MCS Newsflash: Sign Up Today For Our Fourth Annual Rosary Week!

The online signup sheet for our Fourth Annual Rosary Week is now ready. Please sign up today at www.MyCatholicSource.com/RosaryWeek. For more information concerning Rosary Week, please click here.

Thank you for your participation!

[5/11/12]

Renewal of the Leadership Conference of Women Religious: It's About Time!

The Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith (CDF) recently published its doctrinal assessment of the Leadership Conference of Women Religious (LCWR), "the nation's largest umbrella group for Roman Catholic sisters" whose members are said to represent "about 95 percent of 67,000 sisters in the U.S." The LCWR is notable for liberalism, dissent, radical feminism, anti-clericalism, paganism, New Age practices, witchcraft, and for talk of being "post-Christian" & "moving beyond the Church, even beyond Jesus". The following are some highlights from the CDF's assessment of the LCWR...

Please Note: Emphasis may be added to text below. Also note that paragraphs below may be combined & some punctuation may be changed from the original.

* "While recognizing that this doctrinal Assessment concerns a particular conference of major superiors and therefore does not intend to offer judgment on the faith and life of Women Religious in the member Congregations which belong to that conference, nevertheless the Assessment reveals serious doctrinal problems which affect many in Consecrated Life. On the doctrinal level, this crisis is characterized by a diminution of the fundamental Christological center and focus of religious consecration which leads, in turn, to a loss of a 'constant and lively sense of the Church' among some Religious"

* "The decision of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith (CDF) to undertake a doctrinal Assessment of the Leadership Conference of Women Religious (LCWR) was communicated to the LCWR Presidency during their meeting with Cardinal William Levada in Rome on April 8, 2008. At that meeting, three major areas of concern were given as motivating the CDF’s decision to initiate the Assessment: [1] Addresses at the LCWR Assemblies. Addresses given during LCWR annual Assemblies manifest problematic statements and serious theological, even doctrinal errors. The Cardinal offered as an example specific passages of Sr. Laurie Brink’s address about some Religious 'moving beyond the Church' or even beyond Jesus. This is a challenge not only to core Catholic beliefs; such a rejection of faith is also a serious source of scandal and is incompatible with religious life. Such unacceptable positions routinely go unchallenged by the LCWR, which should provide resources for member Congregations to foster an ecclesial vision of religious life, thus helping to correct an erroneous vision of the Catholic faith as an important exercise of charity... [2] Policies of Corporate Dissent. The Cardinal spoke of this issue in reference to letters the CDF received from 'Leadership Teams' of various Congregations, among them LCWR Officers, protesting the Holy See’s actions regarding the question of women’s ordination and of a correct pastoral approach to ministry to homosexual persons, e.g. letters about New Ways Ministry’s conferences. The terms of the letters suggest that these sisters collectively take a position not in agreement with the Church’s teaching on human sexuality. It is a serious matter when these Leadership Teams are not providing effective leadership and example to their communities, but place themselves outside the Church’s teaching. [3] Radical Feminism. The Cardinal noted a prevalence of certain radical feminist themes incompatible with the Catholic faith in some of the programs and presentations sponsored by the LCWR, including theological interpretations that risk distorting faith in Jesus and his loving Father who sent his Son for the salvation of the world. Moreover, some commentaries on 'patriarchy' distort the way in which Jesus has structured sacramental life in the Church; others even undermine the revealed doctrines of the Holy Trinity, the divinity of Christ, and the inspiration of Sacred Scripture."

* "On June 25, 2010, Bishop Blair presented further documentation on the content of the LCWR’s Mentoring Leadership Manual and also on the organizations associated with the LCWR, namely Network and The Resource Center for Religious Institutes. The documentation reveals that, while there has been a great deal of work on the part of LCWR promoting issues of social justice in harmony with the Church’s social doctrine, it is silent on the right to life from conception to natural death... Further, issues of crucial importance to the life of Church and society, such as the Church’s Biblical view of family life and human sexuality, are not part of the LCWR agenda in a way that promotes Church teaching. Moreover, occasional public statements by the LCWR that disagree with or challenge positions taken by the Bishops, who are the Church’s authentic teachers of faith and morals, are not compatible with its purpose."

* "All of the documentation from the doctrinal Assessment including the LCWR responses was presented to the Ordinary Session of the Cardinal and Bishop Members of the CDF on January 12, 2011. The decision of that Ordinary Session was: 1) The current doctrinal and pastoral situation of the LCWR is grave and a matter of serious concern, also given the influence the LCWR exercises on religious Congregations in other parts of the world; 2) After the currently-ongoing Visitation of religious communities of women in the United States is brought to a conclusion, the Holy See should intervene with the prudent steps necessary to effect a reform of the LCWR; 3) The Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith will examine the various forms of canonical intervention available for the resolution of the problematic aspects present in the LCWR. The Holy Father, Pope Benedict XVI, in an Audience granted to the Prefect of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, Cardinal William Joseph Levada, on January 14, 2011, approved the decisions of the Ordinary Session of the Congregation, and ordered their implementation."

* "One of the principal means by which the LCWR promotes its particular vision of religious life is through the annual Assemblies it sponsors. During the Assessment process, Bishop Blair, in his letter of May 11, 2009, presented the LCWR Presidency with a study and doctrinal evaluation of keynote addresses, presidential addresses, and Leadership Award addresses over a 10 year period. This study found that the talks, while not scholarly theological discourses per se, do have significant doctrinal and moral content and implications which often contradict or ignore magisterial teaching."

