vaticanii

Cardinal Stickler continues his discussion of the Latin mass. “Now we can better appreciate and understand the theological background and foundation of the discussions and regulations of the Council of Trent concerning the Mass as the summit of the sacred liturgy. In response to the serious challenge of Protestantism we can now understand the theological attractiveness of the Tridentine Mass, not only for that particular historical period but also as a pattern for the Church and liturgical reform of Vatican II… The Mass is not and cannot be simply a celebration of Communion, or a mere remembrance or memorial of the sacrifice of the Cross, but rather a true, unbloody making present of this self-same sacrifice of the Cross… the Mass is an effective renewal of the sacrifice of the Cross. It is essentially an adoration of God, offered only to Him.”

Fr. John Perricone discusses the Liturgy in a post Vatican II world. He analyzes the differences between the common practices in Catholic Churches and the actual teachings of the council. Father John Perricone demonstrates, with vivid examples, just how far the post-conciliar implementation of the Second Vatican Council is from the conciliar texts. Father Perricone reminds his audience of the importance of prayer, to set the Church on the right path.