In recent weeks, some of our readers have written to us on the benefits or drawbacks of the Traditional Latin Mass.

Although we have not reported any news on the topic, there appears to be a movement within the Catholic Church’s hierarchy to investigate the subject further.

Since Pope Leo XIV assumed the papacy on May 8, there seem to be conversations about the possibility that he will soften Pope Francis’ “Traditionis Custodes,” which was a 2021 policy that called for restrictions on celebrating Mass and the sacraments according to the liturgical books in effect before the Second Vatican Council. This policy is still
in effect.

Some proponents of the Traditional Latin Mass point to the pope’s meeting recently this summer with Cardinal Raymond Burke, who was an outspoken critic of Pope Francis’ policy.

The Vatican would only confirm that the two Church officials met, but did not comment on the content of their discussion.

The Traditional Latin Mass advocates often highlight its strength in the ability to connect worshippers to the mystical heart of the Catholic faith, fostering a sense of reverence that many find lacking in contemporary liturgies.

One of its primary virtues is the Traditional Latin Mass’s ability to foster the mystery of the liturgy through its ceremonies, the Latin language, ad orientem posture (where the priest faces the altar with the congregation), and the use of Gregorian chants.

Opponents to the Traditional Latin Mass cite that they no longer feel like active participants because of the language barrier. Latin, while unifying language — in theory — throughout the world, can alienate those unfamiliar with it, making the Mass feel distant or exclusive.

Critics also point to its potential for division. In some circles, the Traditional Latin Mass has become a vehicle for dissent against Vatican II, fostering a “toxic tradition” where adherents claim superiority over the novus ordo, leading to ideological rifts rather than unity.

Recently, more voices have been filling the void on the broader acceptance of the Traditional Latin Mass.

Last week, Bishop Earl Fernandes of Columbus, Ohio, addressed Pope Francis’ thoughts on the Traditional Latin Mass being an affront to Vatican II. He shared that “there was nothing ideological” about his own experience of celebrating Mass in Latin, beginning in 2007.

“We wanted to offer the Mass to meet the pastoral need of the people,” he said. “It is a beautiful part of the Church’s tradition,” he told Catholic World Report.

As we speak, dioceses around the globe are moving in different directions on this topic. While some are offering greater access, a similar number of dioceses are restricting access to the Mass.

Hopefully, Pope Leo will offer an opinion on the Traditional Latin Mass to give the faithful a certain direction for the future.

As Bishop Fernandes put it, it’s not ideological. The Church should strive to be as inclusive as possible, offering the faithful a greater range of choices for all.