* "Several of the addresses at LCWR conferences present a vision or description of religious life that does not conform to the faith and practice of the Church. Since the LCWR leadership has offered no clarification about such statements, some might infer that such positions are endorsed by them. As an entity approved by the Holy See for the coordination and support of religious Communities in the United States, LCWR also has a positive responsibility for the promotion of the faith and for providing its member Communities and the wider Catholic public with clear and persuasive positions in support of the Church’s vision of religious life. Some speakers claim that dissent from the doctrine of the Church is justified as an exercise of the prophetic office. But this is based upon a mistaken understanding of the dynamic of prophecy in the Church: it justifies dissent by positing the possibility of divergence between the Church’s magisterium and a 'legitimate' theological intuition of some of the faithful. 'Prophecy,' as a methodological principle, is here directed at the Magisterium and the Church’s pastors, whereas true prophecy is a grace which accompanies the exercise of the responsibilities of the Christian life and ministries within the Church, regulated and verified by the Church’s faith and teaching office. Some of the addresses at LCWR-sponsored events perpetuate a distorted ecclesiological vision, and have scant regard for the role of the Magisterium as the guarantor of the authentic interpretation of the Church’s faith."

* "The analysis of the General Assemblies, Presidential Addresses, and Occasional Papers reveals, therefore, a two-fold problem. The first consists in positive error (i.e. doctrinally problematic statements or formal refutation of Church teaching found in talks given at LCWR-sponsored conferences or General Assemblies). The second level of the problem concerns the silence and inaction of the LCWR in the face of such error, given its responsibility to support a vision of religious life in harmony with that of the Church and to promote a solid doctrinal basis for religious life. With this Assessment, the CDF intends to assist the LCWR in placing its activity into a wider context of religious life in the universal Church in order to foster a vision of consecrated life consistent with the Church’s teaching."

* "The program for new Superiors and Formators of member Communities and other resources provided to these Communities is an area in which the LCWR exercises an influence. The doctrinal Assessment found that many of the materials prepared by the LCWR for these purposes (Occasional Papers, Systems Thinking Handbook) do not have a sufficient doctrinal foundation. These materials recommend strategies for dialogue, for example when sisters disagree about basic matters of Catholic faith or moral practice, but it is not clear whether this dialogue is directed towards reception of Church teaching."

* "The Final Report of the Apostolic Visitation of Religious Communities of Women in the United States (July, 2011) found that the formation programs among several communities that belong to the LCWR did not have significant doctrinal content but rather were oriented toward professional formation regarding particular issues of ministerial concern to the Institute. Other programs reportedly stressed their own charism and history, and/or the Church’s social teaching or social justice in general, with little attention to basic Catholic doctrine"

* "[I]t is clear that greater emphasis needs to be placed both on the relationship of the LCWR with the Conference of Bishops, and on the need to provide a sound doctrinal foundation in the faith of the Church as they 'work to achieve more fully the purpose of the individual institutes.' Therefore in order to implement a process of review and conformity to the teachings and discipline of the Church, the Holy See, through the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, will appoint an Archbishop Delegate, assisted by two Bishops, for review, guidance and approval, where necessary, of the work of the LCWR. The Delegate will report to the CDF, which will inform and consult with the Congregation for Institutes of Consecrated Life and Societies of Apostolic Life and the Congregation for Bishops."

* "The mandate of the Delegate is to include the following: 1) To revise LCWR Statutes to ensure greater clarity about the scope of the mission and responsibilities of this conference of major superiors. The revised Statutes will be submitted to the Holy See for approval by the CICLSAL. 2) To review LCWR plans and programs, including General Assemblies and publications, to ensure that the scope of the LCWR’s mission is fulfilled in accord with Church teachings and discipline. In particular: Systems Thinking Handbook will be withdrawn from circulation pending revision, LCWR programs for (future) Superiors and Formators will be reformed, Speakers/presenters at major programs will be subject to approval by Delegate. 3) To create new LCWR programs for member Congregations for the development of initial and ongoing formation material that provides a deepened understanding of the Church’s doctrine of the faith. 4) To review and offer guidance in the application of liturgical norms and texts. For example: The Eucharist and the Liturgy of the Hours will have a place of priority in LCWR events and programs. 5) To review LCWR links with affiliated organizations, e.g. Network and Resource Center for Religious Life."

* "The mandate of the Delegate will be for a period of up to five years, as deemed necessary. In order to ensure the necessary liaison with the USCCB (in view of Can. 708), the Conference of Bishops will be asked to establish a formal link (e.g. a committee structure) with the Delegate and Assistant Delegate Bishops. In order to facilitate the achievement of these goals, the Delegate is authorized to form an Advisory Team (clergy, women Religious, and experts) to assist in the work of implementation. It will be the task of the Archbishop Delegate to work collaboratively with the officers of the LCWR to achieve the goals outlined in this document, and to report on the progress of this work to the Holy See. Such reports will be reviewed with the Delegate at regular interdicasterial meetings of the CDF and the CICLSAL."

Related Articles: LCWR annual meeting is true to form (8/09) | LCWR investigation already a success? (8/09) | Catholic Humor? (8/09) | More from those docile religious sisters (8/09) | Rebellious women religious (7/09)

Also See: Top Reasons Why Women Can't Be Priests | Catholic Teachings on Homosexuality (Topic Page) | Catholic Teachings on Contraception [Topic Page]

[4/19/12]

MCS Newsflash: Our First Productivity App Has Just Been Released [Updated]

Our first productivity app, Just Checkin' In, has just been released and is now available on the App Store. Use Just Checkin' In to quickly & easily stay in touch with friends, family, co-workers and more - even during those busy moments. This app is priced at only $0.99 and proceeds may benefit MyCatholicSource.com. Please download this useful app today!

