The Sacraments in Christian Life by M. M. Philipon, O. P. (review)

288 BOOK REVIEWS The Sacraments in Christian Life. By M. M. PHILIPON, 0. P. Translated by John Otto. Wesminster: Newman, 1954. Pp. 410. $4.fl5. In this present work Fr. Philipon develops a theme which is becoming increasingly popular with modern spiritual writers, namely, the application to the modern world of St. Paul's doctrine that the Christian is another Christ. The author points out that this identification is achieved by means of the sacraments and the Sacrifice of the Mass. " For me to live is Christ " is therefore the main idea behind the work. By means of the sacraments the historic Christ becomes the Savior and the model of the individual soul, not merely as an individual, but also as a member of the Mystical Body. In fact, one of the merits of this book is undoubtedly the consideration given to the social nature of the Sacraments. In dealing with Baptism as an incorporation in Christ's death and resurrection the author brings out the full force of St. Thomas' graphic phrase " to each baptised person the Passion of Christ is imparted as if he himself had suffered and died on the Cross." In this section one can detect the influence on the author of Dom Marmion. This incorporation is perfected by Confirmation, and in this chapter Fr. Philipon has many interesting things to say. The perfection of the Word Incarnate is the model for those who have been confirmed. They should be perfect Christs in the modem world. In case this ideal appears too high we should remember that the grace of God must not be minimized. It is all-powerful and abundant. In this connection the gifts of the Holy Ghost are explained simply but adequately. The chapters on the Holy Eucharist both from the sacramental and the sacrificial aspects are very good indeed. The author points out how impossible it is to reach a full understanding of the Mass if the sacramental nature of the Sacrifice is neglected. This return to the simplicity and the depth of St. Thomas' explanation of the Mass is refreshing and satisfying. The fundamental idea of the Eucharist is brought out in these chapters and they should provide excellent material for meditation. People who are in love naturally have the urge to live together in a common life-and this has found its highest expression in Holy Communion. The section dealing with the Mass as the Sacrifice of the Total Christ is excellent both for its doctrine and the way the liturgy is used to bring home the author's main theme-that the Mass is the offering of Christ and the Church acting as one. In the chapter on Penance there is plenty of matter for all souls, from those who are still in mortal sin to those who are in the higher stages of the spiritual life. By the redeeming power of Christ applied to the soul in this sacrament the sinner is made one with the innermost sentiments of love and expiation which filled the soul of Christ when He died for the salvation of all men. This thought is useful for those who live in a civilization which has BOOK REVIEWS ~89 not only lost the sense of sin but also of expiation. The role of Penance in the struggle for Christian perfection is also developed as a continuation of the sanctifying power of Christ who came not to call the just, but sinners. The author's treatment of the sacrament of Matrimony is both masterly and extensive. If the doctrine contained in these chapters were sufficiently meditated and put into practice the life of the Church would be far richer in every way. The teaching outlined by Fr. Philipon is the only basis on which a truly Christian married life can possibly be developed. Moreover, he has the art of bringing the vital spiritual principles into every-day application , as, for instance, when he indicates that the basic law of Christian love is the gift of self. The lack of this spirit of self-sacrifice is the main reason for many broken homes and unsatisfactory marriages. The intimate union with Christ, whose love led Him to...