The Ascent Into Heaven: An Answer to the Problem of Time in Liturgical Anamnesis

Edward Kilmartin in his work on liturgical anamnesis sought to develop a Trinitarian theology of liturgical participation that could bridge Christ’s historical deeds with present reality in light of the problem of time. Kilmartin identified two poles in liturgical praying: the anamnetic and the epicletic. Together they unite the faithful with Christ in the Holy Spirit. At the same time, Gabriele Winkler in her study of the classical anaphoras has argued that these prayers are centered around a ritual of ascent, whereby the faithful participate in the heavenly liturgy. A survey of the classical anaphoras across the East and West reveals that participation in the heavenly liturgy is a hallmark of eucharistic praying also complemented by an understanding of the divine’s descent to Earth. This ritual articulation of ascent and descent provides ritual/experiential flesh to Kilmartin’s Trinitarian theology of liturgical participation, and the faithful’s participation in Christ’s saving deeds.