Category Archives: “How To…” – Practical Notes

QUAERITUR: Am I forbidden to kneel after the Agnus Dei?

From a reader: Our parish has always knelt for the Second Elevation (after the Agnus Dei). This is a regular Novus Ordo Mass. Our priest retired and now our new temporary priest has instructed us to remain standing. I want … Read More

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42 Comments

Some food for thought about how to approach priests concerning liturgical aberrations

Here is something from a priest reader I think is appropriate right now.  A little food for thought. My emphases and some editing. A story came to me in the last week or so which struck me as potentially helpful … Read More

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52 Comments

QUAERITUR: Does a parish priest have to ask permission of a bishop to allow marriages in the Extraordinary Form?

From a priest: I am a priest almost 3 yrs ordained last year I was asked to officiate at a wedding which was to be conducted according to the 1962 missal. The PP would not allow the wedding to go … Read More

Posted in "How To..." - Practical Notes, ASK FATHER Question Box, Mail from priests, SUMMORUM PONTIFICUM | Tagged ,
14 Comments

QUAERITUR: Is a Communion rail obligatory for TLMs?

From a reader: I am interested in seeing the EF come to my local parish. The main church is a monstrosity, but there is a separate chapel that might do nicely. Unfortunately, there is no altar rail in the chapel. … Read More

Posted in "How To..." - Practical Notes, ASK FATHER Question Box, Brick by Brick | Tagged
16 Comments

I foresee big things for this kid.

During the Wednesday General Audience a little boy just decided to go up and see the Pope. Sinite parvulos! [wp_youtube]IUgAB_5GfGE[/wp_youtube] UPDATE: After the “how cute” factor wears off, there are concerns to be addressed. Think of a scenario in which … Read More

Posted in "How To..." - Practical Notes, Lighter fare |
26 Comments

QUAERITUR: Can a priest wear a Cross around his neck?

From a seminarian: I am currently a Seminarian and still have 5 years ahead of me until, God willing, ordination. I personally feel a priest should always wear his clericals if not also a cassock, I plan to be in … Read More

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24 Comments

QUAERITUR: I am unsure about whether my marriage is valid.

From a reader: Can ones marriage be valid if it is clear that impediments listed in Canon Law were present at the time of the marriage (and continued to be as well) ? If not valid, then can the couple … Read More

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13 Comments

Summorum Pontificum: what is possible?

I have been writing more about Summorum Pontificum lately than I have for a while. We have to remind people that Summorum Pontificum gave us some provisions that have the force of law.  They are not merely part of the … Read More

Posted in "How To..." - Practical Notes, SUMMORUM PONTIFICUM | Tagged ,
91 Comments

QUAERITUR: How should we approach a priest to ask for the Extraordinary Form?

From a reader: A group at my parish is planning on approaching our pastor to request Mass in the Extraordinary Form. I would like to be prepared to answer his questions about the “mechanics” of putting on this Mass: training … Read More

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57 Comments

QUAERITUR: Can a pastor/liturgist force servers to receive Communion under both kinds?

From a reader with my emphases: Our parish liturgist has sent out the following to all Altar Servers and Acolytes who assist at the Novus Ordo mass. “Servers at Saint Mary receive both Species if they receive at all.  If … Read More

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36 Comments