Frequently Asked Questions

General Section

What is the Roman Missal?

The Roman Missal is the official liturgical book which contains the texts prayed by priest and people at every celebration of Mass. It is the large red book which sits on the altar and from which the priest reads during the celebration of the Mass. Another book, the Lectionary, contains the Scripture readings that are read during Mass.
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Why was there a need for a new translation?

The Missale Romanum (Roman Missal), the ritual text for the celebration of the Mass, was promulgated by Pope Paul VI in 1970 as the definitive text of the reformed liturgy of the Second Vatican Council. That Latin text, the editio typica (typical edition), was translated into various languages for use around the world; the English edition was published in 1973. The Missal and all the other liturgical books were very quickly translated from Latin into English and it was soon recognized that there would have to be a revision at some stage. The new translation has taken 10 years and aims at, not only being a more accurate translation of the Latin, but also at deepening our love and understanding of what it is we’re doing at Mass.
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When does this change take place?

We will begin using the new translation November 27, 2011.
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What’s new or different about the revised translation? What are the theological implications or new emphases that are brought about due to the changes in the text? What do the changes mean theologically?

The new translation of the Roman Missal is more than just a change of words. The whole style and tone of the liturgy is being raised as we return to more accurate rendition of original wording, from Latin into English. There is a greater sense of our rightful place before God. In humility we acknowledge our sin and dependence on God. We also recognize God’s majesty and his immeasurable love for us. Many of the Biblical references and poetic images that were lost or subdued are restored in the new translation. There is great beauty in the liturgy.

This is a short answer. For more in depth study, check our Resources section, which contains a growing list of books, websites and other material.
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Will it sound very different?

Yes, it will. Not only will the people’s responses change but the prayers said by the priest will also change. The Eucharistic Prayers will sound different. The original Latin Missal has not changed - only the translation. So it will be the same Mass that we have had since Vatican II, but it will sound different in parts.
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Will the readings change?

The Sunday readings are not changing - they were updated in 2009 with the revised Lectionary. Revisions to the weekday Lectionary are still coming.
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Will there be help for us to learn the new words at Mass? I suppose the words will be in the little books in the pews but I always get confused flipping between all the pages and I lose my place. Will someone be at the front of the church to tell us the words?

There will be help to learn the revised responses and prayers during Mass. You can begin by taking a look at the new wording ahead of time so you are familiar with the changes. It is also very valuable to understand the text and some the reasoning behind what we do and say at Mass. For the people’s new responses and a commentary on the text, click here. Additionally, there are several options available and your pastor may choose some or all of these for your individual parish. One is the ‘little books in the pews’, called a Missalette or Sunday Missal; another is pew cards which list the revised prayers and responses and are meant to be placed in the pews beside the hymnals; the third is a take-home paper with the revised wording. It is unlikely that someone will be at the front of the church directing responses but that will be up to each pastor.
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Can I buy a new Missal for my personal use?

The new Missal for use by the priest during Mass will be published in November. Sunday Missals for personal use will be available in late October/early November. The Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops Publication Service is the place to check.
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Why is the English translation not universal? Why do we have to have a Canadian version?

There are subtle differences in the use of English around the world. For example, in North America the word for car fuel is ‘gasoline’ but in England it is ‘petrol’. The word ‘momentarily’ in North America means ‘soon, in a few moments’ but in other English-speaking countries, it means ‘for a few moments’. This difference may not seem significant until you consider what your reaction may be if you were about to take off in an airplane and the captain said “we willing be flying momentarily”. One understanding would be welcome – we will be taking off soon; the other understanding would be horrifying – we will be airborne for only a few moments before crashing. The Church in her wisdom has allowed each Conference of Bishops, the flexibility to alter the text according to the culture and understanding of the local people.
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In one of your answers you stated that "each conference of bishops has the flexibility to alter the text according to the culture and understanding of the local people". Does that mean that the Canadian bishops could, in fact, change the wording in the Nicene Creed to read "for us and for our salvation" rather than using the non-inclusive "for us men"?

The Canadian bishops, and all conferences of bishops, can alter the text within certain boundaries. A better word may be to ‘tweak’ as the translation must remain true to the original Latin. The phrase from the Nicene Creed in Latin reads “Qui propter nos homines et propter nostrum salute descendit de caelis.” The word, ‘homines’ translates as “men”. To remove the word would be a clear departure from the original Latin. It is not meant to be exclusive but to include all of humanity for whom Christ suffered and died out of his great love for us.
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Please would you tell me about kneeling and standing and when we do both in the new Mass. I am always distressed to see no kneelers at [parish in another diocese], just chairs with people struggling to the floor and getting up to kneel after Holy Communion.

