South African bishop, others slam more accurate Mass translation

March 17, 2009

As the South African episcopate prematurely implements a more faithful English translation of the Mass despite Vatican objections over its timing, Bishop Kevin Dowling of Rustenburg and others-- including Gunther Simmermacher, editor of the nation’s Catholic newspaper-- are criticizing the translation. “I am concerned that this latest decision from the Vatican may be interpreted as another example of what is perceived to be a systematic and well-managed dismantling of the vision, theology and ecclesiology of Vatican II,” says Bishop Dowling, who is known worldwide for his advocacy of condom use to prevent the spread of AIDS.

“I think the Church has been very lucky that the South Africans jumped the gun because it's showing the Vatican that there is going to be a worldwide problem when these new translations are put into effect,” adds Jesuit Father Thomas Reese, senior fellow at the Woodstock Theological Center at Georgetown University. “Once again the Vatican isn't listening to the critics, and we're going to have another major embarrassment to the Pope when these translations are put into effect and are forced on the people in the pews.”

 

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Further information:

• SAfrica protest over new Catholic Mass translation (AP)
• Editorial: Liturgy: A difficult time (Southern Cross)
• Southern African bishops seek Vatican OK to use new English translation of Mass prayers (CWN)