Pope Francis’ recent instruction “Traditionis Custodes” will, I hope, promote unity within the Diocese of Charlotte and the rest of the Church. There may be some pushback from those who have been using the Tridentine Liturgy as a political statement regarding the reforms of Vatican II, as well as disappointment on the part of those who enjoy the nostalgia of the Latin Mass.
It would be a welcome practice if parishes that have been celebrating the Tridentine rite on a regular basis would schedule some educational sessions for their parish community that would explain the changes brought on by Vatican II.
In the meantime, it is important to recall that the reforms ordered by the Council of Trent were not fully implemented for a century. We are better equipped today than they were to make needed changes, putting aside the temptation to politicize this welcome movement forward for our Church.
David Galusha lives in Waxhaw.
I myself prefer the Mass to be celebrated in the vernacular to which we are accustomed, but it is perplexing to me why Pope Francis chose this moment to ostracize those who prefer the Traditional Latin Mass, in effect telling Latin Mass advocates that they are not welcome.
To disenfranchise those who prefer the Latin Mass makes little or no sense, especially when the pope refuses to publicly admonish prominent “Catholics” who openly defy the Church teaching on marriage, abortion and other issues. To me, this action does not unify the Church, it widens the divide.
William J. Barker lives in Charlotte.