Click Here For More Details

Shortcut: MyCatholicSource.com/Apps

3/15/12 Update: An Android ™ version of Just Checkin' In has now been released. For more information, please visit MyCatholicSource.com/Android

[2/23/12, updated 3/15/12]

MCS Newsflash: Our First Android App Is Now Available For Download

Our first Android app, iStations for Android™, has been released and is now available for download at a discounted price $1.29 U.S. in the Android Market. This app is a convenient devotional aid for privately praying the Stations of the Cross (Way of the Cross). It features beautiful images, two traditional methods, a handy audio option, easy navigation, and in-app help. It's great for Fridays, Lent, penitential times, times of suffering, family devotions, and daily meditation. Please download it today!

Available at the following locations... [Note: Availability & pricing may vary and are subject to change without notice]

Android Market: https://market.android.com/details?id=com.bfsnet.istations

Amazon Appstore: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B007014CYM

For more information & screen shots, please visit: http://www.MyCatholicSource.com/Android

For information on differences between apps running on different platforms, please visit: http://www.bfsnet.com/bfsapps/bfsapps-app_differences.htm

Note: Android versions of our other apps are still in development. To be placed on our waiting list to be notified when they are available, please submit your e-mail address at: http://www.mycatholicsource.com/mcs/fdb/app-wl.htm

[2/3/12]

MCS Newsflash: Server Transfer Is Complete

The server transfer process is complete with the cancellation of our old server on 12/21/11. We still have some tests to perform over the next week or two, but everything seems to be gong well so far. Should you encounter any problems with the MyCatholicSource.com website, please let us know. We appreciate your feedback!

[12/21/11]

Update: Re: New Server [Last Updated: 12/17/11]

The migration of MyCatholicSource.com to our new server has been in process since Monday, November 7, 2011. On the positive side, we have been able to keep delays to a minimum so far and we have not yet had any outages that we are aware of. On the downside, things are going slower than we had hoped. All data has been moved over to the new server and a preliminary security scan has been completed. However, we are still working on resolving some functionality issues and will need to perform some additional testing before we can go live with the new server. We also expect some additional security scanning will take place before the server goes live. We hope things will progress rapidly over the next few days so that we may make the switch over to the new server asap (current access to the site resolves to the old server). When the final server switch does occur, we expect both servers to run in parallel for a few days while dns propagation is in process. We hope users will not experience difficulties accessing the site during this time. However, we do anticipate that there may be some issues concerning e-mail & posts during the switch. Please be patient during this time. Should you send us an e-mail or make a post during the transition, please resend/repost if you do not receive an expected response from us. Thanks so much for your prayers & patience during this time. God bless you.

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11/15/11 Update: The functionality issues encountered with our new server are proving to be quite difficult in terms of finding a resolution. Our host has been working on the problem, but we do not yet have a solution. For now, however, our old server is still up and functioning. We hope the issues with the new server will be resolved shortly so that we may proceed with the transition. Thank you for your prayers, patience, and understanding during this challenging time.

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11/17/11 Update: Despite much effort, our host has been unable to find a resolution to the functionality issues on our new server. They have notified us that they have escalated the matter to a software vendor for a possible fix. Unfortunately, they indicated that this may take an additional 3-4 days. We have explored other possibilities for resolving the matter sooner, but this was to no avail. Therefore, our only option at this point is to wait and hope for a resolution. In the meantime, our old server is still up and functioning properly. We hope things will turn around so that we may proceed with the transition to the new server. Thanks very much for your prayers & support. God bless you.

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11/28/11 Update: Some of the functionality issues concerning the new server have finally been resolved. However, there are still a number of other issues that must be addressed before we can move forward with the server switch. Once everything is in place, we will also need to conduct another security scan before we can go live with the new server. We are hoping things will proceed more quickly from here forward. Thank you very much for your patience and support. God bless you.

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12/7/11 Update: There has been some progress since our last update, however a couple fairly significant functionality issues still remain to be resolved before we can switch to the new server. We are working on these issues, but it is difficult at this time to estimate when this process will be completed. Also, once the issues are resolved, we will need to do a security scan and some additional testing before we can make the switch. We wish we could provide a more specific time frame, but we are unable to do so at this point. We hope it will not be too much longer before we can transition to the new server, but it is very difficult at present to realistically estimate how long things may take. Please know that we are doing all we can do to move everything forward as soon as possible. Thanks very much for your support and patience. God bless you.

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12/16/11 Update: Things have been moving along well now, Deo Gratias. If all continues to go well, we hope to go live with the new server today or tomorrow. Thank you very much for your patience and support.

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12/17/11 Update: Great news! The server switch should be underway any moment now. Please note that it take 24+ hours for DNS propagation. We hope you will visit us soon on our new server. Thanks very much for your support.

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[Blog-only post: 11/11/11, updates on: 11/15/11, 11/17/11, 11/28/11, 12/7/11, 12/16/11, 12/17/11]

MCS Newsflash: Upcoming Server Change For MyCatholicSource.com

To maintain security, we plan to move to a new server. We anticipate the switch will occur on or around 11/7/11. Please expect some outages and functionality issues during this time and shortly afterwards. If all goes well, we hope everything will be back to normal within a couple of weeks. We apologize if this change causes any inconvenience.

[10/18/11]

MCS Newsflash: Amazon Associates Account Reinstated

Our Amazon Associates account has been reinstated as of 10/3/11. Earlier in the year, all California Amazon Associates' accounts were terminated by Amazon.com as a result of a newly enacted California law concerning the collection of sales tax. According to Amazon, the law has been repealed. We are happy to report that our account with Amazon.com has now been reinstated and we are therefore once again be eligible to receive financial incentives from Amazon.com. To shop at Amazon.com in support of MyCatholicSource.com, please click here. Thanks very much for your support!

