Fr. Z's Blog | Formerly entitled: "What Does The Prayer Really Say?" – Clear, straight commentary on Catholic issues, liturgy and life by Fr. John Zuhlsdorf o{]:¬)

My View For Awhile: heading south

Posted on 29 May 2022 by Fr. John Zuhlsdorf

My breakfast to my supper, in images. (Some)

Posted in SESSIUNCULA |
3 Comments

ASK FATHER: Monsignor didn’t use the exact form of absolution

Posted on 28 May 2022 by Fr. John Zuhlsdorf

From a reader…

QUAERITUR:

I’ve confessed to a particular priest twice, and both times, he didn’t use the exact formula of absolution. Both times, he did the following things:

1) he omitted the line “and sent the Holy Spirit among us for the forgiveness of sins.”
2) he said, “I absolve you from ALL your sins.”
3) he omitted the words “in the” from “in the Name of the Father…”, so it went like this: “I absolve you from ALL your sins. Name of the Father…”
4) he may have also omitted “and of the” when invoking the Trinity, so it went like this: “Name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.”

In the 2nd confession, I told him about points 1-3, and he seemed a little annoyed, but he then redid it with (mostly) the correct words.

Due to my circumstances, he might be the only priest I can confess to for a while.
Should I insist he use the EXACT formula? He’s a Monsignor and I’m a gross little worm who confesses shameful mortal sins to him.
How would I do so politely, and what reason(s) should I give him as to why the exact words are so important?

Also, do you think any of the mistakes invalidated my confessions with him?

Any advice would be greatly appreciated. This situation is quite stressful for me. Thank you for your time.

I am sure this bothers you, and it should… a little at least. People have the right to proper celebration of the sacraments. People have the right and duty to say something if there is a problem, respectfully, diplomatically, starting at the lowest level possible before escalation. As we read in Redemptionis Sacramentum….

[184.] Any Catholic, whether Priest or Deacon or lay member of Christ’s faithful, has the right to lodge a complaint regarding a liturgical abuse to the diocesan Bishop or the competent Ordinary equivalent to him in law, or to the Apostolic See on account of the primacy of the Roman Pontiff. It is fitting, however, insofar as possible, that the report or complaint be submitted first to the diocesan Bishop. This is naturally to be done in truth and charity.

As far as this priest being a Monsignor is concerned, remember that a Monsignor is an ecclesiastical mule: they have no hope of progeny and no pride in their ancestry. That confessor doesn’t get a pass because of the color of his buttons: he is obliged to “say the black and do the red” like every other priest, more so perhaps because of the honor that has been given to him.

From what you wrote, it seems to me that the absolutions were valid. Also, sometimes in a special circumstance it is okay or even necessary to leave off the first part of the formula for absolution, but not as a regular practice. The whole of the form should be said, barring some emergency or pressing circumstance.

It is not too much to ask that priests use the words the Church has designated, and to say them accurately and with care. If you are expected to do your part well – complete and sincere of all mortal sins in number and kind – then the least the priest can do is show you the respect you deserve as a penitent and SAY THE RIGHT WORDS.

How hard is it?

You might say something like, “Monsignor, I know the form of absolution and when you say something different it really bothers me. Sometimes I leave and I am not sure if I’ve been absolved. Would you please help me out and use the official form? I have it if you don’t.”

Of course every priest is a little different, but maybe something like that would work even on such a lofty and glorious creature as a Monsignor.

Also, for everyone readings this, GO TO CONFESSION. Don’t let the antics of a few priests put you off. GO.

And when you do, you might a) pray for the priest BEFORE making your confession, b) ask your Guardian angels to protect both of you from distractions and c) thank the priest after and promise him your prayers.

Posted in "How To..." - Practical Notes, ASK FATHER Question Box, GO TO CONFESSION | Tagged confession, form of absolution, sacrament of penance
4 Comments

Daily Rome (not) Shot – 509 – a prayer request

Posted on 28 May 2022 by Fr. John Zuhlsdorf

The first phase of the Italian Sojourn is wrapping up. Tomorrow I head south, first to Florence for a couple of days to visit a friend, then to Rome for the Roman phase (hence the wavvy flag). I’ll be on my own again.

The Heartbeat members are dispersing and the Floriani guys are gone. The group is shrinking and we are in relax mode for the last full day.

