A Catholic can scarcely remain an indifferent spectator of a controversy in which the principles and practice of the Catholic Church are the main topic of dispute.
The modern controversy regarding Ritualism comprises two distinct questions.
First, Is that theory of worship in itself true or false?
Secondly, Is it in or out of place in the Anglican Church? From the latter of these two questions I hold myself entirely aloof. By Ritualism is popularly meant that use of religious ceremonial which obtains in the Catholic Church; and it is loudly and repeatedly asserted by innumerable voices, that the principles of Catholic Ritualism are not of Christian origin, but are derived from Jewish and from heathen sources. The truth of these assertions is what I have undertaken to discuss.
A limitation must, however, here be made.
The word Ritualism is taken in several, perhaps in most, of the books which have been written against it, to mean that whole system of religion which recognises a priesthood, a sacrifice, sacraments, and the use of symbolism. I admit readily enough that the question of the use of external ceremonies, of art, and splendour, and wealth, in divine worship, is not merely æsthetical. I admit, and will show in the proper place, that not only great doctrines are in question, but that the very mode of revealing to the world almost all doctrines is involved in the Catholic system of worship. There is a close connection in fact, and perhaps even in logic, between Ritual and certain very fundamental principles of religion; such as, for instance, the visible nature of the Church, the supernatural character of the priesthood, and the efficacy of the sacraments. Yet it by no means follows that we cannot treat of the use of ceremonial without treating at the same time of all subjects connected with it. It is not my intention, therefore, to follow the example of some writers, who announce a Treatise on Ritualism, and then, touching only incidentally on the principles of worship, give long dissertations against the obligation of confession, the efficacy of absolution, and the lawfulness of the invocation of saints. The discussion shall be confined
