THE LATIN MASS BECOMES A CULT OF TOXIC TRADITION
In the wake of much needed reforms instituted by the Second Vatican Council, the Latin Mass has become a rallying point for change-resistant sects within the church.
In the wake of much needed reforms instituted by the Second Vatican Council, the Latin Mass has become a rallying point for change-resistant sects within the church.
REIMAGINING THE EUCHARIST
As well as [being] a time of loss, this might be a moment to broaden our understanding of the Eucharist and to deepen our spirituality beyond the walls of our usual place of worship.
As well as [being] a time of loss, this might be a moment to broaden our understanding of the Eucharist and to deepen our spirituality beyond the walls of our usual place of worship.
NEW WAYS TO WORSHIP - COVID-19 & THE CHURCH
Though we may miss our closed churches, the integration of church and home could help us reimagine how faith informs our daily lives.
Though we may miss our closed churches, the integration of church and home could help us reimagine how faith informs our daily lives.
CELEBRATING MASS SAFELY — BUT PASTORALLY — DURING A PANDEMIC
How to celebrate the Eucharist while protecting public health is an issue confronting the U.S. Catholic bishops as the country gradually relaxes stay-at-home restrictions.
How to celebrate the Eucharist while protecting public health is an issue confronting the U.S. Catholic bishops as the country gradually relaxes stay-at-home restrictions.
INSTEAD OF TELEVISED MASS, PRAY TEILHARD'S 'MASS ON THE WORLD'
Each of us can celebrate, reaching out to the elements of our lives at hand, consecrating them to embody and reflect the divine presence, and receiving this communion into our hearts and minds.
Each of us can celebrate, reaching out to the elements of our lives at hand, consecrating them to embody and reflect the divine presence, and receiving this communion into our hearts and minds.
LITURGY AFTER THE LOCKDOWN: IS THE VIRUS TELLING US SOMETHING?
The word ekklesia is used 114 times in the New Testament. It is translated as "church" and is always used in reference to people – never a building.
The word ekklesia is used 114 times in the New Testament. It is translated as "church" and is always used in reference to people – never a building.
SHOULD YOU GO TO MASS IN A PANDEMIC? 5 RULES FOR DISCERNING A HARD QUESTION
We shouldn’t insist on attending Mass simply because it is our right to do so. We shouldn’t go to Mass because of some attachment to routine or a sense of normality.
We shouldn’t insist on attending Mass simply because it is our right to do so. We shouldn’t go to Mass because of some attachment to routine or a sense of normality.
I WANT TO PRAY WITH YOU, NOT WATCH YOU PRAY
Our parishes must consider how to create virtual and in-person worship experiences that are communal and meaningful. Those at home want to feel like their presence in their community of faith still matters and that their presence in the pew is missed.
Our parishes must consider how to create virtual and in-person worship experiences that are communal and meaningful. Those at home want to feel like their presence in their community of faith still matters and that their presence in the pew is missed.
RETURNING TO THE SACRAMENT OF DIVINE LOVE
A primarily canonical response is not the most prudent way to address the present situation, where, in most places -- according to both surveys and online priest discussion groups - only a minority of those who were regular Sunday Mass goers in February have returned to regular worship.
A primarily canonical response is not the most prudent way to address the present situation, where, in most places -- according to both surveys and online priest discussion groups - only a minority of those who were regular Sunday Mass goers in February have returned to regular worship.
AFTER THE PANDEMIC: WHAT KIND OF WORSHIP COMMUNITY WILL WE RETURN TO?
Will the people return? Why would they? What could lead them to do so? A related question arises: What can be done to make community worship more appealing?
Will the people return? Why would they? What could lead them to do so? A related question arises: What can be done to make community worship more appealing?
NO MORE "SPECTATORS": ALWAYS ACTIVE AT MASS
Mass is always celebrated, and not only by the priest who presides over it, but by all Christians who live it. The center is Christ! and not only by the priest who presides over it, but by all the Christians who live it.
Mass is always celebrated, and not only by the priest who presides over it, but by all Christians who live it. The center is Christ! and not only by the priest who presides over it, but by all the Christians who live it.
AFTER COVID, MASS WILL NEVER BE THE SAME. MAYBE THAT’S A GOOD THING
For some, the wide array of livestreamed Masses has provided an opportunity to reconnect with old parishes or explore new ones. For others, the dispensation from Sunday Mass has been a chance to gather in small “house churches”...
For some, the wide array of livestreamed Masses has provided an opportunity to reconnect with old parishes or explore new ones. For others, the dispensation from Sunday Mass has been a chance to gather in small “house churches”...
