I greatly appreciated Jesuit Father John Michalowski’s perspective and insight in his Aug. 13 commentary “Forgive our angry, divisive hearts.” I was especially encouraged by his prayer to be an instrument of peace who is open to the “many and varied” ways that God’s grace is at work. His account of attending Mass in both English and Latin is beautiful, and it is an example of the many and varied ways that God speaks to His people and that we can worship Him.
Amid the confusion and hurt that “Traditionis Custodes” has brought to the hearts of many of the faithful, I particularly found it beautiful to read a priest’s prayer to Our Blessed Lord to “forgive me for the times that I harden my heart to others because I think that I know better.”
Father Michalowski recounts in his commentary that during his youth he saw an elderly woman put her fingers in her ears at the sound of English at Mass. Unfortunately, many Catholics, both laity and clergy, are now putting their fingers in their ears – whether literally or figuratively – when they hear Latin. I pray, along with him, that those who resent the
Latin Mass can agree on its underlying good and can respect its place in our tradition and our present times.
I also pray, with Father Michalowski, that God’s love will overcome any sorrowful feelings over changes in our liturgies, especially those that reclaim whatever is just, pure, lovely, gracious and excellent.
Steven Richardson lives in Rock Hill, S.C.