Episode Details

Chapter 4 of Fr. Martin von Cochem's "Explanation of the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass" teaches that in the Holy Mass Christ mystically and truly renews His Incarnation, not merely as a symbol but as a real continuation of the work of redemption, for at every consecration the Eternal Word again becomes present in human nature upon the altar by the power of the Holy Ghost. Drawing on the testimony of the Church, Scripture, saints, and theologians such as St. Augustine, St. John Damascene, St. Bonaventure, and Ven. Alanus de Rupe, the chapter explains that just as Christ once became man in the womb of the Virgin Mary, so He now becomes incarnate sacramentally in the hands of the priest, who is granted an awe-inspiring authority to effect this miracle. This renewal of the Incarnation distributes anew the fruits of Christ’s first coming, bringing grace, joy to heaven, help to the living, consolation to the souls in purgatory, and profound benefit to all who devoutly assist at Mass. The chapter therefore urges the faithful to approach the Mass with deep faith, humility, and gratitude, recognizing it as the daily manifestation of God’s immense love, whereby Christ continually descends for our salvation. 'Explanation of the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass' by Fr. Martin von Cochem is a classic 17th-century Catholic devotional work that passionately and engagingly explains the immense spiritual value, mystery, and supernatural power of the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass. Drawing on Scripture, the Church Fathers, and mystical theology, Cochem portrays the Mass as a re-presentation of Christ’s sacrifice on Calvary, a source of infinite grace, and the highest act of worship that unites heaven and earth. Through vivid anecdotes, historical insights, and practical exhortations, von Cochem urges Catholics to attend Mass with fervent attention, revealing its "incredible" merits such as remission of sins, protection from evil, and heavenly rewards, ultimately transforming routine participation into a life-altering encounter that divides one's existence into "before" and "after" this revelation, fostering a renewed zeal for Eucharistic worship.Father Martin von Cochem (1634–1712) was a German Capuchin friar, preacher, and spiritual writer renowned for his deep piety and his ability to explain the Catholic faith in clear and fervent language accessible to ordinary people. Born in Cochem on the Moselle River, he entered the Capuchin Order as a young man and devoted his life to pastoral work, preaching missions throughout Germany, and combating religious indifference in the wake of the Thirty Years’ War. His writings, composed in both Latin and German, include the Explanation of the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass, The Four Last Things, and The Life of Christ, all of which reflect his profound devotion to the Eucharist and his zeal for the salvation of souls. His works became spiritual classics, widely read among clergy and laity alike for their vivid imagery, theological clarity, and heartfelt appeal to deeper faith and reverence toward the mysteries of God. Note: The modern title of this work is "The Incredible Catholic Mass", published by TAN books, and currently under copyright. The original German title, published in the 17th century, was "Erklärung des heiligen Meßopfers", commonly translated as "Explanation of the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass" in English in the 18th and 19th centuries. This is the title that we will be using for this audiobook series on InPrincipio Podcast (at times abbreviated to 'Explanation of the Holy Mass' or other variations), and the text is that of the Benziger Brothers, New York, 1896. Link to the ‘Explanation of the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass’ Audiobook playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLZKdyYnV_bkgm1BUAsp5JndFfo4WZABrF