Introduction of new liturgical changes

by Mary Pope-Handy | Aug 15, 2011 | Alienation & Belonging, Liturgy

Although the changes to prayers and songs at Mass aren’t officially required until the beginning of Advent this year, many parishes and other Catholic communities (such as at Mission Santa Clara) in the Diocese of San Jose have already begun introducing some of the new music or wording to help Catholics adjust more easily.

I think this is a very good idea.  While the history of the Church includes a good deal of “history of change”, it’s almost always a challenge for Catholics when they are in the midst of it.  With the massive changes after Vatican II, some Catholics never accepted the modifications and sought solace in breakaway or schismatic groups where the Latin Mass was still the norm.  Changes can cause alienation and I think we have learned that we need to be sensitive to the upset and introduce any alterations carefully.

Kudos to our bishop, and others, who wisely understand the need for the gradual adaption by the faithful.