I ask the readership to stop, now, and say a prayer for a couple of our group who were scheduled to fly home tomorrow but who came down with COVID a couple days ago. They tested positive again today. As you can imagine, they will be really anxious about what to do, how long they will be stuck, how to get back to the States. These are fantastic people, doing God’s work in saving the unborn across the globe. So, I ask your prayers for them and a swift, perfect recovery.

Speaking of relaxing, I would very much like to relax driving this 1967 Ferrari southward, but I’ll be on a train, instead.

The lovely church in Portofino.

There was a “rehearsal” for 1st Communion going on. I have to wonder. If kids have been going to Mass week in and week out, how much of a rehearsal should they need? But, no. This was ginned up almost like an “ordination”, with calling them by name, making them stand up and say “Present!”, etc.

Mass will be, of course, on the picnic table in front of this altar. And you can bet that Communion will be obligatory on the hand.

On a happier note. Here’s a vegetable stand. I like vegetable stands. Vegetable stands make me happy.

Who in the world won’t be cheered up by this sight?

Meanwhile, some Scialatielli con moscardini also makes me happy.

Last evening for the main, we had a huge bass done in salt. It served about 20. This is a great option for whole fish of any size. If you do this yourself, I warmly… nay, rather, hotly suggest that you have superb, strong ventilation in your place of cooking: the egg whites and salt can deliver an unpleasant odor in the baking process.

Sweet and delicate. Counter intuitive, but true.

Tonight, everything comes out of my bags and I repack for the southern descent.

___

Help the Benedictine monks of Norcia and get great beer!

Please remember me when shopping online. Thanks in advance.

US HERE – UK HERE

Posted in On the road, What Fr. Z is up to | Tagged Heartbeat International.
3 Comments

Daily Rome (not) Shot – 508 – bonus video

Posted on 27 May 2022 by Fr. John Zuhlsdorf

The trip brought the group to Genoa, where we had to make some pesto.

With anchovy and breadcrumbs.

Up we went to the quarries of the famous Carrara marble.

The top of the peak is where the ancient Romans started, that is how long it has taken to get this far.

The underground segment.

A glimpse of the way down.

Lunch included the famous lardo of Colonata.

A whole bunch of Ferrari owners are on their way to Monaco.

Last night at the pizza place, Floriani gave us a nice rendition of America The Beautiful. The THIRD verse is special for the group.

Posted in SESSIUNCULA | Tagged Carrara, Ferrari
5 Comments

POLL on a BURNING QUESTION REVISITED: The Plural of “Gin & Tonic” – Daily Rome (not) Shot – 507 – bonus video

Posted on 25 May 2022 by Fr. John Zuhlsdorf

Today was a terrific day, in that we – the Heartbeat International group – had a pleasure of visiting a center for women who need REAL health care to keep their babies. The volunteers explained the workings (and funding) of the place and told us about some of the great stories from their work since the 1970’s. At the center “the guys”, Floriani, sang the entirely appropriate “Est ist en Rose entsprungen” (in English), the imagery being perfect. The center itself uses the symbol of a primrose, which often blooms in cold, harsh conditions.

Remember… Heartbeat International provides a hotline for a network of doctors who can prescribe the REVERSAL of the “abortion pill” which is being handed out like candy for free even to underage girls. Surgical abortion is declining but this chemical thing is rising.

Meanwhile, we had a fast trip to the Cathedral of Genoa, where – though the Cathedral was closed off- I was allowed by the sacristan to visit to tomb of the late, great Cardinal Siri.

Moreover during the trip the question of the plural of “Gin and Tonic” has again arisen, as it inevitably does in intelligent and polite company. For genteel discussion, of course.

As you might guess, auctores scinduntur. Inspector Morse, whom I believe to be an expert, says, “Gins and tonic”. He is certainly right… though don’t let me influence you…. ehem.

Years ago, Fr. Thompson said that Graham Greene in the second paragraph of Brighton Rock, has the character Hale drinking “gins and tonics.” Well…. we all know about Graham Green… but don’t let me influence your vote… ehem.

And not that it should make a difference that Sir Humphrey Appleby is a rather terrible misogynist and bureaucrat, he says “G &Ts”. I don’t imagine that that will influence anyone away from the glaring truth.

Someone suggested Latin, Iuniperi cum tonico, which seems right to me.

So, pick your best answer. Any can vote, but only registered and approved participants can post comments… and I hope you do. This is far too important a question not to have wide participation.

As a side note…

Which drink is mine?

And.. a bonus… in the Cathedral of Genoa.

