The Diocese of Charlotte will restrict the Traditional Latin Mass, aligning with Pope Francis's guidelines. The decision limits the Latin Mass to a single chapel in Mooresville, starting July 8. Bishop Michael Martin stated the measure aims to promote unity within the Church. This action is in response to the Vatican's recent document on the celebration of the Latin Mass. A diocesan priest will be appointed to celebrate the Mass on Sundays and Holy Days of Obligation.
12 days ago
Pope Francis' 2021 motu proprio Traditionis Custodes aimed to regulate the use of the Traditional Latin Mass, also known as the extraordinary form of the Roman Rite 1 2. The document sought to promote unity within the Church by addressing concerns that the celebration of the Traditional Latin Mass was sometimes associated with a rejection of the Second Vatican Council and its liturgical reforms 1 2.
The Diocese of Charlotte, North Carolina, will significantly restrict the celebration of the Traditional Latin Mass starting July 8 1. No parish churches within the diocese will be permitted to offer the Traditional Latin Mass 1. Instead, the ancient liturgy will be limited to a single, unnamed chapel located in Mooresville 1 2. The chapel will be designated for faithful adherents to gather for the Eucharist only on Sundays and Holy Days of Obligation 1 2.
Bishop Michael Martin stated that the restriction is intended to align the Diocese of Charlotte with Pope Francis' directive and "promote the concord and unity of the Church" 1 2. Pope Francis has expressed sadness that the Traditional Latin Mass is sometimes characterized by a rejection of the Second Vatican Council, viewing such rejection as a doubt of the Holy Spirit's guidance of the Church 1 2.
A priest of the diocese will be appointed as chaplain, responsible for celebrating two Sunday Masses and Holy Day Masses using the 1962 Roman Missal at the designated chapel 1. Bishop Martin has clarified that individuals interested in participating in the Traditional Latin Mass are expected to remain active members of their current parishes, where they may continue to receive the sacraments 1. Bishop Martin's predecessor, Bishop Peter Jugis, had requested an extension to prepare for this transition, which has now expired 1 2.
How does unity relate to liturgical diversity?
The unity of the Church and liturgical diversity are related because the Church is united in its faith, sacraments, and governance, but this unity does not exclude a rich diversity of liturgical traditions and expressions .
Here's how unity and liturgical diversity relate:
The Church's unity is not a flat uniformity, but a wealth of gifts that the Holy Spirit distributes . This mystery of unity in diversity is evident in the Bishop's celebration of the Eucharist, surrounded by the presbyterate, ministers, religious, and the whole People of God . The Church's sacred duty is to preserve this unity and to strive to restore it where it has been weakened or tarnished, while also recognizing legitimate variety .
In conclusion, unity and liturgical diversity are related in that the Church maintains a fundamental unity in faith, sacraments, and governance, while also embracing a variety of liturgical and spiritual traditions . This diversity enriches the Church, but it must always be grounded in the unity that comes from Christ and the Holy Spirit . The Eucharist is a central expression of this unity, and liturgical celebrations should reflect the Church's universal nature while also respecting local traditions .