[10/3/11]

MCS Newsflash: iStations - The Newest MyCatholicSource.com App

The newest MyCatholicSource.com app, iStations, has just been released. iStations is a convenient devotional aid for privately praying the Stations of the Cross (Way of the Cross). Features beautiful images, two traditional methods, audio option with optional auto-advance, selected prayers in English & Latin, easy navigation, and in-app help. It's great for Fridays, Lent, penitential times & family devotions! If you have (or a loved one has) an iPad®, iPhone®, or iPod touch®, please consider purchasing this convenient app today!

Click Here For More Details

Shortcut: MyCatholicSource.com/Apps

New! iStations

For the iPad®, iPhone®, and iPod touch®

Presented by My Catholic Source.com

"A Convenient Devotional Aid For Catholics"

iStations, presented by MyCatholicSource.com, is a convenient devotional aid for privately praying the Stations of the Cross (Way of the Cross). Features beautiful images, two traditional methods, audio option with optional auto-advance, selected prayers in English & Latin, easy navigation, and in-app help.

Great for Fridays, Lent, penitential times & family devotions!

Click Here For More Information / Screenshots

Buy this app to support MyCatholicSource.com!

[9/27/11]

MCS Newsflash: Deo Gratias! Our 1,000,000th Visitor

We are happy to report that MyCatholicSource.com received its 1 millionth visitor* in the early morning hours of September 12, 2011, the feast of the Most Holy Name of Mary.

We send our thanks to all who have visited this site and we look forward, by God's grace, to welcoming many millions of visitors to this site in the years to come.

Laus tibi, Domine, Rex aeternae gloriae! (Latin for: Praise be to Thee, O Lord, King of eternal glory!)

Mater amóris, dolóris et misericórdiæ, ora pro nobis (Latin for: Mother of love, of sorrow, and of mercy, pray for us)

* Number of visits is based on raw, unfiltered access logs. Excludes traffic prior to our 'official unveiling'

[9/12/11]

MCS Newsflash: Be Prepared the Next Time Someone Knocks at Your Door Trying to Convert You…

The newest MyCatholicSource.com app, Catholic Bible References, is now available for download on the App Store (SM). This app is a handy apologetics tool that can be used to help Catholics discuss & defend the faith. It features hundreds of key bible references conveniently arranged by topic as well as tips for locating related passages (including those related to defending the Catholic faith among 'Jehovah's Witnesses' & Mormons). If you have - or a loved one has - an iPad®, iPhone®, or iPod touch®, please consider purchasing this useful app today!

Click Here For More Details

Shortcut: MyCatholicSource.com/Apps

New! Catholic Bible References

For the iPad®, iPhone®, and iPod touch®

Presented by My Catholic Source.com

"A Must-Have App For Catholics!"

Place hundreds of key Catholic bible quotes at your fingertips.

Be prepared the next time someone knocks at your door trying to covert you!

Includes:

* 100+ Tips For Locating Related Passages (including those related to defending the Catholic faith among 'Jehovah's Witnesses' & Mormons)

* Modern / Traditional Scripture Translations

* Convenient Index

* Handy Grouping by Titles

* Easy / Quick / Comprehensive Search

* Search By Category

* Selectable Text

* Old Testament / New Testament Indicator

Regular Price: $3.99 U.S. (plus tax, if applicable)

SALE! LIMITED TIME OFFER - JUST $1.99

Get it today! (click here to download)

Click Here For More Information / Screenshots

Buy this app to support this site!

[9/2/11]

MCS Newsflash: MyCatholicSource.com App

Earlier this year, we had to make some changes to our site in order to try to stay online. Another part of our plan was to develop a line of apps that could help support the MyCatholicSource.com website. Thanks be to God, we've received approval for our new app, Saints4U, and it is now available for download on the App Store (SM). If you have (or a loved one has) an iPad®, iPhone®, or iPod touch®, please consider purchasing this handy app today!

Click Here For More Details

Shortcut: MyCatholicSource.com/Apps

Saints4U

For the iPad®, iPhone®, and iPod touch®

Presented by My Catholic Source.com

"A Treasury of Saint Names, Patrons & Feasts!"

With over 6,400 listings, including 1,000+ patronages, it's easy to find just the right patron saint, baby name or confirmation name. Search for male or female saint names, feasts falling on particular days or months, patronages, liturgical feasts, and more...

Click Here For More Information / Screenshots

Please buy this app to support MyCatholicSource.com!

[8/15/11]

MCS Newsflash: Third Annual Rosary Week Signup Sheet Is Now Available

The online signup sheet for our third annual Rosary Week is now ready. Please sign up today at www.MyCatholicSource.com/RosaryWeek . For further details concerning Rosary Week, please click here

[7/22/11]

MCS Newsflash: Amazon Associates Account Terminated [UPDATED]

Our Amazon Associates account has been abruptly terminated by Amazon.com as a result of a newly enacted California law concerning the collection of sales tax. The abrupt & unfortunate cancellation of our account was unexpected on our end and it was *not* caused by anything we did. Rather, it was a result of a new state law. All California Amazon Associates accounts were likewise cancelled. Please click here for further details.

10/3/11 UPDATE: We were notified today that the California law referenced above has been repealed. We are happy to report that our account with Amazon.com has now been reinstated and therefore we will once again be eligible to receive financial incentives from Amazon.com. To shop at Amazon.com in support of MyCatholicSource.com, please click here

[6/30/11, updated 10/3/11]

So Let Me Get This Straight...

In a recent interview, Ecclesia Dei's Msgr. Guido Pozzo explained that the reference in the Instruction 'Universae Ecclesiae' concerning Catholics who may be against the 'validity or legitimacy' of the Novus Ordo ("The faithful who ask for the celebration of the [Traditional Latin Mass] must not in any way support or belong to groups which show themselves to be against the validity or legitimacy of the Holy Mass or the Sacraments celebrated in the forma ordinaria [that is, the post-1960's form] or against the Roman Pontiff as Supreme Pastor of the Universal Church") actually refers to...

