So as to meditate briefly on the relationship between liturgy and faith, let us begin with the answer provided to an invitation to participate in the Eucharist every day: "It is not that easy. I like Mass celebrated with faith. Here in this city (a very big city), I have searched for such a Mass. I have visited many Churches; the Mass was a function, a rite, but without a soul. When at last I found a Mass animated by real faith it seemed to be an exception."

Perhaps this judgement is excessively severe. But it draws our attention to the role of faith within the liturgy: an essential role. The person who wanted a Mass celebrated with faith was right. Without faith what meaning would the Eucharistic celebration have? It is true that it is possible for an officiant to have faith without this being manifest and also true that the celebration does not lose its value; however it is better if this faith does not remain excessively hidden.

The liturgy is born from the faith; essentially it is destined to express this faith. It involves traditional formulae that risk being presented in a way that is too repetitive. A continuing effort is needed to animate these formulae with an impulse of faith and love. The liturgical expression needs to be continually renewed. It must make felt a superior dynamism that surpasses all formulae.

This presence of the faith is more specifically requested in the Eucharistic liturgy. According to the words of the Gospel, Jesus had explicitly requested that the Apostles should state their faith proving their adhesion to the fist announcement of the Eucharist: this adhesion of faith was the condition for preserving their union with the Maestro.

In the life of a priest, Eucharistic faith is therefore very important. The words of the celebration of the "mystery of faith" are filled with meaning.