IDEAS FOR THE FUTURE OF CATHOLIC LITURGICAL REFORM
Other than sex, nothing is more heatedly debated by Catholics than the liturgy. Everyone has strong opinions based on years of personal experience.
Other than sex, nothing is more heatedly debated by Catholics than the liturgy. Everyone has strong opinions based on years of personal experience.
EXPLAINER: WHAT IS THE HISTORY OF THE LATIN MASS?
The post-Vatican II liturgy is centered on the premise that the people of God celebrate the liturgy together in virtue of their shared baptism. Instead, the church has experienced two different forms coexisting uneasily...
The post-Vatican II liturgy is centered on the premise that the people of God celebrate the liturgy together in virtue of their shared baptism. Instead, the church has experienced two different forms coexisting uneasily...
FRANCIS REIMPOSES RESTRICTIONS ON LATIN MASS, REVERSING DECISION OF POPE BENEDICT
Francis said he was doing so because Benedict's reform had become a source of division and used as a tool by Catholics opposed to the Second Vatican Council...
Francis said he was doing so because Benedict's reform had become a source of division and used as a tool by Catholics opposed to the Second Vatican Council...
POPE FRANCIS RENEWS RESTRICTIONS ON OLD LATIN MASS, REVERSING BENEDICT XVI
He suggested that those who favored the old Latin Mass had been exploiting the rite as a way to “reinforce the divergences, and encourage disagreements that injure the Church.”
He suggested that those who favored the old Latin Mass had been exploiting the rite as a way to “reinforce the divergences, and encourage disagreements that injure the Church.”
FRANCIS & THE TRADITIONALISTS
Pope Francis knows that traditionalism is not going away any time soon, writes Massimo Faggioli. Willing to accommodate it where he can, he will not give an inch on Vatican II.
Pope Francis knows that traditionalism is not going away any time soon, writes Massimo Faggioli. Willing to accommodate it where he can, he will not give an inch on Vatican II.
MAKING SENSE OF POPE FRANCIS’ NEW RESTRICTIONS ON THE LATIN MASS
The Second Vatican Council’s clear intent was that the Mass be celebrated in the vernacular and that this be the primary way that people experience the Mass. This was one of the main ways that the Council hoped to promote what it called the “full, active” participation in the sacrament.
The Second Vatican Council’s clear intent was that the Mass be celebrated in the vernacular and that this be the primary way that people experience the Mass. This was one of the main ways that the Council hoped to promote what it called the “full, active” participation in the sacrament.
DIOCESES RESPOND TO POPE’S DOCUMENT RESTORING LIMITS ON PRE-VATICAN II MASS
'Summorum Pontificium’ (issued by Pope Benedict) sought to foster the healing of the schism of Archbishop (Marcel) Lefebvre and others who rejected not only the liturgical reforms of Vatican II but indeed often the council itself. As it turned out, not only did it not achieve that purpose, the unintended result was to create further division within parishes and among priests.
'Summorum Pontificium’ (issued by Pope Benedict) sought to foster the healing of the schism of Archbishop (Marcel) Lefebvre and others who rejected not only the liturgical reforms of Vatican II but indeed often the council itself. As it turned out, not only did it not achieve that purpose, the unintended result was to create further division within parishes and among priests.
POPE ISSUES RESTRICTIONS ON 'DIVISIVE' OLD RITE
Francis has issued sweeping new restrictions on celebrations of the Old Rite, saying that it has been used to fuel division and reject the Second Vatican Council.
Francis has issued sweeping new restrictions on celebrations of the Old Rite, saying that it has been used to fuel division and reject the Second Vatican Council.
TRADITIONIS CUSTODES
Apostolic Letter issued “Motu Proprio” by the Pope Francis on the use of the Roman Liturgy prior to the reform of 1970. The document places new restrictions on the use of the traditional Latin Mass.
Apostolic Letter issued “Motu Proprio” by the Pope Francis on the use of the Roman Liturgy prior to the reform of 1970. The document places new restrictions on the use of the traditional Latin Mass.
THE CHURCH IS A 'WE': REFLECTIONS ON FRANCIS' RESTRICTING THE LATIN MASS
Liturgy is like putting your hand in a glove and being in a familiar place and space. It is not reinventing the wheel according to whims and individual likes or dislikes. Liturgy is.
Liturgy is like putting your hand in a glove and being in a familiar place and space. It is not reinventing the wheel according to whims and individual likes or dislikes. Liturgy is.
THE NINE QUESTIONS THAT SEALED THE FATE OF THE LATIN MASS
The Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, sent a questionnaire, at the pope’s request, to bishops’ conferences last year, titled “consultation of bishops on the application of the motu proprio Summorum Pontificum.”
The Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, sent a questionnaire, at the pope’s request, to bishops’ conferences last year, titled “consultation of bishops on the application of the motu proprio Summorum Pontificum.”
THE OLD RITE RESTRICTED
Liturgical reform is fraught with difficulties and takes time. It sometimes requires restraint, and sometimes firmness. Bishops will need to be “understanding, patient, and prudent” when applying Francis’ latest ruling; and to ensure that all the faithful return to the reformed liturgy of 1970 will “require great sensitivity and patience”.
Liturgical reform is fraught with difficulties and takes time. It sometimes requires restraint, and sometimes firmness. Bishops will need to be “understanding, patient, and prudent” when applying Francis’ latest ruling; and to ensure that all the faithful return to the reformed liturgy of 1970 will “require great sensitivity and patience”.
LATIN MASS HYSTERIA
The outcry from Catholic conservatives and self-styled “Traditionalists” over Pope Francis’s decision to restore restrictions on the unreformed, pre-1970 Latin version of the Mass has been so angry and anguished that it has obscured several important realities about this controversy.
The outcry from Catholic conservatives and self-styled “Traditionalists” over Pope Francis’s decision to restore restrictions on the unreformed, pre-1970 Latin version of the Mass has been so angry and anguished that it has obscured several important realities about this controversy.
IT'S NOT ABOUT LATIN
Catholics seem confused over why Pope Francis wants to phase out the pre-Vatican II form of the Mass. Francis published the "motu proprio" to curtail the celebration of Mass in its pre-Vatican II form not the Mass in Latin
Catholics seem confused over why Pope Francis wants to phase out the pre-Vatican II form of the Mass. Francis published the "motu proprio" to curtail the celebration of Mass in its pre-Vatican II form not the Mass in Latin
A LIVING CATHOLIC TRADITION
Instead of promoting greater harmony with and closeness to the universal Church, broad availability of the older rites has been used as an opportunity to create a “Church within a Church,” a community apart from the mainstream.
Instead of promoting greater harmony with and closeness to the universal Church, broad availability of the older rites has been used as an opportunity to create a “Church within a Church,” a community apart from the mainstream.
I LOVE LATIN MASS AND POPE FRANCIS. PLEASE DON’T LET A FEW (VERY LOUD) TRADITIONALISTS RUIN IT FOR THE REST OF US
Many Catholics are now devastated to lose access to a treasured rite that has nourished their spiritual lives for decades.
Many Catholics are now devastated to lose access to a treasured rite that has nourished their spiritual lives for decades.
HOW THE NOVUS ORDO MASS WAS MADE
The incremental Vatican II reforms brought about by the September 1964 and May 1967 Instructions opened the way to a general reform of the Mass. They lay the groundwork for it in two transitional phases...
The incremental Vatican II reforms brought about by the September 1964 and May 1967 Instructions opened the way to a general reform of the Mass. They lay the groundwork for it in two transitional phases...
TRADITIONIS CUSTODES WAS NEVER MERELY ABOUT THE LITURGY
Much more than a decree regulating liturgy, Traditionis Custodes is a decisive moment in the history of papal reception of Vatican II.
Much more than a decree regulating liturgy, Traditionis Custodes is a decisive moment in the history of papal reception of Vatican II.
FOUR REASONS FRANCIS HAD TO RESTRICT THE TRADITIONAL LATIN MASS
Will there be a schism? Will some leave the Church over this? Possibly. But no real Catholic deprives the pope of his authority to regulate the liturgy and worship of the people.
Will there be a schism? Will some leave the Church over this? Possibly. But no real Catholic deprives the pope of his authority to regulate the liturgy and worship of the people.
THE EUCHARIST NEEDS TO BE MORE INCLUSIVE
Stop worrying about whom to exclude from the table and instead focus our attention on including those who are excluded through no fault of their own...
Stop worrying about whom to exclude from the table and instead focus our attention on including those who are excluded through no fault of their own...
DOUTHAT’S CRITICISM OF POPE’S RESTRICTION OF LATIN MASS IS FASCINATING; IT’S ALSO AHISTORICAL AND HAS BEEN USED BEFORE
Douthat’s argument merits a response because it reveals a particular cultural myopia unique to American Catholic conservatism.
Douthat’s argument merits a response because it reveals a particular cultural myopia unique to American Catholic conservatism.
TRADITIONAL LATIN MASS ADVOCATES PROVE POPE FRANCIS WAS RIGHT
The traditional Latin Mass led to a distorted ecclesiology and, at least in America, opened a new battlefront in the culture wars. If you doubt the pope was right, you have only to listen to his critics.
The traditional Latin Mass led to a distorted ecclesiology and, at least in America, opened a new battlefront in the culture wars. If you doubt the pope was right, you have only to listen to his critics.