"certain groups of faithful who consider or propose an antithesis between the Missal of 1962 and that of Paul VI, and who believe that the rite promulgated by Paul VI for the celebration of the Sacrifice of the Holy Mass is detrimental to the faithful." (Msgr. Guido Pozzo)

So, let me get this straight... Cardinal Ottaviani, if he was still alive, would NOT be qualified to request the TLM?

Recall that the prophetic Cardinals Ottaviani & Bacci said the following concerning the Novus Ordo... (emphasis added)

"To abandon a liturgical tradition which for four centuries stood as a sign and pledge of unity in worship, and to replace it with another liturgy which, due to the countless liberties it implicitly authorizes, cannot but be a sign of division - a liturgy which teems with insinuations or manifest errors against the integrity of the Catholic Faith - is, we feel bound in conscience to proclaim, an incalculable error." (Cardinals Ottaviani & Bacci)

"We have limited ourselves above to a short study of the Novus Ordo where it deviates most seriously from the theology of the Catholic Mass. Our observations touch upon deviations which are typical. To prepare a complete study of all the pitfalls, dangers and psychologically and spiritually destructive elements the new rite contains, whether in texts, rubrics or instructions, would be a vast undertaking." (Cardinals Ottaviani & Bacci)

Yet, while the illustrious Cardinal Ottaviani would apparently NOT be qualified to request the TLM, the following 'Catholics' WOULD presumably be qualified to request the TLM (not that they ever would)...

Likewise, the following would presumably also be qualified...

[Refreshers: Catholic teachings against abortion | Catholic teachings against homosexual acts]

What's wrong with this picture? And where does that leave Pope Benedict XVI? Recall that the Holy Father has said that...

"...in the place of liturgy as the fruit of development came fabricated liturgy. We abandoned the organic, living process of growth and development over the centuries, and replaced it - as in a manufacturing process - with a fabrication, a banal, on-the-spot product." (Cardinal Ratzinger, the future Pope Benedict XVI)

And, despite what the good Monsignor would like us to think, namely that...

"...it is clearly necessary to distinguish the rite and the Missal in themselves, celebrated according to the norms, and a certain understanding and application of the liturgical reform, characterized by ambiguity, doctrinal deformations, abuses and banalizations, events that are unfortunately so common that they led Cardinal J. Ratzinger to speak, without hesitations, in one of his publications of a 'collapse of the liturgy'"

...Pope Benedict could NOT have been speaking regarding results from a "certain understanding and application of the liturgical reform", because the Holy Father (when he was known as Cardinal Ratzinger) clearly stated, as indicated above, that we had "abandoned the organic, living process of growth and development over the centuries, and replaced it - as in a manufacturing process - with a fabrication, a banal, on-the-spot product." In his own words, he is referring to the "fabricated liturgy" itself, not to some distortion of it.

So given the above, who would be 'qualified' to request the TLM? Those in denial of or blind to the devastating fruits of the Novus Ordo? Those who do not know the TLM and who would therefore never request it? Those willing to say the emperor is fully clothed? Liberals & dissenters who are likely to be 'allergic' to the reverent traditional Mass?

Yet, good & knowledgeable Catholics who face facts are not 'qualified'? Besides the injustice of treating a certain group of good Catholics differently than others, it seems unconscionable to deny Catholics a spiritual good based on their discernment of the truths that are plainly before their eyes (e.g. that 70%+ of Catholics no longer believe in the Real Presence after 4 decades of the Novus Ordo). Even the 'chief architect' of the Novus Ordo admitted that he wanted to "strip from our Catholic prayers and from the Catholic liturgy everything which can be the shadow of a stumbling block" for heretics and he admitted that the liturgical reform he oversaw was a "major conquest of the Catholic Church".

That being said - by the 'chief architect' of the Novus Ordo himself - why can't good Catholics - armed with decades of hindsight - also believe this? And if they do, why does that fact disqualify them from requesting a form of Mass codified by Pope St. Pius V that was "grant[ed] and concede[d] in perpetuity that, for the chanting or reading of the Mass in any church whatsoever, this Missal is hereafter to be followed absolutely, without any scruple of conscience or fear of incurring any penalty, judgment, or censure, and may freely and lawfully be used" in a document that the Pope said "cannot be revoked or modified, but remain always valid and retain its full force"?

Related: Traditional Latin Mass (Topic Page) | The Traditional Latin Mass vs. the Novus Ordo (New) Mass

[6/25/11]

NEWSFLASH: Good News Re: Instruction

A 5/19/11 letter signed by Mons. Guido Pozzo of the Pontifical Commission Ecclesia Dei which is presently circulating online confirms that the novelty of 'female altar boys' is not permitted at the TLM. The letter cites paragraph 28 of the recently issued 'Instruction On The Application Of The Apostolic Letter Summorum Pontificum' (Universae Ecclesiae).

Related: Traditional Latin Mass (Topic Page) | Summorum Pontificum Info. | Reflections: Proper Role & Behavior of Women

[6/8/11]

Highlights From 'Instruction On The Application Of The Apostolic Letter Summorum Pontificum' (Universae Ecclesiae)

The following are some highlights from "Universae Ecclesiae" (Instruction On The Application Of The Apostolic Letter Summorum Pontificum Of His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI Given Motu Proprio). The document, issued by the Pontifical Commission Ecclesia Dei & signed by Cardinal William Levada, was approved by Pope Benedict XVI on April 8, 2011. The Instruction, dated April 30, 2011 (feast of Pope St. Pius V based on the Novus Ordo calendar), was released to the public on May 13, 2011 (anniversary date of the first Marian apparition at Fatima). Issuance of the Instruction was preceded by an "inquiry made among the Bishops of the world, and with the desire to guarantee the proper interpretation and the correct application of the Motu Proprio Summorum Pontificum" by the Pontifical Commission Ecclesia Dei.

