Dear Parishioners,

I would like to take a moment in this article to explain why I support the Traditional Latin Mass. With the motu proprio Traditionis Custdodes and the recent clarification, now would be the perfect time to back away from the Traditional Latin Mass. After all, no one in the hierarchy is encouraging it and it is an easier liturgy that more people understand. Why would any priest put the effort into learning and practicing an ancient form of the liturgy that most Catholics do not have regular contact with? Well, here are my reasons.

• The Traditional Latin Mass is beautiful. The prayers naturally progress from one to another without any dead time or lack of clarity. This noble simplicity is lifted up by the chants of the Mass which just lift you up into the sacred.
• The Traditional Latin Mass is very reverent. Every action of the Mass reminds you of the presence of God and that you are taking part in sacred actions. Why does the priest keep his fingers together? Because he touched the sacred host and does not want any particle to accidentally fall on the ground. Why does he face away from the people? So that he can lead them in prayer toward God. Why does the priest not make eye contact with the people? Because he is modestly representing Christ and not his own personality.
• The Traditional Latin Mass attaches us to our past. It is part of our patrimony as Catholics to celebrate Mass like they did in previous ages.
  In the Traditional Latin Mass, there is no room for ad lib or options. It is the same everywhere. When you go to a Latin Mass, you know exactly what you are getting.
• The people who are attracted to the Traditional Latin Mass are the ones I find most commonly follow the Church’s teachings on family life. They are more likely to believe that contraception is a sin (and it is) and are open to children. This openness to life has lead to some of the most happy Catholic families I have ever seen and I have seen more religious vocations from these families than from those who do not attend the Traditional Latin Mass.

Lastly, I would like to mention again that this is no way a criticism of Pope Francis or anyone in the hierarchy. If they want me to stop celebrating the Traditional Latin Mass, then Pope Francis or my bishop can just order me to and I would obey. I am not in charge of the Church and if I am missing some greater danger that comes from celebrating the Traditional Latin Mass, I do not want to cause any additional harm. But, until that time, I will continue to follow my conscience and support the Traditional Latin Mass which I have seen time and time again to be an immense good for the entire Church.

God bless!

Fr. Carter