I trust you have had a good
week. As you will remember, I introduced the fact that things are changing in
the celebration of
The Mass. The two key words
to keep in mind are TRANSLATION and
REVERENCE. The new translation is meant to make more sense of the
prayers at Mass and their meaning more alive for us. The second word is reverence.
Some changes will happen in order to ensure a more reverent atmosphere before,
during and after the celebration of the Mass. These changes will be brought in
gradually until they are fully implemented by the First Sunday of Advent,
November 27, 2011. As I mentioned last week, patience, wisdom and understanding
are the key for us all if we are to make this transition a smooth, peaceful and
exciting time in our lives and in the life of the Church.
The
Roman Missal – 3rd Edition – The New Translation – Whose idea was it
anyway?
Until the early 1960s, Mass
was celebrated in Latin throughout the world. At the Second Vatican Council, in
the early 1960's, it was agreed that Mass could be said in the language of the
people where it was being celebrated. There would be no fundamental change to
the Mass itself, just the language being used. This would enable us to
understand more fully what was being said and help us to participate more
fully.
An English translation was
made available as quickly as possible, but it was intended to be temporary. A
more considered translation would be issued later. Now, some 40 years later,
this translation has been approved by the Vatican and we will begin using it in
our parishes on the weekend of November 27. Until that time, we will have the
chance to learn more about the new translation, become familiar with some of
the changes and reflect on the Eucharist in our own lives. For more information
on the Roman Missal and its changes, visit www.archtoronto.orgiromanmissal
anytime to continue your reflection.