Please Note: We have inserted some comments below [e.g. in brackets/headers]. We have also made a few spelling changes.

* Summorum Pontificum "has made the richness of the Roman Liturgy more accessible to the Universal Church". This 2007 document of Pope Benedict XVI "promulgated a universal law for the Church, intended to establish new regulations for the use of the Roman Liturgy in effect in 1962"

* "The Holy Father, having recalled the concern of the Sovereign Pontiffs in caring for the Sacred Liturgy and in their recognition of liturgical books, reaffirms the traditional principle, recognized from time immemorial and necessary to be maintained into the future, that 'each particular Church must be in accord with the universal Church not only regarding the doctrine of the faith and sacramental signs, but also as to the usages universally handed down by apostolic and unbroken tradition. These are to be maintained not only so that errors may be avoided, but also so that the faith may be passed on in its integrity, since the Church's rule of prayer (lex orandi) corresponds to her rule of belief (lex credendi).'"

* "The Holy Father stresses moreover that, among the sacred liturgical books, the Missale Romanum has enjoyed a particular prominence in history, and was kept up to date [e.g. prayers added for new canonizations] throughout the centuries until the time of Blessed Pope John XXIII." [Note: This does not mean the traditional liturgy was subject to continual change. Click here for a brief history of the Traditional Mass]

* "Many of the faithful, formed in the spirit of the liturgical forms prior to the Second Vatican Council, expressed a lively desire to maintain the ancient tradition." [Not to mention the many who have come to love the ancient liturgy since Vatican II!]

* "The Roman Missal promulgated by Pope Paul VI and the last edition prepared under Pope John XXIII, are two forms of the Roman Liturgy, defined respectively as ordinaria and extraordinaria: they are two usages of the one Roman Rite, one alongside the other. Both are the expression of the same lex orandi of the Church." [How then could the "chief architect" of the Novus Ordo proudly remark that "The liturgical reform (of the 1960's) is a major conquest of the Catholic Church" if the two liturgies are really the same?]

* "On account of its venerable and ancient use, the forma extraordinaria is to be maintained with appropriate honor." [Only on account of its "venerable and ancient use"? What about its manifest orthodoxy, proven good fruits, great reverence, ability to inspire the faithful...?]

* The Motu Proprio was "needed" and "it was a matter of overcoming a lacuna by providing new norms for the use of the Roman Liturgy of 1962". In fact, due to "the increase in the number of those asking to be able to use the forma extraordinaria, it has become necessary to provide certain norms in this area."

* The Instruction quotes Pope Benedict's statement that "What was sacred for prior generations, remains sacred and great for us as well, and cannot be suddenly prohibited altogether or even judged harmful."

* The Instruction cites three aims of Summorum Pontificum: "a.) offering to all the faithful the Roman Liturgy in the Usus Antiquior, considered as a precious treasure to be preserved; b.) effectively guaranteeing and ensuring the use of the forma extraordinaria for all who ask for it, given that the use of the 1962 Roman Liturgy is a faculty generously granted for the good of the faithful and therefore is to be interpreted in a sense favorable to the faithful who are its principal addressees; c.) promoting reconciliation at the heart of the Church."

* The Pontifical Commission Ecclesia Dei exercises power for "monitoring the observance and application of the provisions of the Motu Proprio Summorum Pontificum" and exercises this power "beyond the faculties previously granted by Pope John Paul II and confirmed by Pope Benedict XVI (cf. Motu Proprio Summorum Pontificum, art. 11-12), also by means of the power to decide upon recourses legitimately sent to it, as hierarchical Superior, against any possible singular administrative provision of an Ordinary which appears to be contrary to the Motu Proprio." Also, "The decrees by which the Pontifical Commission decides recourses may be challenged ad normam iuris before the Supreme Tribunal of the Apostolic Signatura." Furthermore, Ecclesia Dei will "have the task of looking after future editions of liturgical texts pertaining to the forma extraordinaria of the Roman Rite." [Get out your rosary]

* Diocesan bishops "are to monitor liturgical matters in order to guarantee the common good and to ensure that everything is proceeding in peace and serenity in their Dioceses, always in agreement with the mens of the Holy Father clearly expressed by the Motu Proprio Summorum Pontificum. In cases of controversy or well-founded doubt about the celebration in the forma extraordinaria, the Pontifical Commission Ecclesia Dei will adjudicate." Further, "It is the task of the Diocesan Bishop to undertake all necessary measures to ensure respect for the forma extraordinaria of the Roman Rite, according to the Motu Proprio Summorum Pontificum."

* The "group of the faithful" (coetus fidelium) referred to in the Motu Proprio Summorum Pontificum "can be said to be stabiliter existens ("existing in a stable manner")...when it is constituted by some people of an individual parish who, even after the publication of the Motu Proprio, come together by reason of their veneration for the Liturgy in the Usus Antiquior, and who ask that it might be celebrated in the parish church or in an oratory or chapel; such a coetus ('group') can also be composed of persons coming from different parishes or dioceses, who gather together in a specific parish church or in an oratory or chapel for this purpose."

* "In the case of a priest who presents himself occasionally in a parish church or an oratory with some faithful, and wishes to celebrate in the forma extraordinaria...the pastor or rector of the church, or the priest responsible, is to permit such a celebration, while respecting the schedule of liturgical celebrations in that same church." And, "Even in sanctuaries and places of pilgrimage the possibility to celebrate in the forma extraordinaria is to be offered to groups of pilgrims who request it", assuming there is a "qualified priest" (see below).

