(demonstration model only: actual liturgy may vary)

By Diogenes ( articles ) | Apr 23, 2004

Some comments of Cardinal Arinze at the press conference introducing the new disciplinary document on the Eucharist:

Connected with the preceding point [the need to develop an interior spirit of worship, not just external conformity to norms] is a temptation that must be resisted, i.e., to imagine that it's a waste of time to pay attention to liturgical abuses. It is sometimes argued that, since abuses have always existed and will always exist in the future, we should concern ourselves instead with formation and with improved liturgical celebration.

Though partly true, this objection can lead us astray. Not all abuses respecting the Holy Eucharist have the same weight. Some risk rendering the sacrament invalid. Others indicate a lack of Eucharistic faith. Yet others help sow further confusion among the people of God and tend to profane the celebration of the Eucharist. Abuses are not to be taken lightly.

And the penalty for non-compliance is ...?