Communication is a priority in the Italian episcopal conference’s current pastoral plan. The course entitled «Gesture and Word: Communicative Resources of the Liturgy,» will begin in February at the Redemptoris Hominis Pastoral Institute.
The objective is to offer 180 hours in scientific and critical reflection on the typical forms of communication of liturgical action.
The classes will focus on the liturgy as a communicative event, as well as the cultural relevance of the ritual forms and the importance of language, gesture and word in liturgical action.
The course will be held Feb. 17-22 and June 16-21, and two additional weeks in 2004. Students will study communication theories; the use of the Psalms in the liturgy; the plurality of liturgical codes; and musical accompaniment.
Students must have prior studies in theology. Participants must also be involved in liturgical service or be active in the world of communication.
The course has been organized by the Lateran Interdisciplinary Center and the Italian bishops’ National Liturgical Office.
