Why Pray in Latin? > Papal Teachings on Latin Pope Benedict XVI, just two months after his elevation to the papacy, urged all Catholics to learn the Churchs most common prayers in Latin. Pope Benedict XVI, Presentation of the Compendium, 2005 Precisely in the multiplicity of languages and cultures, Latin, for so many centuries the vehicle and instrument of Christian culture, not only guarantees continuity with our roots but continues to be as relevant as ever for strengthening the bonds of unity of the faith in the communion of the Church. Pope Benedict XVI, Latina Lingua, 2012 The Latin language has always been held in high regard by the Catholic Church and the Roman pontiffs. Pope John XXIII (the pope who convened Vatican II) Apostolic Constitution Veterum Sapientia, 1962 But amid this variety of languages a primary place must surely be given to that language which had its origins in Latium, and later proved so admirable a means for the spreading of Christianity throughout the West. And since in Gods special Providence this language united so many nations together under the authority of the Roman Empire -- and that for so many centuries -- it also became the rightful language of the Apostolic See. Preserved for posterity, it proved to be a bond of unity for the Christian peoples of Europe. Of its very nature Latin is most suitable for promoting every form of culture among peoples. It gives rise to no jealousies. It does not favor any one nation, but presents itself with equal impartiality to all and is equally acceptable to all. The Latin language can be called truly catholic. It has been consecrated through constant use by the Apostolic See, the mother and teacher of all Churches, and must be esteemed a treasure ... of incomparable worth. ... It is also a most effective bond, binding the Church of today with that of the past and of the future in wonderful continuity. “The Catholic Church has a dignity far surpassing that of every merely human society, for it was founded by Christ the Lord. It is altogether fitting, therefore, that the language it uses should be noble, majestic and non-vernacular.” [Latin] exercises, matures and perfects the principal faculties of mind and spirit. It sharpens the wits and gives keenness of judgment. It helps the y oung mind to grasp things accurately and develop a true sense of values. It is also a means for teaching highly intelligent thought and speech. We also, impelled by the weightiest of reasons … are fully determined to restore this language to its position of honor and to do all We can to promote its study and use. The employment of Latin has recently been contested in some quarters, and many are asking what the mind of the Apostolic See is in this matter. We have therefore decided to issue the timely directives contained in this document, so as to ensure that the ancient and uninterrupted use of Latin be maintained and, where necessary, restored. Finally, in virtue of Our apostolic authority, We will and command that all the decisions, decrees, proclamations and recommendations of this Our Constitution remain firmly established and ratified, notwithstanding anything to the contrary, however worthy of special note.
Posted on: Thu, 09 Oct 2014 22:25:34 +0000
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