Common posture, such as standing and kneeling together, is a powerful sign of unity for the community gathered to celebrate Mass. The Church has given us rubrics in the General Instruction of the Roman Missal, which states “The faithful should stand from the beginning of the Entrance chant, or while the priest approaches the altar, until the end of the Collect; for the Alleluia chant before the Gospel; while the Gospel itself is proclaimed; during the Profession of Faith and the Prayer of the Faithful; from the invitation, Orate, fratres (Pray, brethren), before the prayer over the offerings until the end of Mass... They should kneel beginning after the singing or recitation of the Sanctus until after the Amen of the Eucharistic Prayer, except when prevented on occasion by reasons of health, lack of space, the large number of people present, or some other good reason. Those who do not kneel ought to make a profound bow when the priest genuflects after the consecration. The faithful kneel after the Agnus Dei unless the Diocesan Bishop determines otherwise.” (GIRM #43)
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The congregation's new response to "The Lord be with you" will be "And with your Spirit" in place of "and also with you". This is not particularly new, but going back to the way we responded in past years as I remember it. However, I have not seen or heard an explanation or clarification of this. It seems to be treated as being entirely new.

You are correct that the responses are not new - in fact, there are very old. The responses, however, were in Latin. It is the English translation that is new. Perhaps one reason why this seems to be treated as entirely new, is that the Latin version is not familiar to an entire generation of Catholics and has been forgotten by many others. Before Vatican II, when Mass was celebrated in Latin, the priest would say “Dominus vobiscum” and the congregation responded “et cum spiritu tuo”. The correct translation into English is “the Lord be with you” and “and with your Spirit”. This is a good example of some of the inconsistencies of the current translation and the necessity of the revisions.
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Who wrote the new Roman Missal? Who has done the translation from Latin to English? How long has it taken?

The International Commission on English in the Liturgy (ICEL) has overseen a large number of experts who have worked on the translation. The ICEL is a mixed commission of eleven bishops from around the English-speaking world whose purpose is to prepare English translations of each of the Latin liturgical books in accord with the directives of the Holy See. Together with teams of experts, they have translated the Roman Missal, ensuring it is faithful to the Latin. The process began in 2002, after the issuance of the Missale Romanum, and involved a back-and-forth between the ICEL and its Conference of Bishops as various sections were studied and revisions made. They were also assisted by the Vox Clara, a special committee of bishops and consultants from English-speaking countries assembled specifically to assist with this English translation. In April 2010, the Congregation for Divine Worship and the Discipline of the Sacraments in Rome announced the approval of the ‘universal edition’ of the revised Roman Missal. Finally, it is up to each Conference of Bishops to make final adaptations for cultural understanding, to set the implementation date and to authorize publication of the new liturgical books.
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The RCAV website includes links to the upcoming USCCB Roman Missal changes that will also be implemented on November 27, 2011. Did the Canadian and U.S. Bishops work together on changes to the Missal? Neither the USCCB nor the CCCB websites indicate collaboration with the other.

The Canadian and U.S. bishops, along with bishops from other English-speaking countries, worked together on the new translation of the Roman Missal. For information and a timeline of the work of the Canadian bishops, click here.
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[Will] the Missal and Lectionary be available for a mobile device [iPhone/iPad]? I ask the question because, while there is an iPad Missal (iMissal.com) for the United States (which includes Mass readings from the New American Bible Revised Edition) that will be updated in November to follow their new liturgy, I'd prefer to purchase a Canadian version (with Mass readings that include CCCB changes to the New Revised Standard Version). In this digital age, is there any reason that the Roman Missal and an integrated Lectionary shouldn't be available?

We are not aware of any immediate plans for a Canadian version of the revised Missal or the Lectionary to be available in a digital format. We will continue checking and post an updated answer here, if warranted.
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Where can I get an English translation of the new revised Roman Missal?

To see an online version of the full text of new English translation of the Roman Missal, click here. Hard copies of the complete text will be available in the Fall. Pew versions of the Missal will be available for purchase in late October/early November. Check our local Catholic bookstores (scroll down a little) on where to purchase these.
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Does the Roman Missal contain more than just the wording for Mass?

The Roman Missal contains all the prayers and responses spoken during Mass. It includes our ‘regular’ Masses and special occasions, such as Christmas and Easter, as well as various saints’ days and other special celebrations.

It also contains the rubrics for the Mass. Rubrics are the actions or protocol for the priests and people to do at particular part of the Mass. Whether you go to Mass in Vancouver or in St John’s Newfoundland , the actions of the priest will be the same because the rubrics have given specific direction.

The Roman Missal also contains the General Instruction of the Roman Missal (GIRM) which provides details on how Mass is to be celebrated, including role of others assisting in the Mass and directives regarding the church furniture and other effects.
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Is there a short explanation anywhere of the changes that are coming and why and how we got them? I have only seen ones that are an hour or so in length – too long for me – but I want to understand the revisions.

There is an excellent explanation on video by Mark Hart and is approximately 8 minutes long. The video is targeted to teens but provides concise information that can be appreciated by all. Mark Hart is a well known Catholic evangelist, vice president of Life Teen, and is also known affectionately as the “Bible Geek”. Click here for the video.
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Are you still having the explanation of the new Missal on Oct. 22 at St. Patrick's church. I have not seen anything about it since the summer and there are a few of us who would like to go.

Fr Tien Tran, Chair of the Liturgy Commission, will be speaking on What’s New at Mass? at the Archdiocesan Institute on October 22, 2011. It takes place at St Patrick High School (not the church) in Vancouver. For more information, click here.
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I am wondering who in the absence of a deacon will be reading the intentions at the Prayers of the Faithful?

