SPECIAL EDITION “THE LITURGY IS THE CHURCH— EVERY CELEBRATED IN THE TRADITIONAL SPIRIT IS IMMEASURABLY MORE IMPORTANT THAN EVERY WORD OF EVERY POPE.” —Martin Mosebach

On papal power and the meaning and implications of Francis

$8 SPRING 2018

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Despite the “Spring 2018” page footers, you are holding in EDITORIAL OFFICE: your hands the occasional edition—mailed free to selected read- PO Box 1209 ers like you—of The Traditionalist. Every edition is published Ridgefield, Connecticut 06877 with the hope that its cost will be partially covered by readers [email protected] like you—who see the return envelope inside and send a dona- Your tax-deductible donations for the continu- tion. Or who buy one of our books; see Roman Catholic Books ation of this magazine in print may be sent to ads herein, or visit our BooksForCatholics.com website. Roman Catholic Media Apostolate at this address. Catholic Books is our book publishing imprint, now going on 38 years old! PUBLISHER/EDITOR: Your donation is tax-deductible and necessary to help us Roger A. McCaffrey keep going. I cannot thank you enough for your consideration. My hope is you’ll understand that we publish things in mag- Original logo for The Traditionalist created by azine form that nobody else would risk. It just isn’t done, for AdServices of Hollywood, Florida. example, to excerpt four different important books in one edi- SPECIAL THANKS TO: tion. Yet these are vital perspectives that don’t get the play they rorate-caeli.blogspot.com and lifesitenews.com deserve, except from bookbuyers. We couldn’t publish them without you, so I again beg your support. The essays and arti- CONTRIBUTORS cles certainly speak for themselves. I know they also speak for millions of, by now, very alarmed Catholics who have no voice Joseph D’Agostino in the Church other than the prayers that only God hears. Priscilla Smith McCaffrey What we’re witnessing from is a spectacle unprece- Steven Terenzio dented in Church history. Stuart Chessman One story alone captures the spirit of the current regime. It’s Rev. Richard Cipolla told by the fired prefect of the Congregation for the Doctrine Martin Mosebach of the Faith, the most important post in the , Cardi- Maureen Mullarkey nal Mueller. He reported in an interview that the pope sent Thomas E. Woods an emissary to order Mueller, in the middle of a Mass he was George Neumayr saying, to report to the pope immediately. This got no play in Rev. Richard Munkelt the mainstream Catholic press, save for First Things Magazine, Robert L. Phillips which ran the interview. Deborah B. Cole So that is one reason we’re here. Thank you for reading these pages. We’ll be happy to send copies to people you sug- gest. The cover price is 8$ , including postage, for extra copies. Tune in to Catholic We’ve printed about 10,000 but have mailed 8,000...so supplies Homeschool Radio won’t last long. and Podcast Fresh and cheerful perspective from Catholic homeschooling veterans and teachers who advocate a guilt-free approach Roger A. McCaffrey to your efforts. BooksForCatholics.com click the icon on the homepage!

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3 Editorial: Where Are 60 False Charity by Neil We Going With the McCaffrey. The late publisher’s letter Pope & His Men? to his son about what passes today for love in Catholic circles, at the highest levels. 5 The A—Z List of Concerns with by John- Henry Westen. The LifeSiteNews founder-editor summarizes the concerns of millions. Will anyone act? Can anyone?

9 From the Desk of Cardinal Burke Foreword to the new edition of Dietrich von Hildebrand’s The Charitable 40 Bringing God’s Designs Anathema makes clear the thoughts of the Back to Life in America’s philosopher-theologian on Church crises Churches by Trent Beattie. A have not dated, though the last words look at some of the best news in recent he wrote are more than 40 years old. years: a revival of traditional architecture in structures, a 25- year trend really gaining steam.

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Your financial support and Will bequests to Catholic Media Apostolate, publishers of this journal and parent non-profit of Roman Catholic 11 Will Paul Correct Peter? Books publishers, will mean a George Neumayr’s devastating “take” on the Francis pontificate, now five years out. 48 What “Memory” Really lot as we navigate the choppy Means by Priscilla Smith Tribute to Joseph Ratzinger, waters set in motion over 19 McCaffrey. Means to a Catholic. the Pope Who Abdicated, by Martin the last several years. For Mosebach—who asks Catholics not 52 The Crucial Importance information, please write us at to forget Benedict XVI’s importance, of One and One notwithstanding the increasingly widespread Lay Movement. Bishop Athanasius our Editorial Office, P.O. Box disappointment with his resignation. Schneider’s powerful introduction to the new 1209, Ridgefield, Connecticut history of International and its 06877, or email same at 28 Tradition in the Balance work—which included defending Archbishop The veteran by Philip F. Lawler. , who refused to use the [email protected]. journalist, in his new book on Pope new missal and formed his seminarians Francis, lays out what’s at stake with Thank you very much! with the traditional liturgy, incurring the pontificate, and where it differs the wrath not only of the Catholic Left, but significantly from all recent predecessors’. of the conservatives. Who was right?

Cover Photo by Edward Pentin 2 Editorial Where Are We Going with Francis and His Men?

here we’re going Lawler’s measured book, Lost Shep- intimately involved with the Council with Pope Francis herd, already has international reach. who implemented said Council, that is easy to see. To He throughly documents his pages, approach doesn’t work. Moreover, it’s make his direc- as befits a Harvard guy, and names those popes who chose every cardinal tion more clear names, in an understated manner that who elected Jorge Bergoglio. Those still, it’s spelled out in two recent books is a Lawler trademark. While Lawler’s popes own the Francis pontificate. Wthat analyze his pontificate—his words perspective has always differed slightly While it’s surprising that Pope and his uses of authority—critically. from, say, Michael Davies’s, this does Francis wants to cut a deal with the The newest, excerpted herein, is Phil not obviate the power of his book. In iconic Traditionalist Society of St. Pius Lawler’s—he of Catholic World News. a way, it’s enhanced. X, it’s unlikely that he has an affinity com note—and a second, The Political Permit me a minor digression: a for anything they embrace whatsoever. Pope, is by former editor of Catholic problem emerges in Phil’s allusion to When Francis had the chance to talk World Report magazine George Neu- “traditionalists.” That term is broadly with their leaders, he gave them less mayr. Although over a year old, it has applied to millions of people and to a time than he has to the LBGTQXYZs. not dated, and we also offer a key chap- few thousand or so opinion leaders, an Indeed, documenting such scan- ter in these pages. The Neumayr book uneven assortment of the clerical and dals fearlessly is one of many reasons sooner or later will have to be re-issued, small-publishing/blog orbit. Lawler’s indictment of this pontificate if only because he was the first to call Lawler says Traditionalists are is valuable. Because he is one of the out Francis in book form, cogently. like the Catholic Left in their view of deans of Catholic journalism, and has The sharpness of Neumayr’s criti- Vatican II because both sides see the an encyclopedic knowledge of recent cisms, which matches the tone Francis Council as revolutionary. Point taken. Catholic history, sentences like this adopts when attacking his critics in the I say Conservative Catholics—sav- practically jump from the page: Church, appears prophetic. ing appearances even as the Church “But if Pope Francis is free to dis- The Catholic press, still in denial writhed in pain from its Council and card the ideas of Pope Benedict [on the mode about Francis, ignored the its popes—are like the Catholic Left liturgy and established Catholic doc- book—despite the fact that Neumayr is because both sides see the Council’s trine], then a future pope should be free one of the finest wordsmiths and clear- words as sacrosanct, practically on a to discard the ideas of Pope Francis.” est observers of leftist hypocrisy in the par with Scripture. The conservatives’ Church. His columns are “must-read.” view is that the misunderstood Council It’s increasingly clear that our is, inherently, orthodox Catholicism. Argentinian pope, who uses his power Ambiguity in its documents? When we skillfully and forcefully to promote a have an ambiguity, they answer, what radical agenda, is determined to move we’re supposed to do, as loyal Catho- the Church into new territory: married lics, is interpret it in an orthodox way , deaconesses, and a “loosening” and move on. of—a changing of—traditional teaching This worked for a while, but after on contraception. 50 years of ambiguity and three popes 3 “I Editorialam convinced that the reader will find the various essays published in the present volume a trustworthy guide to navigate the difficult times in which the Church finds herself today.” —Cardinal Raymond Burke

enowned thinker Dietrich von • Positive and Negative Thinking. Von Hildebrand’s post-Vatican II Hildebrand explains when the latter speeches at the Roman Forum is totally appropriate Rin New York, most of which later be- • Corruption of Souls by the New Cate- came concise essays, diagnosed the chisms. No middle ground multiple concerns afflicting the Mysti- • The Marks of a True Christian Educa- cal Body—and prescribed the cure. tion. Practical ways to determine the good and bad teacher, classroom or “Von Hildebrand is the 20th century text doctor of the Church.” So proclaimed • The Illusion of Progress. Why change his beloved friend, Pope Pius XII. Even isn’t always for the better Pope Paul VI—with whom von Hildeb- • Confidence in the Holy Spirit. Ways to rand expressed fraternal disagreement draw closer to God while carrying on on matters like changing the Mass— the struggle for the Faith found him formidable and honored him with an award for a remarkable career “Every problem he discusses in this of Catholic writing. easy-to-read book is still with us… What is truly amazing is how relevant In fact, Paul VI’s homage makes these it is to the Church now in the 1990s… 20 essays all the more fascinating: von Von Hildebrand remains relevant, just The Charitable Anathema Hildebrand spent most of the last years as St. Augustine and St. Thomas remain of his life—Paul VI’s pontificate— relevant, because like them he has his By Dietrich von Hildebrand sounding the alarm and suggesting finger on what is real.”—Fr. Kenneth Beautiful Sewn Softcover ways to reverse the decline in Catholic Baker SJ, Editor Emeritus, Homiletic $22.95 belief and practice. He brings Scrip- and Pastoral Review ture, tradition and the writings of great Sacred Liturgy and Catholic education. to bear on our present turmoil. From his Foreword to this new edition, These essays were collected under the Seven chapters set the tone: Cardinal Burke adds: title The Charitable Anathema. Al- though the articles treat the particular • The Charitable Anathema. Why ex- “In the years immediately following the situation in which the Church found communication of heretics is an Second Vatican Ecumenical Council, herself in the years immediately fol- act of love, and ensures true unity between 1966 and 1976, Dr. Dietrich lowing the , among believers. The beneficial ef- von Hildebrand prepared numerous the texts still retain their timeliness, fects it would have on weak Catholics articles in which he examined, from a not only because we experience similar or those who have left the fold philosophical perspective, a variety of challenges in our day, but also because • The Case for the Latin Mass (later topics related to our knowledge and the definitions and clarifications which made, in private audience, to John practice of the Catholic faith, especial- Dr. von Hildebrand provides have pe- Paul II by Dr. Alice von Hildebrand) ly with regard to catechesis, doctrine, rennial relevance...”

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4 or■ theEmail traditionalist us for special purchases at [email protected] Pope Bergoglio’s Revolution The A - Z List of Concerns with Pope Francis

he confusion caused by Cohabitation JOHN-HENRY WESTEN Pope Francis in the Cath- Pope Francis said “cohabitations” olic Church is out of con- with fidelity are “real marriage” and trol. There have been so “have the grace of real marriage.” On many incidents over the another occasion when the Pope made John-Henry Westen last four years that the specifics, despite similar remarks, papal confidante Fr. is founding editor of Ttheir grave damage, are often forgotten. Antonio Spadaro tweeted a photo of the In an effort to encourage prayer for an Pope greeting a couple who “prefer to LifeSiteNews.com, end to the confusion and disorienta- live together without getting married.” the best daily report tion in the Church, LifeSite presents on Catholic and the following A-Z list of concerns with life-related issues. Pope Francis. Danneels Cardinal Godfried Danneels, the emeritus archbishop of Brussels, was a personal appointment by Pope Francis The document so long awaited to to the Synods of Bishops on the family. bring needed clarification from the In addition to wearing rainbow liturgi- Pope served rather to increase confu- cal vestments and being caught on tape sion the world over as the Pope himself concealing sexual abuse, Danneels said approved interpretations (Malta, Ger- in 2013 of the passage of gay “marriage”: many) which allowed for Holy Com- “I think it’s a positive development that munion to be given to divorced and states are free to open up civil marriage remarried Catholics. for gays if they want.”

Burke demotion Emma Bonino Cardinal Raymond Burke was Pope calls Italy’s foremost abortion removed from one of the highest offices promoter one of nation’s ‘ forgotten in the Church, as the supreme justice greats’. In an interview with Corriere of the Church’s highest court. Instead Della Sera Pope Francis praised Italy’s he, one of the most faithful Cardinals, unrepentant leading abortionist and was given a largely ceremonial position proponent of abortion, Emma Bonino, with the Order of Malta and even there as one of the nation’s “forgotten greats,” his role was stripped. comparing her to great historical fig- ures such as Konrad Adenauer and Robert Schuman. © LifeSiteNews.com

5 Pope Bergoglio’s Revolution

and John Schellnhuber. The head of a personal appointee of the pope to First synod the Vatican’s Pontifical Council for the synods and regularly meets with interim doc Sciences, Bishop Marcelo Sorondo, Pope Francis. Kasper defended the The scandalous mid-term relatio of who ran most of those conferences, is vote of the Irish in favor of homosex- the first Synod on the Family was seen himself a population control advocate ual “marriages”, saying: “A democratic and approved-for-release by the Pope saying on camera at one such Vatican state has the duty to respect the will of according to Cardinal Lorenzo Baldis- conference that limiting births was an the people; and it seems clear that, if seri, secretary general of the Synod of obligation of the Church. the majority of the people wants such Bishops. “The documents were all seen homosexual unions, the state has a duty and approved by the Pope,” Baldisseri to recognize such rights.” said. In a section titled ‘Welcoming Irresponsible to homosexual persons’, the document have 8 children? states: “Homosexuals have gifts and On January 19, 2015 while speak- Luther, serious qualities to offer to the Christian com- ing of “responsible” parenthood, the sin to convert munity.” It then asks: “Are our com- pope cautioned against Catholics being The Pope spoke to an audience munities capable of providing [them a “like rabbits.” The pope spoke about a before a statue of Luther in the Vati- welcoming home], accepting and valu- woman he knows who he said was preg- can just prior to his going to Sweden ing their sexual orientation, without nant with her eighth child after having to help launch the 500th anniversary compromising Catholic doctrine on the first seven by C-section. He said he of . The Vatican issued a the family and matrimony?” had “rebuked” her, saying, “But do you stamp featuring Luther and put out a want to leave seven orphans? That is to document saying Catholics now rec- tempt God!” “That is an irresponsibility. ognize Martin Luther as a ‘witness to Gender-confused [That woman might say] ‘no but I trust the gospel’. couple at Vatican in God.’ But God gives you methods to On another occassion he said it On October 2, 2016, Pope Francis be responsible,” he said. is a “very grave sin” to try to convert referred to a woman who underwent “Some think that, excuse me if I use Orthodox to Catholicism: “There is a sex-change operation as a “man.” that word, that in order to be good Cath- a very grave sin against : He referred to her as having “mar- olics we have to be like rabbits.” He proselytism.” ried” another woman and admitted added, “No. Responsible parenthood!” to inviting and receiving them to the Vatican in 2015, describing the couple Multiplication as “happy”. Clarifying his use of pro- Judge – Who am I to…. of loaves nouns, the pope said, “He that was her Despite the avalanche of evidence During the Angelus of June 2, 2013, but is he.” of harm to the Church from the Pope’s he spoke about Christ’s miracle of the first ‘Who am I to judge’ remark on multiplication of the loaves and fishes his first plane interview in 2013, he as taking place by “sharing.” “This is Holy See population repeated the line in June 2016 while the miracle: rather than a multiplica- control misrepresenting the Catechism on tion it is a sharing, inspired by faith Since shortly after the election of homosexuality. and prayer,” he said. He was even more Pope Francis there has been a steady explicit about it in July 2015 in a hom- stream of population control pushers ily preached in Christ the Redeemer speaking at the Vatican. These include: Kasper Square in Bolivia. Pope Francis said, Paul Ehrlich, the father of the popu- A few days into his pontificate, “This is how the miracle takes place. It lation control movement; John Bon- Pope Francis praised one of Cardi- is not magic or sorcery. … Jesus man- gaarts, vice president of the pro-abor- nal Kasper’s books and then selected aged to generate a current among his tion Population Council; pro-abortion Kasper to deliver the controversial followers: they all went on sharing what U.N. Secretary General Ban Ki-Moon; keynote address to launch the synods was their own, turning it into a gift for and population controllers Jeffrey Sachs on the family. Kasper was selected as the others; and that is how they all got

6 ■ the traditionalist The A - Z List of Concerns with Pope Francis ■ John-Henry Westen to eat their fill. Incredibly, food was left Thereafter all the members of the could go to hell, and proposed annihila- over: they collected it in seven baskets.” Academy were removed, the pro-life tion for those who fully reject God. The pledge discontinued, and a new list of article says: “What happens to that lost members named that included anti-life soul? Will it be punished? And how? Name calling advocates. The response of Francis is distinct and against faithful clear: there is no punishment, but the Pope Francis has frequently casti- annihilation of that soul.” gated faithful adherents of the Catho- Queer selection There was some controversy over lic faith as “obsessed,” “doctors of the of Cupich Repubblica’s Scalfari interview. The law,” “neo-pelagian,” “self-absorbed,” In 2014 Pope Francis appointed Vatican would neither verify nor “restorationist,” “fundamentalist,” Bishop Blase Cupich as Archbishop of deny it in its specific parts, but nev- “rigid,” “ideological,” “hypocritical,” Chicago despite his reputation for tell- ertheless published it in the Vatican and much more. In addressing faithful ing not to join 40 Days for Life. newspaper, and on the Vatican website. Cardinals at the Synod of the Family, in After he demonstrated his dissent to They later deleted it from the website, magazine interviews, book interviews, Catholic teaching on homosexuality, only to republish it again, then delete radio interviews, official church docu- saying homosexual couples should be it again. Vatican watchers compared ments, and in homily after homily, he given Holy Communion, Cupich was the most controversial part regarding has used condemning language indi- nevertheless named a Cardinal. the impossibility of people going to hell cating they are “idolaters and rebels for all eternity to the statement from who will never arrive at the fullness the Pope’s latest exhortation Amoris of the truth,” and “heretics and not Refusal to Laetitia, in which he said, “No one can Catholics.” answer dubia be condemned for ever, because that is After massive confusion around not the logic of the Gospel!” the globe over Communion for adul- Overhaul of Cardinal terers, four prominent Cardinals sent Sarah’s dicastery Pope Francis a letter on September 19, Traditional Cardinal Sarah, head of the Vati- 2016 asking for clarification to five key youth bashing can’s liturgical dicastery, called for the questions. Two months later with no “I always try to understand what’s faithful to kneel for Holy Communion answer received, they went public with behind people who are too young to and priests to face ad orientem for Mass. their questions and humbly begged the have experienced the pre-conciliar lit- Pope Francis reacted swiftly to counter Pope for an answer for the good of the urgy and yet still they want it,” the pon- the suggestion, having the Vatican press Church. Despite the pleas of theolo- tiff said in a November 2016 interview. office issue a statement saying that there gians and scholars worldwide, and tens “Sometimes I found myself confronted was no change and stressing the ordi- of thousands of faithful and clergy, the with a very strict person, with an atti- nary form is to be preferred. Shortly Holy Father has steadfastly refused to tude of rigidity. And I ask myself: Why thereafter the Pope replaced most of answer. On April 25 the Cardinals for- so much rigidity? Dig, dig, this rigidity Cardinal Sarah’s collaborators in his mally asked the Pope for a meeting to always hides something, insecurity or dicastery with liberals. discuss the matter, but after not even even something else. Rigidity is defen- receiving the courtesy of a reply, they sive. True love is not rigid.” released their letter June 19. He spoke similarly in May 2017 Pontifical Academy when in a homily he spoke “of the many for Life scandals young people in the Church today who Pope Francis named controversial Scalfari interviews: have fallen into the temptation of rigid- Archbishop Vincenzo Paglia to lead ‘Annihilation’ ity.” Speaking of those who are ‘rigid’ the Pontifical Academy for Life despite rather than hell? and insincere, he said, “They are rigid scandals such as the Vatican sex-ed In March 2015 in an interview with people living a double life: They make program and the homoerotic mural La Repubblica founder Eugenio Scal- themselves look good, sincere, but when he erected at his former cathedral. fari, the Pope suggested no person no one sees them, they do ugly things.”

SPRING 2018 ■ 7 Pope Bergoglio’s Revolution

Universality change. Muller revealed that the Pope permission to take photos of the meet- destruction dismissed him in a one minute con- ing. When the media asked the Vatican In his 2013 Exhortation Evan- versation. The move is widely seen as about the meeting they first refused to geli Gaudium, Pope Francis called a punishment for opposing the Pope’s confirm it, and after some time said for a “conversion of the papacy” and agenda. that “the only real audience granted by expressed a need to give episcopal con- the Pope at the nunciature (embassy) ferences “genuine doctrinal authority.” was with one of his former students Decentralization is a key demand of World Youth and his family.” The Pope’s former stu- heterodox clergy in the Church. During Day sex-ed dent, Yayo Grassi, was there with his the 2015 Synod on the Family, Pope At World Youth Day in 2016, the sister and mother and his homosex- Francis said he “felt the need to pro- Vatican released a teen sex-ed program ual partner. They took not only photos ceed in a healthy ‘decentralization’” of that neglected the parents’ central role but also video in which Pope Francis power to the “Episcopal Conferences.” in such matters, failed to even men- can be seen embracing Grassi and his He discussed plans for decentralization tion mortal sin, and included sexually homosexual partner. with his both in explicit photos and films. December 2015 and again in June 2017. In 2016 Pope Francis suggested decen- Zika (contraception) tralization as a way forward in the X-rated speech Pope Francis was asked about debate over Communion for adulterers. The dignity of the papacy took a “avoiding pregnancy” in areas at risk hit when Pope Francis used the scat- of Zika virus transmission. “Paul VI, ological terms coprophilia (love of a great man, in a difficult situation in Vatican doctrine excrement) and coprophagia (love of Africa, permitted nuns to use contra- chief dismissal eating excrement) to bash the media ceptives in cases of rape,” he said. “On Cardinal Gerhard Muller, prefect of for reporting on scandals within the the other hand, avoiding pregnancy the Congregation for the Doctrine of Church. is not an absolute evil,” he added. “In Faith, 69, was removed from his post certain cases, as in this one, such as the despite all his contemporary prede- one I mentioned of Blessed Paul VI, it cessors remaining in office till their Yayo Grassi was clear.” Asked for clarification, the retirement. Several Cardinals told Pope When the United States had Vatican confirmed that Pope Francis Francis to remove Muller, who main- pro-family hero Kim Davis meet with was approving use of contraceptives tained doctrinal orthodoxy since he Pope Francis at the nunciature during and condoms in grave cases. (A con- was opposing the Pope’s agenda for his USA papal visit, Davis was refused tradiction of Church teaching.)

