Take up Your Cross: A Theology of Liturgical Abnegation

Take Up Your Cross: A Theology of Liturgical Abnegation
David W. Fagerberg

What does it mean to deny oneself in a world devoted to self-fulfillment? Is Christian abnegation merely a negative act of self-denial, or is it something far deeper—a participation in the mystery of Christ Himself?

In Take Up Your Cross, renowned theologian David W. Fagerberg explores the forgotten spiritual tradition of liturgical abnegation: the self-emptying by which Christians are conformed to Christ and prepared for true worship. Drawing from Scripture, the Fathers of the Church, the saints, and centuries of Catholic theological reflection, Fagerberg demonstrates that authentic self-denial is not an end in itself but the path to divine communion.

Far from a burden, Christian abnegation becomes a joyful offering through which the soul is purified, transformed, and united more deeply to God. In an age marked by self-assertion and individualism, this work provides a compelling vision of holiness rooted in sacrifice, humility, and liturgical participation.

Profound yet accessible, Take Up Your Cross is essential reading for priests, seminarians, theologians, and lay Catholics seeking a deeper understanding of the spiritual life and the transformative power of Catholic worship.

Features:

• A profound exploration of Christian self-denial and spiritual formation
• Rooted in Scripture, Sacred Tradition, and Catholic theology
• Written by internationally respected liturgical theologian David W. Fagerberg
• Ideal for clergy, religious, seminarians, and serious students of the spiritual life

"Whoever wishes to come after Me must deny himself, take up his cross daily, and follow Me." — Luke 9:23

462 pages