* Potential 'time bombs': "In deciding individual cases, the pastor or the rector, or the priest responsible for a church, is to be guided by his own prudence [wildly liberal though he may be], motivated by pastoral zeal and a spirit of generous welcome." And, "In cases of groups which are quite small, they may approach the Ordinary of the place to identify a church [perhaps a church in the most remote/undesirable corner of the diocese?] in which these faithful may be able to come together for such celebrations, in order to ensure easier participation [for who exactly?] and a more worthy celebration [?] of the Holy Mass."

* A new 'litmus test' for Mass? "The faithful who ask for the celebration of the forma extraordinaria must not in any way support or belong to groups which show themselves to be against the validity or legitimacy of the Holy Mass or the Sacraments celebrated in the forma ordinaria or against the Roman Pontiff as Supreme Pastor of the Universal Church." [How about the same 'litmus test' for liberals who "show themselves to be against the validity or legitimacy" of the Holy Mass or the Sacraments according to their traditional forms?]

* Regarding "qualified priests", the Instruction states that "a.) Every Catholic priest who is not impeded by Canon Law is to be considered idoneus ('qualified') for the celebration of the Holy Mass in the forma extraordinaria. b.) Regarding the use of the Latin language, a basic knowledge is necessary, allowing the priest to pronounce the words correctly and understand their meaning. c.) Regarding knowledge of the execution of the Rite, priests are presumed to be qualified who present themselves spontaneously to celebrate the forma extraordinaria, and have celebrated it previously." When diocese do not have "qualified priests", bishops "can request assistance from priests of the Institutes erected by the Pontifical Commission Ecclesia Dei, either to the celebrate the forma extraordinaria or to teach others how to celebrate it."

* Seminaries: "Ordinaries are asked to offer their clergy the possibility of acquiring adequate preparation for celebrations in the forma extraordinaria. This applies also to Seminaries, where future priests should be given proper formation, including study of Latin and, where pastoral needs suggest it, the opportunity to learn the forma extraordinaria of the Roman Rite." ["Asked to offer their clergy the possibility"? Merely asking? How imprudent has "asking" been for the Church over the past decades when even bishops themselves fail to obey papal instructions!]

* Celebrations sine populo: "The faculty to celebrate sine populo (or with the participation of only one minister) in the forma extraordinaria of the Roman Rite is given by the Motu Proprio to all priests, whether secular or religious (cf. Motu Proprio Summorum Pontificum, art. 2). For such celebrations therefore, priests, by provision of the Motu Proprio Summorum Pontificum, do not require any special permission from their Ordinaries or superiors."

* Follow the rubrics: "The liturgical books of the forma extraordinaria are to be used as they are. All those who wish to celebrate according to the forma extraordinaria of the Roman Rite must know the pertinent rubrics and are obliged to follow them correctly."

* Get out the Rosary again: "New saints and certain of the new prefaces can and ought to be inserted into the 1962 Missal, according to provisions which will be indicated subsequently." [How about a requirement that those inserted into the 1962 Missal be canonized under the more stringent 1962 canonization provisions?]

* Unfortunate: "As foreseen by article 6 of the Motu Proprio Summorum Pontificum, the readings of the Holy Mass of the Missal of 1962 can be proclaimed ... in Low Masses, solely in the vernacular." [Note: Click here for benefits of the Latin language]

* Disciplinary norms: "With regard to the disciplinary norms connected to celebration, the ecclesiastical discipline contained in the Code of Canon Law of 1983 applies."

* Vague: "Furthermore, by virtue of its character of special law, within its own area, the Motu Proprio Summorum Pontificum derogates from those provisions of law, connected with the sacred Rites, promulgated from 1962 onwards and incompatible with the rubrics of the liturgical books in effect in 1962." [Hopefully this may protect the faithful from novelties such as Communion in the hand, 'lay ministers', and altar girls, but this is not spelled out in the document... plus there is already concern over early (pre-1962) indults that may still exist somewhere...]

* The Instruction reiterates that Confirmation may be performed according to the traditional rite

* The Instruction indicates that "Only in Institutes of Consecrated Life and Societies of Apostolic Life which are under the Pontifical Commission Ecclesia Dei, and in those which use the liturgical books of the forma extraordinaria, is the use of the Pontificale Romanum of 1962 for the conferral of minor and major orders permitted."

* Breviarium Romanum: The Breviarium Romanum in effect in 1962 "is to be prayed entirely and in the Latin language"

* Sacred Triduum: "If there is a qualified priest, a coetus fidelium ('group of faithful'), which follows the older liturgical tradition, can also celebrate the Sacred Triduum in the forma extraordinaria. When there is no church or oratory designated exclusively for such celebrations, the parish priest or Ordinary, in agreement with the qualified priest, should find some arrangement favorable to the good of souls, not excluding the possibility of a repetition of the celebration of the Sacred Triduum in the same church."

* The use of "liturgical books proper to the Religious Orders which were in effect in 1962 is permitted" as is the use of the "Pontificale Romanum, the Rituale Romanum, as well as the Caeremoniale Episcoporum in effect in 1962" in keeping with provisions of the Instruction

Related: Traditional Latin Mass (Topic Page) | The Traditional Latin Mass vs. the Novus Ordo (New) Mass

[5/13/11]

NEWSFLASH: Motu Proprio 'Clarification' Release Date: 5/13/11

[Note: This blog post was delayed due to technical problems with the blogger.com website]

The 'clarification' regarding Summorum Pontificum will be released on 5/13/11. Sources indicate that the document is mostly positive for those who love the Traditional Mass. We will provide additional details after the document is released. Please check back soon.

