Unity and Tradition: Balancing Old and New in Catholic Worship

At the Church of Saint Agnes in St. Paul, Minnesota, the blend of incense and ritual emanates from an elevated pulpit. Here, 13 altar boys listen as the priest, Rev. John Ubel, discusses the integration of traditional Catholic customs with loyalty to the Vatican. This is particularly relevant as Pope Leo XIV faces a challenge from a breakaway traditionalist group.

“Our Catholic faith is a living tradition, and there is a difference between being rooted and being stuck,” Rev. Ubel stated in his homilies during both English and Latin Masses. The tension surrounding the traditional Latin Rite Mass, an ongoing theological and cultural issue for over 60 years, has now garnered global attention.

Pope Leo’s Stance on the Latin Rite

Pope Leo XIV recently declared that the Society of St. Pius X (SSPX), which rejects the reforms of the Second Vatican Council and exclusively celebrates the old Latin Mass, has severed ties with the Catholic Church. Consequently, the Vatican excommunicated the group’s bishops and priests following their unauthorized consecration of four men as bishops. Pope Leo has called for unity and urged those who value tradition to remain in communion with him.

Saint Agnes, not affiliated with SSPX, has permission to offer traditional Latin Mass. Rev. Ubel urged, “For all who are attached to Tradition, I pray that they seek to maintain full ecclesial communion with our Holy Father, Pope Leo XIV.”

Saint Agnes: A Model of Coexistence

Saint Agnes offers varied Mass options, from traditional Latin to modern Latin and English services. Rev. Ubel highlighted how the church exemplifies peaceful coexistence of these forms, demonstrating that diverse liturgical traditions can thrive in charity.

Peter Draganowski, a 15-year-old altar boy, expressed his preference for the Latin services despite their complexity, saying, “The sacred mysteries deserve that beauty.” Bernard Hebda, the archbishop of St. Paul and Minneapolis, hopes those attending SSPX chapels will participate in approved services, as traditional Latin services continue to be available.

The Latin Mass: Revered Yet Rare

The traditional Latin Mass is celebrated in about 510 U.S. locations amidst the 16,000 active parishes. Stephen Cranney, a lecturer at Catholic University of America, noted that the Mass’s appeal lies in its elaborate aesthetics, reverence, and historical continuity. However, only a minority oppose the Vatican II reforms, and the church remains cautious to prevent schism.

Papal Approaches to Tradition

Previous popes have taken differing paths regarding the Latin Rite. In 2007, Pope Benedict XVI urged its validity, while Pope Francis restricted it, requiring bishops’ approval and limiting church use for its services. Last fall, Pope Leo permitted a cardinal to celebrate a Latin Mass in St. Peter’s Basilica, seen as a positive gesture by traditionalists.

Leo has called for church unity and asked the SSPX not to proceed with unauthorized actions. Despite their defiance, the Vatican warned attendees of the society’s Masses of potential schism and excommunication.

A Vision for Unity

Parishioners at Saint Agnes remain hopeful for unity. Nell O’Leary Alt, a lifelong member, participates in both Latin and English services with her family, appreciating the historical richness of Latin worship. Tom Graff, a choir member, emphasizes the importance of valuing all forms of worship, teaching his children not to see one as superior.

Rev. Ubel asserts the choice of Mass forms supports inclusion, saying, “It’s not a competition to see who’s more Catholic.” Saint Agnes aims to represent a path forward, honoring tradition while fostering unity.

Associated Press religion coverage is supported through the collaboration with The Conversation US, funded by Lilly Endowment Inc. The AP remains solely responsible for the content.