BY ALBERT DUNN
More than 80 Sisters, Associates, Motherhouse liturgical ministers and staff gathered on Tuesday, October 4 for an information session regarding the coming revision of the Roman Missal (the book of rites used for Mass and other liturgies such as Good Friday) and its accompanying General Instruction, the document explaining the Missal’s practical implementation.
The presentation was given by Fr. John Hibbard and sponsored by the Congregational Liturgy Committee. Fr. Hibbard is chair of both the Archdiocesan Liturgical Commission and the National Council for Liturgy, a committee of the Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops. He is also a past director of the National Liturgy Office.
A revised edition of the Roman Missal was issued by the Holy See (Rome) in 2002. The English translation of Roman Missal has been completed. This revised Roman Missal will introduce a new translation of the Mass for all English-speaking Catholics throughout the world and revised directions for celebration. This will affect the spoken prayers and sung parts of the Mass.
Fr. Hibbard first reviewed the history of the revision process, moving on to such matters such as translation principles, scriptural references and ritual language, all of which have had considerable influence on the final texts.
Sr. Frances O’Brien expressed appreciation on behalf of all present, noting that times of transition can challenge us. She said that hopefully Fr. Hibbard’s thoughtful presentation will help us all through this challenging time.
The Third Edition of the Roman Missal will be implemented on the First Sunday of Advent, November 27, 2011.
Further information and resources are available on the website of the Archidiocese of Kingston.