The mere recitation of long Creeds at Holy Mass does not bring light and life if the people do not  enter into the Mystery of the Cross in holy quiet prayer. This is the ancient Tradition. Instead, today, the priests (and chosen lay readers) too often stand in the way. And as the priest’s presence increases, union with the mystical Christ is obscured. The Lord is eclipsed by the droning presence of announcements, lay recitals, and the encouragement of very poor music and singing.

Instead of the priest moving directly to the most sublime and central Act in human history amidst incense and the timeless prayer of the Mystical Body, and carrying the sins and hopes of the poor in spirit to the Cross and Real Presence, many priests, often full of embarrassing personality, eclipse the Vision of eternity with banalities, and reduce the Creeds to lifeless forms and words.

By the time priests today reach the Eucharist itself the Act of Consecration becomes the most rushed part of the Mass. The Bread and Cup of the sacred species are lifted up and put down, often cavalierly with one hand, and so fast it is easy for the People of God to miss the Cross altogether.

Up. Down. Done. This is a spiritual crime.

It should be the Priest who quietly recites the Creeds and prepares the Eucharistic Gifts. We can enter this confession of Faith with him in silent prayer.

The Mass, with the ages, must show the re-Presentation of the one, same, crucifixion, a mystical Act so transcendent as to rivet the eyes, hearts, and prayers of the poor in spirit in the Mystery that passes all human knowledge.  

We do indeed need a reform of the Reform again. And the resurrection of choirs. Dismal barren liturgies run by Progressive bishops, priests and laity must become a thing of the past. Because the more the Mass becomes superficial, the more the congregation is tempted to follow suit.

Stephen Hand

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