Related: Traditional Latin Mass (Topic Page)

[5/12/11]

Some Recent News Links

A couple recent news links...

The Remnant's 'Statement of Reservations Concerning the Impending Beatification of Pope John Paul II' [Related user-submitted article: When a Pope Should Be & Should Not Be Called Great]

TIA claims statements concerning the Jews in the Holy Father's new book contradict Scripture, 'the past Magisterium' & the 'constant teaching of the Church Fathers' and are "another affront made to the Catholic Religion and a grave offense that cannot be ignored by Catholics"

[3/22/11]

Update Re: Motu Proprio

It is now believed that the expected 'clarification' regarding Summorum Pontificum will not 'water down' the Motu Proprio as previously feared. In fact, some provisions in the new document may serve to strengthen the '07 papal document. Reportedly the 'clarification', which is expected to be released before Easter, will...

* encourage training of seminarians in the ancient rite

* prohibit bishops from imposing unlawful restrictions on celebrating the TLM

* grant Ecclesia Dei additional powers

* clarify that the Triduum Sacrum may be celebrated in the traditional form

* *not* specify the number of persons which constitute a 'stable group'

Related: Traditional Latin Mass (Topic Page)

[3/9/11]

NEWSFLASH: Motu Proprio in Danger? How To Help

Rumors are circulating that the long awaited 'clarification' of Summorum Pontificum may be expected shortly. It is feared that this 'clarification' may serve to 'water down' the Motu Proprio.

How you can help...

* Pray

* Sign relevant online petitions (e.g. the petition at www.motuproprioappeal.com) [Note: After signing the petition on the above site, a donation appeal may appear. This appeal may be ignored. Also, for those concerned about privacy or the receipt of future e-mail, note that an e-mail address such as 'not @ applicable . com" (without the spaces) may suffice at the above site]

* Send a polite letter and/or e-mail to appropriate parties at the at the Vatican

* Tell your friends

Related: Traditional Latin Mass (Topic Page)

[2/18/11]

Alleged Marian Apparition in Wisconsin: Answers Still Needed

Some concerns regarding the alleged Marian apparition approved by a U.S. bishop in 12/10 were recently shared with a faithful priest. The priest reviewed the concerns and agreed that some elements involving the alleged apparition in Wisconsin appear 'strange'. If nothing else, it seems the following items at least deserve an adequate answer...

* Why is it that the alleged visionary in Wisconsin, Adele Brise, never took religious vows, yet she dressed in a habit and is referred to as "Sr. Adele"? The image of Adele wearing a habit is used to promote the shrine (see one such image below), and the laywoman's appearance as a 'nun' may therefore give an apparent air of credibility to the alleged apparition. Even her tombstone refers to her as "sister", yet she took now religious vows. Why is this?

* Why did the apparition instruct a lay woman, rather than a priest or religious, to "Gather the children in this wild country and teach them what they should know for salvation". In contrast, Jesus instructed certain males (e.g. priests) - not women - to teach. As Pope John Paul II stated: "Priestly ordination, which hands on the office entrusted by Christ to his Apostles of teaching, sanctifying and governing the faithful, has in the Catholic Church from the beginning always been reserved to men alone" (emphasis added). St. Paul says, "A woman must receive instruction silently and under complete control. I do not permit a woman to teach or to have authority over a man. She must be quiet." (1 Tm. 2:11-12) So, does it not seem strange that in a place where the Catholic Church was already established, an apparition would call on a lay woman - rather than the parish priest - to (apparently independently) teach other peoples' children "what they should know for salvation"? If the priest wasn't doing his job of teaching the children, why did the apparition not appear to him or to his bishop? Also, the apparition apparently did not instruct the lay woman to clear her new 'teaching assignment' with the parish priest or other Church authorities, the authentic instructors of the faith. Isn't that rather odd?

* Why was approval of the apparition referred to as a 'thank you' to Adele Brise, rather than simply an objective determination made after careful evaluation of the alleged apparition's authenticity? (Note: The bishop said "In many ways it is also a thank-you gift to Adele Brise, that Belgian immigrant who came here to this country...")

* Why did the bishop also give other reasons for approving the apparition which have nothing to do with authenticity? (Note: Reasons included these two: "My love for the Blessed Mother, and the simple messages to get the faith out there") Why would approval be given for any other reason than that the apparition was found to be authentic?

* Isn't it true that an examination conducted around 150 years after the fact may make it difficult for a careful review of contradictory evidence? (Note: By contrast, the Marian apparition Lourdes occurred less than two years earlier and was approved quickly by the Church)

* Why does the description of the Blessed Virgin's hair seem so unusual (she reportedly had "long, golden, wavy hair" which "fell loosely around her shoulders")? Also, isn't it rather odd that the description and associated image do not indicate that the Blessed Virgin wore a veil?

* Could the timing of the approval be considered strange / opportune since the diocese is embroiled in abuse scandals? (Note that the diocese was recently charged with obstruction of justice for allegedly destroying evidence related to abuse cases, but the diocese denies the claims and the bishop denies that the scandals influenced his decision regarding the apparition)

* Isn't it true that while some associated miracles may seem impressive, it is possible that they could be explained by natural means or as answers to prayers which were unrelated to the alleged apparition?

Especially in light of the various false alleged apparitions in recent times - and the large number of people willing to follow them - it seems especially important for the bishop to provide good answers to questions such as those above.

"The devil is most pleased when he sees that people desire to accept revelations and are inclined toward them. For then he has an excellent opportunity to inject errors and disparage faith as much as possible." (St. John of the Cross, Doctor of the Church)

Related: Marian Apparitions

[2/7/11]