In most parishes throughout the Archdiocese of Vancouver, the Prayers of the Faithful are read by the same person(s) who has read the First and Second Readings. The General Instruction of the Roman Missal (#71) states, “They are announced from the ambo or from another suitable place, by the Deacon or by a cantor, a reader, or one of the lay faithful.”
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Why be so strict about the new translation? What is wrong with the translation we already have?

The translation we have now is called “dynamic equivalence”. When the text was translated from Latin to English after Vatican II, it was a loose translation that made heavy use of the structure, idioms and general way of speaking of our modern English. But much of the original meaning was lost in this translation. The new current translation will switch from “dynamic equivalence” to “formal equivalence”, which attempts to match the meaning and Latin grammar more precisely. For a video presentation, giving a brief history of the text and examples of the changes, click here.
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What will stay the same?

The structure, readings, sacred objects and sequence of the Mass is not changing. There are some minor changes in the prayers and responses for the congregation. There are more substantial changes to the text of the Eucharistic Prayers and other prayers of the priest. To see a side-by-side comparison of the new and old versions, go here and then click on either the people’s parts or the priest’s parts.
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Who wanted the change?

The Mass changed from Latin to English in the mid-1960’s after Vatican II. At that time it was understood that the English translation was a temporary one and a better translation would be needed sometime in the future. That is because the translation was more of a paraphrase (referred to as dynamic equivalence) of the Latin text than a true translation (formal equivalence). That ‘sometime in the future’ has finally arrived and we will begin using the new translation on November 27th. For a video explanation of the difference between dynamic and formal equivalence and a timeline of the translation process, click here.
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Where do I find the four changes that are mentioned in the [parish bulletin]?

There are four posture/gesture changes that will be implemented in the Archdiocese of Vancouver on November 27, 2011. They are:
1) Strike our breast three times during the Confiteor (I confess...) when we say, “ through my fault, through my fault, through my most grievous fault”.
2) Bow our heads during the Creed at the mention of the incarnation and the Blessed Virgin Mary.
3) Stand at the beginning of the Orate fratres (pray, brethren...) instead of our current practice of standing at the end.
4) Bow the head before receiving Holy Communion as a sign of reverence. When receiving on the tongue, hands should be joined; when receiving in the hand, the hands should be open, with one hand placed beneath the other.
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My family kneels when receiving communion. Will this still be allowed? My friends pastor sent out a letter saying it wouldn't be allowed but I find that hard to believe since the Pope encouraged kneeling in the past.

Both standing and kneeling are permitted forms of receiving the Eucharist. There are differing practices throughout the Archdiocese; in some parishes communicants kneel at a Communion rail, at other parishes communicants stand, and at the Cathedral communicants have the option of kneeling at the Communion rail or standing. When not kneeling, we are instructed to make a sign of reverence - a bow of the head - before receiving the Eucharist.
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In recent years there has been bowing to the priest by the lector before and after the readings. This seems to put the focus on the priest and not the Eucharist. Should not bowing or genuflecting to the tabernacle or altar be necessary and sufficient?

The GIRM does not give any direction for the lectors to bow to the priest during Mass. At the beginning and end of Mass, the priest and all in the procession with him, genuflect. During Mass, it is appropriate to bow to the altar, in recognition of its prime importance as a place of sacrifice. When approaching the Ambo, the lector makes a simple bow to the altar (not the priest). However, the lector does not need to bow on the way down.
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Music Section

Possible conflicting guidance regarding new Gloria music arrangement: 1. On pg. S3 in the Nov 21 excerpt of the BC Catholic, the writer describes part of the new arrangement for the Gloria: ”…Interspersing ‘Glory to God, and on earth peace to people of good will’ into another section disrupts not only the flow of the text, but also its theological context.” I agree with statement; however, there seems to be conflict in instruction from the CCCB's music arrangements. 2. Our Archdiocese Music FAQ section points us to CCCB’s musical arrangements which all seem to intersperse the “Glory to God” phrase throughout the arrangements of the Gloria. So does our Archdiocese have guidance on this? Should our choirs refrain from repeating/interspersing this phrase when singing the Gloria, or follow the music arrangements?

There is a difference between the ideal and what is accepted. This applies to both the written music and the text. Ideally, the Gloria should be sung with the text as written, without a refrain. Chant, the preferred music of the Church, sings the text through in its entirety. Archbishop Miller has expressed preference for those parishes not using chant to select a music setting from one of the Canadian composers included in the Celebrate in Song, published by CCCB Publications. These versions have an antiphonal Gloria (verse and refrain). As a third option, he has given permission to use other approved Mass settings, through other publishers, which include versions of the Gloria both with and without a refrain. To avoid disruption in the flow of the music and possible copyright issues with an unauthorized arrangement, the music should be sung as it is written.
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Will we be singing in Latin again? The Sanctus and the Gloria? My friend says that we are going back to that, and I say we are not. She says we will be chanting in Latin as well. Is this so? Will we be responding in Latin at all? I say not she says yes...is it possible to misinterpret these bulletins we are getting?

