Roman Missal

The new translation of the Roman Missal, which will go into effect on the First Sunday of Advent, presents presiders at liturgy with both a significant challenge and a unique opportunity.  These texts, a much more literal translation of the Latin “editio typica” than the one we have been using for nearly forty years, can be a tongue-twisting and even mid-bending challenge to proclaim in English with both meaning and grace.  On the other hand, the language is often beautifully vivid and expressive after the rather pedestrian theological generalities of the translation we’re used to.

Last week I gave a 6-part workshop to priests of the Archdiocese of Los Angeles in which we explored some basic principals of liturgy and effective communication that can help us welcome these new texts.  I am convinced that we parish priests do not have to worry too much about how our people accept these “changes.”  They will take the lead form us: if we preside well, they will experience being engaged in and nourished by these texts.  It’s a challenge for us.

The complete set of six talks (about 45 minutes each) may be found on the Internet Archive website.  You can also download the handouts for Tuesday and Wednesday.

I hope you find them helpful.