Encouraging the Culture of Encounter with Jesus Christ, His Church, and All People

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

Traditionis Custodes
Last week Pope Francis issued what is called a motu proprio.  It is a legislative document that makes a change to current church law (known as canon law).  The pope issues this on his own initiative with the authority he has as pope.  This has nothing to do with infallible statements of dogma.  A pope can never issue a motu proprio in order to make an eighth sacrament or to change the church’s moral teaching.  This legislation is disciplinary, thus subject to change depending on the needs of the church and the prudence of the pope making the law.  The pope has issued his latest motu proprio called Traditionis Custodes (Guardians of Tradition) along with a brief explanation stating his desire to curb division and foster greater unity.  But so far it is making waves due to its severe and sudden (some would say draconian) restriction of current and future celebrations of the Traditional Latin Mass or the Extraordinary Form (also known as the uses antiquor or the Missal of 1962). 

Here at St. Paul, we have been celebrating a Friday night Mass in this Form for almost three years, and we have celebrated the 9:30 EF Mass for almost a year.  This decision from the Holy Father could affect our parish.  Right now, Bishop Malesic has granted me the proper permissions to continue with our schedule as it is.  He will meet with me and other priests who celebrate this form in a couple weeks so he can discern how to move forward. 

Even if one does not attend the Traditional Latin Mass, please remember we are all one body in Christ.  When one member is affected, all are.  Just as we share with our fellow Christians our joys and hopes, we should also empathize with the sorrows and frustrations of others.  We always want to unite our hearts together in the prayer of Christ, whether that prayer is in Latin or English, whether it’s more structured or spontaneous. 

While remaining respectful and obedient, I must admit I am surprised and saddened by this development.  This severe and sudden decision makes sweeping changes for a significant number of the faithful.  I am also confused since the holy father is one who often talks of accompaniment and dialogue, but in this case, he chose a very top-down approach. 

Over the past couple years, we have seen an increase in registrations and overall participation with younger families due in part to our parish welcoming those who are nourished by the ancient Latin Liturgy.  As a parish we just had the new parishioner/welcome back potluck, which showed how many faithful people find a home here.  At that party every Mass time and demographic was represented.  I think by God’s grace we are showing forth that unity and peace Christ desires.  I wish the holy father could see how God is working here.

I will keep everyone updated as things progress with the bishop.  For now, Masses will continue as scheduled, but I invite everyone to pray and fast so that we all move forward with clarity and charity. 

St. Paul’s Swag and Active Wear Coming Soon!
And for a complete change in topic and tone. Next week there will be a display in the Narthex showing some samples of clothing, bumper stickers, etc. with our parish coat of arms on it.  Please let us know what items you’d be interested in.  Then bring your checkbook the following week.  There will be order forms in the narthex for you to place your order for the items you want.  The profits will go to help fund parish activities.  And just by wearing your swag you will help advertise our parish and our mission.

God bless!
Fr. Pfr