Readers Speak Out: January 26, 2020

Narrow viewpoint

Re: Lost cause (Letters to the Editor, Dec. 29):

So sad to read John Killackey’s narrow viewpoint of the recent political downfall of the Conservatives. 

I am very interested in the political scene in Canada involving all the different parties. How fortunate we are to have a wide range of candidates who are genuinely concerned and caring about all of Canada.   

Andrew Scheer was the least and last person to show an intelligent thought to help all Canadians. His personality was lacking in warmth and kindness. He seemed to be lost in his own rhetoric, with little or no qualities of a good leader. 

I am  very supportive of the CBC, which is there on the spot, sharing news as it happens. Thank goodness we have a Canadian Voice.

Joy Cotter,

Prince George, B.C.

The real challenge

Re: Something missing (Letters to the Editor, Dec. 29):

This person is sincerely and determinedly looking for guidance, asking, “Where are the challenges that we as Catholics ought to address?” But it seems he is already at the threshold of obtaining the answer to his question.

The challenge he is looking for has always been and always will be the same — and that challenge is within ourselves. In every inspiring article and in every illuminating column that The Catholic Register presents to its readers, we are reminded that with our every thought, word and action we are to place ourselves under the banner of Christ, the banner of His selfless and undying love for all humankind.

Sylvia D’Addario,

Toronto

Landmark changes

Re: ‘New Mass’ at 50 (Dec. 22):

Fr. de Souza decries the change made by Pope Paul VI in 1969 as part of the liturgical reforms following the Second Vatican Council, particularly the practice of the priest facing the people during Mass. He cites the practice of the Eastern Churches of Kerala State in India where priests face the altar, following Eastern traditions. 

The changes made by Pope Paul VI were real landmarks. Those attending Mass are now able to participate with the priest because Mass is said in their own language, not Latin. Secondly, they are able to view the numerous rites of the Mass. In short, they are totally immersed in the Mass. 

As an altar server for several years in my young days, I was close to the priest at the altar but never followed what he exactly did or spoke during the Mass. What was introduced by Pope Paul VI should be welcomed and acclaimed and should stay. 

Benedict Thomas,

Scarborough, Ont. 

Old traditions

Re: ‘New Mass’ at 50 (Dec. 22):

Fr. de Souza points out something of earth-shattering importance. The ad orientem (facing East with the congregation) should never have changed.

Nor should Communion in the hand or receiving while standing ever been introduced, nor Mass in the vernacular, nor so many other travesties, which have led to a massive loss in faith.

Thank God the Latin Mass is being more and more embraced, especially by young people, who are hungry for the true faith. We have so many wonderful priests and I know they would be very happy to recoup many of the old traditions that put God first — in His rightful place.

Yvonne Dienesch,

Eganville, Ont.