MyCatholicSource.com - 'Quick Help' Page: Visitor Says Pro-Latin Mass Arguments Are One-Sided

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Thank you for your comments. In response, please note that most persons weren't Latin scholars for hundreds of years when the Traditional Latin Mass was used worldwide, and was understood, even by children. In fact, many/most(?) people were illiterate in early generations. And note that 'most persons' in previous generations understood the Mass better than people do at present – some 70+% of Catholics today reportedly do not believe in the Real Presence – even though Mass is commonly said today in the vernacular. You do NOT need to understand Latin to understand the Traditional Mass.

Note even that the Pope who called the Second Vatican Council was a strong proponent of the Latin language, stating that...

"The employment of Latin has recently been contested in many quarters, and many are asking what the mind of the Apostolic See is in this matter. We have therefore decided to issue the timely directives contained in this document, so as to ensure that the ancient and uninterrupted use of Latin be maintained and, where necessary, restored." (Pope John XXIII, "Veterum Sapientia", 1962 A.D.)

You might also find it interesting to note that Jesus also participated in religious ceremonies in a language that was considered "dead" at the time, and some of today's Jews still do so. Chances are most Jews today using such a language would not consider themselves "scholars" in that language, nor would most of today's Catholics who attend Mass in Latin consider themselves Latin "scholars" (myself included). [Note: Of course Jews today, unfortunately, reject Christ, but this is only used as an example to illustrate the point about language.]

Further, your comment that "Catholic means universal not just for Latin scholars", seems rather ironic since the Church was "much more universal" when Latin was used than it is today. As Pope Pius XII stated...

"The use of the Latin language prevailing in a great part of the Church affords at once an imposing sign of unity and an effective safeguard against the corruption of true doctrine." (Pope Pius XII, "Mediator Dei", 1947 A.D.)

As the Pope who called the Second Vatican Council stated...

"In addition, the Latin language 'can be called truly catholic.' It has been consecrated through constant use by the Apostolic See, the mother and teacher of all Churches, and must be esteemed 'a treasure...of incomparable worth.' It is a general passport to the proper understanding of the Christian writers of antiquity and the documents of the Church's teaching. It is also a most effective bond, binding the Church of today with that of the past and of the future in wonderful continuity." (Pope John XXIII, "Veterum Sapientia", 1962 A.D.)

Regarding the Latin language, perhaps you may find the following resources to be of some assistance... (click link to view)

* Benefits of the Latin Language

* Latin Language Facts & Pronunciation Tips

* Latin Language is Not That Foreign

* Latin Language Reflections

* Latin Language Definitions

Furthermore, please note that our "arguments" are typically from scripture, popes, saints, etc. and cover aspects of both form AND language. Regarding the charge that they are "one sided", please note that we find it an "impossible task" to prudently argue the other side since many modern ideas simply do not have support from scripture or popes & saints prior to the 1960's. Furthermore, the results of various changes also speak for themselves – not to mention making "prophets" out of those who warned against such changes. Don't take our word for it – research the matter yourself. You might find it an interesting task to look at individual arguments and try to find any pre-1950 support for a contrary position from popes, saints, etc., rather than simply rejecting arguments that do not appeal to you. In your research, please do keep in mind that Mass is a SACRIFICE, not a "religious party"...

"If any one saith that in the mass a true and proper sacrifice is not offered to God; or that to be offered is nothing else but that Christ is given us to eat; let him be anathema." (Council of Trent).

Once a person has a firm, accurate grasp on the purpose of Mass, it is easier to get a better handle on the matter. To this end, you may find information on this page (and continuing pages) helpful.

In any event, we do not wish to argue with you. We believe our position is well supported from scripture, papal writings, saints' writings, teachings from traditional catechisms, various councils, etc. However, we do understand that you may not agree with our position. Please know that even if we may disagree with you, we do not in any way question your good intentions.

We thank you for your comments and wish you God's blessings.

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