Summorum Pontificum – 8 years on
Today is the 8th anniversary of the release of the text of one of Benedict XVI’s greatest contributions, the Motu Proprio Summorum Pontificum.
I’ve been thinking a lot about tidbits I have been picking up in the last few months, from young priests and seminarians.
First, while there is a lot of chatter about a “Francis Effect” in the Church these days, we are still experiencing the “Benedict Effect”. The majority of the young priests and seminarians I have been in touch were formed in the time of John Paul II and Benedict XVI. I have heard that quite a few priests used the Extraordinary Form for their 1st Masses or celebrated it very soon after ordination.
Second, while there was a large increase this year in ordinations in these USA, 24.7%, (i.e., Benedict Effect) I am told that applications to enter seminaries this year is down. I don’t have official stats, but rather word of mouth via vocation directors.
Third, liberal persecution of traditional seminarians and young priests is on the rise again. The aging hippies and their few younger camp followers are exerting the last gasps of their power. I reflect with a measure of concern on the fact that the long years of the bad old days toughed and scarred many of us of a traditional bent, thus giving them tools, coping mechanisms, and the like. These new guys may be experiencing liberal persecution for the first time. It might be a little disorienting. Don’t worry guys. Lot’s of us older guys have your six.
Everyone, hang in there.
We have been given a great gift in the Motu Proprio. The Benedict Effect will continue.
Also, I remind you warmly and urgently to get involved in your parishes, to be active and zealous in performing the works of mercy, spiritual and corporal, and to get organized! Be supportive of young priests and seminarians. Help your pastors in their good projects. Begin to study and review the content of your Catholic Faith (the fides quae – with an eye on 1 Peter 3:15). Examine your consciences and stay close to the sacraments (to support the fides qua).
