The Latin Mass is Not Going Away No, the Latin Mass is not going away anytime soon. I say, this, by the way, not as a regular attendee of the pre-Vatican II liturgy. In fact, I've participated in a pre-Vatican II liturgy at most three times over the past nine years. My point is, I'm … Continue reading The Latin Mass is Not Going Away
Hidden Treasure: “Kyrie” From Wanhal’s Missa Pastoralis
Wanhal and his beautiful compositions are indeed hidden treasure. Thanks to the work of the Wanhal Association and others, Wanhal's beautiful work, both sacred and secular, is slowly making its way back into public view.
Fickle Fame and Salieri’s “Gloria”
Fickle Fame Antonio Salieri, by Joseph Willibrord Mähler, 1815 Fickle Fame is a confounding thing. It's often the way that a well-regarded artist falls out of fashion. Despite the worthiness of his or her work, the artist is forgotten by subsequent generations. Even truly great artists can meet this fate: The 16th century poet John … Continue reading Fickle Fame and Salieri’s “Gloria”
Christ Came to Serve: Holy Thursday
I often find it easy to identify with Peter and the other Apostles. That is, when they are slow to catch on to what their Master is saying.
Dressing for the Wedding Feast, or, Naked in the Garden
Might it not be a good idea to bring back the concept of our “Sunday Best” for Mass, and encourage our fellow believers to do the same?
Latin, the Liturgy, and the Human Touch
We see the Incarnation reflected in so many things in our world. We need the Word to become Flesh, the Eternal Word who is Jesus Christ, because that's how we apprehend words and ideas. We need the same from lesser words as well. That's how God created us. It should come as no surprise that our … Continue reading Latin, the Liturgy, and the Human Touch
Our Goal is the Resurrection: Ain’t No Grave
Our Goal is the Resurrection Rejoice, Jerusalem, and all who love her. Be joyful, all who were in mourning; exult and be satisfied at her consoling breast. (Introit for the 4th Sunday of Lent) Our Goal is Almost in Sight Why rejoice in the middle of Lent? Isn't Lent a solemn and penitential season? And haven't … Continue reading Our Goal is the Resurrection: Ain’t No Grave
2nd Sunday of Lent: Keep Your Eyes on the Prize (c)
2nd Sunday of Lent: 2nd Sunday of Lent: What is the Goal? One of the first things a new teacher learns is that you need to start with a clear idea of where you want to end up. If we’re not clear on what we want our students to learn, then our … Continue reading 2nd Sunday of Lent: Keep Your Eyes on the Prize (c)
Catholics, This Is Your Language
Latin is still the official language of the Mass. If you're lucky you may hear some of the traditional language, your language, in church.
Has Tradition Become a Dirty Word?
Picture Sunday Mass in a typical parish. A mother comes up for communion holding a small child in her arms. As she approaches the priest, she awkwardly holds on to her infant with one arm in order to free up the other to take the Eucharistic host and quickly pop it into her mouth before … Continue reading Has Tradition Become a Dirty Word?