Changes, changes...

Surfing the Net, I have found a most interesting and useful comparison of two English translations of the Roman Missal. The first was published in 1970 and is used since then. The new translation is ordered to be on a daily basis in parishes until the first Sunday of Advent 2011. In my opinion, it is a dream. Even now there is such an opposition against the new Missal (because it's too catholic), that in numerous dioceses it will be simply rejected without asking anyone for permission. Nevertheless, I would like to point out few differences.


To begin with, now people in churches when proclaiming their Credo, announce that Christ is one in Being with the Father and born of the Virgin Mary, all said in plural form. It will change now. After 27 November all faithful will (in theory) speak using singular form and confess the Faith in Jesus, who is consubstantial with the Father and incarnate of the Virgin Mary. Concerning the Priest’s Parts, also a lot has changed, mostly in the linguistic aspect. Vulgar, poor English was thrown away in favour of more beautiful and poetic. The same happened also in the case of People’s Parts, as presented above, but here it is more visible. Of course it is not the only difference: a distinction was made between the sacrifice of the celebrant and this of the faithful during the Orate fratres prayer, what is a strong hit right in the heart of the false idea of a priest who is seen merely as a leader of a congregation, congregation which also celebrates the liturgy. What is more, in the most significant moment of the Mass, consecration, the priest says that Jesus took this precious chalice, not the cup. In the context of Eucharistic sacrileges caused by ignorance of Its value, it is a step forward in order to restore the proper respect.

To sum up, the correction of linguistic aspect (beauty and accuracy of the language) of the Missal should improve the way in which both faithful and the priest receive the service. Reviewed text leaves very small space for liturgical “innovations”, what, in my opinion, may bring only good fruits. In addition, accurately translated prayers may be a help for confused priests, who are not fully aware of their identity and mission due to the lack of proper formation in seminaries.



P.S. Of course, changes presented by me are just a sample. More of them You may see here.