SIX SUGGESTIONS FOR THE CATHOLIC BISHOPS' DOCUMENT ON THE EUCHARIST
The U.S. bishops are working on a document on the Eucharist, which could be very helpful if they do it right. The chances are slim.
The U.S. bishops are working on a document on the Eucharist, which could be very helpful if they do it right. The chances are slim.
A STRATEGY FOR LAUNCHING A EUCHARISTIC REVIVAL
The essential starting point must be the needs of our people. Context is key. Every effort should be made to avoid an ahistorical presentation of the Eucharist that is abstracted from daily life.
The essential starting point must be the needs of our people. Context is key. Every effort should be made to avoid an ahistorical presentation of the Eucharist that is abstracted from daily life.
GUARDIAN OF TRADITION
Francis maintains the full tradition as it has developed according to the Council and the Magisterium. In affirming the one Roman rite, he is affirming the full tradition against those who deny the tradition as defined by Vatican II.
Francis maintains the full tradition as it has developed according to the Council and the Magisterium. In affirming the one Roman rite, he is affirming the full tradition against those who deny the tradition as defined by Vatican II.
ARCHBISHOP ROCHE SAYS VATICAN II IS THE GUIDE FOR LITURGICAL REFORM
The leader of the Holy See’s divine worship office said the task for the Church’s liturgists is implementing the reforms of the Second Vatican Council and avoiding “ecclesiastical ideologies”.
The leader of the Holy See’s divine worship office said the task for the Church’s liturgists is implementing the reforms of the Second Vatican Council and avoiding “ecclesiastical ideologies”.
ARCHBISHOP ROCHE: VATICAN II’S REFORM OF THE MASS IS ‘IRREVERSIBLE
Our responsibility is to implement that reform in faithfulness to what we have received and not to be promoting things which are not of the mind of the church even if loudly expressed.
Our responsibility is to implement that reform in faithfulness to what we have received and not to be promoting things which are not of the mind of the church even if loudly expressed.
EXPRESSION OF UNITY: CARDINAL CUPICH ON TRADITIONIS CUSTODES
It is to re-establish throughout the Church of the Roman Rite a single and identical prayer that expresses its unity, according to the liturgical books promulgated in conformity with the decrees of the Second Vatican Council.
It is to re-establish throughout the Church of the Roman Rite a single and identical prayer that expresses its unity, according to the liturgical books promulgated in conformity with the decrees of the Second Vatican Council.
DRAFT OF BISHOPS' EUCHARIST DOCUMENT REFLECTS 400-YEAR-OLD THEOLOGY
The Constitution on the Sacred Liturgy emphasized that Christ is present in the assembly, proclaimed word, the eucharistic species and the person of the minister. This is unmentioned.
The Constitution on the Sacred Liturgy emphasized that Christ is present in the assembly, proclaimed word, the eucharistic species and the person of the minister. This is unmentioned.
POPE FRANCIS’ LATIN MASS REFORMS ARE NECESSARY TO SECURE VATICAN II’S LEGACY
Pope Francis wants all Catholics to recognize that Vatican II and its reforms are not only authentic actions of the Holy Spirit but also are in continuity with the tradition of the church.
Pope Francis wants all Catholics to recognize that Vatican II and its reforms are not only authentic actions of the Holy Spirit but also are in continuity with the tradition of the church.
VATICAN'S TOP LITURGY OFFICIAL CONFIRMS RESTRICTIONS ON LATIN MASS
Pope Francis' move to limit the use of the Latin Mass is an effort to bring about greater acceptance of the Second Vatican Council, according to the head of the Vatican's liturgy office.
Pope Francis' move to limit the use of the Latin Mass is an effort to bring about greater acceptance of the Second Vatican Council, according to the head of the Vatican's liturgy office.
LITURGICAL RENEWAL AND TRADITIONALIST TROLLS
What did the fathers of Vatican II have to say about the simplification of liturgical rites and the inculturation of the liturgy? How were these reforms carried out? Where did they succeed and where did they fail?
What did the fathers of Vatican II have to say about the simplification of liturgical rites and the inculturation of the liturgy? How were these reforms carried out? Where did they succeed and where did they fail?
POPE FRANCIS APPROVES FURTHER RESTRICTIONS ON LATIN MASS TO ENSURE ADHERENCE TO VATICAN II
An effort to ensure that liturgical reform is "irreversible" and that liturgical celebrations adhere to the changes made after the Second Vatican Council.
An effort to ensure that liturgical reform is "irreversible" and that liturgical celebrations adhere to the changes made after the Second Vatican Council.
TRADITIONALISTS QUESTION CURIAL AUTHORITY AS LATIN MASS DISPUTE CONTINUES
The Responsa, authored by Archbishop Arthur Roche, has been heavily criticised by liturgical traditionalists.
