Back To The Future

Mark down this date.

July 7, 2007 (and you don't think the numerologists don't get the significance of it?).

This day will be known as when the "reform of the reform" officially began.

His Holiness, Pope Benedict XVI, has finally issued the long awaited moto proprio allowing parish priests to use of the Mass of Pius V, more commonly known as the Tridentine Latin Mass (TLM), alongside the current Missa Novus Ordo.

In allowing the TLM to be used, it is not replacing the present form of the Mass. It allows a priest to celebrate the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass with this rite if there is a suitable number of the faithful who request it. The papal document removes the requirement of having the local bishop approve such a request.

Amy Wellborn at Open Book provides a good start on what this means.

Jeff Miller, the Curt Jester has a good round-up of reactions from "the ususal suspects" and a post with more implications about this.

For an excellent source of articles and posts, go no further than Gerald Augustinus at The Cafeteria Is Closed. Choose from this menu.

Jimmy Akin writes about it and also adds his own insights.

(UPDATE) Karen Hall at Some Have Hats throws in her thoughts.

There is certainly much to digest, if you visit the myriad of 'blogs that will have something to say about this, whether celebrating or critizing.

But think about this bit of irony:

Many Protestant churches have a "traditional" and "contemporary" service on the same Sunday (however you wish to define those words).

Perhaps the same idea will be coming soon to a Catholic church near you.

One More Time

It's time to add another candle to the cake.

No, don't get a fire extinguisher.

Don't get any trick candles, either.

With all the trials in my life at the moment, the last lines of Max Ehrmann's Desiderata are still my goal:

With all its sham, drudgery, and broken dreams, it is still a beautiful world. Be cheerful. Strive to be happy.

Half In, Half Out

I don't live to 'blog nor 'blog to live. Rick Lugari, when informing me of my acceptance to the "B-Team", noted how moderate I was as a 'blogger. The number is about right.

55%How Addicted to Blogging Are You?

I also mentioned a long time ago this was not going to overtake my life. I admit to having lost some interest, but I have more pressing concerns at the moment. I hope, when I get my feet under me again, I will be more consistant in posting.

Fedora doff to Julie D., the Happy Catholic.

Independence Day Reprints

My posts from last year are linked for your convenience:

Let Freedom Ring

Birth Certificate

Happy 230th. Birthday (now 231st.)

May you enjoy all the feasting and fireworks!