library. There is a richness in the traditions of the Extraordinary Mass that bears remembering and celebrating. Makes me yearn for a trip to Tacoma. :-) In the penultimate appendix, Fr. Jackson writes, "The Mass is like heaven, where the lowest angel and the lowest saint join their voices with the highest angels and saints, all of the singing, 'Sanctus, sanctus, sanctus.'" May we all enter the sacred mysteries with as much reverence as we join our voices to theirs.
October 15, 2016
The author gives a rich explanation of the Mass. I read the book with my missal and my Bible at hand. I was astounded at the thoroughly Biblical roots of the Mass from the first sign of the cross to the final Amen. Presented in a readable and approachable style. I didn't need my dictionary to understand it. I feel like I'll come back to this book again and again to help me continue to learn my faith. Every priest, deacon and altar server should read this book.
October 4, 2016
Excellent book! Well-written in laymen's terms, easily digestible. Great explanation of the Latin Mass, all the history and symbolism that we often forget (or never knew!) about. I highly recommend this book to all Catholics.
May 19, 2022
This is a beautiful explanation of the Mass of St. Gregory the Great, i.e. the "traditional Latin Mass." I started attending about eight years ago at my husband's request. I didn't like it for the first five years or so. I started warming up about three years ago, and eventually I realized my regular attendance of the old rite had been seeping into my subconscious and teaching me many truths about God and His worship without my mind detecting it.
I finally picked up this book to try to understand the rationale behind the beauty and mystery I have been experiencing for years, and it was well worth it. In it you will find each part of the Mass broken down into bite-sized, digestible pieces. There is also thorough explanation of the symbolism behind the priest's vestments, the architecture, the position and placement of the clergy in the church, and so much more.
I do want to emphasize that I came at this as someone who grew up in a very average novus ordo parish, and have always had an inclination towards that "style" of worship due to familiarity. I have never preferred anything liturgically traditional to something newer simply because it is older. Rather, my newfound love of this rite is based in a genuine response to the beauty and depths of riches I have encountered, first with resistance but now with full embrace.
I finally picked up this book to try to understand the rationale behind the beauty and mystery I have been experiencing for years, and it was well worth it. In it you will find each part of the Mass broken down into bite-sized, digestible pieces. There is also thorough explanation of the symbolism behind the priest's vestments, the architecture, the position and placement of the clergy in the church, and so much more.
I do want to emphasize that I came at this as someone who grew up in a very average novus ordo parish, and have always had an inclination towards that "style" of worship due to familiarity. I have never preferred anything liturgically traditional to something newer simply because it is older. Rather, my newfound love of this rite is based in a genuine response to the beauty and depths of riches I have encountered, first with resistance but now with full embrace.
August 27, 2019
By far and away the best book I have ever read on the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass. This book is so beautifully written and will give you a new appreciation and love of the Mass. Recommended reading for all Catholics and anyone interested in what the Mass is truly about.
November 26, 2018
Superlative. Required reading for every Catholic (if not every reader interested in art, history, and/or religion.) If I were to quote a favorite part, I'd quote the entire book, so just read it.
July 11, 2018
I started attending a Latin Mass in January of this year. My Priest gives classes about the Latin Mass, I attended & he recommended this book, I just loved it. I loved the way the author went through the Latin Mass step by step & explained why *everything* was done, worn, or said the way it is, AND what it means. I was very glad to have my missal with me so that I could really understand where we were in the mass while the author explained the actions, words & meanings. I think this book would be more difficult without having attended a Latin Mass & having a missal. If you are a Novus Ordo Catholic or a non-Catholic, I recommend that you watch a Latin Mass on YouTube several times during the reading of this book. I believe that nothing is superfluous in the Latin Mass now that I have read this book. Every vestment, every motion, every word is there for a reason. I feel blessed that we have a Priest that says the Latin Mass, it is difficult to master, & on summer days wearing all the vestments is hot and uncomfortable but all of it has deep meaning and historical weight. Hearing the choir sing songs & the Priest say words that have been heard by worshipers for over a thousand years is a blessed connection to the history of the church and my fellow Catholics from the past. I hope I will hear those songs and words when I arrive in the Church Triumphant.
April 17, 2018
One of the best Catholic books I've ever read. The Rite of St. Gregory, known commonly as the Extraordinary Form or Traditional Latin Mass, may seem daunting to one used to the Ordinary Form of the Mass, as I am. However, Fr. Jackson does well in not only noting the historical context of the EF (as well as the ancient Mass of the first Christians), but expounds greatly on the manifold symbols of the Mass. While a lot of what is taught pertains solely to the EF, there are many things of value to be brought to one's faithful participation in the Ordinary Form. Following Scott Hahn's "The Lamb's Supper", these two books will change a man's attitude towards the Mass, in either Form, enrich his participation in the Sacrament, and perhaps form him as a better Christian.