The information you have been receiving about the revisions to the Mass, whether through bulletin inserts, bulletin notices, workshops, the Archdiocesan website, the BC Catholic and other sources, all relate to the new translation of the English Mass. That means we are changing some of the English wording so it is a more accurate reflection of the original Latin – but the language spoken will be English. Some confusion may have arisen with the word ‘chant’. Chant is a beautiful and ancient form of music used in the Church and originally sung in Latin. It is often sung in Latin still. However, chant can also be in English. The changes that are coming November 27th affect the Masses celebrated in English.
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Our parish uses books and sheet music from different publishers. Do the publishers have deals with each other so we can get copyright permission for all of them but just deal with one publisher?

The publishers do not have deals with each other. However, there are other companies that offer the purchase of a license allowing you to pay an annual fee and use a wide selection of music, from differing composers and publishers. The cost for the license is dependent on congregation size. Click on the following sites for more information on the company’s song selection, publisher representation and cost. LicenSing is primarily Catholic. OneLicense is Catholic and other liturgical Christian denominations and Christian Copyright Licensing International is primarily Protestant.
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I noticed that some parishes who have a high population of teens and young adults allow Charismatic oriented songs that are not liturgical and are played during communion at recession. Some of these songs are more meant for prayer meeting and general worship but not at Mass. With the new missal - will there be a stricter tying up of the music allowed at Mass where the goal of achieving deeper faith by participating reverently will be accompanied by the appropriate liturgically based hymns, music and musical instruments?

The new Missal does not address this issue specifically. The General Instruction of the Roman Missal states, “The main place should be given, all things being equal, to Gregorian chant, as being proper to the Roman Liturgy. Other kinds of sacred music, in particular polyphony, are in no way excluded, provided that they correspond to the spirit of the liturgical action and that they foster the participation of all the faithful.” (GIRM 41) “Bearing in mind the important place that singing has in a celebration as a necessary or integral part of the Liturgy, it is for the Conference of Bishops to approve suitable musical settings especially for the texts of the Ordinary of Mass, for the people’s responses and acclamations and for the special rites that occur in the course of the liturgical year. Likewise it is for the Conference to judge which musical forms, melodies, and musical instruments may be lawfully admitted into divine worship, insofar as these are truly suitable for sacred use, or can be made suitable.” (GIRM 393)
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Do we need to buy music for each choir member or can we buy one and copy it for the whole choir?

You need to buy music for each choir member. Buying one copy and photocopying it is an infringement of the copyright laws. It is also illegal to scan and email it, make transparencies for overhead projectors or use it in any computer-generated images, without first obtaining permission from the copyright holder (usually the publisher).
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My parish does not have a budget for music ministry and Father wants to spend as little as possible. What can we do? How are we supposed to get the new music which we are required to have?

It is difficult when there is little or no money available to purchase music. There are a few options available, however. The CD ROM of Celebrate in Song, published by CCCB publications, allows you to make multiple paper copies for all your choir and musicians with one purchase. It cost about $35.00. The ICEL chants are available for free, including keyboard accompaniment, from several websites. One of these sites is here. The publisher, Oregon Catholic Press (OCP) is offering free assembly downloads of their Mass settings until November 30, 2011. The assembly version is melody only, which will be useful for unison choirs and/or the congregation. The choral and instrumental versions of the Mass settings generally range in price from $5.00 to $10.00. OCP publishes the Glory & Praise hymnal, which is used by many parishes in the Archdiocese of Vancouver.
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What is the process for obtaining approval for using a Mass setting that was written by a parishioner?

It is wonderful that a parishioner would want to take the initiative to compose a Mass setting for our new translation. To obtain approval for its use in any parish, it should be sent to the Liturgy Commission for the Archdiocese of Vancouver.
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Thank you so much for presenting the most informative workshops with Margaret Barry. My understanding was that we are free to use Mass settings from GIA, OCP and others in the Vancouver Archdiocese, along with all of the hymns we have been singing up until now. Can you confirm that this applies both to schools and parishes, as some people have suggested that we can ONLY use the settings and hymns in the Celebrate in Song collection from the CCCB starting in Advent.

The revisions in the Mass apply to schools and parishes as well as to care homes, hospitals, private homes or anywhere else where Mass is celebrated. It affects both the spoken word and song. Celebrate in Song, as a Canadian resource, and chant, as the preferred music of the Church, are recommended but are not exclusively mandated. Please refer to the following Q &A regarding the Archdiocese picking one specific music setting.
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Will the Archdiocese pick one specific music set (ie Mass of Glory, Mass of Creation, etc) to be sung on all the parishes? (so that if you happen to go to another Mass other than your home parish you will be able to sing it)

In principle, all the Mass settings approved by a Conference of Bishops or any ecclesiastical authorities can be used in the parishes of Vancouver Archdiocese. However, for the sake of starting on the same page and to have some common uniformity in the Archdiocese and perhaps with the rest of the Church in Canada, the Archbishop suggests that every parish should try to learn first of all the Mass setting by ICEL which will be included in the new Roman Missal (it can be downloaded for free in the printed form from the link on our Archdiocesan website - music section - ICEL Mass setting), and secondly the Canadian “Mass Setting A” by Fr. Geoffrey Angeles in the Celebrate in Song. Besides these two, the parish can choose any approved Mass setting they may like.
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Since not all the parts of the Mass will change (like the Kyrie, Alleluia or Lamb of God), will it be fine to keep using the set currently used and use another set for the parts that have changed (Glory, Holy and Mystery of Faith)?