The Responsa, authored by Archbishop Arthur Roche, has been heavily criticised by liturgical traditionalists.
MOST BISHOPS BACK POPE ON LATIN MASS, SAYS ROCHE
The current Mass, with a richer selection of prayers and Scripture readings, reflects and reinforces the church's understanding of itself as the people of God.
The current Mass, with a richer selection of prayers and Scripture readings, reflects and reinforces the church's understanding of itself as the people of God.
IS THE MUSIC AT MASS THAT IMPORTANT? THE SURVEY SAYS YES
Including various instruments for worship can significantly help to facilitate encounter for the congregation. But utilizing instrumentalists can also have a positive effect on the musicians themselves...
Including various instruments for worship can significantly help to facilitate encounter for the congregation. But utilizing instrumentalists can also have a positive effect on the musicians themselves...
THE RITE STUFF
Pope Francis largely rescinded permission for priests to celebrate the so-called “Extraordinary Form” of the Roman Rite, also known as the Tridentine Mass: the logic and the wisdom of Francis’s decision.
Pope Francis largely rescinded permission for priests to celebrate the so-called “Extraordinary Form” of the Roman Rite, also known as the Tridentine Mass: the logic and the wisdom of Francis’s decision.
AT 50TH ANNIVERSARY OF VATICAN II LECTIONARY, IT'S TIME TO UPDATE TEXTS AND TRANSLATIONS
A 50th anniversary provides an occasion "for giving thanks and for looking to the future, but also for critique and evaluation."
A 50th anniversary provides an occasion "for giving thanks and for looking to the future, but also for critique and evaluation."
HOW CAN PREACHERS BREAK THROUGH THE NOISE OF TODAY’S WORLD?
Like the seeds in the parable of the sower, preaching that finds fertile soil in the community leaves people moved, convicted, encouraged, and inspired.
Like the seeds in the parable of the sower, preaching that finds fertile soil in the community leaves people moved, convicted, encouraged, and inspired.
POPE FRANCIS HIGHLIGHTS DANGER OF STAID LITURGIES THAT 'DENY VATICAN COUNCIL II'
The pope is inviting us to reflect not just on how the church breathes, but also on what we are and what we do when we take a deep liturgical breath.
The pope is inviting us to reflect not just on how the church breathes, but also on what we are and what we do when we take a deep liturgical breath.
LISTENING TO THE SPIRIT
Is it enough simply to say that resistance to liturgical reform is a key element in a fundamental rejection of the Second Vatican Council, rather than just an aesthetic preference for the Missal of 1962?
Is it enough simply to say that resistance to liturgical reform is a key element in a fundamental rejection of the Second Vatican Council, rather than just an aesthetic preference for the Missal of 1962?
A CONVERSATION WITH FUTURE CARDINAL ROCHE, PREFECT OF DIVINE LITURGY, SACRAMENTS
We must rediscover the sacred sense of Sundays, and as worshipers, when celebrating the liturgy, worshiping and praising God.
We must rediscover the sacred sense of Sundays, and as worshipers, when celebrating the liturgy, worshiping and praising God.
MORE THAN A SYMBOL
Again and again throughout the Mass, word and gesture proclaim the Real Presence, even more so in the renewed liturgy than in the mumbled Latin ones...
Again and again throughout the Mass, word and gesture proclaim the Real Presence, even more so in the renewed liturgy than in the mumbled Latin ones...
HOW FRANCIS TALKS ABOUT THE LITURGY
Francis is a Vatican II centrist, who places liturgical reform at that center when he talks about the council .His fear is that the undermining of the Council may irreparably damage the unity of the Church.
Francis is a Vatican II centrist, who places liturgical reform at that center when he talks about the council .His fear is that the undermining of the Council may irreparably damage the unity of the Church.
WHY ‘TRADS’ SEEK TO ROOT THE CHURCH’S FUTURE IN THE PAST
[Extreme traditionalist Catholicism] creates a sort of vacuous hole that people fall into, and you can’t get them out.
[Extreme traditionalist Catholicism] creates a sort of vacuous hole that people fall into, and you can’t get them out.
JANKY AND CRANKY: REAL-LIFE LITURGY IS A BEAUTIFUL MESS
Sometimes the most powerful family liturgical celebrations are those that don’t look perfect and that are created out of whatever is available at that moment
Sometimes the most powerful family liturgical celebrations are those that don’t look perfect and that are created out of whatever is available at that moment
ANSWERING BATTLES OVER DOCTRINE AND LITURGY, POPE FRANCIS PRAISES UNITY IN THE CHURCH
Speaking to a group of Jesuits in Quebec, the pope held up the Canadian bishops as an example of what the church can achieve when working as one.
