The Eucharist: Essence, Form, Celebration helps readers gain an understanding of correct form for celebration of the eucharistic liturgy in light of the renewals of Vatican Council II. It is therefore an explanation of the Mass, as Pius Parsch, to whom the first edition was dedicated, understood it. It is an explanation both of the biblical foundations and of the historical development of the liturgy within its two-thousand-year tradition. Thus, Maas-Ewerd maintains that we must inquire into both aspects - Jesus' foundational intention and the Church's long tradition of celebrating the Lord's legacy - to obtain a clear picture of the enduringly valid form of the Mass at all times, including its present realization.