Pope Leo XIV’s first Consistory sidesteps the Traditional Mass
Much anticipation had built up surrounding the question of the traditional Mass in light of the consistory, but it appears that the topic did not make it to the discussion floor.
VATICAN CITY (Pelican+) — The first consistory of Leo XIV’s pontificate ended with a decision to make such meetings an annual affair, but left many observers concerned after discussion on the traditional Mass was reportedly absent.
As the various members of the College of Cardinals emerged from the Vatican shortly after 7 pm Thursday evening, many waived aside attempts to talk to them, while others marched swiftly out with heads down after the conclusion of a 12-hour day of the consistory.
Some cardinals attested as they left that the event did not leave them feeling short-changed in terms of time, but it seems that regardless of opinions on that point, there was no time granted to a discussion of the traditional Mass.
A number have now confirmed to this correspondent privately that the liturgical question was not addressed. Others, such as Cardinal Wilfred Napier, did so publicly when interviewed by Vaticanist Edward Pentin.
Cardinal Gerhard Müller also confirmed the traditional Mass was not discussed, but sought to downplay concern about the absence of the traditional Mass in the consistory discussions, telling Raymond Arroyo that the cardinals “preferred to speak about the great (external) challenges of the Church and not so much aspects inside the Church.”
Given the increasingly hot topic that the issue has become as bishops implement sweeping restrictions, many observers had opined that the traditional Mass would be granted some prominence in discussions during the consistory. Indeed, the liturgy had been named as one of four themes.
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