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8 ■ the traditionalist Cardinal Burke From the Desk of Raymond Leo Cardinal Burke His Foreword to the new edition of Dietrich von Hildebrand’s The Charitable Anathema n the years immediately follow- clarifications which Dr. von Hildebrand magisterial homily which Joseph Cardi- ing the Second Vatican Ecumen- provides have perennial relevance. nal Ratzinger gave before the Conclave ical Council, between 1966 and Dr. von Hildebrand proceeds in a which elected him as Supreme Pontiff, 1976, Dr. Dietrich von Hildeb- genuinely philosophical manner by he spoke of a dictatorship of relativism. rand prepared numerous articles examining various misunderstand- What Cardinal Ratzinger described is in which he examined, from a philo- ings and errors in the understanding precisely the situation to which Dr. von Isophical perspective, a variety of topics and practice of the faith. Central to the Hildebrand was responding in the pres- related to our knowledge and practice philosophical method is the defining of ent collection of essays: of the Catholic faith, especially with terms, which permits us to know the regard to catechesis, doctrine, Sacred essence of a given reality, so that we Today, having a clear faith based on Liturgy and Catholic education. These may understand what it is and what the Creed of the Church is often la- essays were collected under the title The it is not. The philosophical practice of beled as fundamentalism. Whereas Charitable Anathema. Although the making distinctions is essential for us relativism, that is, letting oneself be articles treat the particular situation in to understand clearly what we believe “tossed here and there, carried about which the Church found herself in the and practice in the Catholic faith. by every wind of doctrine,” seems the years immediately following the Second As Dietrich von Hildebrand illus- only attitude that can cope with mod- Vatican Council, the texts still retain trates in the essays, much of the confu- ern times. We are building a dictator- their timeliness, not only because we sion in belief and practice of the faith ship of relativism that does not recog- experience similar challenges in our arises from a failure to understand nize anything as definitive and whose day, but also because the definitions and clearly certain key concepts and their ultimate goal consists solely of one’s relationships to one another: the rela- own ego and desires. tionship between freedom and law; The Charitable between unity and truth; between We, however, have a different goal: Anathema is available charity and communion; between insti- the Son of God, the true man. He is tution and institutionalism; between the measure of true humanism. An on May 20 in sewn theoretical and practical authority. He “adult” faith is not a faith that follows softcover from Roman dispels ambiguity by providing accu- the trends of fashion and the latest Catholic Books, PO rate definitions of terms and by distin- novelty; a mature adult faith is deeply Box 1209, Ridgefield, guishing apparently similar realities rooted in friendship with Christ. It is from one another. this friendship that opens us up to all CT 06877 ($22.95 Many of the difficulties that we expe- that is good and gives us a criterion by plus $3 shipping) and rience in the life of the Church arise which to distinguish the true from the BooksForCatholics.com from philosophical problems and from false, and deceit from truth. (“Hom- the loss of a sound metaphysics. In the ily of Card. Joseph

9 Cardinal Burke

Ratzinger, Dean of the College of Car- dinals,” 18 April 2005, L’Osservatore Romano, weekly edition in English, 20 April 2005, p. 3.)

Relativism – the loss of a sound metaphysics and consequently of a sense of an objective reality – is indeed the greatest danger in our days. It leads to a great many errors that destroy per- sons and society. To be a herald of the truth, the Christian must be able to think deeply and correctly about the fundamental human questions and the questions of faith. While it is not necessary for each person to become a philosopher, in the totally secularized society in which we live it is imperative for each believer to develop a philosophical habitus, to Dr. Dietrich von Hildebrand become philosophical, so that he has clearly in his mind important defini- tions and distinctions which permit Liturgy as the encounter of God with a trustworthy guide to navigate the dif- him to judge well what is proposed to us by means of sacramental signs, that ficult times in which the Church finds him as truth by the society at large. is, as the direct action of the glorious herself today. The philosophical habit permits man Christ in the Church to give to us the to consider all things under the aspect grace of the Holy Spirit. Raymond Leo Cardinal Burke of the objective order which God has When he writes of the Sacred Lit- September 12, 2017 – Feast of the placed in Creation and, above all, urgy, Dr. von Hildebrand does not Holy Name of Mary inscribed in the human conscience, tire of emphasizing the theocentric and which He has restored in the character of the liturgical action and Redemptive Incarnation. the proper response of deep reverence DONATIONS & Dr. Dietrich von Hildebrand was before the action of God. It is as critical WILL BEQUESTS devoted in the study of truth taught today as it was half a century ago to Your financial support and will to us by both faith and reason, and in devote attention to the truth that the bequests to Catholic Media Apos- the life of truth through love of God, Sacred Liturgy is centered in God, that tolate, publishers of this journal the source of all truth and the giver of it is, in fact, the action of God the Son and parent non-profit of Roman both faith and reason. For that reason, Incarnate, seated in glory at the right Catholic Books publishers, will it is most fitting that the collection of hand of the Father and at the same time mean a lot as we navigate the essays in The Charitable Anathema active in the Church on our behalf for choppy waters set in motion over includes some of his essays about the the salvation of the world. the last several years. For informa- Sacred Liturgy. In the time since the It is my hope that the republication tion, please write us at our Edito- Second Vatican Ecumenical Coun- of the essays of Dr. von Hildebrand will rial Office, P.O. Box 1209, Ridge- cil, though not because of the teach- make the fruit of his philosophical and field, Connecticut 06877, or email ing of the Council, there has been an theological labors better known in the same at [email protected]. exaggerated attention to the human Anglophone world. I am convinced Thank you very much! aspect of the Sacred Liturgy, which has that the reader will find the various overlooked the essence of the Sacred essays published in the present volume

10 ■ the traditionalist Pope Bergoglio’s Revolution

Will Paul Correct Peter?

n his Letter to the Galatians, St. relativism, manipulation, and phony GEORGE NEUMAYR Paul wrote that he corrected the collegiality.1 first pope, St. Peter, “to his face “As the Synod on the Family begins, because he clearly was wrong.” and with a desire to see it fruitfully Excerpt from The St. Paul objected to St. Peter’s serve the Church and your ministry, Political Pope: imposition of obsolete Jewish customs we respectfully ask you to consider Ion the Gentiles, saying to him, “If you, a number of concerns we have heard How Francis Is though, a Jew, are living like a Gentile from other synod fathers, and which we Delighting the and not like a Jew, how can you compel share,” they wrote. In diplomatic lan- Liberal Left And the Gentiles to live like Jews?” guage, they essentially accused him and Abandoning St. Thomas Aquinas cited that con- his advisers of running a fixed synod frontation as an example of how “prel- for the sake of undermining Church Conservative ates must be questioned, even publicly, teaching. Catholics by their subjects” for the good of the The rules of the synod were designed Catholic faith. St. Augustine, noting St. to shut the conservative bishops out, Peter’s acceptance of St. Paul’s rebuke, they wrote: “The absence of propo- commented that “St. Peter himself gave sitions and their related discussions the example to those who govern so that and voting seems to discourage open if sometimes they stray from the right debate and to confine discussion to way, they will not reject a correction as small groups; thus it seems urgent to unworthy even if it comes from their us that the crafting of propositions to subjects.” be voted on by the entire synod should As the current pontificate fosters be restored. Voting on a final docu- more and more confusion and error, ment comes too late in the process for Catholics, both lay and clerical, find a full review and serious adjustment themselves playing St. Paul to Francis’s of the text.” St. Peter. Occasioning much of the crit- “A number of fathers feel the new icism is the pope’s elastic view of the process seems designed to facilitate Church’s moral teachings, particularly predetermined results on important its teaching on divorce. disputed questions,” they contin- Before the second part of the Synod ued. Beyond process questions, they on the Family in 2015, a group of con- worried, the synod was flirting with servative cardinals wrote an anxious ideological novelties that would end letter to Pope Francis, complaining in up hurting the family and weakening Author and commentator George effect that the synod was in danger of the Church: Neumayr writes for The American turning into a debacle of theological Spectator.

11 Pope Bergoglio’s Revolution

Finally and perhaps most urgently, affirm the importance of upholding there could be a in the Church.” various fathers have expressed con- the Church’s traditional discipline He added, “Either we are on the side cern that a synod designed to address regarding the reception of the sac- of Christ, or on the side of the devil. a vital pastoral matter— reinforcing raments, and that doctrine and prac- There is no third option. The common the dignity of marriage and fami- tice remain firmly and inseparably in people are sometimes closer to Christ ly— may become dominated by the harmony.2 than priests.”4 theological/doctrinal issue of Com- “I wonder if he realizes how much munion for the divorced and civilly According to the Catholic Herald, confusion he is causing,” said an remarried. If so, this will inevitably “One signatory, who asked to remain raise even more fundamental issues anonymous, claimed there ‘has been a about how the Church, going forward, certain amount of pressure not to sign the letter and indeed a degree of intim- idation from some senior Churchmen.’ “I wonder if he realizes ” Pope Francis ignored these letters. He accused the conservative bishops how much confusion he is Pope Francis used the of surrendering to the “hermeneutic causing,” said an unnamed of conspiracy.”3 But there was nothing synod as a pretext to paranoid about their concerns. What conservative cardinal. push a conclusion he they suspected would happen did: Pope Francis used the synod as a had reached before pretext to push a conclusion he had unnamed conservative cardinal to reached before it even began. Reuters in 2016. Another high- rank- it even began. ing cleric said that this pontificate is alarming “not only tradition- minded A Church Divided priests but even liberal priests who have should interpret and apply the Word “The Pope during the Synod will complained to me that people are chal- of God, her doctrines and her dis- show whose side he is on,” said Arch- lenging them on issues that are very ciplines to changes in culture. The bishop Jan Paweł Lenga. “If he accepts straight- forward, saying ‘the pope collapse of liberal Protestant church- es in the modern era, accelerated by their abandonment of key elements of Christian belief and practice in the name of pastoral adaptation, war- rants great caution in our own syn- odal discussions.”

In Britain, 461 priests signed a letter petitioning Pope Francis and the synod fathers to remain true to the Church’s perennial teaching on marriage:

We wish, as Catholic priests, to re‑state our unwavering fidelity to the traditional doctrines regarding marriage and the true meaning of hu- the statement of those who want to would let me do this, why don’t you?’”5 man sexuality, founded on the Word distribute Holy Communion to the A Catholic psychiatrist told the of God and taught by the Church’s divorced, there would be a heresy in Washington Post that one of his Magisterium for two millennia . . . We the Church, and if he does not accept, patients quit therapy, saying, “I’m much

12 ■ the traditionalist Will Paul Correct Peter? ■ George Neumayr more of a Pope Francis– Nancy Pelosi Cahill, a liberal theologian at Boston Resisting the Catholic, and you’re an old- school, University. “Hence individual bishops Revolution Pope John Paul II Catholic.”6 or dioceses can come up with their own “The people who traditionally have “We have a serious issue right now, policies.”9 been defenders of papal authority for a very alarming situation where Cath- According to André-Joseph the last 50 years suddenly find them- olic priests and bishops are saying and Léonard, former primate of Belgium, selves out of step with the pope, and doing things that are against what the the pope and his advisers crafted inten- that’s a very strange situation,” Fr. church teaches, talking about same- sex tionally fuzzy documents at the Synod Gerald Murray said to the Wall Street unions, about Communion for those on the Family as a form of heterodox Journal. “This is an exploding land who are living in adultery,” a church misdirection: “I was a bit disappointed mine and I regret that it’s going to be official said to the Washington Post. by the fact that they cultivated ambi- “And yet the pope does nothing to guity around the most sensitive issues. silence them. So the inference is that Some bishops told me the texts were this is what the pope wants.” deliberately formulated in an ambigu- Providence Bishop Thomas Tobin ous way, in order to leave them open to It’s going to be a continual commented, “In trying to accom- interpretation in different directions.”10 modate the needs of the age, as Pope Bishop Thomas Tobin has written fight until it’s changed Francis suggests, the Church risks the sardonically, “The good news is, that back to the old discipline. danger of losing its courageous, coun- because of this ambiguity, people can tercultural, prophetic voice, one that do just about whatever they want. The The unity of the Church’s the world needs to hear.”7 bad news is, that because of this ambi- Chaos erupted after the release of guity, people can do just about what- pastoral ministry is Amoris Laetitia, with bishops and ever they want. Go figure!”11 national conferences dividing over its In Europe, liberal national con- affected severely. meaning and application. Some bish- ferences have embraced the ambigu- ops are using it as a justification for ity. “The door is open,” said Cardinal loosening up their policies; others are a continual fight until it’s changed back ignoring it and maintaining traditional to the old discipline. The unity of the policies. In the United States, divorced- Church’s pastoral ministry is affected and- remarried Catholics can receive severely when you have contrasting Communion in such cities as San Diego This chaos is not contrary practices in different places . . . There and Chicago but not in Philadelphia. may not be a schism in the sense of a “Priests are divided from one to the pope’s program rejection of papal authority, but there another, priests from bishops, bish- for the Church but a is going to be a debate in the church ops among themselves. There’s a tre- about the directions in which the pope mendous division that has set in in the deliberate component of it. is taking the Church and whether we Church, and that is not the way of the should go along or we should resist.”14 Church. That is why we settle on these Some bishops, such as Cardinal fundamental moral questions which Burke, have made it clear that they will unify us,” according to Cardinal Ray- Kasper. “There is also some freedom not submit to Francis’s revolution. “I mond Burke.8 for the individual bishops and bish- shall resist,” Cardinal Burke has said. “I This chaos is not contrary to the ops’ conferences . . . things are not any can do nothing else. There is no doubt pope’s program for the Church but a more so abstract and permeated with that it is a difficult time; this is clear, deliberate component of it. suspicion, as it was the case in earlier this is clear.”15 “What Francis has done in effect is times.”12 Cardinal Lehmann has said, “In Amoris Laetitia [308] the Holy give local bishops permission and space “Francis wants us to explore new paths. Father Francis writes: ‘I understand to try innovations that are more flex- Sometimes you don’t have to wait until those who prefer a more rigorous pas- ible, merciful, and pastoral,” said Lisa the large tanker begins to move.”13 toral care which leaves no room for

SPRING 2018 ■ 13 Pope Bergoglio’s Revolution confusion.’ I infer from these words formula of trendy political many countries, you can’t really detect that His Holiness realizes that the and fashionable heterodoxy. Indeed, a Francis effect.”22 teachings of the Exhortation could Muggeridge’s metaphor has materi- give rise to confusion in the Church,” alized in the Catholic celebrations of said Cardinal Caffara. “Personally, I Martin Luther’s Reformation led by Francis Fatigue wish— and that is how so many of my Pope Francis. Pope Benedict XVI has spoken of a brothers in Christ (cardinals, bishops, Ross Douthat of “two- sided, deep crisis” in the Church and the lay faithful alike) also think— wonders what the “Francis effect” on since Vatican II, which was triggered that the confusion should be removed, the Church will be and proposes that by a modernist theology that rejected but not because I prefer a more rigorous sociologists of religion study dioceses the centrality of Catholicism to the sal- pastoral care, but because, rather, I sim- that “are conducting clearer Francis- vation of souls: ply prefer a clearer and less ambiguous blessed experiments than others.”18 One pastoral care.”16 simple place to start is the floundering If it is true that the great mission- archdiocese of Buenos Aires. Accord- aries of the 16th century were still ing to the Latin American press, even convinced that those who are not the “Francis effect” in Argentina has baptized are forever lost— and this been embarrassingly negligible, with explains their commit- German cardinal the Buenos Aires seminary produc- ment— in the Catholic Church after ing only three priestly in the Second Vatican Council that con- Walter Brandmüller 2016.19 viction was finally abandoned. sees no evidence that Fr. Julio Miranda, of the sem- inary in Buenos Aires, told Clarin that the Francis effect has the Pope “has had no impact” on voca- tions. As the paper put it, the “appoint- strengthened the Church. ment of an Argentine pope, precisely from the Archdiocese of Buenos Aires, Pope Benedict XVI has with the idea of the ‘Church of the Under Pope Francis, the Church is peripheries,’ ‘missionary’ (church) spoken of a “two- sided, moving down the same ruinous path as that will convey ‘the joy of the Gos- deep crisis” in the Church liberal Protestantism. In the 1960s, the pel,’ could not mitigate the fall in con- British journalist Malcolm Muggeridge secrated vocations.”20 since Vatican II. wrote that the Catholic Church was German cardinal Walter Brand- joining the “army of progress just when müller sees no evidence that the Fran- it is in total disarray.” Muggeridge cis effect has strengthened the Church. found it mystifying that the Church, “It is superficial. Were this a religious From this came a deep double cri- “having witnessed the ruinous conse- movement, the churches would be full,” sis. On the one hand this seems to quences to its Protestant rivals of com- he has said. A “laissez- faire” Cathol- remove any motivation for a future pounding with contemporary trends, icism, he said, “would mean watch- missionary commitment. Why should should now seem set upon following ing passively the devastation of the one try to convince the people to ac- a like course.” “Just when the Refor- Church from within.”21 Even Cardi- cept the Christian faith when they mation appears to be finally fizzling nal , who is sympathetic to can be saved even without it? But also out, another, it seems, is incubating the pope’s liberal spin on Catholicism, for Christians an issue emerged: the in Rome,” Muggeridge wrote. “Luther has acknowledged that the glowing obligatory nature of the faith and its escapes from John Osborne’s hands talk around this pontificate is largely way of life began to seem uncertain into— of all places— the Vatican.”17 empty: “There is a lot of excitement and problematic. If there are those Fifty years later, the condition of about him, but as one can certainly who can save themselves in oth- the Church appears just as bleak, as see, in the people leaving the church in er ways, it is not clear, in the final Pope Francis tries to revive that failed analysis, why the Christian himself

14 ■ the traditionalist Will Paul Correct Peter? ■ George Neumayr

is bound by the requirements of the download a form allowing people to That’s one of the things I’d like to have Christian faith and its morals. If ‘de‑baptize’ themselves, meaning to the chance to ask him, if I ever get faith and salvation are no longer in- formally request to be taken off the over there. Do you realize what has terdependent, faith itself becomes Church’s rolls as a member, reached happened, just by that very phrase unmotivated.23 an all-time high in 2015 of 47,726.”25 “Who am I to judge?” How it’s been Catholics feel that his popularity used and misused? It’s very misused, That crisis has only deepened with the liberal elite comes “at the because he was talking about some- under Pope Francis, as its identity expense of the Church,” and that his one who has already asked for mercy becomes increasingly politicized and “snazzy sayings” mean nothing, said non- theological. German novelist Martin Mosebach. “What is concerning about Pope Fran- cis is the atmosphere he creates— as though an entirely new Church has “I’m an ex‑Catholic been created which has never existed As to where he is directing before in this way,” said Mosebach. “As whose decision to leave though Francis is correcting centuries the Catholic Church the Church, he said, “It’s of abnormal development and is cre- very possible that he ating a new type of Church without is not challenged by dogma, without mysticism. A Church himself doesn’t even know.” which finds itself in compliance with Francis’ words but the current social consensus.”26 Supporters, such as the Jesuit Anto- rather confirmed.” “Right up to this day, many people nio Spadaro, concede that his pontifi- have been trying to determine Francis’ cate is perplexing. “I don’t believe that true intentions. If you ask cardinals Francis seriously expects that he will and been given absolution whom he and bishops, or the pope’s advisors and be able to complete the processes that knows well. That’s entirely different colleagues, or veteran Vatican observ- he has initiated,” he said. As to where than talking to somebody who de- ers about his possible strategy these he is directing the Church, he said, “It’s mands acceptance rather than ask- days— the Pope’s overarching plan— very possible that he himself doesn’t ing for forgiveness. It’s constantly they seem to agree on one point: The even know.”27 misused.28 man who sits on the Chair of St. Peter The late Chicago cardinal Francis is a notorious troublemaker,” says Der George, who was an early supporter of The pope appears unfazed by these Spiegel.24 the pope, nevertheless found the pope’s criticisms. Asked during a 2016 inter- Out of this chaos has come a mea- ambiguity irritating. view about the complaints of conser- sure of Francis fatigue. vative Catholics, he replied defiantly: According to Politico, “Francis has Why doesn’t he himself clarify these “They say no to everything. I go ahead, not proved to be a magnet for people things? Why is it necessary that apol- without looking over my shoulder.”29 converting to Catholicism or attend- ogists have to bear that burden of try- Under Pope John Paul II and Pope ing Sunday mass, according to data. In ing to put the best possible face on it? Benedict XVI, the Church stood as a Italy, attendance at places of worship Does he not realize the consequences rock in a rising sea of secularism, and decreased in 2014 to 28.8 percent of the of some of his statements, or even some many conservatives swam toward it. population compared to more than 30 of his actions? Does he not realize the But that appeal is rapidly diminishing percent during the years of Ratzinger, repercussions? Perhaps he doesn’t. I under Pope Francis. according to Istat, the Italian statis- don’t know whether he’s conscious of Writing in Time magazine, jour- tics bureau.” At the same time, it con- all the consequences of some of the nalist Rod Dreher spoke for many tinued, “the Union of Rational Athe- things he’s said and done that raise conservatives when he wrote, “I’m an ists and Agnostics in Italy reported these doubts in people’s minds. ex‑Catholic whose decision to leave the last week that online applications to Catholic Church is not challenged by

SPRING 2018 ■ 15 Pope Bergoglio’s Revolution

Francis’ words but rather confirmed.” which included such prominent theo- “One of the scenarios he wrote about Pope Francis, he continued, “makes logians as Fr. Aidan Nichols, identi- was that the college of cardinals could me realize that the good, if incomplete, fied nineteen statements in the pope’s resist such a pope.” But, this work that John Paul II and Benedict exhortation that lend themselves to added without any apparent irony, he XVI did to restore the church after “heretical” interpretation. didn’t think the crisis would reach that the violence of the [liberal] revolution point, because “God will strike Francis As Catholic theologians and philos- dead before he destroys the Church.” ophers, church historians and pas- In November 2016, four cardinals, tors of souls, we are writing to you in frustrated by the pope’s refusal to clar- your capacity as Dean of the College “We reached a moment of Cardinals to request that the Col- lege of Cardinals and the Patriarchs of hope after the last two of the Catholic Church take collec- popes. That hope has tive action to respond to the dangers “Bellarmine envisioned to Catholic faith and morals posed been replaced by fear.” by the Amor- the possibility of a pope is laetitia issued by Pope Francis on who held heretical views March 19th 2016. This apostolic ex- hortation contains a number of state- occupying the papacy,” stands to be undone. The ‘spirit of Pope ments that can be understood in a Francis’ will replace the ‘spirit of Vati- sense that is contrary to Catholic faith says a Jesuit scholar. can II’ as the rationalization people will and morals. We have specified the use to ignore the difficult teachings of nature and degree of the errors that the faith.”30 could be attributed to Amoris laetitia Shocked by the pope’s speech to the in the accompanying document. We ify his heterodox statements about U.S. Congress in 2015, Albert Mohler, request that the Cardinals and Pa- marriage and conscience, released to president of the Southern Baptist triarchs petition the Holy Father to the public a letter they had written to Theological Seminary, commented to condemn the errors listed in the doc- him. They explained that they released LifeSiteNews that “it must send a very ument in a definitive and final man- it after he declined to answer it for clear signal to conservative Catholics ner, and to authoritatively state that almost two months. Signed by three that they have faced exactly what they Amoris laetitia does not require any European cardinals (Cardinals Wal- feared, a Pope who is not only leaning of them to be believed or considered ter Brandmüller, , and left, but is going to take the Roman as possibly true. Joachim Meisner) and an American Catholic Church to the left with him.”31 cardinal (Raymond Burke), the letter “Morale is low,” says a priest in an “Just as it is lawful to resist the urged Pope Francis to dispel the “grave interview for this book. “We reached pope that attacks the body,” argued St. disorientation and great confusion of a moment of hope after the last two Robert Bellarmine, the celebrated six- many faithful regarding extremely popes. That hope has been replaced teenth- century Jesuit, “it is also lawful important matters for the life of the by fear and trembling. Francis is the to resist the one who attacks souls or Church.”32 worst pope in centuries.” who disturbs civil order, or, above all, It is difficult to find a parallel in “We were spoiled with the last two who attempts to destroy the Church. I Church history to such a challenge. popes,” says another priest interviewed say that it is lawful to resist him by not (One pope, Honorius I, was con- for this book. “Now we are on Code doing what he orders and preventing demned by the Church for his “impious Red Alert.” his will from being executed.” doctrines,” but the condemnation came In 2016, forty- five scholars sent a “Bellarmine envisioned the pos- after his death.) In the letter, the cardi- letter to the Church’s cardinals, ask- sibility of a pope who held heretical nals are in effect asking the pope if he ing them to seek clarification from the views occupying the papacy,” says a supports basic tenets of Catholic moral pope on Amoris Laetitia. The group, Jesuit scholar interviewed for this book. theology. Cardinal Burke has said that

