On the «Protestant Captivity» in the Liturgical Practice of the Catholic Church

Abstract

 

The theory and practice of inter‑Christian dialogue involves not only the search for and statement of common values and differences, but also the resolution of the question regarding the degree, nature, and consequences of mutual influence. The constructiveness of such dialogue is largely determined by the ability to distinguish beneficial influence from negative impact, and creative enrichment from blind dependence. It appears particularly important to make such a distinction in the field of liturgy, where the foundations of faith and spiritual life are closely intertwined with the prayer practice of the Church. This article explores the substance and nature of the influence of Protestant theology on the Catholic liturgy from theological, historical, and practical perspectives. The study demonstrates that Protestant influence can be conventionally divided into two types: «renovating» influence, which aids in the restoration of lost or forgotten elements of Church Tradition, and «altering» influence, which introduces specific doctrinal and spiritual features that distort the traditional understanding of the Church and Christian life. The research methodology and the author’s conclusions can be applied to the study of any form of inter‑Christian interaction, especially in the realm of worship and the sacraments.