On the First Sunday of Advent, November 27, the opening of
our new liturgical year, look forward to some changes in the words, music, and
gestures of the glorious miracle we know as the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass.
It’s called the New Roman Missal, and it involves the folks
in the pews as it does our priests and deacons.
First, let’s dispense with what the New Roman Missal is NOT:
It’s NOT “something coming to us out of the blue.” This
particular version has, in reality, been a part of a prayerful process for some
40 years!
It’s NOT “an attempt to reverse Vatican II.”
It’s NOT—and I’ve actually heard this—a “cultural step
backward for English speaking people.”
In fact, these changes—and I believe the correct term is
“enhancements”—represent a giant leap forward in our reverent and loving
worship of Almighty God: The Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.
Let’s start with the greeting.
The Mass isn’t a chance encounter between friends, and so
the greeting is no ordinary “Hiya, how are ya, anyway”/ “fine thanks, and you”
sort of thing. Rather, it a ritual greeting and response. When the priest
greets us with the words “The Lord be with you” we will respond “And with your
spirit.” We’re not saying “hi” to the priest, and he’s not saying “hi” to us.
We’re both going beyond that by extending a solemn wish to someone about to
undertake a profound undertaking. This exchange takes place at several critical
moments during the Mass: as we are about to hear the Gospel proclaimed; as we
enter into the Eucharistic Prayer; as we are about to be dismissed. Remember,
the name “spirit” refers not to the priest or deacon’s soul, but to the spirit
he received through the laying on of hands at his ordination.
This is going to be great! Next, God willing, the Penitential Act. (Note: I said "Act," not "rite." Stay tuned! And do try to find out all you can about this enhanced English translation...and by the way, watch out for "progressives" who turn out to be averse to change! ;-)