16 ■ the traditionalist Will Paul Correct Peter? ■ George Neumayr the cardinals will make a “formal act not prevail” against the Church. They 6. Michelle Boorstein and Elizabeth of correction of a serious error” if he also find consolation in the long and Tenety. “Conservative Catholics Ques- continues to ignore the letter. resilient history of the Church, which tion Pope Francis’s Approach.” Wash- So far he has. One of his advisers has faced countless challenges, both ington Post, October 14, 2013. https:// tweeted out (then deleted the tweet) external and internal, and survived. www.washingtonpost.com/national/ an image comparing the cardinals to a Yet with a measure of dread they also on‑faith/2013/10/12/21d7f484-2cf4-11e3- “worm” while the pope dismissed them know that for the Church to survive 8ade-a1f23cda135e_story.html. as mental defectives who see life “in they must undertake the most pecu- 7. Anthony Faiola. “Conservative Dissent black and white.”33 Though said to be liar of duties. Where their ancestors Is Brewing Inside the Vatican.” Washing- “boiling with rage” about the challenge, defended the pope from enemies of ton Post, September 7, 2015. https://www. he has affected a pose of indifference, the faith, they now must defend the washingtonpost.com/ world/europe/a‑con- saying that his critics are “not making faith from a pope who aligns with her servative-revolt‑is‑brewing-inside-the-vat- me lose any sleep.”34 enemies. ican/ 2015/09/07/1d8e02ba-4b3d-11e5-80c2- But Catholics in the pews are. 106ea7fb80d4_story.html. Increasingly bewildered by this pon- 8. Edward Pentin. “Cardinal Burke on tificate, they wonder: How did it come End Notes Amoris Laetitia Dubia: ‘Tremendous Divi- to this? How did the papacy go from 1. Sandro Magister. “Thirteen Car- sion’ Warrants Action.” National Cath- safeguarding doctrinal unity to shat- dinals Have Written to the Pope. Here’s olic Register, November 15, 2016. http:// tering it? How did it go from fighting the Letter.” Chiesa, October 12, 2015. www.ncregister.com/daily-news/ cardi- a sinful world to joining it? How did it http://chiesa.espresso.repubblica.it/ nal-burke‑on‑amoris-laetitia-dubia-tre- go from a spiritual bastion to a part- articolo/1351154?eng=y. mendous-division-warrants-action. ner of the United Nations and a pagan 2. Madeleine Teahan. “Nearly 500 Priests 9. Michelle Boorstein. “Pope Francis political order? in Britain Urge Synod to Stand Firm on Urged Mercy toward Divorced Catholics. A professor of theology, who directs Communion for the Remarried.” Catho- Now Bishops Are Deciding What That dissertations that touch on the subject lic Herald, March 24, 2015. http://www. Really Means.” Washington Post, July 8, of bad popes, just shook his head when catholicherald.co.uk/news/2015/03/24/ 2016. https://www.washingtonpost.com/ asked about the state of this pontificate. nearly-500-priests‑in‑england-and-wales- news/acts‑of‑faith/wp/2016/07 /08/pope- “My students now have more material,” urge-synod‑to‑stand-firm‑on‑commu- francis-urged-mercy-towards-divorced- he said with a grim chuckle. nion-for-the-remarried. catholics-now-bishops-are-deciding-what- The crisis created by this pontifi- 3. Gerard O’Connell. “Pope to Synod that-really-mean cate’s toxic combination of political Fathers: Don’t Give in to the Conspiracy 10. Jeanne Smits. “Belgian Archbishop: liberalism and doctrinal relativism is Theory.” America, October 7, 2015. http:// ‘Time Has Come’ for Pope Francis to Defend a historically singular one, which gives americamagazine.org/content/ dispatches/ Church’s Tradition.” LifeSiteNews, January its unfolding a disconcerting drama: pope-synod-fathers-dont-give-conspira- 8, 2016. https://www.lifesitenews.com/news/ How will it end? What if he succeeds? cy-theory. belgian-archbishop-time-has-come-for- The Left is already anticipating that 4. John-Henry Westen. “Explosive Video: pope-francis‑to‑defend-churchs-traditi. the next pope will be a Francis clone. Pope ‘Will Show Whose Side He Is on During 11. Claire Chretien. “Bishop: Amoris A hopeful New York Times reports on Synod, Says Archbishop.” LifeSiteNews, Sep- Laetitia’s ‘Intentional Ambiguity’ Means “Pope Francis’ Race against Time to tember 10, 2015. https://www.lifesitenews. People Will Do ‘Whatever They Want.’ Reshape the Church.” By the end of com/news/explosive-video-pope-will-show- ” LifeSiteNews, July 8, 2016. https://www. 2016, he had named forty- four car- whose-side-hes‑on‑during-synod-says- lifesitenews.com/news/bishop-amoris-la- dinals, a third of the college of cardi- archbish. etitias-intentional-ambiguity-means-peo- nals and perhaps enough, the Times 5. Philip Pullela and Tom Heneghan. ple-will‑do‑whatever. implied, “to ensure that his vision of “Three Years on, Pope Leaves Catholic Con- 12. Maike Hickson. “Kasper: Pope Intends the Church” outlasts him.35 servatives Feeling Marginalized.” Reuters, ‘Not to Preserve Everything as It Has Been.’” Dismayed by that prospect, Cath- March 11, 2016. http://www.reuters.com/ 1P5, April 23, 2016. http://www.onepeterfive. olics find consolation in the words of article/us‑pope-anniversary-conserva- com/kasper-pope-intends-not‑to‑preserve- Jesus Christ, that the “gates of hell will tives-idUSKCN0WD0TF. everything‑as‑it‑has-been.

SPRING 2018 ■ 17 Pope Bergoglio’s Revolution

13. Jan Bentz. “Cardinal to German Bish- 21. “The Popular Pontificate of Pope Fran- Left/Right.’ ” Crux, November 17, 2014. https:// ops: Push for Change While We Have Francis cis: Two Views.” Fr. Z’s Blog, August 27, 2014. cruxnow.com/church/ 2014/11/17/chicagos-ex- as Pope.” LifeSiteNews, November 14, 2016. http://wdtprs.com/blog/2014/08/the-popu- iting-cardinal-the-church‑is‑about-true- https://www.lifesitenews.com/news/ger- lar-pontificate‑of‑pope-francis-two-views. 22. false-not-leftright. man-cardinal-push-for-change-while-fran- Walter Mayr. “Where Is Pope Francis Steer- 29. Cindy Wooden. “Pope Francis cis‑is‑leading-church. ing the Church?” Der Spiegel, May 29, 2015. Undaunted by Critics.” Catholic News Service, 14. Francix X. Rocca. “Pope’s Teaching on http://www.spiegel.de/international/world/ July 5, 2016. http://americamagazine.org/issue/ Divorce Divides Bishops.” Wall Street Journal, how-pope-francis-became‑a‑rebel‑in‑the-vat- pope-francis-undaunted-critics. July 10, 2016. http://www.wsj.com/articles/ ican‑a‑1035629.html. 30. Rod Dreher. “I Am Still Not Going Back popes-teaching‑on‑divorce-divides-bish- 22. Walter Mayr. “Where Is Pope Francis to the Catholic Church.” Time, September 29, ops-1468166653. Steering the Church?” Der Spiegel, May 29, 2015. 2013. http://ideas.time.com/2013/09/29/im‑still- 15. Edward Pentin. “Cardinal May http://www.spiegel.de/international/world/ not-going-back‑to‑the-catholic-church. Resist Pope’s Attempts to Change Teach- how-pope-francis-became‑a‑rebel‑in‑the-vat- 31. John-Henry Westen. “U.S. Evangelical ing.” Newsmax, February 10, 2015. http:// ican‑a‑1035629.html. Leaders Warn Catholics That Pope Francis Is www.newsmax.com/EdwardPentin/ Cardi- 23. “Full Text of Benedict XVI’s Recent, Moving Church to the Left.” LifeSiteNews, Sep- nal-Burke-Catholic-Church-German-Cath- Rare, and Lengthy Interview.” Catholic News tember 28, 2015. https://www.lifesitenews.com/ olic-Church-Pope-Francis/ 2015/02/10/ Agency, March 17, 2016. http://www.catholic- news/u.s.-evangelical-leaders-warn-catholics- id/623988. newsagency.com/ news/full-text‑of‑benedict- that-pope-francis‑is‑moving-church. 16. Maike Hickson. “Cardinal Caffarra xvis-recent-rare-and-lengthy-interview-26142/ 32. Sandro Magister. “‘Seeking Clarity’: The on Marriage, Family, Amoris Laetitia, and 24. Walter Mayr. “Where Is Pope Francis Appeal of Four Cardinals to the Pope.” Chiesa, Confusion in the Church.” 1P5, July 11, 2016. Steering the Church?” Der Spiegel, May 29, 2015. November 14, 2016. http://chiesa.espresso. http://www.onepeterfive.com/cardinal-caf- http://www.spiegel.de/international/world/ repubblica.it/ articolo/1351414?eng=y. farra‑on‑marriage-family-amoris-laeti- how-pope-francis-became‑a‑rebel‑in‑the-vat- 33. David Gibson. “Pope Francis Dis- tia-confusion‑in‑the-church. ican‑a‑1035629.html. misses Critics of His Teachings.” Reli- 17. “Malcolm Muggeridge and Vatican 25. Jacopo Barigazzi. “Pope Alienates Base, gion News Service, November 18, 2016. II.” Musings of a Pertinacious Papist, June 22, See Numbers Drop.” Politico, January 12, 2016. https://www.ncronline.org/news/ vatican/ 2013. http://pblosser.blogspot.com/2013/06/ http://www.politico.eu/article/a‑pope-flop. pope-francis-dismisses-critics-his-teachings. malcolm-mugge ridge-and-vatican‑ii.html. 26. Walter Mayr. “Where Is Pope Francis 34. Claire Chretien. “Vatican Expert: Sources 18. Ross Douthat. “In Search of the Francis Steering the Church?” Der Spiegel, May 29, 2015. Say Pope Francis ‘Boiling with Rage’ over Amo- Effect.” New York Times, September 23, 2015. http://www.spiegel.de/international/world/ ris Criticism.” LifeSiteNews, November 18, 2016. http://douthat.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/09/23/ how-pope-francis-became‑a‑rebel‑in‑the-vat- https://www.lifesitenews.com/news/vatican- in‑search‑of‑the-francis-effect. ican‑a‑1035629.html. ist-pope-francis-boiling-with-rage-over-am- 19. “How Is It That No One Saw It Coming?” 27. Walter Mayr. “Where Is Pope Francis oris-criticism. Deus Ex Machina Blog, June 23, 2016. https:// Steering the Church?” Der Spiegel, May 29, 2015. 35. Laurie Goodstein, Adam Pearce, and sarmaticusblog.wordpress.com/2016/06/23/ http://www.spiegel.de/international/world/ Sergio Pecanha. “Pope Francis’ Race against epic-francisfail-how‑is‑it‑that‑no‑one-seen how-pope-francis-became‑a‑rebel‑in‑the-vat- Time to Reshape the Church.” New York Times, ‑it‑coming. ican‑a‑1035629.html. November 18, 2016. http://www.nytimes.com/ 20. Ibid. 28. John Allen. “Chicago’s Exiting Car- interactive/2016/11/18/world/europe/pope- dinal: ‘The Church Is about True/False, Not francis-cardinals-shape-church.html?r=0.

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18 ■ the traditionalist Tributes Tribute to Joseph Ratzinger, the Pope Who Abdicated

FOREWORD predecessor of the current pope. MARTIN MOSEBACH For Pope Benedict XVI On His It is as if, on this trivial level, should Ninetieth Birthday be accomplished that which Benedict by Martin Mosebach1 himself could not resolve to do after his resignation (disturbing to so many Novelist and ne shouldn’t call a “cult people, profoundly inexplicable and friend Martin of personality” the still unexplained)—namely, to become papal devotional items invisible, to enter into an unbroken Mosebach points that are offered to the silence. Those especially who accom- to his undoubted hordes of pilgrims and panied the pontificate of Benedict XVI importance, tourists round about Peter’s in with love and hope could not get over amidst general ORome: postcards and calendars, coffee the fact that it was this very pope who, cups and silk cloths, plates and plastic with this dramatic step, called into Churchwide “pain gadgets of every kind, always with the question his great work of reform for and disappointment” picture of the currently happily reign- the Church. Future generations may be as a result of ing Holy Father—and next to them able without anger and enthusiasm to also those of Popes John Paul II, John speak about this presumably last chap- his momentous XXIII, and even Paul VI. There is only ter in the life of Benedict XVI. The dis- decision to quit. one pope you will not find in any of the tance in time will place these events souvenir shops—and I mean in none, in a greater, not yet foreseeable order. as if there were a conspiracy here. To For the participating contemporary, This is Mosebach’s dig up a postcard with the picture of however, this distance is not available Foreword to Prof. Benedict XVI requires the tenacity of a because he remains defenseless in the private detective. Imperial Rome knew face of the immediate consequences of Peter Kwasniewski’s the institution of damnatio memoriae: this decision. To speak about Benedict newest book the extinction of the memory of con- XVI today means first of all trying to Noble Beauty, demned enemies of the state. Thus, overcome these feelings of pain and Transcendent Emperor Caracalla had the name of his disappointment. brother Geta—after he had killed him— All the more so, because during his Holiness (see chiseled out of the inscription on the reign this pope undertook to heal the page 46). triumphal arch of Septimius Severus. great wounds that had been inflicted It seems as if the dealers in devotional on the visible body of the Church in goods and probably also their custom- the time after the Council. The party ers (for the trade in also obeys that had assembled against tradition the market laws of supply and demand) at the Council viewed the compromise had jointly imposed such an ancient formulas that had settled the conflict Roman damnatio memoriae on the in many conciliar documents only as 19 Tributes stages in the grand war for the future Vatican Council a new Pentecost had that all things flow; the rock of Peter— shape of the Church. The “spirit of the come upon the Church—which none of it’s flowing too.”3 An iconoclastic attack Council” began to be played off against those famous Councils of history which like the worst years of the Reforma- the literal text of the conciliar decisions. had so decisively shaped the develop- tion swept through the churches; in Disastrously, the implementation of ment of the Faith had ever claimed. A the conciliar decrees was caught up in “new Pentecost” means nothing less the cultural revolution of 1968, which than a new illumination, possibly one had broken out all over the world. That that would surpass that received two was certainly the work of a spirit—if thousand years ago; why not advance The Church, only of a very impure one. The political immediately to the “Third Testament” subversion of every kind of authority, from the Education of the Human Race2 unrestrainedly pushing the aesthetic vulgarity, the philosoph- of Gotthold Ephraim Lessing? In the ahead with her revolution, ical demolition of tradition not only view of these people, Vatican II meant a laid waste universities and schools and break with the Tradition as it existed up continued to lose both poisoned the public atmosphere but till then, and this breach was salutary. Whoever listened to this could have attractiveness and believed that the Catholic religion had found itself really only after Vatican II. retentive capacity. All previous generations—to which we The post-conciliar battle who sit here owe our faith—are sup- posed to have remained in an outer the seminaries the “demythologizing that had broken out in courtyard of immaturity. of Christianity” à la Bultmann was so many places against To be fair, we should remember propagated; the end of priestly celibacy that the popes attempted to counter was celebrated as something imminent; tradition was nothing this—with a weak voice and above all religious instruction was largely aban- without the will to intervene in these doned, even in , which had else but the attempted aberrations with an organizing hand been highly favored in this regard; as the ruler of the Church. Only a very priests gave up clerical attire; the sacred suicide of the Church. few individual heresiarchs were dis- language—which the liturgical consti- ciplined—those who with their arro- tution of the Council had just solemnly gant insolence practically forced their confirmed4—was abandoned. All this at the same time took possession of own reprimand. But the great mass of happened, so it was said, to prepare broad circles within the Church. Dis- the “new- Pentecostals,” unrestrained for the future, otherwise the faithful trust of tradition, elimination of tradi- and protected by widespread networks, couldn’t be kept in the Church. The tion began to spread in, of all places, could continue to exercise a tremen- hierarchy argued like the proprietors an entity whose essence consists totally dous influence on the day-to-day life of a department store, who didn’t want of tradition—so much so that one has of the Church. So, for outside observ- to sit on their wares and so tossed them to say the Church is nothing without ers, the claim that with Vatican II out to the people at throwaway prices. tradition. So the post-conciliar bat- the Church had broken with her past Regrettably the comparison isn’t exact, tle that had broken out in so many became ever more probable. Anyone for the people had no interest in the places against tradition was nothing accustomed to trusting his eyes and discounted products. After the “new else but the attempted suicide of the ears could no longer convince him- Pentecost” there began an exodus out Church—a literally absurd, nihilistic self that this was still the Church that of the Church, the monasteries, and the process. We all can recall how bishops had remained faithful for thousands seminaries. The Church unrestrainedly and theology professors, pastors and of years, through all the changes of pushing ahead with her revolution, the functionaries of Catholic organi- the ages. The German Catholic legal continued to lose both attractiveness zations proclaimed with a confident scholar Carl Schmitt made the follow- and retentive capacity. victorious tone that with the Second ing scornful rhyme: “Heraclitus taught

20 ■ the traditionalist Tribute to Joseph Ratzinger, the Pope Who Abdicated ■ Martin Mosebach

She resembled that baffled tailor them become a felix culpa. From this is a false appearance. A more profound who, looking at a badly cut pair of perspective, Benedict could not accept hermeneutic will finally always prove trousers while shaking his head, mut- what the progressives and tradition- that the contradiction was not a real tered: “I’ve cut you off three times and alists expressed equally and with the one. An inexhaustible confidence in you’re still too short!” It is claimed that best reasons: that in the post-concil- the action of the Holy Spirit resides in this exodus from the Church would iar era a decisive break with Tradition this attitude. A cynical outside observer also have happened without the revo- had indeed occurred; that the Church could speak of a “holy slyness.” In any lution. Let’s conditionally accept for the before and after the Council was not case, this standpoint can be justified moment this claim. If that had really the same institution. That would have from both perspectives: that of trust in been the case, however, the great rev- meant that the Church was no longer God and that of Machiavellianism. For olution would not have been neces- under the guidance of the Holy Spirit; a glance at ecclesiastical history shows sary at all. On the contrary, the flock consequently, she had ceased to be remaining in the Church would have the Church. One cannot imagine the been able to persevere in faith under theologian Joseph Ratzinger as laboring the “sign that will be contradicted” (Lk under a naive, formalistic faith. The 2:34). There’s not one argument in twists and turns of ecclesiastical his- His efforts aimed at favor of the post-conciliar revolution; tory were very familiar to him. That I certainly haven’t encountered any yet. in the past, too, there had been in the attempting to remove from Pope Benedict could not and Church bad popes, misguided theolo- men’s minds the assertion would never allow himself to think gians, and questionable circumstances was never hidden from him. But, while of such a rupture. contemplating ecclesiastical history, he felt borne up by the indisputable impression that the Church, in con- There’s not one argument stant development, had again and again that the continuation of the Church overcome her crises not simply by cut- was always connected with a firm faith in favor of the post- ting off mistaken developments but by (or at least a fearlessly asserted fiction) conciliar revolution; making them, if possible, even fruitful that the Holy Spirit guided the Church in the succeeding generations. in every phase. What Pope Benedict I certainly haven’t It thus appeared to him impera- called the “hermeneutic of rupture”— tive to combat the idea that this rup- whether asserted by the traditionalist encountered any yet. ture had really occurred—even if all or progressive side—was for him an the appearances seemed to argue for attack on the essence of the Church, it. His efforts aimed at attempting to which consists of continuity without in that way, even if in lonely hours remove from men’s minds the asser- a rupture. Therefore he would always it may have been difficult for him to tion of such a rupture. This attempt talk of the concept of a “hermeneutic defend himself against an assault of has an air of legal positivism5 about of continuity.” That was not so much a such thoughts. In no way did he want it, a disregarding of the facts. Please theological program nor a foundation to abandon the image of the Church do not understand it as irony when I for concrete decisions but an attempt as a harmoniously growing organism quote in this context the famous lines to win others over to an attitude of under the protection of the Holy Spirit. of the great absurdist poet Christian mind—the only one from which a With his historical consciousness it was Morgenstern: “what may not be, can- recovery of the Church could arise. also clear to him that history can never not be!”6 The Church can never exist When, finally, all would have under- be turned back, that it is impossible in contradiction to itself, to tradition, stood that the Church does not and as well as reckless to try to make what to revelation, to the doctrines of the cannot rely on ruptures and revolu- has happened “unhappen.” Even the Fathers and to the totality of the Coun- tions, then the hierarchy and theolo- God who forgives sins does not make cils. This she cannot do; even when it gians would, of their own accord, find them “undone,” but in the best case lets appears as if indeed she has done so, it