Speaking to a group of Jesuits in Quebec, the pope held up the Canadian bishops as an example of what the church can achieve when working as one.
VATICAN’S LITURGY CZAR SAYS CHURCH MAKES TRADITION, NOT ‘PEOPLE IN LOBBIES’
Cardinal Arthur Roche has warned against the politicization over different forms of the Mass and has stressed the church’s role as the one that makes and passes on tradition.
Cardinal Arthur Roche has warned against the politicization over different forms of the Mass and has stressed the church’s role as the one that makes and passes on tradition.
THE RENEWAL OF THE LITURGY: SUCCESSES, FAILURES, AND CONTEMPORARY CONCERNS
Addressing the theological, liturgical, and pastoral issues that have arisen and that presently disrupt the unity and peace of the Church.
Addressing the theological, liturgical, and pastoral issues that have arisen and that presently disrupt the unity and peace of the Church.
THE LITURGY PRIOR TO VATICAN II AND THE COUNCIL’S REFORMS
Given the momentum and the ecclesiastical approval already given to the liturgical movement, it is not surprising that the opening task of Vatican II was the renewal of the liturgy. (Part 2 of 5)
Given the momentum and the ecclesiastical approval already given to the liturgical movement, it is not surprising that the opening task of Vatican II was the renewal of the liturgy. (Part 2 of 5)
LITURGY ISN’T ABOUT YOU (OR ME)
Liturgy transforms us, if we allow it. It forces us to look beyond ourselves so to live not as isolated individuals but instead as treasured parts of a beloved community.
Liturgy transforms us, if we allow it. It forces us to look beyond ourselves so to live not as isolated individuals but instead as treasured parts of a beloved community.
LET’S RESTORE UNITY TO THE LITURGY
Instead of fighting over our liturgical preferences, we should seek healing and reconciliation. What many in the church need to realize is that everyone loses in a liturgical battle.
Instead of fighting over our liturgical preferences, we should seek healing and reconciliation. What many in the church need to realize is that everyone loses in a liturgical battle.
OLD LATIN MASS FINDS NEW AMERICAN AUDIENCE, DESPITE POPE’S DISAPPROVAL
An ancient form of Catholic worship is drawing in young traditionalists and conservatives. But it signals a divide within the church.
An ancient form of Catholic worship is drawing in young traditionalists and conservatives. But it signals a divide within the church.
YO-YO MA HAS SOMETHING TO TEACH US ABOUT LITURGY
The church would do well to emulate Ma’s generosity and humility in its approach to corporate worship.
The church would do well to emulate Ma’s generosity and humility in its approach to corporate worship.
STOP SAYING THE LATIN MASS IS ‘MORE REVERENT’
Reverence is not measured by volume or tempo or style. Is your favorite liturgy style within church norms and done intentionally and with respect for the Eucharist, for God and for others? Then it is reverent.
Reverence is not measured by volume or tempo or style. Is your favorite liturgy style within church norms and done intentionally and with respect for the Eucharist, for God and for others? Then it is reverent.
THE WAY FORWARD FROM THE THEOLOGICAL CONCERNS WITH THE TLM MOVEMENT
The renewal of the liturgy starts not with someone else out there whom I can blame for its demise and for our divisions, but with myself.
The renewal of the liturgy starts not with someone else out there whom I can blame for its demise and for our divisions, but with myself.
ECCLESIA DEI, SUMMORUM PONTIFICUM, AND THE SSPX
Were the decisions John Paul and Benedict to loosen restrictions on the Latin Mass motivated by a desire to reconcile the Society of St Pius X with the Church? Pope Francis says yes. Many of his critics disagree.
Were the decisions John Paul and Benedict to loosen restrictions on the Latin Mass motivated by a desire to reconcile the Society of St Pius X with the Church? Pope Francis says yes. Many of his critics disagree.
VATICAN II, LITURGY, AND LITURGICAL DEVELOPMENT
We must not confuse our faith with accidents which can and do change. This is especially true in regards liturgy.
We must not confuse our faith with accidents which can and do change. This is especially true in regards liturgy.
CRITICS OF POPE FRANCIS’ LATIN MASS RESTRICTIONS SHOULD LISTEN TO JPII
We should name it for what it is: resistance to the promptings of the Holy Spirit, and the undermining of genuine fidelity to the See of Peter.
We should name it for what it is: resistance to the promptings of the Holy Spirit, and the undermining of genuine fidelity to the See of Peter.
THE STEELY DETERMINATION OF POPE FRANCIS TO IMPLEMENT HIS CRITICAL MASS REFORMS
Francis is prepared to face down those who continue to promote a Church within a Church.