July 22, 2017
Rich in detail and history. I wished more than once as I read it that I was *at* Mass, so I could see what was being described. Instead, I've had to wait until my next opportunity.
For those who attend the Novus Ordo, it clarifies actions done there, too. Worth the read regardless of which Latin Mass you attend.
(I didn't read the Appendices.)
For those who attend the Novus Ordo, it clarifies actions done there, too. Worth the read regardless of which Latin Mass you attend.
(I didn't read the Appendices.)
May 10, 2018
This profound book unfolds the many beautiful layers of poetry, symbolism, and meaning of the Traditional Roman Rite. It is not a work of scholarship, but a meditation, and therefore is very approachable. It is excellent spiritual reading.
September 23, 2020
Wow... information overload; my stunted Catholic formation is more apparent than ever.
A sequential explanation of every detail of the Latin Mass (1962), and much of its prior history.
This can be thought of as a reference book, though I read it straight through; will be useful going forward.
A sequential explanation of every detail of the Latin Mass (1962), and much of its prior history.
This can be thought of as a reference book, though I read it straight through; will be useful going forward.
June 30, 2023
When I began this book, I was not aware of the now-accepted allegations against Fr. Jackson.
It saddens me that someone with such intellectual virtue could fall so deep into moral depravity.
The book was amazing. I spent much of the reading of it praying for its author.
It saddens me that someone with such intellectual virtue could fall so deep into moral depravity.
The book was amazing. I spent much of the reading of it praying for its author.
April 21, 2021
Excellent, easy to read book about Gregorian liturgy. Will reread.
April 22, 2021
Well written and informative book about the Latin Mass.
November 5, 2025
I could read this book 100 times and still not internalize every minute and symbolic detail of the Traditional Latin Mass. Such a trove of beauty, Tradition, and information. Every tiny thing matters, and nothing is superfluous. Fantastic book.
January 22, 2021
4/5 stars
"No catechism will succeed unless it is grounded on a stable, solid, reliable, and faithful celebration of the Mass."
This book is a really lovely exploration of the Extraordinary Form of the Mass (known alternatively as the Traditional Latin Mass, the Tridentine Mass, and more). Fr. Jackson begins by talking about church buildings, the vestments, and the vessels used for Mass and explaining the meanings behind them all. Then he moves through each part of the Mass and gives great detail about the deep symbolism that runs throughout. I especially appreciate how he highlights the scriptural roots of everything, and how he encourages greater reading of the Bible outside of Mass. I learned so much that I hadn't heard of before! And in one of his appendices, Fr. Jackson gives a very well-written defense of the use of Latin for the Mass that might be helpful to those who are skeptical.
I do want to note that I don't think this would be the best introductory book for those who are totally unfamiliar with the Latin Mass. For that, I would recommend The Latin Mass Explained by Msgr. George Moorman. Fr. Jackson's book is more likely to be fruitful for those who already know the basics of the Extraordinary Form, in my opinion.
"No catechism will succeed unless it is grounded on a stable, solid, reliable, and faithful celebration of the Mass."
This book is a really lovely exploration of the Extraordinary Form of the Mass (known alternatively as the Traditional Latin Mass, the Tridentine Mass, and more). Fr. Jackson begins by talking about church buildings, the vestments, and the vessels used for Mass and explaining the meanings behind them all. Then he moves through each part of the Mass and gives great detail about the deep symbolism that runs throughout. I especially appreciate how he highlights the scriptural roots of everything, and how he encourages greater reading of the Bible outside of Mass. I learned so much that I hadn't heard of before! And in one of his appendices, Fr. Jackson gives a very well-written defense of the use of Latin for the Mass that might be helpful to those who are skeptical.
I do want to note that I don't think this would be the best introductory book for those who are totally unfamiliar with the Latin Mass. For that, I would recommend The Latin Mass Explained by Msgr. George Moorman. Fr. Jackson's book is more likely to be fruitful for those who already know the basics of the Extraordinary Form, in my opinion.
March 21, 2018
The richness and depth of the mass
While many works scratch the surface of the mass, this book explores the depth, transcendent beauty, and richness of the mass of all ages. This book makes you slow down and engage the timeless prayers and rituals. Every movement, word, and gesture speaks of the awesomeness of the mass. It is no wonder that so many saints across the ages were formed by the Tridentine Rite, the greatest thing this side of heaven. Recommend to any clergy, seminarian, or layperson who is intrigued or wants to know more about the Extraordinary Form of the Mass.