SPRING 2018 ■ 21 Tributes their way back to a harmonious devel- of the model that Benedict gave the into modern languages! The philo- opment of Tradition. world, would create a frame of mind logically absolutely clear falsification From these thoughts speaks an in which the return of Tradition would of the words of institution, the well- almost Far Eastern wisdom, a princi- ensue almost by itself. He trusted in known conflict over thepro multis of pled distrust of all manipulations and the power of images arising out of his the , which even with the the conviction that decrees issued from public appearances, where, for exam- a desk cannot end a spiritual crisis. “Les ple, he employed the Roman Canon or choses se font en ne les faisant pas.”7 distributed communion on the tongue No Chinese said that but the French to the kneeling faithful. To allow truth foreign minister Talleyrand, who after to act only through “the gentle power” The progressives, all was a Catholic bishop. “Things get of truth itself, as is stated in the concil- done by doing nothing”—that’s an iar Declaration on Religious Liberty8— however, were not everyday experience; everyone may this maxim corresponded both to his deceived regarding the have encountered it once. But it is also temperament and to his conviction. a profound insight into the course of A characteristic expression of his innocuousness of this history, in which great developments approach was his care for overcoming remain uninfluenced by the plans of the many aberrations in the liturgy that “reform” initiative. man—however excitedly the political obscured the Eucharistic mystery. He protagonists in the foreground of the hoped to be able to eliminate the abuses present day may gesticulate. That was through a “reform of the reform.” what Benedict, as Cardinal and Prefect “Reform”—now that’s something the best (and worst) of wills cannot mean of the Congregation for the Doctrine of justification for which is completely pro omnibus, has not yet been resolved the Faith, had already criticized in Paul understandable. Everyone demands, in Germany.9 The English-speaking and VI’s reform of the Mass. Here organic after all, continuous economic, politi- Romance worlds had submitted, more growth, the development shaped by cal, and social reforms. Indeed, wasn’t or less gnashing their teeth, while for the imperceptible hand of time, had “reform of the reform” well-nigh an the , the theory of universal been interrupted by a bureaucratic act, intensification of this positive word, an salvation, one of the dearest offspring of expression of the maxim ecclesia sem- the post-conciliar era, was endangered! per reformanda? And wasn’t an evalua- That at least a third of the Gospel of tion and reassessment of the ad exper- Matthew consists of proclamations of imentum phase which the liturgy had eternal damnation so terror-inducing From these thoughts gone through since its revision by Paul that one can hardly sleep after reading VI also necessary? The progressives, them was a matter of indifference to the speaks an almost Far however, were not deceived regarding propagandists of the “new mercy”— Eastern wisdom, a the innocuousness of this “reform” ini- regardless of the fact that they had jus- tiative. They recognized even the first tified their struggle against Tradition by principled distrust of ever-so-cautious steps of the Cardinal the desire to break through historical and even more so those of the Pope as overgrowth and encrustation to the all manipulations. a danger for the three great objectives sources of the “authentic” Jesus. of the revolution in the Mass (even The same thing happened to though the popes had already contested another central cause of Benedict’s— a “dictatus papae.” It appeared to him all three). What Benedict wanted to one that really didn’t touch Pope Paul’s to be not just hopeless but even for- achieve would stand in the way of the reform of the Mass. As is well known, bidden to try to heal through another desacralization, the Protestantizing, that reform did not require a change dictate this wound that Pope Paul’s and the anthropomorphic democrati- in the direction of the celebration. attack against Tradition had inflicted. zation of the rite. What struggles were The liturgical scholar Klaus Gamber, A gradual transformation of thought, involved just in eliminating the many admired by Pope Benedict, had given proceeding from the contemplation errors in the translations of the missal the scholarly proof that in no period

22 ■ the traditionalist Tribute to Joseph Ratzinger, the Pope Who Abdicated ■ Martin Mosebach of the Church’s history had the litur- was just a set phrase instead of a policy, of the Mass the most important com- gical sacrifice been made facing the is now even forbidden as a phrase.10 ponents that could have been antici- people instead of facing East, together Is it then still worthwhile to ask, pated from a “reform of the reform”: with the people, to the returning Lord. how, realistically, the “reform of the ad orientem celebration, communion Already as Cardinal, Pope Benedict reform” might have looked? In any on the tongue, the Roman Canon, the had pointed out again and again how case, Pope Benedict did not think of occasional use of Latin. According to calling into question the use of the ver- the books of the Church this is possible nacular. He considered this to be irre- even today, although in an individual versible, even if he might have greeted congregation it requires considerable the spread of occasional Latin Masses. courage and authority to find the way He said that Mass Correcting the incorrect orientation of back to this form without support from celebrating the Mass was very import- Rome. I want to say that the reform celebrated facing the ant for him, likewise the reception of of the reform would not have been people conveyed the communion on the tongue (likewise a tremendous achievement; it would not abolished by the missal of Paul not have won back many spiritual trea- impression that the VI). He favored the use of the Roman sures of the old Rite. But it certainly Canon—also not prohibited today. would have led to a change in the congregation is not If he had, moreover, thought of put- atmosphere—it would have allowed ting into the new missal the extremely the spirit of adoration and of sacred oriented towards God. important offertory prayers of the tra- space to arise again. When an indi- ditional rite, one could say that the vidual priest undertakes this in a par- reform of the reform was nothing but ish alone and on his own account, he greatly the Mass had been distorted a return to the post-conciliar missal and its meaning obscured by the cel- of 1965 which Pope Paul himself had ebration’s false orientation. He said promulgated before his drastic reform that Mass celebrated facing the peo- of the Mass. In regard to the 1966 edi- ple conveyed the impression that the tion of the Schott missal,11 the Cardinal Pope Benedict did not congregation is not oriented towards Secretary of State at that time, Amleto God, but celebrates itself. This correct Giovanni Cicognani, specifically wrote: think of calling into insight, I admit, never made it either “The singular characteristic and crux of question the use of the into a binding document of the Con- this new edition is its perfected union gregation for the Doctrine of the Faith with the Council’s Constitution on vernacular. He considered or into papal legislation. Here too, truth the Sacred Liturgy.”12 What drove was supposed to prevail through the Pope Paul to disregard the missal he this to be irreversible. “gentle force of truth”—so appeared the himself had promulgated and shortly rule of the “Panzerkardinal” or “God’s thereafter to publish a new missal— Rottweiler” (or whatever other compli- one which no longer corresponded to risks an exhausting struggle with his ments public opinion dreamed up for the task set by the Council—is among superior and trouble with his liturgy Pope Benedict). The consequences of the great puzzles of recent church his- committee. Thus, that which is possible the effects of this “gentle power” are tory. One thing is certain: if things had and permitted quickly becomes prac- today apparent to everyone. The unique remained as they were in the 1965 ver- tically impossible. How helpful would hope of the present Curia, the Prefect of sion, which although inflicting many be a single papal document that rec- the Congregation for Divine Worship, senseless sacrifices, left the rite as a ommended ad orientem celebration! Cardinal Sarah, who teaches and acts whole untouched, the rebellion of the While entertaining (perhaps point- in Benedict’s spirit, has nothing in his great Archbishop Lefebvre would never less) thoughts regarding “what would hands with which to turn into reality have occurred. But one other thing is have happened, if…,” it may be appro- the mission he inherited from Benedict. also true: even today nothing prevents a priate to recall what would have been “Reform of the reform,” which always priest from including in his celebration more important still than work on

SPRING 2018 ■ 23 Tributes ritual details. Anyone who has dealt of the rite were created early on, for parts as “consecrating.” The presence more thoroughly with the great cri- example, the “low Mass.” We can cer- of Christ in the liturgy is not centered sis of the liturgy in the twentieth cen- tainly love it, but we cannot forget that only on the words of consecration in tury knows that it didn’t simply fall it represents a conceptual impossibility the strict sense, but runs through the down from heaven or rise up out of for the Church of the first millennium, entire liturgy in different forms till it hell. Rather, there were developments which continues to live in the various experiences its summit in the form of Orthodox churches. Choral music is the sacrificial death made present in prescribed for the Orthodox celebrant the consecration. even when he celebrates alone. For the Certainly, whoever understands liturgy moves man into the sphere of the Mass in this way does not think of Ancient Christian belief the angels, the angels who sing. And the reduction and even less of arbitrary men who sing the songs of the angels, interventions, for, from the outset, the understood the entire the Sanctus and the Gloria, take the presence of Christ excludes any arbi- liturgy in all its parts place of the angels, as the Eastern lit- trary arranging and staging by man. It urgies expressly state. The low Mass was the new Western way of perceiving as “consecrating.” developed when, in monasteries, sev- eral priests celebrated at the same time at different altars. Easily understand- able practical considerations sought to reaching into the far past that finally avoid musical chaos. But you only have Liturgy has this in led to the catastrophe: a mindset which, to have been in the Church of the Holy looked at in isolation, doesn’t seem Sepulcher in Jerusalem to experience common with art: dangerous at first, cannot be under- that in the spiritual world of the first within its sphere there is stood as simply anti-liturgical and anti- millennium practical considerations sacral, and can be found even today had no legitimacy in matters of the no distinction between among some friends of the traditional , the liturgy. Greek Ortho- rite. One could call it Roman-juristic dox, Egyptian Copts, and Armenians the important and the thought or misunderstood scholastic sing at different altars each in their own analytic thought. In any case, it was chant, until a holy noise fills the space. unimportant. All parts a manner of thinking and perceiving Admittedly, that may confuse, perhaps of a painting by a master that was completely foreign to the first even repel people of the North in their Christian millennium that formed the search for Protestant inwardness and are of equal significance. rite. According to this view, some parts contemplation—especially when from in the rite are essential and others less a nearby mosque the call of the muezzin important. For the mindset influenced gets mixed into the whole. What inter- by this theology of the Mass, the con- ests us here is that even in the face of the “real” sacred act as narrowed down cept of “validity” is critical. It is a con- such jarring consequences, the Eastern to the consecration that handed over cept derived from the realm of civil law, liturgies could not even imagine a min- the Mass to the planners’ clutches. But which inquires into the prerequisites imalization, a “reduction to the essen- liturgy has this in common with art: that have to be present for a legal action tials,” the omission of elements that within its sphere there is no distinc- to be valid, and those things that do not do not concern the consecration, etc. tion between the important and the contribute to this validity. This per- To summarize, the essential distinc- unimportant. All parts of a painting by spective necessarily leads to a reduc- tion between the thought of the ancient a master are of equal significance, none tion, a formal minimalism that only Church and the more recent West- can be dispensed with. Just imagine, wants to know whether the minimal ern Latin conceptions consists in the in regard to Raphael’s painting of St. prerequisites for the validity of a cer- understanding of the consecration of Cecilia, wanting only to recognize the tain Mass exist. Under the influence the offerings. Ancient Christian belief value of the face and hands, because of this understanding, reductive forms understood the entire liturgy in all its they are “important,” while cutting

24 ■ the traditionalist Tribute to Joseph Ratzinger, the Pope Who Abdicated ■ Martin Mosebach off the musical instruments at her feet last day, surrounded by the symbols hand, to recognize the offertory as a because they are “unimportant.” of majesty. At the reading of the Gos- ritual of re-presentation if one had What is decisive, however, is that pel the candles of the Gospel proces- glanced over at the Orthodox ritual. the Latin world reached this opinion sion and the incensing of the Gospel But Roman arrogance preserved us against the facts of its own liturgy, book as well as of the celebrating priest from such digressions. It haughtily which spoke a totally other, increas- once more indicate the presence of the ignored the fact that one cannot make ingly incomprehensible language. Not teaching Christ. The readings are not any competent statement concerning only the Orthodox but also the Roman simply a “proclamation” but above all the unless one also keeps liturgy consists of a gradual increase the creation of a presence. Then the an eye on the Orthodox rite. In it, the of the Lord’s presence, culminating in offertory gifts, hidden by the chalice offertory is celebrated in a far more fes- the consecration. But this is precisely veil, are brought to the altar and are tive and detailed way, precisely because not in the form of a division separat- reverently received and incensed. The it is considered part of the consecra- prayers that are recited at this moment tion. Why did no one [at the time of can be understood to mean that these the reform] wonder why the epiclesis, gifts, even though unconsecrated, just the invocation of the Holy Spirit at the by reason of their having been set aside The readings are not already have the role of representing Christ preparing for his sacrificial simply a “proclamation” death. Thus, the liturgical understand- but above all the ing of the first millennium interpreted The traditional offertory the removal of the chalice veil on the creation of a presence. altar as a representation of the moment was a particular in which Christ was stripped of his thorn in the side of the garments. ing the parts before the consecration The traditional offertory was a par- reformers of the Mass. from those afterwards—just as the life ticular thorn in the side of the reform- of Christ is not separated from its cli- ers of the Mass. Why these prayers, why max, the sacrificial death, but logically these signs of reverence, if the gifts consecration of the gifts, is part of the leads up to it. Christ recalled and made have not yet even been consecrated? offertory in the Latin rite?14 That the present is the theme of the Latin lit- A theology of the Mass of the second liturgy thus contains a clear sign that urgy from is first moments; the lan- millennium had stolen in, from whose the consecration has already begun guage of its symbols permits no other perspective this offertory had suddenly at that point? But the more profound interpretation. The liturgy had taken become incomprehensible, a detail that understanding of the liturgical process over from the court ceremonial of the had been dragged along which only had already been so largely lost that pagan emperors the symbolic language produced embarrassment. Now just one felt able to throw away that which for the presence of the supreme sov- appreciate the spirit of reverence of, one could no longer understand as if it ereign: candles, which preceded the say, the epoch of the Council of Trent. were a meaningless frill. It must have emperor, and the . Whenever It had revised the liturgy, but of course been an exalted feeling, as a member candles and incense appear in the lit- did not think at all of changing a litur- of a future generation, to be able so urgy, they indicate a new culmina- gical rite because it had been found to blithely to cut down to size the great- tion of the divine presence. The priest be theologically inconsistent. But when est pope in history, St. Gregory the himself, as he enters upon his liturgical this offertory reached the desks of the Great! Allow me here to cite an athe- function, is an alter Christus, a part of unfortunate twentieth century, it could istic writer, the brilliant Stalinist Peter the great work of theurgy, “God-cre- finally be eliminated. One senses the Hacks, who said regarding the question ation,”13 as the liturgy has been called. satisfaction of the reformer with hav- of revising classical plays: “the best way He represents the Christ of Palm Sun- ing eliminated the nonsense of mil- to revise classic plays is to understand day, who festively enters into Jerusa- lennia with one stroke of the pen. It them.” A principle already heeded in lem, but also Christ come again on the would have been so easy, on the other literature—how much more so should

SPRING 2018 ■ 25 Tributes it be when it involves the liturgy, the few—in the curia and in the world epis- is celebrated since the ; greatest treasure we possess? Among copacy who would have stood at the how many priests who do not belong the greatest achievements of Pope side of the Pope in this matter. Both to traditional orders have meanwhile Benedict was directing the Church’s the progressive side and regrettably learned the old rite; how many bish- attention once more to Orthodoxy. also the “conservative” side (one has ops have confirmed and ordained in He knew that all the striving towards grown accustomed to putting this word the old rite. Germany—the land from ecumenism, however necessary, must in quotation marks) implored Pope which so many impulses harmful to begin not with attention-grabbing Benedict not to grant the traditional the Church have issued—regrettably meetings with Eastern hierarchs but rite any more freedom beyond the pos- cannot be listed here in first place. But with the restoration of the Latin liturgy, sibilities created unwillingly by John which represents the real connection Paul II. Pope Benedict, who with his between the Latin and Greek churches. whole being distrusted isolated papal Now, in the meantime, we have realized decisions, in this case overcame him- that all such initiatives were in vain— self and spoke an authoritative word. The liturgy IS the especially because it wasn’t death that And then, with the rules of implemen- interrupted them, but a capitulation tation for , he Church—every Mass long before one was sure that irrevers- created guarantees, anchored in canon celebrated in the ible facts had been created. law, that secured for the traditional rite The disappointment over the shock- a firm place in the life of the Church. traditional spirit is ing end of the Benedictine pontificate That is still just a first step, but it was is all too understandable, but threatens a conviction of this pope, whose spiri- immeasurably more to obscure a sober view of the facts. tual seriousness cannot be denied, that Just imagine what the liturgical reality the true growth of liturgical conscious- important than every ness cannot be commanded. Rather, word of every pope. it must take place in many souls; faith in tradition must be proved in many places throughout the world. Now it is The disappointment over incumbent on every individual to take Catholics must think universally! Who up the possibilities made available by would have believed it possible twenty the shocking end of the Pope Benedict. Against overwhelm- years ago that there would be held in Benedictine pontificate is ing opposition he opened a floodgate. St. Peter’s, at the Cathedra Petri, a pon- Now the water has to flow, and no one tifical Mass in the old rite? I admit that all too understandable, who holds the liturgy to be an essential that is little, far too little—a small phe- component of the Faith can dispense nomenon in the entirety of the world but threatens to obscure himself from this task. The liturgy IS the Church. Nevertheless, while soberly Church—every Mass celebrated in the contemplating the gigantic catastrophe a sober view of the facts. traditional spirit is immeasurably more that has occurred in the Church, we do important than every word of every not have the right to place little value on pope. It is the red thread that must be exceptions from the sorrowful rule. The would be if Pope Bergoglio had imme- drawn through the glory and misery totality of the progressive claims has diately succeeded John Paul II. Even of Church history; where it contin- been broken—that is the work of Pope if the dearest cause of Pope Benedict, ues, phases of arbitrary papal rule will Benedict XVI. And whoever laments the reform of the reform, has failed, become footnotes of history. Don’t the that Pope Benedict did not do more for he remains a pope of the liturgy, pos- progressives secretly suspect that their the good cause, that he used his papal sibly, hopefully, the great savior of the efforts will remain in vain so long as authority too sparingly, in all realism liturgy. His motu proprio truly earned the Church’s memory of her source of let him ask himself who among the car- the designation “of his own volition.” life survives? Just realize in how many dinals with realistic chances to become For there was nobody—or very, very places in the world the traditional rite pope would have done more for the

26 ■ the traditionalist Tribute to Joseph Ratzinger, the Pope Who Abdicated ■ Martin Mosebach old rite than he did. And the result of 5. etwas Dezisionistisches. “Decisionism” directives are not expected from next Advent, these reflections can only be gratitude is a legal philosophy which determines the as some have incorrectly inferred from some for the unfortunate pope, who in the validity of an act or law solely from the fact of Cardinal Sarah’s words, and it is better to most difficult of times did what was in that the proper authority has decided it. This avoid using the expression ‘reform of the his power. And his memory is secure, may be traced back to the voluntarism of reform’ with reference to the liturgy, given if not in evidence among the items of William of Ockham and the political theory that it may at times give rise to error.” Pope devotional kitsch at the pilgrims’ stores of Thomas Hobbes; it is most clearly formu- Francis made similar remarks in an inter- around St Peter’s. For whenever we lated by Carl Schmitt. view with Fr. Antonio Spadaro, S.J. that was have the good fortune to participate 6. “Nicht sein kann, was nicht sein darf!” published as the preface of Nei tuoi occhi è in a traditional Mass, we will have to 7. In another version: La plupart des cho- la mia parola (Rizzoli, 2016), a collection of think of Benedict XVI. ses se font en ne les faisant pas (most things his main talks and homilies as archbishop get done by doing nothing). of Buenos Aires. 8. The phrase Mosebach has in mind is 11. The “Schott” is a well-known Ger- Endnotes §1: nec aliter veritatem man-Latin daily missal for the use of the 1. Translated by Stuart Chessman; anno- sese imponere nisi vi ipsius veritatis, quae sua- faithful. It has gone through many editions. tated by Peter Kwasniewski. viter simul ac fortiter mentibus illabitur. In 12. Eigenart und Kernpunkt dieser Neu- 2. A work of the Enlightenment, pub- Prof. Michael Pakaluk’s translation: “Nor bearbeitung ist der vollzogene Anschluß an die lished in 1780, that asserted a threefold devel- is there any other way for truth to impose Liturgiekonstitution des Konzils. This state- opment or “education” of mankind through itself except by the force of truth itself, which ment, in a letter addressed to the Abbot of the successive stages of the Old Testament, penetrates sweetly and yet at the same time Beuron by Cardinal Cicognani on behalf of the New Testament, and the Modern Age. strongly into the human mind.” Pope Paul VI, was later printed as a foreword 3. “Alles fließt, lehrt Heraklit. / Der Felsen 9. This, in spite of the April 14, 2012 letter to the Schott missal, before it was rendered Petri, der fliesst mit.” Schmitt is likely allud- that Pope Benedict XVI addressed to Arch- obsolete by the march of events. ing to a well known aphorism by W. Busch: bishop Robert Zollitsch (and through him, 13. Gottesschöpfung, in the sense that the “Einszweidrei, im Sauseschritt / Läuft die the German Bishops’ Conference) explaining priest and the liturgy make God become pres- Zeit; wir laufen mit.” why pro multis must be translated “for many” ent or appear. 4. Constitution on the Sacred Liturgy Sac- in all vernacular liturgical books. 14. Mosebach is referring to this prayer of rosanctum Concilium, §36, §54, §101. 10. See, e.g., Com- the old offertory: Veni, Sanctificator omnipo- muniqué of July 7, 2016: “New liturgical tens aeterne Deus: et benedic hoc sacrifícium,

SPRING 2018 ■ 27 Second Thoughts

Tradition in the Balance n the aftermath of the Second transformed almost beyond recogni- PHILIP F. LAWLER Vatican Council, the Catholic tion. A clear sense of Catholic iden- Church was torn by disputes tity was lost. Thousands of the faithful, about liturgy and morality, dis- lacking clear guidance, drifted away putes that were not confined to from the Church. Even among those Excerpt from Lost theological faculties, but reached into who remained, the fault lines became Iparishes and family homes. Scores of increasingly evident. Catholics began to Shepherd: How books have been written about the choose their parishes according to the Pope Francis council and its consequences, and I do of the liturgy or the content of the is Misleading not propose to add to that literature. I preaching; the differences from parish His Flock. simply want to make the point that in to parish and from diocese to diocese the late 1960s and through the 1970s, could make a visitor wonder whether the Catholic Church was sorely divided. these churches were still united by the The conflict involved irreconcilable same faith. interpretations of the council’s man- That sort of turmoil was not entirely date. Liberal or “progressive” Catho- new to the Catholic world. In the his- lics believed not only that Vatican II tory of the Church, major councils have had wrought profound changes in the frequently been followed by periods Church but that the “spirit of Vati- of confusion until the new teachings can II” would extend the era change have been absorbed. But Vatican II far into the future, overthrowing old was the first ecumenical council in the dogmas and disciplines. Conservative age of modern communications, when Catholics argued that this liberal vision every new theological argument was was a misinterpretation of the council instantaneously disseminated through- and that the radical changes sweeping out the world. Ordinary Catholics, as through the Church went beyond any- well as interested observers outside thing authorized in the documents of the Church, could develop their own the council. A third group, tradition- views about the conciliar debates. Those alist Catholics, tacitly agreed with the views, however, were strongly influ- liberals that the council had made rad- enced by the secular media, which were ical changes in Catholic teaching, but nearly unanimous in decreeing that they insisted that these changes must the liberal or “progressive” wing of the be reversed. Church had the better of the debates. Continuing for a generation, this In Turmoil and Truth, the British conflict severely strained the unity of Catholic author Philip Trower explains Phil Lawler created and edits the Church. Every tenet of Catholic the public perception of the post-con- CatholicWorldNews.com doctrine was assailed. The liturgy was ciliar Church with this vivid image:

28 Tradition in the Balance ■ Philip F. Lawler

Six men are pushing a heavily loaded an active and influential participant sex,” said another. One Jesuit made a car which has run out of fuel. Three of at Vatican II, and his pastoral lead- shocking statement of disloyalty: “The them, who have been riding in the car, ership of the archdiocese of Krakow Church as we know it is dying. I hope want to push it 20 yards to get it into a was widely regarded as a model for the and pray that the Society [of Jesus] will lay-by. The other three, who have of- proper implementation of the council’s help to facilitate this death and resur- fered to help, mean to push the car 50 teachings. Nevertheless, he rejected the rection.” Another, in more measured yards and shove it over a cliff followed excesses that had been promoted by tones, boasted: “The Society has not by the car owner and his two friends. some of the overzealous champions of sold its soul to the ‘restoration’ of John Once the pushing begins and the car reform. Thanks also to his enormous Paul II.” starts moving it is probable the car is popularity and his deserved reputation That restoration continued under going to come to rest more than 20 for personal holiness, he held the con- Benedict XVI, who had been John yards from the starting point even if fidence of the faithful and was able to Paul’s right-hand man. Helping to it does not end up at the cliff’s foot. steer the universal Church back toward settle the lingering confusion about normalcy. the proper interpretation of Vatican Now let us imagine what a group of John Paul II faced resistance, to be II, he explained that Catholic doctrine people watching from a nearby hill- sure, and a good deal of it came from and discipline should always be seen top will make of the incident. They within the . In their in continuity with the centuries of the will start by assuming that all six men Church’s tradition. The Faith does not have the same intentions. The car is change, though over time the Church moving steadily forward. Then they refines her understanding of truths see three of the men detach them- that have been known from the days selves from the back of the car, run One Jesuit made a of the apostles. Vatican II, Benedict around to the front and try to stop it. explained, did not, and could not, con- Which are the troublemakers? Those shocking statement of stitute a break with Catholic tradition. surely who are now opposing the pro- disloyalty: “The Church Proposing a “hermeneutic of continu- cess that has been started. ity,” by which the teachings of Vati- as we know it is dying. I can II were to be read in the light of Needless to say, this analogy is the teachings of previous councils and imperfect. The Catholic Faith was not hope and pray that the magisterial statements, he rejected the “out of gas” before Vatican II, and it extremism of both the radicals and the would be unfair to imply that every- Society [of Jesus] will help traditionalists, who agreed that Vati- one calling for radical change was to facilitate this death.” can II had repudiated previous Church motivated by a desire to destroy the teachings—the former welcoming the Church. But Trower makes the import- rupture and the latter loathing it. ant point that, like the three men in eye-opening book Passionate Uncer- John Paul II and Benedict XVI did the car, the Church was on a journey tainty: Inside the American Jesuits, not repair all the fissures in the struc- before the battle began, and to under- Peter McDonough and Eugene Bian- ture of the Church that appeared after stand the battle one must understand chi take a sympathetic look at the pro- Vatican II. Far from it. For ordinary that journey. gressive Jesuits who were appalled by Catholics, the problems persisted at the Polish pope’s refusal to change the parish level, where liturgical abuses Church doctrine, particularly on issues continued and religious education was John Paul II and of sexuality. “He’s not one of the worst shallow. Catholics seeking a reverent the Restoration popes; he’s the worst,” one Jesuit told liturgy had to shop for a congenial par- During the long pontificate of St. the authors. “I am appalled by the ish, often far from their homes, and John Paul II, the turmoil within the direction of the present papacy,” said parents determined to educate their Church slowly subsided. No one could another. “I am scandalized by Rome’s children in the Faith hunted out the accuse the Polish pontiff of opposing intransigent refusal to re-examine few rigorous parish programs or, more the council’s teachings. He had been its doctrines regarding gender and and more often, taught their children

SPRING 2018 ■ 29 Second Thoughts at home. Still, these struggling Cath- to realize that he is aiming at reform sneering, attitude toward Church lead- olics knew that in parochial conflicts, that is irreversible.” ers of the past. In an address to Jesuit they could cite recent papal documents, For Catholics who have weathered officials in October 2016, he said that confident that they had the support of two generations of confusion and the missionary work of the early Jesuits the Vatican. conflict, clinging to beliefs they hold was marred by “a hegemonic concep- precious, the prospect of “irreversible tion of Roman centralism.” A Catholic change” along the lines suggested by historian, Bronwen Catherine McShea, Fernández is horrifying. The unsettling takes exception to that phrase, which “Francis effect” has left thousands of seems to “dismiss, and gratuitously to As the pope’s closest Catholics constantly anxious, easily tarnish the memory of Church lead- rattled by the latest rumors from Rome. ers of the distant past for the sake of advisers have stated In the spring of 2017, for example, advancing a current agenda for incul- on several occasions, a report circulated that the pope had turated forms of Christianity among authorized a Vatican commission to the world’s indigenous cultures.” Francis intends not only reconsider the teaching of Humanae McShea is also dismayed by the Vitae, the 1968 encyclical of Paul VI pope’s remark to a Lutheran delega- to change the Church but reaffirming the Church’s age-old con- tion from Finland: “The intention of demnation of contraception that had to lock in the changes. touched off the bitterest theological dis- putes of recent decades. The report was not quite accurate, but the reality was “Irreversible” Change unsettling enough. It was not the pope Francis has often displayed No longer. Francis has reopened the himself who was reopening the ques- debate about the continuity of Cath- tion—at least not directly. The Pontifi- a dismissive, almost olic teaching. His supporters see him cal John Paul II Institute for Studies on sneering, attitude toward as the liberator of the spirit of Vatican Marriage and Family (named after the II, bringing permanent change to the most eloquent defender of Humanae Church leaders of the past. Church, while his critics protest that Vitae) was sponsoring a “study group,” the Church cannot alter its fundamen- working under the auspices of the tal doctrine. So the intramural disputes recently remodeled Pontifical Acad- that split dioceses and parishes and emy for Life, to examine the history Martin Luther five hundred years ago families a generation ago are flaring up of the preparation of the encyclical. A was to renew the Church, not divide once again. Orthodox Catholics who pontifical institute would not under- her.” On the contrary, McShea writes, thought they could finally foresee the take a reevaluation of a papal encycli- “from early on, Luther’s Reforma- restoration of reverence and beauty in cal unless the sponsors were confident tion was centrally about separating, the liturgy and of serious substance that the pope would approve. Since promptly—with the help of powerful in catechesis see their hard-won gains the members of the study group were territorial princes and city magistrates slipping away. That conflict in itself known for their lack of enthusiasm with local influence and armies at the would be cause for alarm. But there for the Church’s teaching on contra- ready—the hidden, faith-filled wheat is more. ception, veterans of the battles over from the papistic chaff, so to speak.” As the pope’s closest advisers have Humanae Vitae were hardly paranoid stated on several occasions, Francis in fearing that the ugly controversy intends not only to change the Church could erupt again—this time with the New Fuel for but to lock in the changes. Archbishop Vatican supporting the critics of con- Liturgy Wars Victor Fernández, a fellow Argentine stant Catholic teaching. Francis himself used the word who helped the pontiff draft his first Far from employing the “herme- “irreversible” in August 2017 when he encyclical, remarked in 2015, “You have neutic of continuity,” Francis has spoke on the most controversial of all often displayed a dismissive, almost the changes that Catholics experienced

30 ■ the traditionalist Tradition in the Balance ■ Philip F. Lawler in the years following Vatican II: the the current state of liturgical affairs. particular vigor in the English-speak- dramatic alterations in the language The only questions are whether, how, ing world in the 1990s. and rubrics of the Mass. Speaking to and in which direction the process In 2001, the Congregation for a conference in Italy, the pope stressed should continue. Divine Worship and the Discipline of that the changes wrought by the Coun- Insofar as he was saying that the the Sacraments released the instruc- cil could not be undone. Church is committed to the process that tion Liturgiam Authenticam provid- The pope—who, unlike his prede- began with Vatican II, Francis was only ing guidelines for liturgical transla- cessor Benedict XVI, had rarely spo- reinforcing what John Paul II and Ben- ken about liturgical matters—argued edict XVI had said. But many analysts that the post-conciliar changes were who read the pope’s speech—including, not sudden. They were part of a long notably, those who applauded it most history of reform, he said, that dated enthusiastically—interpreted his words But if Pope Francis is back to the early years of the twentieth as a distinct break from the statements century. Those changes, he continued, of his immediate predecessors. Father free to discard the ideas responded “to real needs and to the Anthony Ruff, an influential American of Pope Benedict, then concrete hopes of a renewal.” There- liturgist, remarked, “It is obvious just fore, he concluded, “we can assert with what, and who, is omitted.” Ruff did a future pope should certainty and magisterial authority that not spell it out, but he clearly meant the liturgy reform is irreversible.” that Francis never mentioned his pre- be free to discard the Francis has been reluctant to invoke decessor, Benedict XVI, who had writ- his magisterial authority on doctri- ten and spoken so frequently about the ideas of Pope Francis. nal questions, but here he invoked it liturgy. The implication was that with in connection with liturgical reform. this major address the current pope had thrust aside the ideas of the for- tions. That instruction— which called mer pope, who had always emphasized upon translators to adhere as closely the need for continuity in the Church’s as possible to the language of original teaching and worship. Latin texts—remains in effect. Mag- Speaking to a conference But if Pope Francis is free to dis- num Principium, however, was hailed card the ideas of Pope Benedict, then by critics of Liturgiam Authenticam in Italy, the pope stressed a future pope should be free to discard as grounds for a reconsideration of that the changes wrought the ideas of Pope Francis. And if Fran- the fundamental principles of trans- cis was indeed reversing the policies of lation and an effort to produce new by the Council could his immediate predecessor, he was, in English-language versions of the the process, undermining the supposed liturgy. not be undone. irreversibility of his own policies. Actually, Francis does not suggest Three weeks later Francis took new approaches to translation. Quite another bold step forward on the litur- on the contrary, in his motu proprio he Once again his words were profoundly gical battlefield with a motu proprio states that the existing Vatican instruc- confusing. The pope said in the same giving national bishops’ conferences tions “were and remain at the level of address that liturgical renewal is a con- the authority—previously reserved to general guidelines and, as far as pos- tinuing process. What does it mean the Holy See—to prepare and approve sible, must be followed by liturgical to speak with “magisterial authority” vernacular translations of liturgical commissions . . . . ” Still the overall about a process? texts. On paper, Magnum Principium effect of the new papal document was Virtually every Catholic, from the involves only a minor shift in jurisdic- to reopen a painful debate within the crustiest traditionalist to the most tion. But the pope’s move is likely to Catholic community. iconoclastic radical, would agree that have far-reaching effects in practice, something should be done to the lit- possibly reigniting the battles over urgy. Hardly anyone is satisfied with translations that were fought with

SPRING 2018 ■ 31 Second Thoughts

An Odd Affinity for of marriages at which an SSPX priest die out as its members aged, the move- Traditionalists? presided. ment has attracted thousands of young Francis seems to be working directly As I write, informed sources in Catholics. In today, traditional- against the goal of “irreversible change” Rome say that it is only a matter of time ist chapels draw more worshippers than with one important policy initiative: before the Vatican fully recognizes the ordinary parishes. Third, and most his drive to regularize the status of the SSPX, making it a . important, the sticking point in nego- Society of St. Pius X (SSPX), a tradi- The prelature would exercise authority tiations with the SSPX has always been tionalist group that broke with Rome over SSPX priests, ensuring that they in 1988 when its founder, Archbishop were not subject to disciplinary control Marcel Lefebvre, defied the Holy See in by diocesan bishops unsympathetic consecrating four bishops. All the bish- to the traditionalist movement. By ops involved in that ceremony incurred all accounts, the Vatican has already In France today, the penalty of , and offered the SSPX this status. The stick- the SSPX priests they ordained were ing point seems to be a requirement traditionalist chapels never accorded canonical status. Bene- that the SSPX acknowledge the author- draw more worshippers dict XVI lifted the ity of Vatican II, but Francis has report- in 2009, but the status of SSPX clerics edly made concessions far beyond than ordinary parishes. remained irregular; they did not have those offered by Benedict, including official permission to administer the an acknowledgement that there can Sacraments. be legitimate differences of opinion as the group’s hesitance about Vatican During most of Benedict’s pontif- to the authority and the interpretation II, and Francis has never been overly icate the Vatican engaged in negotia- of the council documents. worried about the details of doctrine, tions with the SSPX, hoping to bring its Why would a pontiff bent on radical discipline, and “the law.” followers back into the fold. The talks change within the Church make this extraordinary effort to reconcile with recalcitrant traditionalists? Suspicious The Lessons of China members of the SSPX are asking exactly and Venezuela that question. Is the proposed reconcil- The willingness to overlook dif- Informed sources in Rome iation a tactic to bring the traditional- ficulties in doctrine has also been ists to heel, to regain the disciplinary an important factor in negotiations say that it is only a matter leverage that the Vatican lost when the between the Vatican and the People’s of time before the Vatican SSPX leaders were excommunicated? Republic of China. On that front too, Or is an SSPX prelature seen as a sort rumors suggest that an imminent fully recognizes the SSPX. of ecclesiastical safety valve, a way for accord will end a longstanding impasse “rigid” Catholics to segregate them- over the appointment of new Catholic selves, leaving dioceses and parishes bishops in China. But if the rumors stalled, however, when the leaders of to the ministrations of the new liberal are true, the price of that agreement the group balked at acknowledging the hegemony? could be a crucial concession to Bei- validity of the teachings of Vatican II. There is a simple explanation, really, jing, a concession that Benedict XVI Francis surprised many observers by which has three parts. First, Francis had firmly ruled out. continuing the talks, going even fur- has always said that the Church should For decades, the Holy See has wran- ther to achieve a reconciliation. In 2015 reach out to those on the “peripher- gled with the communist regime over he granted SSPX priests the authority ies,” and the SSPX is undeniably on the control of the Church in China. The to hear sacramental confessions, and periphery of Catholicism today. Sec- government insists that the Church in 2017 he announced that the Cath- ond, traditionalism has demonstrated must be under the guidance of the olic Church would accept the validity an enduring appeal. Once thought to be Communist Party through the gov- the last gasp of a resistance that would ernment-controlled Catholic Patriotic

32 ■ the traditionalist Tradition in the Balance ■ Philip F. Lawler

Association. Benedict maintained could exclude clerics who were deemed reach an agreement regardless of the that a role for the Patriotic Associ- unfriendly to the government. cost, a weakness that undermined an ation cannot be reconciled with the Cardinal , the retired effort in 2016 to mediate an escalating freedom of the Church. There mat- bishop of , who for years dispute between the Venezuelan gov- ters stood, apparently at a stalemate, has been the leading Catholic critic of ernment and opposition leaders. during Benedict’s reign. The Patriotic the mainland government, fears the The socialist regime of Nicolás Vatican is “going to make a very bad Maduro was responsible for a crush- agreement with China.” The rumored ing economic crisis in Venezuela, and agreement, he says, would “give too unrest was building. Cardinal Pietro much decisionmaking power to the Parolin, the Vatican Secretary of State, Cardinal Zen has government.” Loyal Catholics could said that the Holy See would mediate easily be excluded from consideration talks between the government and disclosed that he has for appointment as bishops, and it is opposition if certain conditions were frequently written to the “really naïve,” he warns, to think that met: the government must free political the Communist Party would hesitate prisoners, allow humanitarian agencies pontiff expressing his to use that leverage. to deliver food and medicine to those Cardinal Zen has disclosed that he in need, and schedule new elections. concerns, but “he doesn’t has frequently written to the pontiff The government did not fulfill any of expressing his concerns, but “he doesn’t those conditions, the opposition with- answer my letters.” answer my letters.” To compound the drew from talks, and the negotiations problem, “the people around him are soon collapsed. not good at all.” Association appointed several bish- Shortly after the Chinese cardi- ops, whose the Holy See nal’s lament, the head of the Catho- regarded as illicit. The Chinese gov- lic Patriotic Association, Liu Bainian, ernment, for its part, refused to rec- essentially confirmed Zen’s fears that Maduro used the pope’s ognize the “underground” Catholic the accord would “sell out the under- bishops, whose appointments had not ground Church,” telling the South public statements against been authorized by the regime. Many China Morning Post that the govern- the bishops, charging if not most Chinese bishops have man- ment would not recognize the “under- aged to win approval from both the ground” bishops. He was responding to that the were out government and the Holy See, but the reports that after a deal was struck, the process for doing so is murky, the sit- Holy See would recognize the bishops of touch with Rome. uation unstable. “Underground” Cath- who had been selected by the Patriotic olics are subject to police harassment, Association and consecrated illicitly, and bishops are under heavy pressure while the regime would recognize the The Venezuelan bishops had sparred to bow to the Patriotic Association. “underground” bishops. Scoffing at for years with Maduro and his prede- Under Francis, there have been that notion, Liu said, “There’s no such cessor, Hugo Chávez, criticizing both signs that the stalemate could be bro- proposal being heard on the main- rulers for their strongarm tactics. In ken, and the Vatican is reportedly land yet.” The Vatican must recog- reply both Chávez and Maduro had ready to offer a new compromise: the nize the regime’s bishops, he said, but charged that the bishops were in league Holy See would appoint new bishops, those prelates who had not sought the with the opposition and accused the but it would select them from a list approval of the government are “unfit hierarchy of sedition. Now Maduro of candidates prepared by Chinese for the people to work with.” stepped up his anticlerical rhetoric, authorities. Thus the Holy See would A prudent negotiator knows when and bands of the president’s support- protect its claim to ultimate author- to make a dramatic offer and when to ers threatened bishops and vandalized ity over appointments, while Beijing take a stand on principle. Francis, how- cathedrals. In the summer of 2017 the ever, typically betrays his anxiety to Venezuelan bishops warned that their

SPRING 2018 ■ 33 Second Thoughts country was becoming a “totalitarian, of a “popular movement,” insisting Islam,” but then he hastened to make militarist, violent, oppressive police- that they were fighting for the people the case that the exploitation of religion state system.” They released a prayer to against powerful elites—a posture that for the purpose of violence is not pecu- the Virgin Mary to “free our country appeals to Francis. As the crisis came to liar to Islam: “The idea of conquest is from the clutches of communism and a head in May 2017, an Italian political inherent in the soul of Islam, it is true. socialism.” scientist, Loris Zanatta, suggested that But it could be interpreted with the And how did the pope respond to the pope is dangerously subject to the same idea of conquest [found at] the this assault on democracy and intim- lure of ideology: end of the Gospel of Matthew, where idation of Catholic prelates? In April Jesus sends his disciples to all nations.” 2017, Francis told reporters that he Reality, Bergoglio repeats, is greater was hoping dialogue would resolve than ideas. And yet, seeing his silence the problems in Venezuela, but “part on the social drama in Venezuela, or in the country that with Chávez had set itself up as a model of anti-lib- Was the bishop eralism by invoking the stereotypes dear to the Pope, the thought aris- of Rome actually An Italian political es that he too, like many, prefers his saying that Christ’s ideas to reality. scientist, Loris Zanatta, Great Commission suggested that the pope is comparable to the The Challenge of is dangerously subject Islamic Extremism ideology of jihad? to the lure of ideology. Something similar could be said about the pope’s refusal to acknowl- edge the unique threat of Islamic ter- Was the bishop of Rome actually of the opposition does not want this.” rorism. Francis speaks out frequently saying that Christ’s Great Commission He did not mention the government’s on behalf of persecuted Christians, is comparable to the ideology of jihad? responsibility for the breakdown in especially in the Middle East, but he Incredible as it seems, that interpre- talks. In a letter to the Venezuelan bish- seems to ignore the obvious connection tation would be consistent with other ops the pope sounded the same forlorn between Islamic regimes and religious statements he has made. While some hope: “I am convinced that the serious oppression. On the contrary, at every Islamic fundamentalists are a threat problems of Venezuela can be solved if available opportunity he insists that to society, he has allowed, Christianity there is the will to build bridges, if you Islam, like every other religion, opposes has its fundamentalists as well. Is he want to talk seriously and adhere to violence. On several occasions he has suggesting that the “rigid” Catholics agreements reached.” Perversely, Mad- argued that terrorism is the product whose views he so often denounces, uro used the pope’s public statements of a global economic system based on the “fundamentalists,” are potentially against the bishops, charging that the profit rather than a religious doctrine as dangerous as jihadist warriors? It prelates were out of touch with Rome. based on conquest. seems preposterous that a Roman pon- Despite his frequent calls for decen- In an interview with the French tiff would make such an argument, yet tralizing Church leadership, in both newspaper La Croix in May 2016, his words speak for themselves. China and Venezuela Francis has Francis went further, denying that the In his famous Regensburg address distanced himself from the public people of Europe are worried about in September 2006, Benedict XVI pro- stands of local prelates. In the case of Islamic terrorism. “I do not think there vided a framework for the critical eval- Venezuela, the pontiff’s own political is now a fear of Islam, as such, but of uation of Islam, insisting that Muslim preferences might explain his failure Daesh [the Islamic State] and its war of leaders must address the tendency to to support the bishops. Chávez and conquest,” he said. He did admit that resolve disputes by force rather than Maduro styled themselves as leaders the Islamic State is “driven in part by reason. At the time, Cardinal Bergoglio

34 ■ the traditionalist Tradition in the Balance ■ Philip F. Lawler explicitly distanced himself from the revealed his Law to them, he showed probably take another stab at it. Thus pope’s line of reasoning, denying that them special favor. “He has not dealt law can be the codification of common Benedict spoke for him. The Regens- thus with any other nation; they do sense: practical problems are recog- burg address, of course, provoked an nized and remedies applied—often angry reaction from the Muslim world, after a painful process of trial and error. while Bergoglio’s determination not to Quite a bit of the Church’s pasto- give offense won him friends there. But ral wisdom falls into this category: not a decade later, the logic of the Regens- Francis has often spoken necessarily lofty theology, but the fruit burg address remains persuasive. of experience. Wise pastors find a good Benedict insisted on upholding with warmth and obvious way to address a knotty problem, sug- both the law of reason and the reason love about the beauties of gest the same solution to others, and behind the law. In contrast, Francis eventually the Church in her wisdom expresses contempt for the “doctors the Catholic Faith. But he declares that everyone should follow of the law.” This is not merely a differ- that same path. ence of style. has rarely, if ever, spoken Activists are impatient with rules. They have plans and they want results— about the love for God’s now! If their plan of action is stymied Reverence for the Law Law that rings throughout by existing law, their first instinct is In his written statements and public to cast the law aside, especially if they appearances, Francis has often spoken the Old Testament. cannot see why the law is necessary. But with warmth and obvious love about their failure to understand the purpose the beauties of the Catholic Faith. But of the law does not mean that the law he has rarely, if ever, spoken about the not know his ordinances. Praise the has no purpose. Quite possibly the leg- love for God’s Law that rings through- Lord!” (Ps. 147:20) islator understood something that the out the Old Testament. Psalm 119 offers Needless to say, the laws of the activist has not yet grasped. It’s even only one of many examples: Church—canon law—do not occupy possible that the law was written after the same exalted position as the the failure of a plan like the one the Oh, how I love thy law! Thy com- immutable Law of God. They are an activist now has in mind. mandment makes me wiser than attempt by fallen human beings to Obviously there are times when a my enemies, for it is ever with me. I codify the practical applications of the law should be amended, abolished, or have more understanding than all my Law to ordinary life. They can change, even defied. But before setting the law teachers, for thy testimonies are my whereas the Law cannot— just as speed aside, one should understand why it was meditation (Ps. 119:97–99). limits and tax rates can change, but written and the likely consequences of the law of gravity or the principle of discarding it. Church law, developed To meditate on the Law, probing non-contradiction cannot. But even and refined over the centuries, rep- deeply into its wisdom, was seen by the these man-made laws deserve respect, resents a storehouse of wisdom about Psalmist as a great blessing. The revela- as they represent the accumulated wis- human nature and human frailty. The tion of the Law unlocked the secrets of dom of the universal Church, put to the canons are there for a reason. Should the universe. The more one understood service of God’s work on Earth. some canons be changed? No doubt. the Law, the more one could live in Much of the Code of Canon Law But they should not be ignored. harmony with creation. In the modern reflects the fruit of painful experience. With his repeated criticisms of “the era we rejoice when scientific research That is how laws commonly come into doctors of the law,” Francis suggests an deepens our comprehension of nature’s being, actually, both in the Church opposition between those who enforce laws. So it is with the Law, God’s Law, and in the secular world. Legislators the law and those who dispense mercy, which includes but is not limited to the identify a problem or an abuse, pro- between canon law and pastoral prac- law of nature. And so it was that the pose a solution, and write it into law. tice. Not so. It is a fundamental prin- people of Israel, of whom Christians are If the solution is effective the problem ciple of Church law that the welfare of spiritual heirs, boasted that when God is eased. If not, future legislators will souls is the supreme law. Every canon,