Francis is prepared to face down those who continue to promote a Church within a Church.
WE NEED MORE WOMEN IN THE LECTIONARY
There are many strong and faithful women in the Bible whose stories Catholics never hear in the Sunday morning readings.
There are many strong and faithful women in the Bible whose stories Catholics never hear in the Sunday morning readings.
THE BISHOPS ARE RIGHT: WE NEED A NATIONAL EUCHARISTIC REVIVAL. BUT THE CURRENT PLAN ISN’T ENOUGH
Our engagement in the liturgical action of the Eucharist is meant to be full, conscious and active participation.
Our engagement in the liturgical action of the Eucharist is meant to be full, conscious and active participation.
AN ELUSIVE GOAL
Participation simply is bringing and involving your whole self -- heart, mind, soul -- to the liturgy, principally to Mass but to all other sacramental and liturgical celebrations.
Participation simply is bringing and involving your whole self -- heart, mind, soul -- to the liturgy, principally to Mass but to all other sacramental and liturgical celebrations.
CATHOLIC CHURCHES HAVE THE WORST PREACHING AND MUSIC IN THE US
The U.S. Catholic bishops are sponsoring a Eucharistic Revival nationally and in their dioceses. Can they deal with any of these issues?
The U.S. Catholic bishops are sponsoring a Eucharistic Revival nationally and in their dioceses. Can they deal with any of these issues?
PREACHING IS MORE THAN THE HOMILY
Preachers and those in ministry confront a common dilemma: “We never live up to what we want to be,” says Patricia Bruno, O.P. “However, I think the preaching helps direct our own lives,” she adds. “It’s hard to say something in public that you don’t really believe.”
Preachers and those in ministry confront a common dilemma: “We never live up to what we want to be,” says Patricia Bruno, O.P. “However, I think the preaching helps direct our own lives,” she adds. “It’s hard to say something in public that you don’t really believe.”
LITURGY METHOD OF PRAYER OPENS THE EYES OF OUR SPIRITUAL HEARTS
By engaging the liturgy method we allow ourselves to lift the veil and to attempt to experience the full reality of the Eucharistic Sacrifice.
By engaging the liturgy method we allow ourselves to lift the veil and to attempt to experience the full reality of the Eucharistic Sacrifice.
"SACROSANCTUM CONCILIUM" AT 60: THE FOCUS OF THE EUCHARISTIC ASSEMBLY
In its fundamental and most traditional sense, the Eucharist is a meal of eating and drinking, a sacrum convivium, gathered around a table
In its fundamental and most traditional sense, the Eucharist is a meal of eating and drinking, a sacrum convivium, gathered around a table
PAY TO PRAY: CATHOLICS SHOULD STOP OFFERING MONEY FOR MASS INTENTIONS
It's time to rethink Mass intentions. Would it not be better for the church to engage in a serious catechesis with regard to Mass offerings and to divorce Mass intentions from a monetary offering altogether?
It's time to rethink Mass intentions. Would it not be better for the church to engage in a serious catechesis with regard to Mass offerings and to divorce Mass intentions from a monetary offering altogether?
RETURN TO THE AGAPE MEAL: A PRACTICAL STEP TOWARD EUCHARISTIC REVIVAL
We believe that the Eucharist draws us into communion not only with Jesus, as we receive his body, but also with our fellow Catholics, who are members of his body. Nonetheless, most Catholics feel disconnected.
We believe that the Eucharist draws us into communion not only with Jesus, as we receive his body, but also with our fellow Catholics, who are members of his body. Nonetheless, most Catholics feel disconnected.
BRAZILIAN CARDINAL SLAMS TRADITIONALIST CLAIMS ON X
Cardinal Odilo Scherer of the Archdiocese of São Paulo, Brazil, took to social media to make a series of posts offering corrections to several popular traditionalist claims about the Second Vatican Council and the liturgical reforms.
Cardinal Odilo Scherer of the Archdiocese of São Paulo, Brazil, took to social media to make a series of posts offering corrections to several popular traditionalist claims about the Second Vatican Council and the liturgical reforms.
CATHOLIC WOMEN PREACH
Catholic Women Preach is an innovative project designed to address some of the most pressing challenges facing the Church today by responding to Pope Francis’ call for broader and more active engagement of the baptized in the preaching mission of the Church.
Catholic Women Preach is an innovative project designed to address some of the most pressing challenges facing the Church today by responding to Pope Francis’ call for broader and more active engagement of the baptized in the preaching mission of the Church.
THE LITURGICAL PATH OF THE CHURCH AFTER VATICAN II
The Second Vatican Council, a watershed in the life of the Catholic Church, famously generated a number of significant reforms, particularly in the realm of the sacred liturgy.
