Quick Bytes
- A coalition petitions Pope Francis to preserve the Traditional Latin Mass.
- Archbishop Salvatore Cordileone and notable figures endorse the open letter.
- The letter highlights the Latin Mass as a cultural and spiritual heritage.
- Advocates emphasize the evangelizing power of beauty in the Latin Mass.
Community Rallies to Safeguard the Traditional Latin Mass
In a heartfelt plea for the preservation of the Traditional Latin Mass, a diverse group of Catholic and non-Catholic leaders have come together to petition Pope Francis against further restrictions on this historic form of worship.
The open letter, titled “An Open Letter from the Americas to Pope Francis,” was published on Monday and lauds the Latin Mass as a “magnificent achievement of civilization” and an essential part of humanity’s cultural legacy. Archbishop Salvatore Cordileone of San Francisco, along with other prominent figures such as Dana Gioia, Frank La Rocca, and Nina Shea, have lent their voices to this cause, seeking to ensure that no additional limitations are imposed on the Latin Mass, which they believe is crucial for the Catholic Church and the world at large.
The Latin Mass, also known as the Mass of the 1962 Roman Missal, has roots tracing back to the 16th century and beyond. Despite not being completely banned, its practice has been significantly curtailed by the Vatican in recent years, particularly following Pope Francis’s 2021 motu proprio Traditionis Custodes. The letter’s signatories, while acknowledging the sanctity of the post-Vatican II Mass, express their “filial loyalty” to the pope and advocate for the continued celebration of the Latin Mass, citing its role in fostering a sense of mystery, beauty, and sacred contemplation.
Archbishop Cordileone, in a commentary, highlighted the importance of beauty in evangelization, especially in today’s increasingly secular world. Nina Shea shared her personal experiences with the Latin Mass, emphasizing its universal appeal and the importance of preserving the Church’s liturgical traditions. The collective message is clear: the Latin Mass is not only a treasure of the Church but also a powerful tool for reaching hearts and minds in an age in need of the Gospel’s message of hope.
Image Credits
- Photo credit: Lennon Caranzo
