New Wording of Roman Mass
Categories: Liturgy
Written By: Stiegemeyer
I recommend you take a look at this piece from NPR regarding the changes to soon take effect in the Roman Mass. According to the commentator, the reason for some of the changes was to make the language loftier, more reverent. Some will object to the changes arguing that the former conversational way of speaking is more relatable.
Consider this quote from Fr. James Martin:
Language is important in the spiritual life: The way you relate to someone influences the way you speak to someone, and vice versa. It’s the same with God. The way you relate to God influences how you speak to God in prayer. And your language will influence your image of God.
What are your thoughts about liturgical expression? Lofty or conversational? Are they mutually exclusive?


September 3rd, 2008 at 10:55 am
How interesting that the article speaks of the Vatican II innovations like “and also with you” as the “old language.” The “new language” like “and with your spirit” or “Lord, I am not worthy…” is actually a return to the ancient usage of the Western Rite.
September 7th, 2008 at 7:41 am
[...] follow up to an earlier post on this blog, we asked Dr. Paul Grime to offer his reflections. Dr. Grime is our Dean of Chapel and professor [...]
September 29th, 2008 at 9:24 am
[...] I read that the Roman Catholic Church will soon be revising the wording of bits of their liturgy. The discussion then ensued about whether liturgical language should be lofty or more [...]