Pope praises new English translation of the Mass

October 20, 2011

Pope Benedict XVI said that the new English-language translation of the Mass could “enrich and deepen the sacrifice of praise offered to God,” during an October 20 meeting with visiting bishops from Australia.

The Holy Father told the Australian bishops, who were finishing their ad limina visits, that the new translation is “the fruit of a remarkable cooperation of the Holy See, the bishops, and experts from all over the world.” He urged the Australian bishops to help their people accept and adapt to the new language of the Mass.

In his remarks, which covered a number of different topics, the Pope acknowledged the damage done by scandal in the Church, noting that the bishops bear a “pastoral burden which has been made heavier by the past sins and mistakes of others, most regrettably including some clergy and religious.” He urged them to make every effort to repair the damage “with honesty and openness.”

Pope Benedict remarked that the reports from the Australian bishops during their ad limina visits had confirmed that positive results are still being felt from the celebration of World Youth Day in Sydney in 2008. During that event, he said, “together with you, I saw how the Holy Spirit moved the young people gathered on your home soil from all over the world.” Now, he continued, bishops from all over Australia report that the number of young people considering priestly or religious vocations continues to grow. The Pontiff observed: “The Holy Spirit never ceases to awaken in young hearts the desire for holiness and apostolic zeal.”

 

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Further information:

• To Australian Prelates: Care for Celebration of Liturgy (VIS)
• Pope Benedict: new translation of Roman Missal fruit of a remarkable cooperation (Vatican Radio)