PRAYBOY

The other bloggers have been writing about the Mass in Latin for some reason.

Well, Robert started it by mentioning that his new squeeze is in Melbourne and attended a Mass in Latin. I didn't know that they still had those and would be a starter to go (3P influence) as the only thing I liked about Catholicism was the big and beautiful churches, the smell of the incense at Benediction and the Mass in Latin especially if it was accompanied by Gregorian singing. Any way all this is moot (Robert would say 'mute') as he deleted his post soon after writing it.

Richard followed up in his latest post with some recollections of being an altar boy and learning Latin responses for Masses. It was a welcome relief from some stuff he wrote - in some kind of esoteric code - about music practice.

So, I can hear you ask, what is all this about Mass in Latin?

AI Overview in Google Search tells us that:

The Latin Mass, also known as the Traditional Latin Mass or Tridentine Mass, is a form of Catholic liturgy celebrated in Latin, the universal language of the Roman Rite, before the reforms of the Second Vatican Council. It is characterized by its ancient prayers, Gregorian chants, and symbolic gestures, fostering a contemplative atmosphere centered on the Eucharist. While originally the standard for centuries, its use has been restricted by Pope Francis, though it continues to be practiced by many who see it as a vital link to Church tradition and a profound way to worship.


Key Characteristics
Language:
The Mass is almost entirely in Latin, fostering a sense of universal prayer and tradition.

Focus on Tradition:
Adherents see it as the "Mass of the Ages," connecting them to a continuous line of Catholic history and the prayers of countless saints.

Reverence and Silence:
It features moments of silence, especially during the Eucharistic prayer, which encourages contemplation of the faith's mysteries.

Sacred Artistry:
The liturgy includes ancient Gregorian chants, specific gestures, and vestments that together create a profound sense of the sacred.

Theological Significance:
The Mass emphasizes the sacrificial nature of the Eucharist, with the priest acting as a mediator between the community and God.

Historical Context
Pre-Vatican II:
For centuries, this was the standard form of Mass celebrated worldwide, codified after the Council of Trent in 1570.

Second Vatican Council:
The Council of 1962-1965 allowed for the Mass to be celebrated in vernacular (local) languages, leading to the development of the Novus Ordo Mass.

Pope Benedict XVI's Decree:
In 2007, Pope Benedict XVI declared the 1962 Missal as the "Extraordinary Form" of the Roman Rite, affirming its place alongside the "Ordinary Form" (the Mass in the vernacular).

Recent Restrictions:
In recent years, Pope Francis has further restricted the celebration of the Traditional Latin Mass, requiring bishops' permission for its use.

Why It Matters to Its Adherents
Connection to the Past:
It provides a powerful link to the Church's pre-Vatican II past and a connection to the faith as experienced by past generations.

Spiritual Depth:
Many find its ancient rites and contemplative nature a deeper and more reverent way to experience the Mass and the presence of God.

Beauty and Order:
The structured liturgy, with its specific gestures and prayers, is seen by its supporters as fostering a prayer

Got that? 

It's actually interesting and I find that, while I'm suspicious of AI information, I find AI Overview quite helpful as a snapshot of what's going on (cue the Marvin Gaye song if you like). I like the fact that the Vatican disapproves of it and wonder why, given the 'smoke and mirrors' approach of the Vatican to things like the truth, reality and good common sense that they would suppress a form of Mass that basically disguises all the silly mumbo jumbo. Go figure!

I too was an altar boy at St Anne's church in Newtown. See: HERE