Yes, it is an option for the choir and congregation to continue using the ‘old’ music for the parts of the Mass where the text has not changed – the Kyrie (Lord, Have Mercy), Alleluia and Lamb of God. If the text has changed, though, a new version must be used.
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My husband and I co-ordinate music for Mass at [Parish]. Due to work commitments, unfortunately, neither of us is available to attend the liturgical music workshops. We wondered if the workshops might be recorded (audio or video) for circulation or if power point presentation or other handouts prepared for the workshop might be available for those not able to attend.

The music workshop has not been recorded but there is a summary sheet available soon on our website. You can see it here.
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I am wondering whether or not any of the new music parts for the liturgy are going to be sent out to the parishes or do we need to attend the workshop in order to get any of them? Do we need to register for the workshop or just show up?

The new music parts need to be obtained by each parish. There are many choices available. You can hear samples of the Mass settings through links on our website. There will be some Mass settings sung at the liturgical musician’s workshops in September. No registration is required for the liturgical musician’s workshop; you can just show up. For dates and times of the musician’s workshop, click here.
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Will there be a CD, guitar chord book and choral arrangement references to guide musicians in learning the new songs in "Celebrate in Song?" When and where will these be available?

Yes, there are instrumentalist versions of Celebrate in Song. There is a CD-Rom version available now through CCCB Publications. A softcover book will be available at the beginning of October. Click here for more information on this resource.
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I'm getting a few questions from members of our music ministry about what we can expect at the Music Workshops for the new Roman Missal. Will we be learning new music? Or is it more learning about the theory behind the new translations?

The Music Workshops will cover many different styles of music – from chant to contemporary, using many different Mass settings and composers. It will also include why and how the Mass texts have been revised and the rationale and process for the translation.
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What about the music? Are there musical changes?

Yes, new words mean new settings of the Mass for us to sing. There is a chant setting in the revised Missal and a range of new Mass settings will be available.
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This summer, I would like to search for new Mass settings (music) with the new translations to be ready for Advent. I am looking for settings that respect legacy of Catholic music making over the centuries, grounded in chant and polyphony. Any suggestions?

There are publications available now, hymnbook supplements Celebrate in Song (published by CCCB Publications) and Revised Order of Mass (published by Oregon Catholic Press), which include some Mass settings for chant or polyphony. There are some chant samples available online through the International Commission on English in the Liturgy (ICEL) or the National Association of Pastoral Musicians.
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Is there going to be a new Catholic Book of Worship with Mass settings?

There is not going to be a new version of the Catholic Book of Worship right away but there is a small complementary hymnal, complete with new Mass settings, available now. It is called Celebrate in Song and is published by CCCB Publications. The publishers of the Catholic Book of Worship, Glory & Praise and other popular hymnals have all stated that eventually new hymnals will be issued which will include the new Mass settings.
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Some music settings for the new Mass are now in circulation. May these Mass settings be used at Sunday Masses before the first Sunday of Advent to familiarize the congregation with the new Mass?

Although new music settings are published and available for purchase, we, in the Archdiocese of Vancouver, will wait until November 27, 2011, the implementation date for the revised Roman Missal, before using them in our parishes.
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Will the changes in the liturgy influence the choice of music sung during other times in the Mass (processional, offertory, communion and recessional)?

The structure of the Mass remains the same so the order of the songs, prayers, Readings etc will still follow the familiar format. This means the revisions in the new Roman Missal text will not affect the processional, offertory, communion and recessional songs. However, the text revisions will affect some of the Mass settings, including the Gloria, Holy Holy and Mystery of Faith. As always, the hymns chosen for Mass should follow Church teaching, be appropriate to the liturgical calendar and other themes, and be selected from approved hymnals.
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Which parts of the Mass (if any) will be mandatory to sing/cant?

While we are encouraged to sing at Mass, it is not mandatory. The Church documents anticipate that appropriate songs will be sung during our Sunday Masses for the Procession, Offertory and Communion. A song after Communion may be sung, if desired. There is no mention of a Recessional song. The Gloria, Responsorial Psalm and Gospel Acclamation should be sung.
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Text Specific Section

Some of the prayers we say at Mass will be changing. What about the prayers for the priests? Will they be changing too?

The prayers and responses of the congregation will see some minor changes with our revised Missal. However, there will be major changes in the prayers and text that the priests say at Mass. The changes include the Opening Prayer, the Prayer over the Gifts, the Eucharistic Prayers and the Prayer after Communion.
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On a different web site I saw that the Orate Fratres is translated as "pray brethren (brothers and sisters). Does that mean the priest has the option of saying "pray brothers and sisters" rather than "pray brethren"?

Yes, the priest will have the option of saying “brothers and sisters”. This is not a new practice. Several old manuscripts have been found with ‘brothers and sisters’. In Latin fratres can include both sexes.
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I am wondering if we will we be able to get the New Missal (Translation) with English and Latin as we had with the Roman Catholic Daily Missal 1962.

