Pope Benedict XVI Blog

"Summorum Pontificum" Seen as Unifying

Italian Bishops Back Letter on Latin Mass

ROME, SEPT. 18, 2007 (Zenit.org).- The president of the Italian bishops' conference called Benedict XVI's recent letter on the expanded use of the Latin Mass an invitation to unity.

Archbishop Angelo Bagnasco said this Monday when he opened the conference's Permanent Council meeting.

The papal document "Summorum Pontificum," issued "motu proprio" (on his own initiative), which eased restrictions on the use of the 1962 Roman Missal, is a "unitive measure that will serve to invigorate the Christian community," the archbishop said.

The prelate reiterated an "ever willing and unconditional collaboration" with Benedict XVI, "especially when critical voices and voices of discord emerge in public opinion."

Archbishop Bagnasco added that the objective of the document is "clearly entirely spiritual and pastoral."
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posted by Dr. Denice Hanley, DPM, M.Div. @ 6:59 PM