Vatican Challenges and Latin Mass Traditions

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) — At the Church of Saint Agnes, incense filled the air as the priest spoke from an elevated pulpit, emphasizing the blend of traditional Catholic customs with Vatican loyalty. This comes as Pope Leo XIV faces a challenge from a dissident traditionalist group.

The Rev. John Ubel highlighted in Sunday homilies how Catholic faith should grow and adapt: “Our Catholic faith is a living tradition, and there is a difference between being rooted and being stuck.” He addressed this in English and Latin Masses.

After the Second Vatican Council updated the liturgy over 60 years ago, celebrating the traditional Latin Rite has become contentious. This tension gained attention recently when Pope Leo XIV announced that the traditionalist Society of St. Pius X (SSPX) formally separated from the Catholic Church. The Vatican excommunicated SSPX bishops and priests after they consecrated four bishops against the pope’s directives.

Saint Agnes, unaffected by SSPX’s actions as it holds church permission to conduct Latin Masses, remains a site of hope for unity. Ubel encouraged, “For all who are attached to Tradition, I pray that they seek to maintain full ecclesial communion with our Holy Father, Pope Leo XIV.” The church offers one traditional Latin Mass each weekend alongside other services.

Harmony in Diversity

Founded for German-speaking immigrants, Saint Agnes stands as an example of peaceful coexistence between different forms of Mass. The church provides both modern and traditional services. Ubel considers it a model for respecting various liturgical traditions.

Peter Draganowski, a 15-year-old altar boy, prefers Latin services despite their complexity. “It’s really not hard, it just has a lot more moving parts,” he commented after an English Mass, echoing an appreciation for the sacred beauty involved.

Hope for Reconciliation

Archbishop Bernard Hebda of St. Paul and Minneapolis expressed optimism for reconciliation. He encouraged those who attended SSPX chapels to consider joining authorized services. He emphasized the availability of traditional Mass across six locations in the Archdiocese.

Latin Mass: A Unique Tradition

The Latin Mass features distinct elements compared to standard services. The prayers are longer, the priest faces away from the congregation, and Communion is given on the tongue while kneeling. Priests wear shorter vestments and a biretta.

Only a small portion of U.S. Catholics attend the “extraordinary form” of Mass, says Stephen Cranney from Catholic University of America. Catholics favoring this Mass cite its aesthetic richness and connection to tradition.

Pope Leo’s challenge is balancing support for Latin Mass enthusiasts without encouraging division. Cranney questions how to accommodate these preferences without fueling schism.

Papal Approaches to Tradition

Leo’s predecessors took varied approaches. In 2007, Pope Benedict XVI encouraged the Latin Mass if parishioners wanted it. In contrast, Pope Francis placed restrictions, requiring bishop approval for its celebration and assessing adherence to Vatican II reforms, citing division concerns.

Despite earlier apprehensions, Leo allowed a cardinal to celebrate Latin Mass in St. Peter’s Basilica, seen by some as encouraging. He frequently emphasizes unity.

Before the SSPX ceremonies, Leo appealed for restraint. Once completed, the Vatican warned followers against SSPX services, considering them schismatic.

A Call for Unity

Saint Agnes parishioners express sadness over recent divisions. They continue to pray for a unified church. Parishioner Nell O’Leary Alt reflects on her family’s love for Latin worship, describing it as a link to the saints.

Tom Graff, a choir member, values the solemnity of both Latin rites. He teaches his children to appreciate all forms of worship, avoiding the belief that one is superior.

Rev. Ubel insists that offering multiple Mass forms is about inclusion: “It’s not a competition to see who’s more Catholic.”

Associated Press religion coverage is supported by The Conversation US, with funding from Lilly Endowment Inc. The AP solely holds responsibility for this content.