As rumors of a looming ban of the Latin Mass have spread in recent weeks, a petition is circulating. The author of it is James MacMillan, the Scottish composer, and it bears the title “Stop the ban on the Traditional Latin Mass.”
The petition says nothing political or provocative. “Please keep any messages of support respectful,” it concludes, “as this petition does not in any way challenge the authority of Pope Francis.” Instead, it pleads for the survival of a tradition that has given Catholics “spiritual solace.” At a time of global harassment of Catholics, those people shouldn't be “forced to disown their own precious heritage.”
I just added my name to the roster. If you would like to do the same, here is a link to the petition page, where signing is simple.
Mark Bauerlein is a contributing editor at First Things.
First Things depends on its subscribers and supporters. Join the conversation and make a contribution today.
Click here to make a donation.
Click here to subscribe to First Things.
Image by Novis-M, licensed via Creative Commons. Image cropped.
While I have you, can I ask you something? I’ll be quick.
Twenty-five thousand people subscribe to First Things. Why can’t that be fifty thousand? Three million people read First Things online like you are right now. Why can’t that be four million?
Let’s stop saying “can’t.” Because it can. And your year-end gift of just $50, $100, or even $250 or more will make it possible.
How much would you give to introduce just one new person to First Things? What about ten people, or even a hundred? That’s the power of your charitable support.
Make your year-end gift now using this secure link or the button below.