Posted in Lighter fare, On the road, POLLS, What Fr. Z is up to | Tagged poll
20 Comments

Archd. Washington DC, can. 915, Pelosi, transparency

Posted on 24 May 2022 by Fr. John Zuhlsdorf

This is how they roll.

But remember, it is important to crush the people who want the Vetus Ordo. Not just the Vetus Ordo… the people who want it. Meanwhile… Nancy…

The Washington Examiner asked the Archdiocese of Washington for comment on Pelosi/Eucharist.

The comms office accidentally forwarded an email saying the media request "will be ignored too." pic.twitter.com/he4m2CPs4F

— JD Flynn (@jdflynn) May 23, 2022

Posted in Liberals, What are they REALLY saying? | Tagged Archd. Washington DC, can. 915, Nancy Pelosi
7 Comments

ASK FATHER: Venial sins and the Novus Ordo

Posted on 24 May 2022 by Fr. John Zuhlsdorf

From a reader…

QUAERITUR:

I was raised in the Novus Ordo, and now attend the TLM as often as I can (and it is the greatest gift!).

I was taught growing up that venial sins are blotted out at Mass. But it wasn’t until I got to know the TLM that I actually saw where venial sins are blotted out (the +Indulgentiam). [Not only!]

So, this got me thinking – since the “innovators” who created the Novus Ordo eliminated the +Indulgentiam prayer, are venial sins still blotted out at the Novus Ordo?

Here’s another subtle point of difference between the Vetus and the Novus: in the former, you don’t have to wonder while in the later there the situation is foggier.

In the NO penitential rite there are options. One of those options also includes an absolution (not of mortal sins, of course).

Mind you, there are various ways by which we can obtain forgiveness of venial sins. An Act of Contrition forgives venial sins, as does use of sacramentals such as Holy Water, the recitation of the Rosary, good reception of Holy Communion, etc.. These are ways by which we obtain forgiveness of venial sins.

During the older, traditional form of Holy Mass in the Roman Rite, there have been identified nine moments when forgiveness of venial sins is offered to one who participates with full, conscious and active, actual participation:

During the Prayers at the Foot of the Altar, Father gives an absolution, which in truth has many intentions, including forgiveness of venial sins.

The priest says the Aufer a nobis as he ascends the altar steps: “Take away from us our iniquities, O Lord, we beseech You, that we may enter with pure minds into the Holy of Holies. Through Christ our Lord.” and he says the Oramus te, Domine. In the Canon Father prays the Nobis quoque peccatoribus famulis tuis. At Communion time there are several prayers, including the Libera nos. Just before Communion we say the Domine, non sum dignus. After Communion the priest has ablution prayers which ask for forgiveness. For example, “May Your Body, Lord, which I have eaten, and Your Blood which I have drunk, cleave to my very soul, and grant that no trace of sin be found in me, whom these pure and holy mysteries have renewed. You, Who live and reign, world without end. Amen.”

We can obtain forgiveness of venial sins in many ways. The Angelic Doctor is good on this. HERE However, mortal sins must be confessed in both kind and number.

Let’s all be clear about something. Venial sins are SINS. Venial sins are lesser offences against God and His laws. However, they are still offences. Venial sins offend God. They offend God, Mary and the saints and angels. They endanger our souls because they can lead to worse sins or the deadening of our minds and hearts about the true nature of sin’s horror. Moreover, as one goes more deeply into the spiritual life and successfully roots out serious faults, then the smaller sins take on more importance. St Teresa of Avila says that the first great obstacle she had to overcome in advancement of her spiritual life was carelessness about sin.

The Catechism of the Catholic Church says:

CCC 1458 “Without being strictly necessary, confession of everyday faults (venial sins) is nevertheless strongly recommended by the Church. Indeed the regular confession of our venial sins helps us form our conscience, fight against evil tendencies, let ourselves be healed by Christ and progress in the life of the Spirit. By receiving more frequently through this sacrament the gift of the Father’s mercy, we are spurred to be merciful as he is merciful”

So, for everyone out there reading this who has not gone to confession for a while, for whatever reason…

… examine your consciences and…

GO TO CONFESSION!

Posted in "How To..." - Practical Notes, ASK FATHER Question Box, GO TO CONFESSION | Tagged venial sins
3 Comments

Daily Rome (not) Shot – 505 – bonus pics

Posted on 24 May 2022 by Fr. John Zuhlsdorf

It’s coming up pretty soon.

New: two Via Caritatis rosés: Vox Rosé and Lux Rosé

Please remember me when shopping online. Use my affiliate link. Thanks in advance.

