Eucharistic Prayer IV sweeps from creation to the fall to redemption in a single arc — a summary of salvation history unlike any other prayer at Mass. Dr. Brant Pitre traces where its language comes from.
Eucharistic Prayer IV: The Salvation-History Prayer and Its Johannine Roots
Dr. Pitre distinguishes Eucharistic Prayer IV by three marks: it is Johannine (steeped in the language of John's Gospel), deeply Trinitarian, and structured as a fuller summary of salvation history — which is why the Church allows it on Sundays in Ordinary Time (GIRM 365). He shows how "you so loved the world, Father most holy" echoes John 3:16, how the sending of the Holy Spirit reflects John 14:26, and how "having loved his own who were in the world, he loved them to the end" comes straight from John 13:1. On the historical side, the prayer is based on the fourth-century Alexandrian Eucharistic Prayer of St. Basil, and Dr. Pitre sets the Missal text beside St. Basil's anaphora to show the dependence. Benedict XVI's teaching in Sacramentum Caritatis on the Eucharist as the mystery of Trinitarian love frames the whole. The video maps the prayer's structure and sources and raises its questions, leaving Dr. Pitre's synthesis for the session.
Key passages & sources examined: GIRM 365; Roman Missal, Order of Mass nos. 116-123; John 3:16; John 13:1-2; John 14:26; the Alexandrian Anaphora of St. Basil (4th c.); Benedict XVI, Sacramentum Caritatis nos. 7-8; St. Augustine, On the Trinity
What makes Eucharistic Prayer IV distinctive? It gives a fuller summary of salvation history, is richly Trinitarian, and is filled with the language of John's Gospel. The session unpacks each of these features.
What are the biblical roots of Eucharistic Prayer 4? It draws heavily on John — John 3:16, 13:1, and 14:26 among others. Dr. Pitre traces the Johannine language in the video.
When can Eucharistic Prayer IV be used? Because of its salvation-history sweep, it may be used on Sundays in Ordinary Time (GIRM 365). Watch to see how its structure fits that role.
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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.