SPRING 2018 ■ 35 Second Thoughts therefore, should be interpreted from that the “Francis effect” has sparked “We have no means of knowing the perspective of a conscientious pas- a revival. how far a small mistake in the faith tor. The code is designed to help pas- Would it be surprising if, after an may carry us astray,” wrote John Henry tors: to guide them, not to limit them. initial burst of enthusiasm, young Catholics did not respond to the appeal of a pontiff who broke with the The “Democracy time-honored teachings of the Church? of the Dead” The Catholic Faith is not merely a col- If the Catholic Faith With his willingness to set aside lection of propositions for belief; it is the constraints of the law in favor of also a set of traditions built up over the today is not the Faith a spontaneous new approach, Fran- generations, a heritage that the faithful of our great-great- cis has undoubtedly gained favor with come to cherish. the secular world. Four years into his By scorning traditions and scoffing grandparents—if it is not pontificate he continues to enjoy wide at canon law, Francis is not only pro- popularity in spite of the controver- voking divisions within the Catholic the Faith of the apostles sies that he has provoked. But has the Church of the early twenty-first cen- “Francis effect” brought any lasting tury but also breaking the continuity and martyrs—what is it? benefits to the Catholic Church? The between today’s Catholics and their available statistics suggest otherwise. forefathers in the Faith. G. K. Ches- After years of decline, the number terton wrote about the “democracy Newman. The great nineteenth-cen- of the dead,” arguing that our ances- tury English theologian, beatified by tors should have their say in contem- Benedict XVI in 2010, argued forcefully porary affairs, that we should respect against a way of thinking that is famil- the wisdom and the wishes of those iar to anyone who has heard Francis The figures contradict who prepared the way for us with their ridicule the “doctors of the law”: sacrifices and their prayers. If the Cath- the myth that the olic Faith today is not the Faith of our It is a fashion of the day, then, to sup- “Francis effect” has great-great-grandparents—if it is not pose that all insisting upon precise the Faith of the apostles and martyrs— Articles of Faith is injurious to the sparked a revival. what is it? cause of spiritual religion, and incon- With his words and actions, Francis sistent with an enlightened view of has devalued the work of his predeces- it; that it is all one to maintain, that sors and thus diminished the teaching the Gospel requires the reception of of Catholic priests in the world began office of the papacy. If a Catholic today definite and positive Articles, and to to increase in 2000, rising slightly each is free to ignore the teachings of John acknowledge it to be technical and year until 2015, when it declined. The Paul II, as Francis implies, then a Cath- formal; that such a notion is super- number of young priests is a lagging olic tomorrow will be free to ignore the stitious, and interferes with the “lib- indicator of sorts, since the young teachings of Francis. The only escape erty wherewith Christ has made us men who are ordained this year were from this dilemma is the one suggested free;” that it argues a deficient insight attracted to the priestly ministry sev- by Benedict XVI: the hermeneutic of into the principles and ends, a nar- eral years ago. So it is even more reveal- continuity. Papal teachings must be row comprehension of the spirit of ing to see the statistics on seminary interpreted, and a pope’s pastoral ini- His Revelation. enrollment. There the number rose tiatives should be judged, in continuity after 2000, peaked in 2011 and 2012, with two thousand years of Catholic Newman contrasts that fashionable and then began to decline. It would be tradition. By that standard, the papacy view with St. Paul’s exhortation to the simplistic to blame the drop on Francis. of Francis has been a disaster for the Christians at Ephesus to hold fast to But the figures contradict the myth Church. the Deposit of Faith. The responsibil- ity of proclaiming God’s Word fully

36 ■ the traditionalist Tradition in the Balance ■ Philip F. Lawler and accurately weighed heavily on the chooses the Roman pontiff, the future concubinage.” His concern is so deep apostle, who knew its saving power and pope responded, that he has proposed adding to the the deadly danger of turning from the Code of Canon Law “a procedure for truth. “And so I solemnly declare to you I would not say so, in the sense that calling to order a Pope who teaches this day,” he told the Ephesians, “that I the Holy Spirit picks out the Pope. . . error.” am innocent of the blood of all of you, I would say that the Spirit does not There is no provision in the cur- for I did not shrink from declaring to exactly take control of the affair, but rent Code of Canon Law for correct- you the whole counsel of God” (Acts rather like a good educator, as it were, 20:26–27). leaves us much space, much freedom, without entirely abandoning us. Thus the Spirit’s role should be understood Can the Pope Be Wrong? in a much more elastic sense, not that There is no provision Pious Catholics rarely criticize he dictates the candidate for whom the man they recognize as the Vicar one must vote. Probably the only as- in the current Code of Christ. In the fourteenth century, surance he offers is that the thing can- of Canon Law for St. Catherine of Siena referred to the not be totally ruined. There are too bishop of Rome as the “sweet Christ many contrary instances of popes the correcting papal error. on Earth.” Yet this feisty doctor of the Holy Spirit obviously would not have Church did not shrink from reproving picked! Pope Gregory XI to his face for con- ing papal error, but the First Vatican tinuing the exile of the papal court in The Catholic Church teaches that Council, Father Nichols observes, did Avignon. the occupant of Peter’s throne has the not take the position “that a Pope is authority to pronounce infallible teach- incapable of leading people astray.” A ings. But that power can be invoked canonical procedure for the correc- only under certain circumstances. The tion of a pope might deter novelties in First Vatican Council, which in 1870 papal teaching and reassure non-Cath- When Cardinal Joseph defined the doctrine of papal infal- olic Christians who are suspicious of libility in the dogmatic constitution sweeping papal authority. “Indeed,” he Ratzinger was asked in Pastor Aeternus, made it clear that this says, “it may be that the present crisis 1990 if the Holy Spirit extraordinary papal power is not a spe- of the Roman magisterium is provi- cial license to amend Catholic teach- dentially intended to call attention to chooses the Roman ing: “For the Holy Spirit was promised the limits of primacy in this regard.” to the successors of Peter not so that In his homily at the Mass inaugu- pontiff, the future they might, by his revelation, make rating his papacy in May 2005, Bene- known some new doctrine, but that, by dict XVI reflected on the limits of papal pope responded . . . his assistances, they might religiously authority: guard and faithfully expound the rev- elation or deposit of faith transmitted The Pope is not an absolute monarch But can the pope be wrong? Or by the apostles” (4:4.6). whose thoughts and desires are law. more importantly, can the wrong man The Dominican theologian Aidan On the contrary: the Pope’s ministry occupy the chair of Peter? Again, some Nichols warns that the implication is a guarantee of obedience to Christ pious Catholics assume that with the in Amoris Laetitia that “actions con- and to his Word. He must not pro- Holy Spirit guiding the Church, it is demned by the law of Christ can claim his own ideas, but rather con- impossible for a conclave to choose sometimes be morally right or even, stantly bind himself and the Church the wrong man. If only that were the indeed, requested by God” has caused to obedience to God’s Word, in the case! When Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger “extremely grave” confusion and face of every attempt to adapt it or was asked in 1990 if the Holy Spirit could lead to the unprecedented situ- water it down, and every form of ation in which the Church “tolerated opportunism.

SPRING 2018 ■ 37 Second Thoughts

The Moral Duty had anything negative” to say about The Role of the Laity of Bishops the papal document. How can loyal Catholics help to All Christians—not just the pope— Perhaps these bishops fear that the restore Catholic unity while we wait have the duty to cling to the Word of pope will retaliate against anyone who for stronger leadership by our bishops? God, preserving the integrity of the challenges him, or that public oppo- First, foremost, and always, by Faith, but bishops, the primary teachers sition will weaken the prestige of the prayer. The pope needs the whole- of the Faith, have a special obligation. If papacy. But the papacy is weakened hearted support of the faithful when the pope is spreading unrest and confu- when one pontiff contradicts another. he promotes the constant teaching sion, local bishops must allay the fears The damage done by Francis cannot of the Church. When he does not, of the faithful and restore clarity. be repaired unless it is recognized. the faithful should pray that he will Even if Pope Francis is not person- Denying problems and papering over ally responsible for the confusion that the differences only amplifies the now prevails—even if his teaching is confusion. perfectly sound, but some people have It is not enough to say that Amoris misinterpreted it—other bishops are Laetitia should be read in the con- If the pope is spreading morally obliged to step in. The unde- text of constant Church teaching if the intention behind the document unrest and confusion, is to change Church teaching. Sev- local bishops must allay eral American bishops have gone out of their way to praise the solid por- the fears of the faithful. In his homily at the Mass tions of Amoris Laetitia while skip- ping lightly past the problems of the inaugurating his papacy notorious eighth chapter. That dip- change his approach. Pray that the in May 2005, Benedict lomatic approach, too, is confusing, pope will lead the Church toward because the document has been so greater unity. If he must change his XVI reflected on the widely interpreted as a break from approach in order to do that, so be it. the magisterial tradition. Stranger things have happened. limits of papal authority. Yes, there are some fine passages Pray, too, for the next pope. Who- in Amoris Laetitia. But on the whole it ever he is and whenever he will ascend fails as a teaching document because, Peter’s throne, he will face a prodi- niable differences within the college of as the saying goes, what is good is not gious task of restoring unity of faith bishops must be resolved for the sake new, and what is new is not good. St. and clarity of teaching while pursuing of the integrity of the Faith. John Paul II enriched the Magisterium the necessary but unfinished work of Unfortunately, few bishops have on marriage and family life incalcu- Vatican reform. If he approaches that acknowledged the divisions opened lably with a body of teaching innova- task boldly, he will encounter opposi- up by this pontificate. Although scores tive in its approach yet fully in accord tion, disobedience, and the threat of of them, recognizing the confusion with the constant traditions of the schism. Unlike Francis, he will not caused by conflicting interpretations, Church. Francis’s apostolic exhorta- enjoy the sympathy of the non-Cath- have quietly expressed misgivings tion has undermined that teaching so olic world and the secular media. A about Amoris Laetitia, only four car- seriously that now, only a dozen years good pontiff, striving to clear up the dinals were willing to sign a public after John Paul’s death, we face the muddle that Francis is likely to leave call for clarification. Cardinal Kevin task of rebuilding it from the ground behind, will have to rely solely on the Farrell, the prefect of the Vatican’s up—a vexing waste of effort at a time help of the faithful. new Dicastery for Laity, Family, and when this teaching is so desperately For now, calls for the pope’s res- Life, told a reporter in 2017 that of all needed. ignation are futile. He is not likely to the bishops who have met with him step down. Even if he did, the pres- during their visits to Rome, “no one ence of two former pontiffs—one

38 ■ the traditionalist Tradition in the Balance ■ Philip F. Lawler with a record of imprudent public has, strangely enough, expanded the successors, is a permanent one, so also remarks—would guarantee further claims of papal infallibility—often endures the office, which the apostles confusion. The challenge is to preserve invoked where it does not apply— received, of shepherding the Church, a the teaching authority of the papacy, while weakening its foundations. charge destined to be exercised with- not to dilute it. No precept of the Faith compels out interruption by the sacred order Nor is it useful to look to Benedict Catholics to believe that the Roman of bishops.” If the pope himself has XVI to allay the reigning confusion. gone astray, the duty falls upon the The retired pontiff, determined to live other shepherds to bring the Church out his remaining years in silence, has back to safe pastures. taken a vow of fidelity to his successor; Pope Francis has not taught heresy, he will not and should not violate that His most enthusiastic but the confusion he has stirred up vow. He knows that any comment he has destabilized the universal Church. makes about Vatican affairs, no matter supporters, who in the The faithful have been led to question how innocuous, will be scrutinized past have been notably themselves, their beliefs, their Faith. for the subtlest disagreement with the They look to Rome for guidance and current pope. The counsel of the great- skeptical about papal instead find more questions, more est living Catholic theologian would confusion. surely be invaluable, yet Benedict is authority, now demand For thirty-five years, loyal Cath- the very last Catholic who can offer olics were accustomed to looking to his opinions today. that the faithful ascribe Rome for guidance, to ease the con- magisterial weight fusion that arose from uncertain lead- ership at the local level. Now the situ- even to the pope’s ation has been reversed, particularly in the United States. Some American The damage done by offhand comments. bishops have become bolder in their defenses of orthodoxy, more willing Francis cannot be repaired to risk the disapproval of the secular unless it is recognized. pontiff is always wise in his judgments, world. Today they need the encour- prudent in his statements, and clear agement of faithful Catholics, as their in his thinking. Nor, of course, do duty requires them to risk disapproval questionable statements by one pope from Rome. The Catholic Church holds that call into question the whole history a Roman pontiff is infallible when, of Catholic teaching. The Church has in union with the world’s bishops, survived uncertain leadership in the Tune in to Catholic he solemnly defines Catholic teach- past and, with the certain promise of ing on faith and morals. Francis has God’s grace, can weather the latest Homeschool Radio eschewed formal definitions, prefer- storm. and Podcast ring impromptu comments. His most A proper understanding of the lim- enthusiastic supporters, who in the its of papal authority would help to Fresh and cheerful perspective past have been notably skeptical about resolve the current crisis. The bishop from Catholic homeschooling papal authority, now demand that the of Rome is not a solitary potentate but veterans and teachers who faithful ascribe magisterial weight the leader of the College of Bishops. advocate a guilt-free approach even to the pope’s offhand comments. The Second Vatican Council’s dog- to your efforts. But if an offhand comment appears matic constitution on the Church, to contradict the formal teaching of Lumen Gentium, explains, “Just as BooksForCatholics.com a previous pontiff, they cannot both the office which the Lord confided to click the icon on the homepage! be right. So the confusion grows. The Peter alone, as first of the apostles, magisterial confusion of this papacy destined to be transmitted to his

SPRING 2018 ■ 39 revival Bringing God’s Designs Back to Life in America’s Churches

TRENT BEATTIE hen David Riccio started working at John Canning Studios in Cheshire, Connecticut, 20 years ago, he could expect one or two church projects per year. The bulk of the stu- dio’s work was carried out at secular sites such as theaters, libraries and state capitols. Around 15 years ago, however, Increasingly the number of church projects began to grow, necessitating a special division Wat Canning. Riccio now heads that division — called Canning Liturgical Arts busy studios — and he works on 20 or more ecclesiastical projects per year. Some projects are simply a matter of cleaning and painting already existing facilitate sacred churches, but most are more extensive. They involve the delicate uncovering and restoration of hidden or neglected artwork, such as sanctuary murals. Other, artwork’s return even more extensive projects involve the designing and installation of new art- work in old or new church buildings. to prominence A stellar example of this last type of project for Canning is the Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe in La Crosse, Wisconsin. Renowned architect Duncan Stroik designed the main structure of the building, which began construction in 2004.

Trent Beattie is an author and one of the Catholic world’s most original and upbeat reporters. We thank him and the National Catholic Register for permission to print this piece. Vibrant tones of blue and gold adorn the once darkened ceilings of Chicago’s St. Alphonsus Church. Daprato Rigali Studios led the campaign to bring the church’s interior back to life in 1999.

40 Bringing God’s Designs Back to Life in America’s Churches ■ Trent Beattie

Riccio headed Canning’s involvement, apparition occurred, since the image of ornate dome. It does its job — no more beginning in 2007 and ending in 2008, Our Lady includes stars. It’s a beautiful and no less.” with the completion of the shrine. dome that fits in well with the theme of That idea of just proportion is some- Artwork in the shrine includes the shrine. However, it’s not the most thing people might not expect from an paintings, sculptures and mosaics, all interior designer on large projects. Yet related in some way to the apparitions Riccio is not interested in adding layer of the Blessed Virgin Mary to St. Juan upon layer of ornamentation in pursuit Diego in the 1500s. Riccio even said of “opulence for opulence’s sake.” He that his studio went to the trouble of said this distracts from sacred artwork’s asking an observatory about the exact From one or two purpose, which is to point beyond itself constellation in the sky at the time of the to Christ. apparition that resulted in the miracu- Church projects per Riccio believes that even though the lous image still present in Mexico today. year to 20 or more. tendency in the 1960s and ’70s was to Riccio explained: “We wanted the underdo church design, it is possible stars on the shrine’s dome to corre- to overdo it. However, his work now spond to what was in the sky when the nearly always involves bringing out

The 2014 renovation of the Co-Cathedral of St. Joseph in Brooklyn, New York.

SPRING 2018 ■ 41 revival beauty by uncovering and restoring what’s already there or by introducing it in renovations or after the construction

Riccio has found that when presented with colorful depictions of proposed artwork that brings the Catholic faith to life, parishes are impressed enough to raise money quickly.

of new churches. He said that Canning’s work “is usually about addition rather than subtraction.” Some people might be concerned about the subtraction from their bank accounts as a result of embarking on a beautification project. However, Riccio who earned a business degree from nearby Quinnipiac College before joining Canning in an apprenticeship role, allays their fears. One clarification he provides is that beautiful churches usually cost no more than mediocre or ugly ones. The Co-Cathedral of St. Joseph in Brooklyn, New York. “Mediocre or bad church designs can cost just as much as good ones, and presented with colorful depictions of proposal, people have a reason to move the durability is not usually there, so proposed artwork that brings the Cath- to action,” Riccio stated, quoting Dante you can easily end up paying even more olic faith to life, parishes are impressed Alighieri’s assertion that “beauty awak- over the years for a mediocre or bad enough to raise money quickly. ens the soul to act.” design than a good one,” Riccio said. “If the design is not that striking, Another clarification that allays there’s no motivation to contrib- economic concerns is that truly beau- ute, because it’s a just a lateral move An Invitation tiful designs inspire people to find the rather than a move upward — and that to Prayer money necessary to make the project upward focus is what people really want. Emily Sottile, director of the happen. Riccio has found that when When the glory of God is reflected in a Sacred Space Studio at Evergreene

42 ■ the traditionalist Bringing God’s Designs Back to Life in America’s Churches ■ Trent Beattie

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The Co-Cathedral of St. Joseph in Brooklyn, New York. Architectural Arts in Brooklyn, New of the transformation that they wanted experts. Sottile uses her many voy- York, has also witnessed a dramatic to contribute. More than $75,000 in ages, which continue today — she has increase in the number of church proj- unsolicited donations came pouring in already been on separate trips to Italy ects. “I’ve been with the company for after completion — and from the most and France this year — to gain a sense 10 years,” she said, “and just in the past unexpected sources, including parish- of precedence from the architectural four years I’ve been in this position, ioners who lived extremely modestly and artistic masterpieces of Europe. we’ve tripled or quadrupled what we and visitors to the co-cathedral who “Seeing the magnificent churches, had been doing in churches.” That mul- were moved by its beauty. shrines and art exhibits, and studying tiplication means 30 active ecclesiastical “That kind of thing happens,” why they were made, has been very projects this year for Evergreene. Sottile said, “when a worthy project instrumental in my outlook on life and Sottile, like Riccio, has experienced is involved. People see transcendent on my work today, “Sottile explained. the power of beauty to “awaken the soul goodness and truth expressed through “There are so many blessings to take to act.” She can point to many times humble materials like plaster, clay, glass away from that,” she added, “not the when a parish commits to implemen- and paint and then they’re inspired to least of which is the reminder that this tation of transcendent beauty and the be a part of it.” kind of art and architecture is very pos- money subsequently appears from all Sottile has vast knowledge of sacred sible right here and right now.” kinds of sources. The 2014 renova- architecture through her education Two of Sottile’s most recent proj- tion of the Co-Cathedral of St. Joseph in art history and theology and her ects — St. Pius X Church in Granger, in Brooklyn, New York, is a perfect travels in Europe. While studying at Indiana, and St. Turibius Chapel at example. the University of Oxford 2002, she the Pontifical College Josephinum in A lot of money was raised before embarked on the “Grand Tour” of con- Columbus, Ohio — were carried out the project began, but even after it was tinental Europe, guided by Medieval in conjunction with architect William completed, people were so appreciative and Renaissance art and architecture Heyer. Sottile used the structural plans,

SPRING 2018 ■ 43 revival conversations with the design team momentum is behind the liturgical art- beautiful and durable expressions of and historic precedent to guide the istry and ensuring all of the essential Catholic beliefs in an orderly, coherent decorative aspects of the projects. It is elements like plaster and paint are in way that combines faith and reason. important to her for the artistry to have sound condition is an art, too. We can This makes for a marvelous spiritual a strong relationship to the architecture free up money to do decorative work home for worshippers.” and visually articulate the priorities of if we can develop intelligent ways to Sottile is pleased with the oppor- the community. address logistical concerns.” tunity to enhance more and more This flexibility is present not only in “We want to bring out the glory of churches with the staff at Evergreene collaborations with architects on new God,” Sottile said, “but with structural and believes there is plenty of work buildings, but in collaborations with and economic concerns addressed, not to go around. She stated, “Other stu- parishes on ones that are already in just aesthetic ones. We want to install dios are not our competition. Our real existence. The first thing Sottile does when starting a renovation project is to simply visit the church in question. “I want to get a sense of its dimen- sions, colors, lighting, history, the thinking behind its design,” she said, “and then what changes the parish has in mind. This intake of informa- tion helps me to get a big-picture view of things and gives a sense of what’s possible for us to contribute.” After thinking big and making a list of decorative possibilities, with the ultimate goal being to ensure that the whole church building is an invitation to prayer, Sottile then crosses out, line by line, what is unaffordable or what might be deferred. She also makes addi- tions, as she has found that parishes often have great ideas that had not occurred to her. She gradually moves toward an organized, phase-by-phase plan to recover, enhance or create beauty — depending on the nature of the project. Like Riccio, Sottile does not let a love of decoration override practical considerations. If a parish wants to put up ceiling murals but its roof is leak- ing, Evergreene will work with the par- ish team to develop a long-term plan that prioritizes their immediate needs (however mundane they might be) and makes efficient use of resources. “You don’t want to pay to build scaf- folding twice,” she said, also asserting, “Knowing how to group tasks so the The Co-Cathedral of St. Joseph in Brooklyn, New York