There is an English/Latin Missal available through Scepter Publishers; it's the seventh edition of their Daily Roman Missal. This is an American publication so there will be some minor differences; it will not include the Canadian feast days or Canadian spelling. (Many thanks to Lise for forwarding this information.).
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Will the New Missal be a Daily Missal not just a Sunday Missal?

The text revisions for the new Roman Missal affect all Masses, covering Sundays, weekdays, solemnities, feasts, memorials etc.
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Will we normally recite the Nicene Creed instead of the Apostles' Creed with the new translation? Are there any changes to either Creed?

There are some changes in both the Apostles Creed and the Nicene Creed. We will continue to recite the present Nicene Creed or the Apostle's Creed (option for Lent and Easter) at Mass. Pew cards will be available with the new wording to assist parishioners as they learn the revised text.
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When will we see the exact wording of the new liturgy especially congregational responses?

The Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops (CCCB) has received recognitio for the English translation of the revised Roman Missal. To see the changes in the text for the people’s parts, click here.
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Will the Roman Missal be the same in Canada and the United States or will there be differences?

The wording of the Canadian and American version of the Roman Missal is the same. The Canadian version includes Canadian saints and holidays and Canadian spelling, where applicable.
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Is it true that we will no longer say “Christ has died, Christ is risen, Christ will come again”? Are there other changes?

The Memorial Acclamations that we have now will be changing somewhat. Currently, there is a choice of four acclamations; with the implementation of the revised Missal, there will be a choice of three. The Memorial Acclamations will be called simply ‘The Mystery of Faith’. It is correct that we will no longer say or sing “Christ has died…” This is because it is not found in the original Latin and, contrary to the other acclamations, it is a statement about Christ rather than a statement to Christ. The three remaining acclamations, all rooted in Scripture, are similar to what we say now. The biggest change is to “Dying you destroyed our death…” with the revisions placing more of an emphasis on Christ’s death and Resurrection. The revised acclamations are:

A - We proclaim your Death, O Lord, and profess your Resurrection until you come again.
B - When we eat this Bread and drink this Cup, we proclaim your Death, O Lord, until you come again.
C - Save us, Saviour of the world, for by your Cross and Resurrection you have set us free.

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Miscellaneous Section

What will you do with the old missal?

In the Archdiocese of Vancouver, it has been recommended that parishes bury or burn the old Sacramentary.
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Will "holding hands" during the Our Father, and the 2 finger peace sign from both congregation and altar servers and wandering across aisles to shake hands still be tolerated!

Holding hands during the Our Father is not recommended. (Archbishop Miller addressed this issue with the priests of the Archdiocese a couple of years ago.) “In the dioceses of Canada, the sign of peace is given by a handshake or a bow. However, it is appropriate that each person offer the sign of peace only to those who are nearest and in a sober manner.” GIRM #82
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Do the people remain standing during communion until the last person has received?

The correct posture in the Archdiocese of Vancouver for the faithful after receiving Communion is to kneel or sit.
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Is there New instructions for Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion?

There are some minor changes which will affect the Extraordinary Ministers at Mass. With the implementation of the revised Missal, communicants will bow their heads as a sign of reverence before receiving Holy Communion. Then, as before, the priests and Extraordinary Ministers say, “the Body (or Blood) of Christ” and wait for the response, “Amen” before giving out our Lord’s Body (or Blood).
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What is the Church doing to help high school teachers prepare their religion students for the change over to a new translation?

The Catholic Independent School s Vancouver Archdiocese (CISVA) has been doing quite a bit to prepare the high school and elementary teachers for the upcoming changes in the Missal. All CISVA teachers received special in-servicing on September 1 with Fr. Martis and Christopher Carston from the Liturgical Institute in Chicago. All Campus Ministry Coordinators and Religion Department Heads will be further in-serviced and provided with resources to share with the teachers, enabling teachers to adequately assist students. New guidelines for liturgies are currently being developed for all CISVA schools for students in Kindergarten through to Grade 12.
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Working with the elderly in spiritual care, it is difficult to introduce any changes to a lifelong response such as responses to the Mass, especially for those with different degrees of dementia. What is the expectation for this elder population?

The changes in the Missal affect all English Masses throughout the world. This includes Masses for the elderly. We realize that in some cases, it will be more difficult to implement. Perhaps with some help from volunteers leading the new responses, eventually everyone will get used to the changes.
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Why do we have to go through yet another change? Leave well enough alone. Christ did not speak any Latin. If the thinking is that this will bring the young people back to church, think again. Will there be any possibility for the faithful to attend a church service without all this Gregorian chant? Please have some consideration for the faithful who are after all the backbone of the church.

Many of the words we say at Mass were first used by the apostles and early Church Fathers. They were taken from the Greek New Testament, the Hebrew Old Testament and the written and oral tradition of the Church. Some are the very words of Christ – and he spoke Aramaic. The early Church celebrated Mass in Greek, but in time, less and less people understood Greek and it was replaced with Latin. Latin remained the language of the Mass until the Second Vatican Council, when it was translated into the local language of the people. But the English translation was done very quickly and was not very accurate in some places. It was seen as a temporary measure, with a more precise translation expected sometime in the future. This new version is a more literal translation and it restores the richness and majesty lost in the previous translation.

