Balancing Tradition and Modernity in Catholic Worship

The Church of Saint Agnes in St. Paul, Minnesota, has become a focal point for discussions about Catholic tradition and modernity. This week, the priest, Rev. John Ubel, emphasized the importance of blending traditional customs with adherence to the Vatican’s authority.

Merging Traditions

Rev. Ubel preached about the dynamic nature of faith, stating, “Our Catholic faith is a living tradition, and there is a difference between being rooted and being stuck.” His sermons at both English-language and Latin Masses addressed the tension surrounding traditional liturgical practices.

The Society of St. Pius X, known for rejecting the Second Vatican Council reforms and exclusively celebrating the old Latin Mass, recently broke away from the Catholic Church. This prompted Pope Leo XIV to excommunicate their bishops and priests, warning the faithful of repercussions.

At Saint Agnes, there is an effort to maintain unity and respect for different liturgical preferences. Although they are not affiliated with SSPX, the church receives permission to celebrate Mass in Latin.

Model of Unity

Founded to serve German-speaking immigrants, Saint Agnes offers diverse worship options, including one traditional Latin Mass each weekend, a modern Latin Mass, and several English services. Rev. Ubel praised the coexistence of different forms at Saint Agnes as a model of charity and respect for liturgical traditions.

Among the congregation, Peter Draganowski, a 15-year-old altar boy at the church, expressed preference for Latin services despite their complexity.

Archbishop Bernard Hebda encouraged local Catholics previously attending SSPX services to switch to authorized liturgies within the archdiocese.

The Latin Mass, with unique features such as different prayers, priests facing the altar, and traditional vestments, remains attractive to a small, vocal group in the U.S. Although celebrated in only about 510 parishes out of over 16,000, it holds significance for those drawn by its aesthetics and historical continuity.

Approaches of the Popes

Pope Leo XIV’s predecessors had varied responses to Latin Mass practices. Pope Benedict XVI endorsed the Latin Rite, while Pope Francis, between 2021-23, insisted on individual bishops’ approval, curtailing the use of parish churches for such services.

Pope Leo XIV has reiterated the importance of unity. He discouraged SSPX from consecrating bishops, warning against participation in SSPX Masses, branding them schismatic.

Saint Agnes as a Hopeful Example

Parishioners at Saint Agnes express concern over the schism, striving for unity in the church. Nell O’Leary Alt, a parish attendee, finds value in both Latin and English services, appreciating the historical depth of the Latin Mass.

Tom Graff, an active parish member, spoken of the importance of valuing both ordinary and extraordinary forms of worship.

Rev. Ubel underscores the aim is inclusion, not competition, in practicing multiple forms of Catholic Mass.