The Second Vatican Council, a watershed in the life of the Catholic Church, famously generated a number of significant reforms, particularly in the realm of the sacred liturgy.
THE POST-CONCILIAR ERA: THE CHURCH AND THE RISE OF TRADITIONALISM
Following the watershed moment of the Second Vatican Council and the promulgation of Sacrosanctum Concilium, the Catholic Church embarked on a journey of implementing the Council’s directives. However, this process was met with varying degrees of acceptance and resistance.
Following the watershed moment of the Second Vatican Council and the promulgation of Sacrosanctum Concilium, the Catholic Church embarked on a journey of implementing the Council’s directives. However, this process was met with varying degrees of acceptance and resistance.
THE LITURGICAL REFORM: COUNCIL, CONSILIUM, AND PAPACY
Following the watershed moment of the Second Vatican Council and the promulgation of Sacrosanctum Concilium, the Catholic Church embarked on a journey of implementing the Council’s directives. However, this process was met with varying degrees of acceptance and resistance.
Following the watershed moment of the Second Vatican Council and the promulgation of Sacrosanctum Concilium, the Catholic Church embarked on a journey of implementing the Council’s directives. However, this process was met with varying degrees of acceptance and resistance.
THE SYNOD ON SYNODALITY CALLED FOR BETTER LITURGY. WILL ANYONE LISTEN?
If the church is to have a Eucharistic revival, its liturgical texts should promote active participation by all people.
If the church is to have a Eucharistic revival, its liturgical texts should promote active participation by all people.
FOR BETTER LITURGY THE SYNOD CALLS FOR, REVISIT ENGLISH TRANSLATIONS FOR MASS
If the U.S. is going to experience a eucharistic revival, then it needs liturgical texts that promote the full and active participation by all people in the liturgy. The current text in English does not do that.
If the U.S. is going to experience a eucharistic revival, then it needs liturgical texts that promote the full and active participation by all people in the liturgy. The current text in English does not do that.
TO EMPOWER WOMEN IN THE CHURCH, ALLOW LAY PREACHING
The proposed expansion of the lector’s role opens the door for women and other laypeople to exercise preaching gifts. This could revitalize Catholics’ experience of liturgy.
The proposed expansion of the lector’s role opens the door for women and other laypeople to exercise preaching gifts. This could revitalize Catholics’ experience of liturgy.
USE THE LITURGY OF THE HOURS TO NURTURE FAMILY TIME
Rejoice in all the holy moments of family life. Jesus told his disciples that whenever two or more are gathered in his name, he’d also be present. Most of us know this “two or more” bit well, but how often do we pray with others outside of Mass?
Rejoice in all the holy moments of family life. Jesus told his disciples that whenever two or more are gathered in his name, he’d also be present. Most of us know this “two or more” bit well, but how often do we pray with others outside of Mass?
HEARING HOMILIES - HOW PREACHING AND TEACHING ARE DIFFERENT
When a preacher gets up and begins to speak he does so in persona Christi, with the full authority of the one for and as whom he speaks.
When a preacher gets up and begins to speak he does so in persona Christi, with the full authority of the one for and as whom he speaks.
THE POETIC SPACE OF THE LITURGY
What if we suspend our disbelief, collapse our ironic distance, and allow ourselves to go in?
What if we suspend our disbelief, collapse our ironic distance, and allow ourselves to go in?
THE MOVE AWAY FROM THE LATIN MASS WAS ABOUT MORE THAN AESTHETICS
The Eucharist is not simply a cultural legacy. It is more than a moving performance or a beautiful ritual symbolizing transcendence. And liturgy is more than aesthetics.
The Eucharist is not simply a cultural legacy. It is more than a moving performance or a beautiful ritual symbolizing transcendence. And liturgy is more than aesthetics.
HOW DID THE EARLY CHURCH CELEBRATE THE EUCHARIST?
When today’s Catholic leaders seek to “revive” the Eucharist in the U.S. church, what precisely are they bringing back to life? After all, this sacramental ritual has changed significantly since Christianity’s first few centuries.
When today’s Catholic leaders seek to “revive” the Eucharist in the U.S. church, what precisely are they bringing back to life? After all, this sacramental ritual has changed significantly since Christianity’s first few centuries.
WHERE IS GOD IN THE LITURGY? A WAY FORWARD FOR REFORM AND RENEWAL
How do Catholics in the United States understand the liturgy today? Five different approaches are prominent, but some share more with Pope Francis' synodal and liturgical vision.
How do Catholics in the United States understand the liturgy today? Five different approaches are prominent, but some share more with Pope Francis' synodal and liturgical vision.
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