Reynold Hillenbrand

the long version

Father Robert Tuzik's book Reynold Hillenbrand: The Reform of the Sacred Liturgy and the Call to Social Action studies the life of one of the most dedicated liturgical reformers. As rector of a major seminary and later as a pastor, Reynold Hillenbrand stressed the connection between liturgy, life and social action. Father Tuzik captures well the irony of Hillenbrand's life as a liturgical leader of the 1940s and '50s and his later struggle with the developing theological visions which emerged in the years following Vatican II. Many of Hillenbrand's ideas have relevance today and Father Tuzik's work presents them in a thoughtful and objective study. --Very Reverend Dennis J. Lyle, Rector/President, University of St. Mary of the Lake/Mundelein Seminary In Reynold Hillenbrand: The Reform of Catholic Liturgy and the Call to Social Action, Robert Tuzik provides a much-needed insight into the life and teachings of an American liturgical reformer who deserves to be better known. As Father Tuzik reveals, Hillenbrand's long view of the Sacred Liturgy and desire to stay near the heart of the Church's teaching authority have proven prophetic in the age of Benedict XVI's notions of continuity and reform. Hillenbrand never saw reform as an end in itself or a means to give the liturgy entertainment value. His ultimate goal was the transformation of souls through the grace of Christ properly received in the liturgy, which would then flow out into the world in a reconstruction of a just social order. Promoters of social justice as well as those interested in Pope Benedict's liturgical renewal must read this book to understand how the Sacred Liturgy, the font of grace, can once again lead to a holistic understanding of the Church as Mystical Body. --Denis R. McNamara, PhD, Faculty Member, The Liturgical Institute, University of Saint Mary of the Lake, Mundelein, Illinois