Friday, March 25, 2011

Dominican editor says new missal likely to caue dissension

The editor of Spirituality magazine, which is published by the Dominicans, has expressed strong disappointment over the decision to introduce the new English translation of the Roman Missal later this year.

Writing in the April/May issue of the magazine, editor Fr Tom Jordan OP writes that ''instead of providing an opportunity for deepening a sense of unity in the Church, the new translation is more likely to cause dissension''.

He adds: ''This particular exercise of power by the central authority of the Church seems far removed from the spirit of Vatican II; it leaves a lot to be desired.''

Fr Jordan also comments on remarks made by Theologian Fr Vincent Twomey that liturgical language is ''of its nature, archaic, elitist and obscure'', saying it ''brings one near to despair''.

Fr Jordan asks: ''Is it too late to ask the Irish bishops to insist on an improved text, and to wait until such is produced? The people of God expect, and deserve, no less.''