Some parishes in the Archdiocese have many young people; some have few. All Catholics, young and old, will be learning the new translation together.

As for chant, it is the preferred music of the Church and, done properly, is very beautiful and uplifting. However, not everyone likes it. The majority of the parishes in the Archdiocese use more contemporary music during Mass.
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I am a leader for Children’s Liturgy and wonder about the changes. Do I need to worry about any of the changes when I lead the children, especially with the readings?

Liturgy of the Word with Children, or Children’s Liturgy, generally will not be affected. ‘Liturgy of the Word’ consists of the Readings, Creed and Prayers of the Faithful. The Creed is the only part of the Liturgy of the Word that will be changing. Most parishes recite a simplified version of the Creed that is not affected by the changes in the Roman Missal. Parishes that recite the full version of the Creed, however, will need to change and say the new one.
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We are very sorry that we’re not able to attend the revised liturgy workshop on Sept. 3rd. Is there a DVD or handouts we could see? Anything that we could use in our parish or at home by ourselves?

The Revised Liturgy workshop here in Vancouver will not be available on DVD. However, a similar workshop was recorded about a year ago and is available as part of a Formation Package, through Liturgy Training Publications. Mystical Body, Mystical Voice - DVD and Formation Program was developed with the intention that someone who attended a workshop could then facilitate a video workshop in their parish. However, the DVD has proven to be popular among those who cannot attend. There is also a book for those who prefer a reading resource. Mystical Body, Mystical Voice - Encountering Christ in the Words of the Mass is an expanded version of the material in the workshop workbook.
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These changes in the Roman Missal … have we prayed and discerned that all of this energy, all of this expense, is an authentic pathway to inner transformation for the people of God? For only through inner transformation can one move from “I” to “We”, and then allow one’s inner Christ-life to be brought to a wounded world. Have we remembered the urgings of the Christian mystics, that the compassion and love of God is always born within, not imposed or mandated from without? And do these changes in the Roman Missal help the people of God enter more deeply into the unfathomable mystery and diversity and bigness of God? Or do we continue to present God in narrow, confining language which can prevent us from seeing the Divine Presence in all of creation?

The revisions in the Roman Missal are a good and positive thing. As Archbishop Miller wrote in his introductory letter “The changes in translation are intended to foster our fully experiencing the sacredness as the Sacrifice for our salvation.” We have known and loved the Mass which has developed since the early church and is based, in many parts, on Scripture. The Roman Missal revisions are a new translation, not a completely new text. Our sinful nature makes it easy for us to sink into “I” instead of “we” and to be narrow minded. However, the liturgy, celebrated prayerfully with “full, conscious and active participation” raises our minds and hearts to God. Receiving the Eucharist strengthens us to resist sin and bring Christ’s love and peace to our broken world. The revisions of this text are widely acclaimed to be more majestic, more poetic and more transcendent. “Since the language is truer to the Latin, there is much more reference to the mystery of the faith, which is really awesome; literally awesome. There are some prayers that are so beautiful and profound in their expression that you can really meditate on them. The translation used now seems to be almost trite by comparison.” Father Peter John Cameron, editor of Magnificat, English edition.
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Will the traditional but illogical translation of "in saecula saeculorum" as "world without end" be changed to something better, for example "in the ages of ages", or even "forever"?

“World without end” is the final phrase of the Glory Be. Because the Glory Be is not part of the Mass, it is not affected by the new English translation. The phrase “per omnia saecula saeculorum", concludes “through Him, with Him, in Him”, spoken by the priest during Mass. This phrase is translated “for ever and ever” and will not change. All these phrases try to convey a sense of eternity and a never-ending timelessness in a heavenly kingdom that is difficult to express in words of any language.
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I’ve read that the new Roman Missal received “recognitio” and was “promulgated”. What does that mean?

The English translation of the Roman Missal received “recognitio”, meaning final approval of the text from Rome. “Promulgated” refers to when it was declared as a new and binding version of the text. The new version takes effect on the first Sunday of the Church’s liturgical year, the first Sunday of Advent.
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I am curious if shaking of the hands with fellow parishioners (to exchange "peace be with you") will still be part of the Mass. It was removed during the H1N1 outbreak a few years ago and some people still will not shake hands and prefer to just acknowledge with a bow of the head. Any changes there?

The Sign of Peace is a beautiful point in the Mass where we acknowledge one another as members of the body of Christ. First the priest, and then the congregation, extend to each other the peace of Christ. This is more than a social greeting or desire to pass along good wishes to another. We, the Church, ask for peace, unity and mutual love for one another (GIRM 82). We were used to offering a handshake until it was banned during the H1N1 outbreak. Archbishop Miller lifted the ban but many people seem more comfortable with a bow of the head, rather than a handshake. This practice is acceptable as the Church does not stipulate a specific gesture.
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I have heard that the bells will be rung again at consecration time. I understand why this was the custom prior to Vatican II, but since that time the congregation is able to participate fully in the Eucharist and there seems to be no need for bells to alert us that the consecration is happening. Please explain if this change is going to happen and why.