While many works scratch the surface of the mass, this book explores the depth, transcendent beauty, and richness of the mass of all ages. This book makes you slow down and engage the timeless prayers and rituals. Every movement, word, and gesture speaks of the awesomeness of the mass. It is no wonder that so many saints across the ages were formed by the Tridentine Rite, the greatest thing this side of heaven. Recommend to any clergy, seminarian, or layperson who is intrigued or wants to know more about the Extraordinary Form of the Mass.
February 28, 2020
This is an excellent book for anyone new to and wanting to understand the Latin mass, but what’s more is that it also dives deep into Catholic theology as a whole. I encourage readers to read the appendices, they have great nuggets of truth!
September 29, 2018
This book gives a synthetic overview of what a lot of people have said about symbolism in the Tridentine Mass (alternatively the "EF" --aka extraordinary form, or Mass of St. Gregory).
I will admit that I was a little disappointed due to expectations from the title since there is actually no argument that I could discern that there is in fact "nothing superfluous" except for a tiny quote from just after the Council of Trent (incidentally, that was before some things such as the last gospel and the prayers at the foot of the altar were added).
Still, if you have never thought through "why do they do that there?" then this will give you something to think about.
I will admit that I was a little disappointed due to expectations from the title since there is actually no argument that I could discern that there is in fact "nothing superfluous" except for a tiny quote from just after the Council of Trent (incidentally, that was before some things such as the last gospel and the prayers at the foot of the altar were added).
Still, if you have never thought through "why do they do that there?" then this will give you something to think about.
June 11, 2023
The author, James W. Jackson, has pleaded guilty to child porn charges and is facing 5 to 20 years in prison. Find another source and toss this one in the trash. FSSP has finally pulled the book from their site in the past few months.
July 30, 2022
The amount of insights on EVERY page of this book is mind-blowing!
May 1, 2020
The Splendour of The Mass Explained
This gem of a book leads the reader to the Wondors, Symbolism, and Mysteries brought them through the celebration of Gregorian Rite of the Roman Catholic Mass. An excellent book, I loved it!
This gem of a book leads the reader to the Wondors, Symbolism, and Mysteries brought them through the celebration of Gregorian Rite of the Roman Catholic Mass. An excellent book, I loved it!
April 18, 2019
It took me a very long time to get through this book, for which I fault my own lack of diligence. It is really quite interesting, especially when one looks at the Novus Ordo Mass and sees what has been lost in the last 50-60 years.
Fr. Jackson offers a wealth of information and meaning regarding nearly all of the prayers, actions, and liturgical objects that are used throughout the Mass, making this book an absolute treasure trove, and equally valuable as both a determined read and reference material (the appendices make up nearly a third of the text).
Certainly a book that I would recommend to anyone frustrated with the modern Mass and/or simply seeking more insight into the richness of Catholic tradition. This book is nearly guaranteed to make one more attentive during both Masses, and almost certainly guaranteed to swing one towards (or cement one in) preferring the extraordinary form. One of the absolute essentials for Church reading - probably will use in catechesis.
Fr. Jackson offers a wealth of information and meaning regarding nearly all of the prayers, actions, and liturgical objects that are used throughout the Mass, making this book an absolute treasure trove, and equally valuable as both a determined read and reference material (the appendices make up nearly a third of the text).
Certainly a book that I would recommend to anyone frustrated with the modern Mass and/or simply seeking more insight into the richness of Catholic tradition. This book is nearly guaranteed to make one more attentive during both Masses, and almost certainly guaranteed to swing one towards (or cement one in) preferring the extraordinary form. One of the absolute essentials for Church reading - probably will use in catechesis.
June 25, 2019
This is a comprehensive and detailed account of the symbolism of the traditional Mass. Well worth reading - and re-visiting. I could have done with more direct links between the detailed explanations and the sources, which are indicated in the bibliography in general, but not tied to the specific points: so it is hard to know what it pious tradition, what the particular interpretation of a specific saint or doctor, and what is authoritative. Nonetheless, it is a fascinating read, and supports the thesis of its title.
April 22, 2018
Fr. Jackson knows what he teaches and enlightens us all with the knowledge about our catholic faith and Mass to worship God etc. It's a worthy book to own and do get the chance to meet this wonderful friend and Priest in person the 1st chance you get for you won't regret you ever did! God bless you all.
Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews