Brother Knights,
As many of you know, the Holy See has released a new
Motu Proprio Traditionis Custodes (July 16, 2021) which attempts to place new
restrictions on the Traditional Latin Mass. The document is unusual (to
say the least), in that it was issued with no advance notice, with an immediate
implementation and with some problematic regulations that are hard for bishops
to decipher.
Curiously though since the publication of
Traditionis Custodes, many more people are coming to the Traditional Latin
Mass. Moreover, Cardinals are defending
it,
bishops supporting it, and more priests are now interested in learning it. An
important aspect of Traditionis Custodes is the fact that it has no text
claiming to abrogate the Mass of Ages.
The simple fact remains that the Traditional Latin
Mass is the future of the Latin Church, as it perfectly contains not just the
sacredness of the liturgy, Gregorian chant, and the language of Latin, but also
the traditions, theology, customs, and culture of the perennial
Church. Christ loves the Traditional Latin Mass so much that he allowed it
to nourish his flock for 1,600 years and counting (2,000 years if one counts
the apostolic origins of the Canon). It truly is the Mass of Ages.
Ultimately this situation could very well accelerate
the complete restoration of the Traditional Latin Mass in every parish, and
perhaps much sooner than we think. Of note, Traditionis Custodes states that only
new priests should obtain permission to celebrate the Traditional Latin
Mass. While some dioceses have reduced the number of locations offering the
Traditional Latin Mass (e.g., bi-liturgical churches) it continues to be
available without restriction at designated Traditional Latin Mass parishes and
certain monasteries.
What are Knights to do? Response may vary depending
on the local situation; however, we already have many of the resources
necessary for the full restoration of the Traditional Latin Mass at our
disposal. We can suggest but a few options:
- Attend the Traditional Latin Mass each Sunday: Invite family and friends to come along with you
to weekly Mass or unique events such as Holy Days.
- Make a Thanksgiving after Mass
- Pray the Rosary Daily: Each new
Knight receives a Rosary and is asked to carry it at all times - and for good reason. Learn how to
pray it in Latin (www.praylatin.com)
- Pray the Breviary: Any layperson can pray the
traditional Divine Office or Breviary. This Office is similar to what Bl.
McGivney prayed.
- Promote the Mass of Ages: This is the
new documentary on the Traditional Mass we long supported and promoted and
comes out August 15 (Feast of the Assumption). This series is a game changer
that can convert many faithful to the TLM, especially in light of Traditionis
Custodes. To learn more visit: https://theliturgy.org/
- Pray to Blessed McGivney: He offered the
Traditional Latin Mass and still loves it. He can be a powerful intercessor to
protect the liturgy which formed his priesthood and helped him save countless
souls. His feast day is providentially coming up on Friday August 13. Perhaps
ask your pastor for a special Latin Mass for Bl. McGivney’s canonization and
intercession.
- Encourage priests: Get to know Traditional Latin Mass locations in
your area and encourage priests to learn the Traditional Latin Mass and
celebrate it at these churches.
As we approach the 450th anniversary of
the Battle of Lepanto this October, let us seek refuge in Our Lady of the
Rosary, who can take the most seemingly hopeless moments and quickly turn them
greatest victory for Her son. Let us also pray for Pope Francis’ conversion,
and that he will consecrate Russia to the Immaculate Heart, so that the Triumph
of the Immaculate Heart will arrive as soon as possible.
Our Lady of the Rosary, pray for us!
Vivat Jesus!
