…for now. I’m going to be out of the ..er..office until early afternoon, so this will have to do.

First, as regard to abuses, let’s get one thing clear – the norms for the celebration of the Mass are clear. They are everywhere. They are in the General Instruction for the Roman Missal, and they are in Redemptoris Sacramentum (2004)

Just a few samples from RS, in case you’ve forgotten:

[112.] Mass is celebrated either in Latin or in another language, provided that liturgical texts are used which have been approved according to the norm of law. Except in the case of celebrations of the Mass that are scheduled by the ecclesiastical authorities to take place in the language of the people, Priests are always and everywhere permitted to celebrate Mass in Latin

Reprobated, therefore, is any practice of using for the celebration of Mass common vessels, or others lacking in quality, or devoid of all artistic merit or which are mere containers, as also other vessels made from glass, earthenware, clay, or other materials that break easily. This norm is to be applied even as regards metals and other materials that easily rust or deteriorate

59.] The reprobated practice by which Priests, Deacons or the faithful here and there alter or vary at will the texts of the Sacred Liturgy that they are charged to pronounce, must cease. For in doing thus, they render the celebration of the Sacred Liturgy unstable, and not infrequently distort the authentic meaning of the Liturgy.

Etc.

This AE is  a useful and important catechesis on the Eucharist. As I said in a previous post, the language and orientation is clearly focused: on the powerful, passionate love of Christ poured out in the Cross, in which we are invited to join ourselves. The importance of beauty in properly and powerfully imaging this great mystery and gift. The importance of fidelity to the ritual, of not putting ourselves and our egos at the forefront. The true nature of active participation.

The point is…if think about the Eucharist properly, the rest follows.

Theology matters.

Who can blame us, though, for hoping that behind the scenes, at some points, bishops are being hauled in and read riot acts of one sort or another…

Fr. Z was at the press conference. Watch his space for more.

CNS summary.

Oh, and what has the secular media pulled? You guessed it –

Reuters: CATHOLIC POLITICIANS CAN’T BACK GAY MARRIAGE

Sigh.

(Remember, comments are moderated now. That means anything posted between now and 2 won’t appear right away. So don’t post repeatedly, please.)