US HERE – UK HERE

Posted in SESSIUNCULA |
1 Comment

TC Repression in the Diocese of St. Augustine

Posted on 24 May 2022 by Fr. John Zuhlsdorf

The cruel implementation of the cruel legacy document of the Francis’ era continues in these USA, this time in Jacksonville in the Diocese of St. Augustine.

This is from the Bulletin of the Immaculate Conception.

The PDF has an absurd typeface, so I filtered it through Notepad. I cut out some blah blah…

Dear Parishioners and Friends of the Basilica.

As you may have heard at Mass this weekend or in conversations this past week, the Celebration of the Extraordinary Form of the Mass also referred to as the usus antiquior & more commonly the Traditional Latin Mass, will cease at the end of June.
[….]

In 2007, Pope Benedict XVI liberalized the use of the 1962 Roman Missal. Since then, Pope Francis has diverged from Pope Benedict in disposition toward continued celebration of this form of the Mass. Most recently these decisions were in part informed by a survey he’d sent out to the world’s bishops in 2020. Last summer Pope Frances [sic] issued a decree “Traditionis Custodes” to address his concerns and promote unity, [LOL] while giving each bishop — “as moderator, promoter and guardian of the liturgical life of the church” — limited authority within the confines of the document and subsequent letter of clarifications, to apply it based on their judgment and the character of their dioceses. In response to the decree Bishop Estevez established a committee to aide [sic] him as he discerned the best way forward for the people of the diocese while also being obedient to both the letter and spirit of the decree. He spent several months studying the pope’s decree, “Traditionis Custodes” (“Guardians of the Tradition”), listening to the people who would be most affected by any decisions he would make, surveying the responses of other Bishops in the country, and considering the input of committee members & affected priests. The Bishop sought to authorize the continuation of the celebration of the traditional Latin Mass and to that end made a proposal to Rome for particular exemptions. [He didn’t have to do that, of course. Can. 87.]
Due to the official denial of permission for the continuation of the celebration of the Traditional Latin Mass at the Basilica [ummmm…?] and the other restrictions having been put in place by the decree of Pope Frances, [sic] this past week the Bishop issued his decree as to how the Pope’s decree would be implemented locally. You can read the decree of the Bishop on the next pages.
Both the Bishop and I understand that the direction given by Rome will be very painful for some of our parishioners and friends of the Basilica. For those who attend regularly the Traditional Latin Mass, I know important and meaningful this form of the Mass is to you and I am sorry that it will no longer be available to you hear at the Basilica. Some of you will be angry. Others will be confused and feel abandoned. This will take us some time as a parish to process and to heal. [read: “too bad”] Trust that parishioners who attend other Masses here, will be praying for all of you, [Of course they will. Perhaps with one of the sometimes seemingly endless pre-offertory intercessions in the NO?] and of course we hope that you will continue to worship here and be a part of this parish family as registered parishioners or as ‘Friends of the Basilica’.
This parish has seen many changes in the past 175 years and will be here to see many more in the next century. Some, the people of God will understand and embrace, some will be difficult – As always, we must continue to trust God with His Church and engage all the challenges we face with firm faith and humble obedience to the will of God for ourselves and for the Church as discerned by those the Spirit chooses to lead His Church. Each of us are followers of Christ and together we are members of the Mystical Body of Christ the Church.
Sincerely;
Father Blair

The bishop’s decree. Note a few things.

Point 4. Readings can’t be done in Latin. This reveals a significant misunderstanding of the very nature of the readings during Mass. It also reveals kind of fearful animus.

Point 8: Not sure how that is consistent with TC. But, hey, impose whatever the hell you want when you know people and priests have no recourse.

Point 9: Insulting, much?

Point 10: Apart from being a cheap shot, what would those be, exactly? “Elements”. By the way, this “point” expresses nothing other than an opinion with which people are free to disagree.

Posted in Liberals, Pò sì jiù, SESSIUNCULA, Traditionis custodes | Tagged D. St. Augustine, Jacksonville
28 Comments

Daily Rome (not) Shot – 504 – bonus pics

Posted on 23 May 2022 by Fr. John Zuhlsdorf

The Heartbeat trail continues!

Today San Fruttuoso, which is reachable mainly by boat. It’s an old monastery, alas, not any longer. The water is amazing.

We went off the track a bit to find a place that made that made the most amazing lasagne with pesto that I have ever had. So, light, delicate. It was the Platonic form of pesto and lasagne.