The controversy over the NO, which continues today, began even before the NO was promulgated by Pope Paul VI in 1969 and published in 1970. For a good synopsis, see How the Novus Ordo Mass Was Made by Yves Chiron, a church historian.
Remember the "reform of the reform?" There have been several since Vatican II, but problems continue. The question begging to be asked is, "Did Vatican II really 'reform' the liturgy or did it introduce a new liturgical revolt.
Bugnini admitted in 1965 that the goal of the Consilium was to remove all obstacles to Protestants in the Mass saying, "We must strip from our Catholic prayers and from the Catholic liturgy everything which can be the shadow of a stumbling block for our separated brethren, that is for the Protestants…" The six Protestant "observers" [1. A. Raymond George (Methodist); 2. Ronald Jaspar (Anglican); 3. Massey Shepherd (Episcopalian); 4. Friedrich Künneth (Lutheran); 5. Eugene Brand (Lutheran); 6. Max Thurian (Calvinist-community of Taize)] the Consilium did not simply "observe." Often, their input was adopted verbatim. (source)
It appears that the "reformers" hoped the Traditional Latin Mass (TLM) would die a natural death. It hasn't and it won't. And that has led to the nuclear assault with Traditionis Custodes. That document has done nothing but magnify the problem with bishops against bishops. Canon lawyers and theologians are documenting serious problems with the document and the limits of obedience to a pope who oversteps his authority.
Those bishops attempting to suppress the TLM (e.g., Wilton Gregory is expected to ban it in the Archdiocese of Washington which will close some parishes. source) may find themselves, like Gamaliel warned, "fighting against God.":
And so in the present case, I say to you, stay away from these men and leave them alone, for if the source of this plan or movement is men, it will be overthrown; but if the source is God, you will not be able to overthrow them; or else you may even be found fighting against God. (Acts 5:38-39)
Pray for the Church.
Most Sacred Heart of Jesus, have mercy on us.
It is probably also worth reviewing that famous Firing Line episode from 1980, titled: 'The Fight Over Catholic Orthodoxy'; featuring Malachi Martin, Joseph Champlin, Wm. F. Buckley of course, and a youthful Michael Davies who schooled them all ... some reacting pleasantly, and some, like the weaselly Monsignor Champlin not so receptively.
ReplyDeletehttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ERPQaQ1Gn5U
Davies' three volume liturgical revolution set can be had at a substantial discount from a religious press if one does a quick internet search. It includes, Cranmer's Godly Order; Pope John's Council; and Pope Paul's New Mass.