44 ■ the traditionalist Bringing God’s Designs Back to Life in America’s Churches ■ Trent Beattie competition is the idea that this type of in a reverent way that brings out the vibrant and impactful example of that thing can’t be done. Thankfully, we’re best in everyone,” Rigali said. concept,” Rigali stated. He added that winning that battle more and more.” Rigali stated that, after the “dark “it’s awe-inspiring to look up and see ages” of U.S. church design in the 1960s the blue and yellow paint working and ’70s, an awakening occurred. “Stan- together in harmony. It’s a reminder Carrying on a of the perfect order in heaven, how all Family Tradition of creation points toward God, and how Dan Rigali, national sales executive the good, true and beautiful are one in and project manager at Daprato Rigali a most amazing way.” Studios in Chicago, Illinois, enjoys Now Daprato Rigali, Rigali also believes that “there’s a carrying on a family tradition. His fine line between choosing the right great-great-grandfather, John Rigali, like Canning, works colors to come together in glorious har- came from Italy in the late 1800s to col- on approximately 25 mony and choosing the wrong colors to laborate with the Daprato brothers at bring about distraction or disinterest.” their already existing statuary studio. projects per year. One The specific tones used at St. Alphon- By 1960, the company was named sus were the result of taking colors in Daprato Rigali Studios and had of the studio’s most the stained-glass windows as reference expanded to include other aspects of points, tracking how much light came church decoration, such as mural paint- celebrated transformations into different areas of the church at ing and the manufacture of handmade occurred at St. Alphonsus different times of the day, and actu- stained-glass windows. ally testing various tones on sections Dan Rigali began working at Church in Chicago. of the walls. Daprato Rigali early on in high school. The success of St. Alphonsus is one He learned how to make and install of many examples Rigali can cite for his stained-glass windows, do some dec- belief that “a real Renaissance is hap- orative painting, and manage small dards were lowered in so many areas pening in ecclesiastical design. That’s projects. He worked periodically at the of life at that time, and ecclesiastical so much the case that I can even see it studio throughout high school and col- design was no exception. I’m too young in our secular projects. Theaters and lege, and, after considering a great job to remember, but I’m told work here civic buildings often take their cue from offer in another industry, realized how slowed down. We were able to do some church buildings, so the stenciling or important “upgrading the quality and great projects here and there, but things stained glass or plaster work or marble beauty of manmade buildings” was. He really began to take off in the 1990s,” work or whatever else we’re asked to officially rejoined the family business Rigali said. do in them often has a strong religious after graduating from the University of Now Daprato Rigali, like Canning, influence — although not always overt.” Denver in 2009. works on approximately 25 projects Rigali sees the resurgence of thor- Rigali shares Riccio’s and Sot- per year. One of the studio’s most cel- oughly Catholic churches as being part tile’s belief that churches can be not ebrated transformations occurred at of a larger movement in other areas of only beautiful, but affordable, dura- St. Alphonsus Church in Chicago. It life. “People are looking at the Church ble, proportional, historical, prayer- had been one of the city’s iconic build- anew and seeing how it can elevate and ful — and a powerful source of ings but in recent decades had fallen ennoble our understanding of so many community-building. into disrepair. Its Gothic structure was areas of life. We’re happy at Daprato “The physical appearance of a full of promise, however, the fruition Rigali to do our part, and we’re pleased church sets the tone for what goes on of which could be seen when the walls that so many parishes have partnered inside the church. When you see scenes and ceiling were painted glorious tones with us to make God’s design’s shine from the life of Christ in living color, it’s of blue, gold and yellow. forth once again.” that much easier to believe the truths of “People should be able to walk into the faith and celebrate the sacraments any church and be reminded of heaven, but St. Alphonsus is a particularly

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Send me emails about new products/special offers. My email Review & Comment What “Memory” Really Means Cardinal Newman’s Remembrance and Miss Prim’s Awakening

At last, a real awakening! PRISCILLA SMITH MCCAFFREY There is that dreary 1899 Kate Cho- pin novel, The Awakening, that cheer- ful young girls are forced to read that deprives them of any reason for cheer at being awakened. They are, after all, just female and subject to the exigencies of male domination and a culture that sucks the life out of them. Might as well go drown yourself, as the awakened does in the book when she realizes the life of mind-numbing dullness ahead of her and that adultery still smells like adultery, even for the ‘awakened’. But Miss Fenollera’s Awakening is charming. Our heroine, Miss Pruden- tia Prim has answered a quirky ad to work as librarian in a wealthy man’s The Awakening of Miss Prim, by Natalia extensive private library. She does not Sanmartin Fenollera; Atria Paperback fulfill the requirements stated in the ad. (Division of Simon and Schuster), 2013. The position would not be offered to a graduate or post-graduate student, and of San Ireneo de Arnois, their official she was loaded with degrees. Miss Prim schooling hours in an actual school sees no problem with being what she are sketchy. It gradually dawns on her considers over-qualified, though her that the other inhabitants of the village employer does. But the ever-name- are refugees from the modern world of less Man in the Wing Chair decides noise and restlessness. Mothers seem to employ her anyway as long as she to be extremely well-read, happy and can accept the presence of his four generally teach their own children. The orphaned nieces and nephews whose women, if they have little businesses, education he personally oversees. They keep their hours short and hearths play, they quote Virgil—in Latin, allude open to visitors. People have time to to the best of childhood books and gen- bake and serve delicious slices of cake erally live in their own idyllic world throughout the novel. The founding of Priscilla Smith McCaffrey is of fancy, order and security, governed this unique village has something to do the originator of the Catholic by, but not intruded upon, by adults. with the local Benedictine Abbey, but Homeschool Radio podcast at Prudentia Prim is appalled to find it is all vague to Miss Prim. CatholicMediaApostolate.com that, like most children in the village 48 What “Memory” Really Means ■ Priscilla Smith McCaffrey

How is it that a novel so approving group of locals who live in the environs not let her own search for beauty ever of domesticity, one that follows a pre- of the Monastery. really affect her. dictable courtship plot with a standard Miss Fenollara says in her lecture: The town and the Man in the Wing comedic ending, ends up today as an Chair have worked their magic on Miss international bestseller? I mean today? “The village doesn’t exist, it’s an imag- Prim, but it does not come to frui- It gives you hope. inary place, but it’s inspired by the Eu- tion until she leaves the village. She But it really isn’t a novel. It is more ropean tradition. Europe was built on has fallen in love with her employer of a fairy tale, which explains even less small communities near abbeys like after many conversations with him why it has become a standard read for the one in the book, with an economy about ideas and books and love. She book groups around the world. A few based on craftsmanship, solid fami- is smitten with his love and care for his stylistic choices are of the fairy tale lies, ancient traditions and a very or- orphaned waifs. We are sure that he is dered life, in which each thing was interested in her, but he will not pursue done in its own time. That was the a relationship with someone who does model I drew inspiration from to write not know what is essential to a mar- the book. And that’s how San Ireneo riage. He will not enter into the deepest The Spanish author, an was born, a place where people’s lives of relationships with the notion that have a human scale and where tradi- they would simply agree to disagree, economist, was invited tion and culture are understood as especially when they could not agree to speak at a conference treasures.” on their communal destination. So, off she goes to travel Europe. hosted by the monks of The reader is not burdened by the And where does she find herself at the notion that there really isn’t such a Clear Creek Monastery. place. It’s a fairy tale! It is a fairy tale for lovers of tradition, and like a fairy tale it enchants and beckons us to the genre. There is the improbable name of elements we can make our own. It’s She has fallen in love Prudentia Prim. There is her employer, the kind of place the homeschooling the man she falls in love with, who is population kindles to. The skinny-latte with her employer after never named or described, and is only folks would pay high dollars for such many conversations referred to as the Man in the Wing a place, and one imagines the homes- Chair. He is extremely wealthy, kind, chooled children would be like follies with him about ideas intelligent and mysterious. Cleverly, his in their weekend gardens: “Oh look, mother is the Mother of the Man in the there’s a child in the tree. We love trees.” and books and love. Wing Chair. It sounds awkward, but Greens would agree there is something it works. It keeps things a little imper- genuine and fresh about the place but sonal, remote like a fairy tale. And we might not like to grow their beets in the end of the novel but in Norcia, Italy, really have no idea where the village shadow of a functioning Abbey. Ruins exploring and living in the original of San Ireneo de Arnois is. It sounds would be okay. atmosphere of St. Benedict, noble equally Spanish and French. Miss Prim has kept her standards founder of western monasticism. It is The Spanish author, an economist, of excellence, but finds the personal his home town. Lately, the monastery was invited to speak at a conference excellence of self remarkably unful- built on the site has been given to a hosted by the monks of Clear Creek filling and begins to suspect that she traditional group of monks (true, in Monastery, the traditionalist Bene- cannot find fulfillment without love. reality.) Ever so delicately, the author dictine Monastery in Hulbert, Okla- She is even bullied by an outspoken hints that Prudentia has finally lived up homa. This conference has as its theme 95-year-old into realizing that she has to her name and has chosen to make “The Idea of a Village” and for the past been for too long defensive about per- traditional Catholicism her own, even two summers has been organized by a sonal status, especially defensive about avoiding prosciutto on Friday. (I don’t being an accomplished woman, and has believe the word “Catholic” is ever used

SPRING 2018 ■ 49 Review & Comment in the book, but how else did Europe beginning of the book: “They think that monotony, is now harmony; all is pleas- grow up?) She has shirked her prim they regret the past, when they are but ing and comfortable, and we regard it feminism and is filled with joy and may longing after the future.” (Meaning, all with affection.” This follows from a even be found in the early morning “They think they regret the passing of principle he observes in Scripture and hours sprawled out in a field for sheer the past, when they are but longing after in life: “God’s presence is not discerned love of her new life. We don’t see the the future.”) at the time when it is upon us, but after- development of her apologia, but she About the time I read Miss Prim wards, when we look back upon what seemed to have left the villagers of San I pulled out my copy of Brideshead is gone and over.” Ireneo with all she needed to arrive at Revisited, which I do periodically. I By her travels, Prudentia has given their same conclusions and a desire and had a paper tucked into it with scrib- herself a little breathing room to reflect will to take a leap of faith. bled notes. I laughed. On it was writ- on the extraordinary village and its Her leap has required an accep- ten the sentence Miss Fenollera chose escapees from modernism, who in tance of beauty in her life, something from Cardinal Newman, as well as sev- turn have given themselves the ability eral other quotes from that same mas- to draw from the treasures of the past. terful sermon that I love entitled, “In She herself was a runaway, charmed Remembrance.” If you are a devotee of by the original thread of the ad. Not Waugh’s Brideshead, you might know all the villagers felt dependent on the “God’s presence is immediately why I would have notes from a Newman homily with that title. not discerned at the You might recall the words of Charles time when it is upon Ryder at the beginning of Book II: “My theme is memory, that winged host that Can our sons make a us, but afterwards, soared about me one grey morning of war-time.” I had pondered the words. living that does not sap when we look back.” His theme was not memories—the nar- them of the vitality to live ratives of past events. His theme was memory, that spiritual power that can well? Probably. But we she had always pursued, but with a pen draw the gold from the dross and leave and ruler in her hand. She learns to us longing for what has passed. It is might want to consider be silent and the silence is filled with that power of the Spirit that reveals to poetry from by-gone years. She is ready us the meaning of past events, joyous another lesson from to return to the village. or painful, dramatic or ordinary. It was Newman’s same sermon. The exchanges with the Man in that same power that finally revealed the Wing Chair about books and edu- the meaning of Christ to his hapless cating children were delightful. The apostles at Pentecost. village feminist club—whose duty for The Spirit does not so much leave Abbey’s influence; this helped her to that summer was to find Miss Prim us longing for the good old days, but get a foothold in appreciating the place. a husband—is a hoot. Their discus- awakens us to the treasures of those But she had to admit that their aesthetic sion on marriage is wonderfully real- days. Newman explains the work of agreed with her own, after all, she had istic and liberating. There is a surface the Spirit, (no doubt Charles Ryder’s read the great books as well as the not- naivete throughout that is admirably winged host): “The most ordinary years, so-great books. suggested by the book cover, reminis- when we seemed to be living for noth- Back to Newman: cent of a domestic arts book from the ing, these shine forth to us in their very mid-20th century. regularity and orderly course. What “They think it is those very years which But there is more. was sameness at the time, is now stabil- they yearn after, whereas it is the pres- There is a cautionary element. ity; what was dullness, is now a sooth- ence of God which, as they now see, This is indicated in the words of John ing calm; what seemed unprofitable, has was then over them, which attracts Henry Newman in an epigraph at the now its treasure in itself, what was but them. They think that they regret the

50 ■ the traditionalist What “Memory” Really Means ■ Priscilla Smith McCaffrey

past, when they are but longing after not in full possession of the Kingdom We might long for a village like San the future. It is not that they would of God. Ireneo de Arnois. We do long for the be children again, but that they would This is the lesson to remember when Kingdom of God. Until that day, we do be Angels and would see God; they we feel overwhelmed by the current well to observe the back parts of a civ- would be immortal beings, crowned darkness of a waning civilization. It ilization that formed around the altar with amaranth, robed in white, and has to do with our longing to see the of the Divine Word. We can follow with palms in their hands, before His face of God, and the prohibition from the villagers of San Ireneo in small but throne.” seeing the face of God. The prohibition significant ways: turn off the screens, notwithstanding, the Holy Spirit works bake a cake, supply the bookshelves Since we likely will not wake up through our own memories to sift out and stir a fire. tomorrow crowned in amaranth, what the presence of God. In this same ser- are we to do? mon on remembrance, Newman takes Can we find the Benedictine another cue from Scripture. God told P.S. Only two specific destinations are options? We might. Is there a Man in Moses no man can look upon the face mentioned in the book: Kansas and the Wing Chair waiting in a village for of God and live, but in Exodus 33 He Norcia. One is a nod to the work of John our daughters? Maybe. Can our sons suggests a way Moses might look upon Senior in Kansas, whose Humanities make a living that does not sap them God: “And again he said: Behold there program inspired hundreds of students of the vitality to live well? Probably. is a place with me, and thou shalt stand to discover the roots of Europe. It is safe But we might want to consider another upon the rock. And when my glory to say Clear Creek Monastery is part of lesson from Newman’s same sermon. shall pass, I will set thee in a hole of the his legacy. The other is Norcia, home of We are charmed by the village. rock, and protect thee with my right the founder of Western monasticism. Some will say it is possible to live that hand, till I pass: And I will take away Sadly, since the writing of this book, way. I hope people are successful in my hand, and thou shalt see my back the traditionalist monks of Norcia have living so. But even in that village, in parts: but my face thou canst not see.” had to leave their home destroyed in an real time, there will be sin and reckless- Newman draws this out: “What is earthquake in the Fall of 2016. They are ness, restlessness, sickness and death. dark while it is meeting us, reflects the setting up their new monastery in the Many wonderful children will stay as Son of Righteousness when it is past… mountain grange behind the village. It far away from books as possible and Let us ever bear in mind this divine seemed to this writer an extraordinary will not be quoting Virgil. truth—the more secret God’s hand is, sacrificial event just before the 2016 pres- Whether the village is possible or the more powerful—the more silent, idential election. not, we have the same problem: We are the more awful.”

SPRING 2018 ■ 51 Recent History The Crucial Importance of One Archbishop and One Lay Movement

BISHOP ATHANASIUS SCHNEIDER The Catholic Left dominated the Church countries tried to rescue and defend in the 1960s and 70s, wiping out all but with the filial instinct of their sensus a trace of the traditional Latin Mass fidei the unperishable beauty of the lit- under Pope Paul VI, whose regime dealt urgy of their Mother, the Holy Church. treacherously with the lone bishop who The intrepid founders and pio- publicly opposed it, Archbishop Mar- neers of the FIUV, first and foremost cel Lefebvre, the French missionary Dr and Mme de Saventhem, had to to Africa who at one time headed the do their noble and courageous work renowned Holy Ghost Fathers. His chief however in a hostile ecclesial envi- lay allies were Dr. Eric de Saventhem of ronment. One could describe this sit- Una Voce International and the British uation, humanly speaking, with the writer Michael Davies, who succeeded expression ‘one against all’. These lay de Saventhem as president of Una faithful did not allow themselves to be Voce. Leo Darroch, who then succeeded swayed by sophistic and pseudo-theo- Davies, has written a thorough history logical arguments of the post-conciliar of this key Latin Mass organization and ‘Scribes’ and ‘Pharisees’, nor did they of its central role in defending Lefebvre allow themselves to be daunted and before the Holy See. Bishop Athanasius intimidated by the arrogant clericalism Schneider has written a sweeping Pref- of those high-ranking clerics, who usu- ace, here reprinted, with permission. ally presented themselves as advocates Order through Ingram Books, through of a democratic, tolerant and fraternal Amazon, or direct from Gracewing web- interaction in the Church. site: www.gracewing.co.uk Preface One might pose the question: Why ISBN 978 085244 921 9 The present book of Leo Darroch these lay faithful so decisively and Price: $35.00. sets out in a concise and at the same unswervingly opposed themselves to time exhaustive manner the history of the official proscription and stigma- the Foederatio Internationalis Una Voce tisation of the traditional rite of the (FIUV), an organisation of lay faithful, Mass, being the rite of the saints for which more than fifty years ago rose out more than a millennium? We have to of the ruins of the post-conciliar liturgi- answer: It was their sensus fidei. Their cal, doctrinal, and pastoral chaos. At a noble battle for the rehabilitation of time, when clergy and even high clergy the very rite of all ages was the unfold- were in the middle of programmatically ing of the graces of the sacrament of dismantling the perennial tradition of Confirmation, especially of the gifts sacred liturgy and doctrine, a small of fortitude, piety, and fear of God. group of lay faithful from different The work of these miles Christi of the

52 The Crucial Importance of One Archbishop ■ Bishop Athanasius Schneider first generation of the FIUV was also and family life, their daily occupa- discouraged by the hostility of many an exemplary realisation of the call tions, their physical and mental relax- clerics nor by a clearly hostile attitude of the Second Vatican Council for an ation, if carried out in the Spirit, and of high-ranking representatives of the active and mature collaboration of the even the hardships of life, if patient- Holy See against the practical reha- lay faithful with the hierarchy in the ly borne - all these become ‘spiritual bilitation of the traditional rite of the propagation and preservation of the sacrifices acceptable to God through Mass. The constant and supernatural Catholic faith. The steadfast work of Jesus Christ’ (cf. 1 Pet. 2:5). Together zeal of Dr and Mme de Saventhem in with the offering of the Lord’s body, favour of the traditional Mass inspired they are most fittingly offered in the celebration of the Eucharist. Thus, as those everywhere who adore in holy The steadfast work of the activity, the laity consecrate the world itself to God. Christ, the great Proph- They were not discouraged founders of the FIUV et, who proclaimed the Kingdom of by the hostility of many provides also proof of His Father both by the testimony of His life and the power of His words, clerics nor by a clearly the prophetic mission continually fulfils His prophetic of- fice until the complete manifesta- hostile attitude of high- of the lay faithful. tion of glory. He does this not only through the hierarchy who teach in ranking representatives His name and with His authority, but the founders of the FIUV provides also also through the laity whom He made of the Holy See. proof of the prophetic mission of the His witnesses and to whom He gave lay faithful. One can certainly apply to understanding of the faith (sensus fi- the founder generation of the FIUV the dei) and an attractiveness in speech many other lay faithful in becoming as following words of the Second Vatican (cf. Acts 2:17-18; Rev. 19:10) so that well ‘lay apostles’ of the sacred liturgy Council: the power of the Gospel might shine and living witnesses of the apostolic forth in their daily social and family The supreme and eternal Priest, life. […] Still it remains for each one Christ Jesus, since he wills to con- of them to cooperate in the external tinue his witness and service also spread and the dynamic growth of through the laity, vivifies them in this the Kingdom of Christ in the world. Spirit and increasingly urges them Therefore, let the laity devotedly strive on to every good and perfect work. to acquire a more profound grasp of For besides intimately linking them revealed truth, and let them insistent- to His life and His mission, He also ly beg of God the gift of wisdom Lu( - gives them a sharing in His priestly men gentium, 34-35). function of offering spiritual worship for the glory of God and the salva- Indeed, the FIUV can be considered tion of men. For this reason the la- as one of the most genuine fruits of the ity, dedicated to Christ and anointed Second Vatican Council. by the Holy Spirit, are marvellously Dr and Mme de Saventhem have the called and wonderfully prepared so lasting historical merit not only as the that ever more abundant fruits of the founder couple of the FIUV, but also as Spirit may be produced in them. For the very soul of this organisation in the all their works, prayers and apostolic difficult years of its initial growth and Pope Paul VI endeavours, their ordinary married of its later development. They were not

SPRING 2018 ■ 53 Recent History tradition of the lex orandi in the twen- the Arian crisis with these or similar who issued his ground-breaking Motu tieth century. words: proprio Summorum Pontificum. The history of the FIUV in its After the official introduction of the indefatigable defence of the perennial In that time the Apostolic tradition celebration of the new rite of the Mass in sense and practice of the lex orandi, of the lex orandi was proclaimed and 1969, there was almost no bishop, with is a convincing proof and a shining maintained far more by the faithful the exception of Archbishop Marcel example for the rare fact, according than by the Episcopate. In that time Lefebvre, who publicly advocated the to which in some specific periods of general rehabilitation of the traditional the history of the Church the govern- rite of the Mass. However, already in ing body of the Church, the ecclesia 1976, Professor Joseph Ratzinger made docens, came short, and the governed, the following wise and prophetic anal- the ecclesia docta, were pre-eminent In 1976, Professor ysis and proposals regarding the tradi- in faith, zeal, courage, and constancy, tional rite of the Mass: ‘In my opinion as was stated by Blessed John Henry Joseph Ratzinger made there should be reached the aim that Newman regarding the Arian crisis the following wise and all priests could continue to use the old in the fourth century (cf. The Arians Missal.’ (Letter of 14.12.1976 to Profes- of the Fourth Century, New Impres- prophetic analysis and sor Wolfgang Waldstein). Moreover, sion, London 1908, p. 445). Blessed John Professor Ratzinger pointed out the Henry Newman left us the following proposals regarding rupture between the new rite and the profound spiritual explanation of such entire previous liturgical tradition of an unusual phenomenon: the traditional rite. the Church. He then raised awareness about the discrepancy between the new Perhaps it was permitted, in order to rite and the words and intentions of the impress upon the Church at that very of immense liturgical confusion the Council Fathers, saying: time passing out of her state of per- fidelity and the love for the millen- secution to her long temporal ascen- nia-old traditional rite of the Holy The problem of the new Missal re- dancy, the great evangelical lesson, Mass was enforced, maintained, and sides in the fact that it departs from that, not the wise and powerful, but humanly speaking preserved, far the continuous history which was go- the obscure, the unlearned, and the more by the Ecclesia docta than by ing on before and after Pius V, and weak constitute her real strength. It the Ecclesia docens. that it creates definitely a new book was mainly by the faithful people that (although with old material). Its ap- Paganism was overthrown; it was by That the body of the Episcopate pearance is accompanied by a type of the faithful people, under the lead of was in general unable to preserve this prohibition of what was traditional, Athanasius and the Egyptian bish- venerable form of the lex orandi and being such a type of prohibition alien ops, and in some places supported hand it over to the next generations; to the ecclesiastical history of law and by their Bishops or priests, that the that at one time the popes, at other of liturgy. From my personal knowl- worst of heresies was withstood and times singular bishops and episcopal edge of the conciliar debates and from stamped out of the sacred territory. assemblies, said what they should not the repeated reading of the speeches (ibid., pp. 445-446). have said, or did what obscured the of the Fathers of the Council, I can perennial tradition of the lex orandi; say with certainty, that this [what ac- It can be reasonably expected, while, on the other hand, it was lay tually represents the new Missal] was that future historians of the Church faithful, in particular the FIUV who, not intended by them (ibid). could characterise the unprecedented under Providence, were the support for liturgical crisis after the Second Vat- some great solitary episcopal confes- In the same letter Professor ican Council, the ‘liturgical exile of sors of the traditional rite of the Holy Ratzinger affirmed: ‘One must try Avignon’, analogously to the famous Mass, in first place Archbishop Marcel to ensure, that the anti-traditional remarks of Blessed John Henry New- Lefebvre and later Pope Benedict XVI, type of prohibition will be reversed, man (cf. op.cit., pp. 465-466) regarding

