The Book of Deuteronomy as a Theological Source for the Concept of Memorial (anamnesis) in the Liturgical Year

Abstract

The article discusses the concept of memorial (anamnesis) in relation to the liturgical year and
argues that within the Old Testament theology the Book of Deuteronomy constitutes the main
theological source for the concept. The liturgical calendar is not a simple calendar in which the dates of various feasts of the Church are indicated. It is important to note that the liturgical calendar presents the saving mystery of Jesus Christ, but in a manner spread over time. In order to
understand the anametic dimension of the liturgical year, it is necessary to indicate the meaning of the feast in the Holy Scriptures. Especially, on the basis of the Book of Deuteronomy, also known as the “Book of Remembrance”, it is shown that each biblical feast is an anamnesis, that is, the presence of a specific event in the history of salvation. This understanding of the feast also exists in the liturgy of the Church. The importance of the liturgical year comes primarily from the close relationship with the mystery of Christ. Each feast makes the “here” and “now” of the saving act of Jesus Christ present. It happens thanks to the presence and action of the Holy Spirit in the liturgy of the Church.