Widely regarded as the most beautifully structured of the Eucharistic Prayers, Eucharistic Prayer III is the Church's preferred choice for Sundays. Dr. Brant Pitre shows why — and where its central image comes from.
Eucharistic Prayer III: The Sunday Prayer and the "Pure Offering" of Malachi
Dr. Pitre presents Eucharistic Prayer III as the carefully worded, elegantly structured prayer the Church prefers for Sundays and festive days (GIRM 365) — drafted for the reformed Missal by Cyprian Vagaggini and drawing on Gallican, Mozarabic, and Eastern sources. Its defining biblical thread is Malachi's prophecy that "from the rising of the sun to its setting a pure sacrifice may be offered to your name" (Malachi 1:11), and the session follows that prophecy forward: the Didache applying it to the Lord's Day Eucharist and the Council of Trent naming the Mass as its fulfillment (the "munda oblatio"). Dr. Pitre lays the prayer alongside its ancient and medieval parallels — the Mozarabic liturgy, the Anaphoras of Theodore of Mopsuestia, St. Basil, and St. Clement — and closes with St. Cyril of Jerusalem on the Real Presence. The video explores how this prayer is stitched together and why Malachi stands at its heart, without pre-empting the conclusions.
Key passages & sources examined: GIRM 365; Roman Missal, Order of Mass nos. 107-113; Malachi 1:11; Didache 14; Council of Trent (Sacrifice of the Mass, ch. 1); the Mozarabic Liturgy; Anaphora of Theodore of Mopsuestia; Anaphora of St. Basil; St. Cyril of Jerusalem, Mystagogical Catecheses
When is Eucharistic Prayer III used? The Church prefers it for Sundays and festive days and it may be said with any Preface (GIRM 365). Dr. Pitre explains its place in the session.
What is the biblical root of Eucharistic Prayer 3? Its "pure sacrifice offered from the rising of the sun to its setting" comes from Malachi 1:11; the video traces that prophecy through the Didache and Trent.
How is Eucharistic Prayer III different from the others? It is widely regarded as the most beautifully structured and is the Sunday prayer. Watch to see its distinctive sources and design.
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I told him I do not know what I would do without all the knowledge I have gained from this program. Period. Dr. Grant Pitre is phenomenal and an excellent teacher.
This video series helped me to more deeply enter into Mass. Understanding the biblical and historical context brings me attention back to the altar, even when the kiddos are at their most distracting!
This supported by doctrine study illuminates a personal struggle and provides the necessary coping mechanisms to overcome adversity. Doctor Brant has an exquisite methodology of presenting the material in an informative manner that keeps you engaged in the discussion.
Love this subscription. Dr Pitre’s explanations are so understandable and helpful. Michael in customer service is always available and quickly answers any questions I might have.
I told him I do not know what I would do without all the knowledge I have gained from this program. Period. Dr. Grant Pitre is phenomenal and an excellent teacher.
This video series helped me to more deeply enter into Mass. Understanding the biblical and historical context brings me attention back to the altar, even when the kiddos are at their most distracting!
This supported by doctrine study illuminates a personal struggle and provides the necessary coping mechanisms to overcome adversity. Doctor Brant has an exquisite methodology of presenting the material in an informative manner that keeps you engaged in the discussion.
Love this subscription. Dr Pitre’s explanations are so understandable and helpful. Michael in customer service is always available and quickly answers any questions I might have.
