The Vatican has launched its annual Advent website as the world's 1.5 billion Western Christians enter a brand new liturgical year with the popular season that leads to Christmas. (Eastern Christians began their traditional Nativity Fast earlier, as we reported November 15.) Want to know more about what the Vatican is offering? Click on the image at right to visit the Vatican site, where a range of Advent resources will be posted throughout the season. American Catholics are likely to need an inspirational boost, this year, because parishes across the U.S. are introducing a new English translation of the Mass.
The new English translation of the Mass debuted this weekend and news reporting nationwide is—well, mixed overall. CNN reports these changes "spur confusion in the pews." Other news media are reporting both thumbs up and thumbs down responses on the first weekend of the new Mass. But, some reports are absolutely glowing. The New York Daily News, which typically looks for controversy, reported an up-beat story on the new Mass, instead, headlined: "Many of city's Catholics praise first service using new prayer translations." Those praising the changes in news stories nationwide explain that they are enjoying a fresh appreciation of the language in the Mass. "For the first time in years, I'm thinking about each word," said a parishioner in Philadelphia.
Want more in-depth coverage of the change in Mass wording? Veteran religion newswriter Bill Tammeus filed an overview story on his website, including links to read more about the Mass update.
The biggest change within the Mass involves a short exchange of words widely used across Christian churches, including many Protestant denominations. Clergy say: "Peace be with you." The people usually say: "And also with you." In fact, this exchange is so common that it forms the punch-line of an oft-told joke in which a pastor is trying to adjust his equipment and mutters, "There's something wrong with this microphone." To which the people reply: "And also with you." As of Advent 2011, Catholics now are responding with "And also with your spirit." That's better theology, the scholars behind this new rendition of the Mass are arguing—but, of course, it spoils the old joke.
CARE TO READ MORE ABOUT THE NEW CATHOLIC MASS? The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops website has the entire text and educational materials that are free to download. Or, simply click on the red Roman Missal logo above.