text: While not every element of "restorationism" is to be commended, there can be no denying they have a point in the attempt to conserve the sacredness of the liturgy. If Christ is actually present on the altar, True Body and True Blood, then the Mass inevitably has to retain a certain form that brings focus to this reality above every other concern.
  
  I grew up (late 80s-90s) going to Mass every Sunday as well as attending Catholic school K-12. I look back at one priest at our parish/school who we loved so much and who had such a great heart for serving and bringing others to Jesus. Still, his approach to liturgy was thoroughly "spirit of Vatican II". Fully dressed clowns for homilies, occasional appearance of his dogs during Mass, constant exhortation to full participation, lots of noise/clapping/enthusiasm. 
  
  As much of a spectacle as it was I can't help but think, "no wonder I thought Mass was a joke and that I never gave a 2nd thought to the Eucharist as anything but a symbol."