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!