Next Sunday we will begin to use the new English translation of the Order of Mass.
If you read this column regularly you would know that we have been discussing the parts of the Mass, their purpose, and the features of the new translation for some time now. We have also been spending a few minutes each week learning more about the Mass and the new translation. These brief video reflections will continue over the coming months as we enter into the practice of using these new texts regularly.
In anticipation of next Sunday, I wish to remind you of a few practical matters.
The texts that have changed will be displayed on the projection screen at Sunday Masses. You may also use one of the pew cards available near the doors if you wish. On weekdays, it will be necessary for you to follow the new texts from the pew card. Pew cards are to be returned to their holders for use by others. Please take care of the cards so that we can all make good use of them.
The key parts of the Mass you will need to be prepared for changes in are:
- The response “And also with you” will now be “And with your Spirit”
- The Confiteor, Gloria, and Creed all have noticeable changes
- Some other prayers, such as the Holy, Holy have smaller changes, as do some of the responses at different parts of the Mass
Unlike what is, or will be happening in some other parishes, we are introducing the whole translation at once. We believe this will eliminate any confusion over which translation we are using when.
Starting next Sunday, we will not only begin speaking the new translation, but hearing it as well. Our priests will begin to use new translations of the Eucharistic Prayer, including the prefaces. Other prayers the priest leads will be introduced once the complete missal is available to us later in the year.
The most important thing for us to remember at this time is while we have to concentrate on learning new words, they are more than mere words – they are our prayer to God. Let us try to listen, to reflect, to contemplate on the words we are saying and on how we are giving thanks to God in the Church’s ultimate act of thanksgiving, the Eucharistic celebration.
Liturgy 