See no evil

By Diogenes ( articles ) | Sep 10, 2004

In Redemptionis Sacramentum, the Congregation for Divine Worship listed liturgical abuses that are prevalent throughout the Western world.

In a classic example of how American prelates react to Vatican directives, Cardinal Roger Mahony has now announced that, despite exhaustive study, he cannot find evidence of the abuses the Vatican warned against.

While we all must constantly re-evaluate our liturgical practice and not allow it to become routine or careless, I have determined that there is no need to make any significant changes in our liturgical practice at this time.... We have not become aware of any serious abuses.

Maybe the Congregation for Divine Worship is delusional. That's disturbing.

But it's gratifying to know that in the Los Angeles archdiocese, one could never find:

• Priests who "take upon themselves the right to compose their own Eucharist Prayers"-- a practice that it "not to be tolerated."
• The use of musical instruments or singing during the Eucharistic Prayer.
• The breaking of the host at the time of Consecration-- which the Vatican said should be "reprobated and is to be corrected with haste."
• Preaching at Mass by anyone other than an ordained priest or deacon.
• The use of sacred vessels made from "glass, earthenware, or clay."
• Extraordinary ministers of the Eucharist employed at times when there are several priests and/or deacons present to distribute Communion.
• Liturgical dance.
• The scheduling of First Communion for children who have not yet made their first confession.
• Excessive commotion associated with the Sign of Peace.