Bishop Michael Martin of Charlotte has delayed the implementation of new restrictions on the traditional Latin Mass (TLM) until October. This decision comes after public criticism of the initial policy, which was originally set to begin on July 8. The diocese plans to designate a chapel in Mooresville, North Carolina, as the sole location for the usus antiquior in western North Carolina. The leaked draft document on liturgical norms has sparked controversy and was criticized as 'anti-traditional' and 'anti-liturgical'.
12 days ago
Bishop Michael Martin of the Diocese of Charlotte initially planned to restrict the Traditional Latin Mass (TLM) to a single, designated chapel starting July 8 1. This decision was presented as a step toward fully implementing Pope Francis' 2021 apostolic letter Traditionis Custodes, which aimed to limit the availability of the TLM 1 2 3. The Vatican had previously granted the diocese an extension to implement these restrictions, which was set to expire in October 1.
The implementation of these restrictions was delayed until October 2 following considerable public criticism 1 2. Bishop Martin stated the delay would allow more time for the transition and for the renovation of the designated TLM chapel 1. Concerns were raised by priests and parishioners, who felt the move was premature and would cause hardship due to the long distance to the new chapel in Mooresville 1 2. Four parish priests had also written to Bishop Martin, urging him to reconsider the restrictions and request an extension from the Vatican 2.
A leaked draft document outlining revised liturgical norms further fueled the controversy 1 3. The draft suggested a negative view of celebrating Mass "ad orientem" and proposed limiting the use of Latin in the liturgy 3. It also addressed practices such as the communal recitation of the St. Michael Prayer 3. Critics viewed these proposals as "anti-traditional" 3. The diocese clarified that the document was an early draft under discussion 1 3.
The initial announcement and the leaked draft sparked strong reactions 1 3. Commenters on social media expressed shock and anger 3. A group called "Faithful Advocate" was formed to advocate for the rights of the faithful in the Diocese of Charlotte and launched a petition asking Bishop Martin to reconsider the restrictions 1 3. The diocese is investing $700,000 in renovating the Mooresville chapel to accommodate the TLM community 1.
How does Traditionis custodes affect liturgical freedom?
Traditionis Custodes addresses the use of the Roman Liturgy prior to the reform of 1970 and affects liturgical freedom by specifying regulations and guidelines for the celebration of the Mass using the 1962 Roman Missal .
Here's how Traditionis Custodes affects liturgical freedom:
In summary, Traditionis Custodes curtails the freedom to use the 1962 Roman Missal by requiring priests to seek authorization from their diocesan bishop, who must ensure that those celebrating with the old Missal do not reject the liturgical reforms of Vatican II. It also places restrictions on where and how these celebrations can occur, emphasizing the bishop's role in regulating liturgical life within his diocese .