The German Mass and Order of Divine Service

This is a short work, written by Luther in 1526, describing and offering guidelines for the Order of Divine Service (the daily worship) and the Sacrament (the Mass, or Lord's Supper). Luther is clear that there should be no attempt to establish a fixed set of rules or to compel anyone to worship or receive the sacrament in a particular manner – which would contradict the very doctrine of Christian liberty. On the other hand, in the early years of the Reformation there was a keenly felt need for instruction and guidance in both matters of worship and doctrine (Luther produced his two Catechisms in the same period, 1529). In particular there was great interest and desire to conduct a "German Mass", unique to the people and language. Luther describes the traditional Latin Mass, a popular German version of the same, but finally emphasizes what a true evangelical Mass entails; he also discusses Sunday services for the laity.