Since the introduction of the vernacular into Catholic liturgy, there has been much discussion of its effect on Mass attendance, and of lay people's experience of public worship. In this important study Mark Elvins examines the roots of vernacular liturgy - from the first English Bible translations of men like Wycliffe, through the establishment of ICEL, and up until the current controversies over inclusive language - and gives a detailed description of the many successes and shortcomings which have followed its introduction.