07 July, 2007

Motu Proprio Announced

His Holiness has said that special permission no longer needs to be dispensed in order for a priest to say the Tridentine (that is, Latin) Mass.
From 1962-1965, the Second Ecumenical Council of the Vatican - i.e. Vatican II - was held, opening under Pope John XXIII and ending under Pope Paul VI. At this time, changes were made regarding the old ways of saying mass. Put very simply, one of these changes was that the mass might now be spoken in the language of the people, so as to improve understanding. Another change was the role of women in the church - chapel veils became optional, women can now read the scripture and participate as lay altar servers.
Anyhow, lately, younger Roman Catholics (especially younger ones, I should say) have begun to seek tradition again. Being of the second generation since Vatican II, I, too would like a return to the once-formal, rich tradition of the church.
These same people are calling for a return to reverence and devotion to Saint Mary, the rosary, and for priests to return to their former roles. It's a small group, but more of these are graduating from seminary, and I suppose they will have something to say about it.
I don't mind women as readers or lay alter servers, really, nor do I mind if they cover their heads - although the last I find rather disrespectful. Never mind; it happens, to forget a scarf or veil, and I imagine that G-d would rather just us attend mass, hair and all.
I read an article which said that Jewish leaders are concerned about anti-Semitism, as before Vatican II the church referred to Jews as faithless. Maybe others don't believe what I do, but I have a great and profound respect for the Jewish faith as a foundation, and for the learning it contributes to my own. Everyone has their own beliefs... and that's okay.

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