The Latin Mass in the Wider World

It has been widely reported that Pope Francis has been in communication with the Italian Bishops' Conference concerning issues associated with the Latin Mass.  Whilst nothing official has emerged, there is little doubt that there is substance behind these reports.

We understand from several reports that the Vatican has prepared a document that would limit the application of Pope Benedict's motu proprio, Summorum Pontificum.  It seems that it was discussed at a closed session of the Italian Bishops' Conference.  Although the content of the document is not known, enough has leaked out for there there to be concern amongst the traditional community.

It must be emphasised that what follows is speculation. However, it seems probable that this new document is a follow up to the recent survey conducted by the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith about the reception of the Extraordinary Form throughout the dioceses of the world.  It also seems likely that the document contains a proposal to curb the expansion of the Latin Mass.  Possibly, bishops would be given greater powers to regulate Latin Mass provision in their dioceses.

Although Summorum Pontificum gave every priest the right to choose which Form of the Mass to use, the reality is that very few priests are free to chose.  They are not insulated from pressures from both their congregations and their bishops. 

So how might a restriction imposed by Pope Francis work out?  In England and Wales, I doubt whether there will be much impact.  Some bishops acknowledge the need to provide Latin Masses, others don't.  This is likely to remain the case, so provision of Latin Masses will continue to vary from diocese to diocese.  The Orders of priests that are dedicated to the Latin Mass will continue to expand, and will find homes in dioceses where they are welcomed.

I think the same can be said for other parts of the world where the Latin Mass has at least a foothold.  This would include most of Europe and America.  Elsewhere the impact might be greater.  However, I am confident that the Latin Mass is here to stay and its availability will continue to grow with its greater popularity.