54 ■ the traditionalist The Crucial Importance of One Archbishop ■ Bishop Athanasius Schneider straightening out thereby the devel- The future historians of the Church in one of the Oriental Rites if pos- opment [of the liturgical life]’. will surely document the deplorable sible. As for me, this is turning out Until the promulgation of the Motu facts of intolerance and persecution on to be one of the gravest crises in my proprio by Pope John Paul the part of the ecclesiastical authori- life. ‘Crisis of conscience,’ as Cardinal II in 1988, which was ultimately a result ties regarding the millennium-old rite Ottaviani put it, is the right expres- of the episcopal consecrations made of the Mass. They will document as sion indeed! Hence, if you dare, don’t by Archbishop Lefebvre, the prohi- well the many cases of a shocking exis- hesitate to speak up about the agony bition of the traditional Missal was tential distress and despair, in which of soul which many of us priests are generally enforced by the Vatican such a persecution plunged priests and going through at present’ (The Rem- and the local Ordinaries in a highly lay faithful. As one of many examples nant, 31 December 1969). one could quote the following witness, which Walter Matt, the founder of The In a personal letter to Pope John Remnant newspaper documented in Paul II, Archbishop Marcel Lefebvre 1969, right at the beginning of the for- stated with ardent words the dramatic In a personal letter to Pope mal introduction of the new rite of the persistence of this painful situation, John Paul II, Archbishop Mass: saying: Marcel Lefebvre stated The fact is that there are many to- Is it not really a heavy pressure on the day - ourselves included - who are with ardent words the literally sick at heart, spiritually, over the new Ordo Missae, and who sim- dramatic persistence of ply cannot understand most of the arguments that have been advanced The key issue in the this painful situation. in its behalf. Our own correspon- dence, especially with priests, re- conflict between him flects this mood of spiritual dejection and the Holy See was the drastic and intolerant manner. In this and heartache. One friend of ours, a context, there was no pastoral way of well-known priest-theologian, writes acceptance of the new rite. ‘discernment and accompaniment’, in of the ‘new Mass’ as ‘a most painful this case there was no room for mercy thing,’ which ‘fills me with agony at and no via caritatis. There was often the mere thought that I shall have to times tolerance and dialogue towards say it, worse still, that it is “in obe- conscience to deprive priests of the all other aspects and groups inside and dience to the Council” that we may rite of the Mass, for which they have outside the Church, yet was this one have to say it! The fact is, as I see it, been ordained, and to force them un- exception: the rehabilitation of the tra- that the Council is being openly dis- der pain of suspension to accept a new ditional rite of the Mass, which in fact obeyed not only with regard to the rite, in the redaction of which there was considered venerable and holy by Latin and Gregorian Chant, but also participated six Protestant pastors? all Christian generations of more than insofar as that self-same Council in- Kneeling at the foot of the Crucifix, a millennium. To this extraordinary sisted, after all, that it was proceed- I answer you, Holy Father, in union liturgical crisis of the twentieth cen- ing in complete consonance with the with all bishops, priests, religious men tury one could thoroughly apply the Council of Trent - presumably also and women and faithful, who through following assessment of facts, which with Trent’s decrees on the Holy Sac- the compulsory imposition of this li- made Saint Basil in the doctrinal crisis rifice! In any case, I am learning more turgical reform are suffering a genu- of the fourth century say: “Only one and more that there are quite a few ine spiritual martyrdom. How many offence is now vigorously punished - other priests who are just as much in tears, how many pains, how many an accurate observance of our fathers’ agony over the new Mass as I am, and cases of a premature death we had to traditions.” (Ep. 243). some are even contemplating getting witness! (Letter from 5 April 1983). permission from Rome to say Mass

SPRING 2018 ■ 55 Recent History

The ultimate reason for the exis- tenacious work of the FIUV and of of the Church. The realisation of such tence of the Priestly Fraternity of St Archbishop Lefebvre, we would not an aim will have by time surely also a Pius X, the work of Archbishop Lefe- have the miracle of the Motu proprio positive effect on remedying the gen- bvre, and the key issue in the conflict Summorum Pontificum, by which Pope eral liturgical and doctrinal crisis in between him and the Holy See was the Benedict XVI legally rehabilitated in the Church of our days. In 1983 Arch- acceptance of the new rite, or, in other the Universal Church the traditional bishop Lefebvre proposed to Pope John words the issue of the traditional rite of Roman rite. On that occasion he stated: Paul II the following three indispens- the Mass. Archbishop Lefebvre himself ‘It behooves all of us to preserve the able means for a solution of the current testified this with the following words: riches which have developed in the crisis of the lex orandi and of the lex Church’s faith and prayer, and to give credendi. In fact, one cannot provide Six times in the last three weeks- them their proper place’ (Letter of His remedy for the liturgical crisis without six times-we have been asked to re-es- at the same time envisaging the doc- tablish normal relations with Rome trinal crisis. We quote from the letter and to give as proof the acceptance of of Archbishop Lefebvre, whose words the new rite; and I have been asked to contain also a prophetical significance: celebrate it myself. They have gone so Summorum Pontificum far as to send me someone who offered We see no other solution for this to concelebrate with me in the new initiated the unstoppable problem as 1. The freedom to cele- rite so as to manifest that I accepted organic growth and brate according to the ancient rite in voluntarily this new liturgy, saying agreement with the edition of the li- that in this way all would be straight- further spreading of turgical books by Pope John XXIII; 2. ened out between us and Rome. They The reform of the Novus Ordo Mis- put a new Missal into my hands, say- the traditional rite of sae with the aim to incorporate in ing “Here is the Mass that you must its text a manifest expression of the celebrate and that you shall celebrate the Mass, especially Catholic dogmas of the reality of the henceforth in all your houses.” They among the younger sacrificial act, of the real presence - told me as well that if on this date, through a more explicit adoration - today, this 29th of June, before your Catholic generations. through a clearer distinction between entire assembly, we celebrated a Mass the priesthood of the priest and that according to the new rite, all would of the faithful and of the real propi- be straightened out henceforth be- Holiness Pope Benedict XVI from 7 tiatory character of the sacrifice; 3. A tween ourselves and Rome. Thus it July 2007 to the Bishops on the occa- reform of those affirmations and -ex is clear, it is evidence that it is on the sion of the publication of the Apos- pressions of the Council, which are problem of the Mass that the whole tolic Letter Motu proprio data Sum- conflicting with the official Magisteri- drama between Ecône and Rome de- morum Pontificum on the use of the um of the Church, particularly in the pends” (Sermon at the of Roman liturgy prior to the reform of Declaration about the Church in the thirteen priests and thirteen sub-dea- 1970). Summorum Pontificum initiated world and in the Declaration about cons on the Feast of Saints Peter and the unstoppable organic growth and the non-Christian religions (Letter to Paul, 29 June 1976). further spreading of the traditional Pope John Paul II from 5 April 1983). rite of the Mass, especially among the Indeed, the noble, arduous and younger Catholic generations. The tra- The first just quoted proposal of meritorious battle of the FIUV for the ditional Roman rite is like a lion: let it Archbishop Lefebvre has been already full rehabilitation of the traditional rite free and it will defend itself! realised for God’s major glory, for the of the Mass was since the beginning One of the aims of the FIUV consists ornament of the Church as Christ’s connected with the analogous endeav- in ensuring that the traditional Roman Bride and for the consolation of innu- our of Archbishop Lefebvre. One can rite is maintained, recognised and hon- merable Catholic souls! The second and affirm already now, that without the oured in the universal liturgical life third proposals are still waiting for the

56 ■ the traditionalist The Crucial Importance of One Archbishop ■ Bishop Athanasius Schneider realisation. However, this realisation as the title ‘A Prophet Departs’. It is worth Tradition, i.e. to what has been pro- well will undoubtedly arrive at a time quoting the following words of Dr de fessed ubique, semper et ab omnibus, determined by God’s Providence, since Saventhem, with which he gave a con- that Lefebvre merited these He has the absolute control over His cise summary of the life and the work four titles of spiritual nobility evoked Church. The painful initial history of of a really great bishop in the history by one of his most powerful antago- the FIUV includes the heroic example of the Catholic Church, whom Divine nists. With the death of the venerated of the life of Dr and Mme de Saventhem Providence linked with the praisewor- Archbishop, Una Voce lost an ally of and Michael Davies, as well as the life- thy history and endeavour of the FIUV: imposing stature in its battle for the work of Archbishop Marcel Lefebvre. ‘Monseigneur Marcel Lefebvre was of maintenance of the Church‘s classi- He in some way preferred to be ‘anath- cal liturgy. Apart from Monsignor de ema’, ‘excommunicated’, according to Castro Mayer, no ranking has the words of the Apostle Saint Paul: “I fought as valiantly as Marcel Lefebvre wished myself to be an anathema from for the restitution of the old Mass to Christ, for my brethren” (Rom. 9: 3). Indeed, Archbishop free use within the Church. For years, Archbishop Lefebvre preferred to be this formed the central theme of his in the eyes of men ‘anathema’ in view Lefebvre stated repeatedly: reclamations. As he wrote in his Let- of the three aims he proposed to Pope “If I were asked to declare ter to perplexed Catholics: ‘The whole John Paul II to be achieved, i.e.: 1) The drama between Rome and Ecône has full and general rehabilitation of the my adherence to the evolved around the Mass and it still traditional Roman rite; 2) The tradi- does so today’ (Leo Darroch, op. cit., tional minded reform of the Novus conciliar texts ‘read in p. 205). Ordo Missae and 3) The doctrinal In 1988 the FIUV, whose main aim additions, clarifications and emenda- the light of tradition consists in ‘the organic restoration tions of some specific affirmations in and integrated with the of the liturgy in conformity with its the documents of the Second Vatican nature and the tradition of the Church’, Council. Indeed, Archbishop Lefebvre dogmatic formulations transmitted to the Holy See the follow- stated repeatedly: “If I were asked to ing courageous and prophetic resolu- declare my adherence to the concil- previously laid down by tion: ‘We beseech the Holy Father to iar texts ‘read in the light of tradition the Magisterium of the please select a number of occasions for and integrated with the dogmatic for- celebrating Himself, in public, the Mass mulations previously laid down by the Church’, I would sign according to the Roman Missal of 1962, Magisterium of the Church’, I would or to have Mass so celebrated by cardi- sign without hesitation.” without hesitation.” nals of the Curia’ (Leo Darroch, op. cit., (In an interview with Dr de Saven- p. 182). This request has unfortunately them: Leo Darroch, The History of the not yet been realised by a Pope after Foederatio Internationalis Una Voce the race of true prophets. As Cardinal the Second Vatican Council. Certainly 1964 – 2003, pp. 117-118). Benelli avowed to my wife, during a there will come the day when the Pope The above mentioned proposals of three-hour audience granted to us in will celebrate publicly and solemnly in Archbishop Lefebvre were meant to be a 1976: ‘Madam, I retain, I shall retain Rome the ancient and venerable Rite contribution for the healing of the main forever, a profound admiration for the of the Mass, substantially the form of a liturgical and doctrinal wounds of the man of God, the man of the Church, rite, which was kept and handed over as Church in our times. It was, therefore, the man of prayer, the giant mission- a true ornament of the Roman Church a noble gesture and a sign of Chris- ary which is Monseigneur Lefebvre.’ A throughout the ages at least since the tian wisdom and charity, when Dr de fitting epitaph indeed - matching per- time of Saint Gregory the Great. The Saventhem in 1991 posted an obituary fectly that now engraved on his tomb See of Peter cannot deny such a long notice on Archbishop Marcel Lefebvre in Ecône: Tradidi quod et accepi. It was and uninterrupted history of the spe- to the members of the Federation with by clinging firmly, even obstinately to cific form of its own lex orandi.

SPRING 2018 ■ 57 Recent History

The initially arduous work of the the venerable millennium-old Roman sense of the Church. It was a battle of FIUV and of Archbishop Lefebvre in rite, could be compared to the situ- good sons and daughters for the honour restoring and rehabilitating the venera- ation of an exile. Those numerous and beauty of their mother, the Church. ble and ancient Roman Rite, was often priests, religious and faithful who May the present book receive a wide times done with pains and tears, being suffered from this situation, could diffusion and contribute in its readers rejected and banished to the ecclesi- a deeper appreciation of the perennial astical periphery by high-ranking liturgical treasure of the Church, which authorities of the Church: ‘They had is the classical Roman Rite. Indeed, as sown with tears. Going they went and said Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger: ‘In our wept, casting their seeds’ (Ps 125: 5-6). The official prohibition, relationship with the liturgy, the destiny In mentioning the arduous labour of of the faith and of the Church plays out’ the FIUV, one has to remember also persecution and (Licht der Welt, 183). Michael Davies, a fellow combatant stigmatisation of the May the rehabilitated traditional and fellow sufferer with Dr and Mme Roman Rite ‘soak as a leaven the whole de Saventhem. The following words venerable millennium- bread’ (Mt. 13:33), i.e. the entire liturgi- of Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger express cal life of the Church in our days and praise and recognition of the lifework old Roman rite, could strengthen the sons and daughters of of Michael Davies: the Church to be fearless witnesses in be compared to the our neo-pagan world. May those who I had the good fortune to meet him situation of an exile. celebrate or assist the traditional rite several times and I found him as a of the Mass be able to paraphrase with man of deep faith and ready to em- much spiritual benefit these words of brace suffering. Ever since the Coun- Saint Augustine in Conf., IX, 6: cil he put all his energy into the ser- paraphrase the following words of the vice of the Faith and left us important Psalmist: ‘Upon the rivers of Babylon, How I wept when I assisted the ven- publications especially about the Sa- in the liturgical exile, there we sat and erable and traditional Roman rite, be- cred Liturgy. Even though he suf- wept: when we remembered Sion, the ing deeply moved by the sweet words fered from the Church in many traditional Roman liturgy, the liturgy and rites of the Church. Those words ways in his time, he always truly re- of all our forefathers and of the Saints’ and gestures flowed into my ears and mained a man of the Church. (Con- (Ps. 136: 1). Dr de Saventhem consid- eyes, truth filtered into my heart, and dolence message from 9 November ered rightly, ‘that a welcome omen for from my heart surged waves of devo- 2004 on the occasion of the death of the future was the youthfulness of the tion. Tears ran down, and I was hap- Michael Davies). membership… young Catholics - who py in my tears. have grown up among the mere ruins Today, a steadily growing number of the classical Roman liturgy, and Indeed, the way we celebrate the of young priests, of young families, who yet felt so strongly drawn to the liturgy here on earth is how we adore of innocent children, of adolescents, rites of Tradition as to strive actively and love God. The way we adore and of young men and young women, of for their rehabilitation aequo iure et love God here on earth is how we pre- non-Catholic seekers of the eternal honore in the liturgical life of the pare our unending praise of the Triune truth and beauty, the flourishing Church’ (Leo Darroch, p. 251). God in the beatific vision. For His glory Ecclesia Dei communities and par- With his masterly present work, the Church was founded here on earth, ishes - from one end of the world Leo Darroch, the former President of and all the words and gestures of her to the other - are ‘coming with joy- the FIUV, has given to the present and liturgy shall therefore proclaim: ‘Not to fulness, carrying the sheaves’ (Ps. 125: the future generations of Catholics a us, O Lord, not to us; but to thy name 7), which were sown by the work of the valuable documentation of the glorious give glory!’ (Ps. 113: 9). FIUV and of Archbishop Lefebvre. history of the noble battle of intrepid + Athanasius Schneider, Auxiliary The situation of the official prohibi- lay faithful, who were committed to the Bishop of the Archdiocese of Saint Mary tion, persecution and stigmatisation of restoration of the perennial liturgical in Astana

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q Send me emails about new products/special offers. My email False Charity A letter on February 23, 1977 from Publisher Neil McCaffrey to his son, Roger, then studying at the University of Dallas

Dear Rog, God or our neighbor. This, surprisingly, extent that our charity is cold. Prophets, The problem of true charity is—the is also an aspect of charity. But it is also remember, are men of God. problem. Some random thoughts. tricky, and can easily deteriorate into • One point Newman insists on: that • There can be no charity without personal anger. false ideas of religion harm people. Of justice, in this sense: charity may go • Nothing, nothing in the way of course. Otherwise, why Revelation? beyond justice, but never at the expense charity can be accomplished without Faith is no mere adornment. It is the way. of justice. God’s help. • Be patient. Every individual has • Von Hildebrand makes a useful • Terrible sins are committed in the his own rhythm. Grace too has its distinction between injuries done to name of charity. own tempo. That is why converts are me and injuries done to God; the latter • Newman insisted on charity—and made—but often over long periods. It either directly or indirectly (because) to insisted equally on measures that should took Augustine and Newman about a others. I cannot forgive an injury done be taken against bad people: ostracism, decade each. I wish I knew more about to God, or to another. avoidance, censure, etc. charity. Love, Dad • We owe charity to our leaders in • The motive for charity is imitation the Church, yes. But this does not extend of and union with God. His life is love, P.S. The classic Gospel and Epis- to forgiving what in fact we cannot for- and he lives it not only with Himself but tle remarks on charity refer mainly to give, their offenses against God and the with His creation. If He loves His crea- our fellows, not to Church authorities. souls in their care. We should pray that tures, we should and must, if we are to Although charity must obtain here, they acquit themselves of these sins, but imitate Him and become His. too, the governing problem deals with we do them no charity by pretending • We can judge objective evil— good shepherds, scandal, etc. “Char- that their sins are virtues. Indeed, we objective guilt if you will—with great ity” should not distract from the real do them the gravest disservice with such accuracy, if we use God’s norms. As to issue—which, paradoxically, is charity. lies; and a worse disservice to those they subjective guilt, we can make informed But charity rightly understood: the char- harm. guesses but can never really know. It is ity owed to the faithful, not the mock • We delude ourselves, and insult in that sense that we “cannot judge.” charity bestowed by feeble Christians God, when we act as if God can be served Hell, we barely know ourselves, let alone on feeble shepherds. This false charity, by suppressing the truth, or by lying. others. Who but God can know, in this in other words, is a device of the Devil This is an amazingly crude notion, but sense? But in the former sense (objective to distract from the real charity being widespread. God is truth. guilt), we can judge, and indeed our Lord denied to the faithful. • We may hold ourselves to a high instructs us to, often. He even tells us: Ponder the Pharisees in light of standard of truth, and still offend if we “By their fruits [ye shall know them]…” today’s hierarchy. The parallels are over- lack charity. “The greatest of these is He tells us to watch out for false Christs, powering. Was our Lord charitable to the charity.” So we must somehow find a to shun evildoers, etc. What are all those Pharisees? Of course He was—and He way to serve truth and charity. but commands to judge? Judging, after excoriated them. So we see that charity • It is a commonplace that charity all, is the pristine act of the intellect. It must subsist with righteous indigna- doesn’t oblige us to like someone. We is a sham piety that would have us act tion, contrary to what the caricaturists must treat him as we would want to be contrary to our very nature. Sure, we of charity like to pretend. treated, do him no harm, wish him well. must rise above nature to reach heaven; Also, read First Corinthians, chapter • Pseudo-charity is a kind of cow- but in that process we are to use nature, 5, in the Jerusalem Bible translation. It ardice and damages both subject and not do violence to it. gives the rules for how we are to treat object. All lies do. • Those of us who have some grasp bad Catholics. And we are right. More- • There is also a place for righteous of the truth yet yield little fruit are bar- over, Catholic tradition follows St. Paul. anger, especially anger at offenses against ren, I’m pretty sure, because and to the Today’s practice is the aberration. 60 Have YouContinued Lost from back cover. A Child? lives for the love of their Lord and Sav- Spirit. That might be a bit taxing, but “discovered” but thankfully retains its ior. Their noble witness will make you only a few miles, so not punishing, and peacefulness and appeal: weep! You will wonder why we never not mandatory. And for good cheer we heard of them.) will introduce you to Tini Martini and • Time and U.S. News magazines just We will have an actual pilgrim some of our favorite restaurants. Some named it a “Top 50” place to visit walk—which some of the local Cath- venues will be on the beautiful bay of • Money magazine proclaimed “Top olics have started in order to take up the St. Augustine with a view of Castillo City in Florida to Live” ancient call to journey with the Holy de San Marcos, the old fort built by • Architectural Digest “Top 20” gem colonial Spaniards made of coquina You are not here to verify, rock, quarried from near-by waters. There are two large museums, the It was a favorite place of our children. fort, the Mission, and the Cathedral, Instruct yourself, or inform curiosity Our pilgrimage dates are Novem- just for starters. We hope to have our Or carry report. You are here to kneel ber 12th–16th, 2018. Not too hot, and Masses at the Mission. There is not, Where prayer has been valid. certainly not cold. 4 nights with 3 full however, a mission Church, California —TS Eliot, The Four Quartets days of: style. (It would have happened had the English not been so driven to destruc- • Sightseeing tion.) But that is another story. For • Praying now, I love to think of St. Augustine • Mass where, it has been said, “the altar is • Short conferences older than the hearth.” • Two seminars about loss I hope you will join me. We’ll make arrangements to pick Love, Priscilla McCaffrey you up from, and bring you back to, the Jacksonville International Airport. P.S. Catholic Media Apostolate We’re working on permission for the will be the organizational host of this traditional Latin Mass, but there are event, with my husband Roger and several other opportunities for Mass I directly involved. A $200 non-re- and visits to the Blessed Sacrament fundable deposit is required to hold a at the Mission or in the Cathedral— place; the rooms are doubles but yours both within walking distance of our exclusively, no guest unless you request excellent downtown accommodations. it. You can write me at CXPeditor@ There will also be opportunity to too- gmail.com or call me at 203.417.3022, dle over a few short miles to the most and please do leave a voicemail! That gorgeous beaches in Florida. phone serves as a text phone as well. You will have plenty of time to your- self and can easily fill your free time Catholic Media Apostolate just walking around the town. We will PO Box 1209 be staying right in the middle of every- Ridgefield, Connecticut 06877 thing. St. Augustine itself was recently

Thus says the Lord: ‘Stand by the roads, and look, and ask for the ancient paths, where the good way is; and walk in it, and find rest for your souls.’ Jeremiah 6:16 “Blessed are those who find their strength in you, whose hearts are set on pilgrimage.” Psalm 84:5 Have You Lost A Child? Dear Mothers,

Have you lost a child? Come with me on a Pilgrimage to Our Lady of La Leche in St. Augustine, Florida. Join other mothers who have known the pain, confusion and devas- tation of losing a beloved son or daugh- ter. Before Our Lady of the Milk and Happy Delivery at the Mission Nom- bre de Dios, we will set our intentions for the repose of the souls of our chil- dren, and for our living children and grandchildren. In some ways this is a pilgrimage of sorrow, but it is also a pilgrimage of Thanksgiving for the darling child we had and lost. (Did he grow up to be not entirely darling? We still pray and thank God and beg Him for His mer- cies...and we know He understands.) You will supply your own reasons for pilgrimage, though we share a grief Roger and I have been to St. Augus- This is not a penitential pilgrimage. in common. I take this from a booklet, tine many times. We visited the Shrine Presumably you have suffered enough ‘Why Pilgrimage?’ that I picked up at before we were married, several times in the cause of your child. It won’t be the shrine: during the years we prayed for children, somber, either. We intend to show you and many times since for the beautiful the town, learn about its Catholic roots, • You might come to work out a family we were blessed with. I still offer introduce you to the Florida martyrs. problem my thanks for all four of my children, (You will be astonished by the stories • You might come for fellowship or and the one we lost to a stem call cancer of Native Americans who gave their for spiritual uplift, or called CML in 2001. He is always our • You might come for atonement, or adorable son. Continued on inside back cover . . . in thanksgiving. • You might come with us simply to plead for a special intercession.

You will supply your own reasons • 4 nights at our top-rated downtown Inn for pilgrimage, though we share a grief • $Evening1975 wine Includes receptions . . . in common. • All breakfasts, lunches and dinners for November 13, 14 and 15 I can think of no better place to • Mission, shrine, Cathedral and all tourist centers and guides kneel than on the grounds where • Transportation to and from Jacksonville Intl Airport Spanish priests first planted the cross • Walking tours downtown with our groups, with visits to St. Augustine’s of Christianity in our beloved country. lovely Basilica If you sign up with us I will send you David Baldwin’s booklet on pilgrimage.