Ringing the bells at the consecration began in the 13th century. At that time the Mass was celebrated in Latin and the priest had his back to the congregation. The bells alerted the people so that they could adore Christ in the elevated host and chalice. It can be argued that times have changed and the ringing of the bells is no longer necessary. This long-standing tradition, however, can enhance the dignity and joy of the celebration (particularly when they are rung throughout the Gloria during the Easter Vigil) by highlighting a most sacred part of the Mass. Most of the parishes in the Archdiocese of Vancouver ring the bells during the consecration but the rubrics leave it up to the discretion of the pastor whether the bells are rung or not in any given parish.
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Regarding your reply stating that the word "men" in the Nicene Creed refers to men and women, my question is: were any members of the international commission (ICEL) who worked on the new translation actually women? I ask this because as a woman I don't feel that I am one of the "men".

The ICEL is a large group of bishops and other experts. While we know the bishops are men, the Archdiocese does not have a list of names or genders of all the people who have worked on the translation. For more information on ICEL and the translation process, click here.
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What is the cost of the red official liturgical book which contains the texts used by the celebrant? And does the CCCB pay for each parish's copy? What is the cost of the lectionary that Mass celebrants will use? And will these be paid for by the CCCB. Are the 'old' books to be recycled? Seems such a waste that they will no longer be used.

The red official liturgical book is currently called the Sacramentary but will soon be called by its former name, the Roman Missal. The CCCB is publishing the Roman Missal which will be purchased by each parish. There are currently two sizes being published, a smaller ‘chapel’ version and a regular ‘full sized’ version. Most parishes will purchase the full version at a cost of $250.00 each.

The Sunday Lectionary, which contains the Readings for all the Sunday Masses and Solemnities, is also purchased by each individual parish. The regular edition costs $275.00.

As with all liturgical books, there are special guidelines for the publication regarding the quality, binding, ink, paper etc. They serve as “signs and symbols of heavenly realities and hence are truly worthy, dignified, and beautiful” (GIRM #349).

The ‘old’ books are the property of each parish to do with as they wish. Sometimes they are used for study.
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Is it true that the Responsorial Psalm, if sung, should be sung only at the choir not at the ambo/pulpit?

“It is preferable that the Responsorial Psalm be sung... from the ambo or another suitable place." (GIRM #61) So the preferred place for the Responsorial Psalm, whether sung or said, is from the ambo.
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What has been the response of the Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops to the proposed changes?

The Canadian Conference of Bishops (CCCB) has been very busy. They have been working closely with Rome over the past few years to finalize the text for use in Canada. The publications arm of the CCCB has been preparing resources for use in the parishes and assorted helps for parishioners. There is excitement over the richness and depth of the new translation. Most Reverend Terrence Prendergast, S.J., Archbishop of Ottawa, said regarding the new translation, “It is better because it is more faithful to the original [Latin texts] and more appropriate for worship. The early translation was more pedestrian, let us say; this one has a higher literary register, though still familiar, as is fitting for sons and daughters of God."
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Are workshops being conducted in the diocese where people can get together to discuss these changes?

Yes, there are workshops offered in different locations throughout the Archdiocese. Click here for a listing.
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Will other prayers be changing, like the Hail Mary, Prayer for Vocations and Prayer for Reverence for Life?

No, these prayers will not be changing. Only some of the prayers in the Roman Missal will be changing; these are prayers and responses that are said during the Mass (not before or after Mass).
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Regarding the Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops, were members unanimous in their approval of the new texts, or were there some dissenters?

We cannot know what discussion took place in the private meetings of the Canadian Bishops. We do know that they are working together, united with the Pope and the whole Church, to prepare for the implementation of the revised Roman Missal on November 27, 2011.
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Since there will be changes in the way we celebrate the Mass, why couldn't we go back to the reverent ways of receiving our Lord (Host) by kneeling and by mouth? We all seem in a hurry at Mass. Why don't priests and Eucharistic ministers wait for the Communion recipient to say Amen before giving them the Sacred Host? Are they supposed to give without proper acknowledgement?

Reception of the Eucharist is a great and holy privilege. It is the Body and Blood of Christ we are receiving and as such deserves all our reverence and respect. Unfortunately, sometimes in practice this reverence is lacking - perhaps due to a lack of understanding or perhaps because the sheer number of repetitions has made it seem commonplace.

In some parishes, the faithful receive the Eucharist while standing, in others communicants kneel at a Communion rail, while still in others, there are both. This can be confusing. However, both standing and kneeling are permitted forms of receiving the Eucharist. The same can be said for receiving by mouth or on the hand - both are permitted. The consecrated host may be received either on the tongue or in the hand, at the discretion of each communicant. (GIRM #160)

Of more importance is the spiritual attitude with which we approach the table of the Lord. All recipients should come with a deep belief in our Lord who is truly present, body and soul, humanity and divinity, and who comes into our lives and our very beings through the reception of the Eucharist. For this reason, we will acknowledge, through a bow of the head just before receiving the Eucharist, that it is Christ we are receiving.

As the priest or extraordinary minister holds up the Host and says, "The Body of Christ," the communicant answers, "Amen" which is a statement of faith. We are agreeing that this is indeed the Body of Christ. The Church, therefore, earnestly desires that Christ's faithful...should take part in the sacred action conscious of what they are doing, with devotion and full collaboration. (CSL #48)

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