Latin Mass
Question
What is the Traditional Latin Mass?
Answer
The Extraordinary Form, or Traditional Latin Mass (TLM), is one of two forms of the Mass in the Roman Rite of the Catholic Church. For centuries prior to 1970, this was the way the Mass was celebrated all around the world, the same Mass that nourished the souls of saints and sinners for centuries. Most Catholics are now accustomed to the Novus Ordo form of the Mass, which was additionally introduced by Pope Paul VI in 1969. The major difference of the Extraordinary Form, compared to the Novus Ordo, is that the Traditional Latin Mass is said, chanted, or sung almost entirely in Latin - the universal language of the church. The wedding vows, homily, and readings will be in English. Additionally, the priest faces 'ad orieuntum' or "toward the east," facing the altar and tabernacle, just like the congregation. The Traditional Latin Mass is also accompanied by a choir that chants many of the Mass parts.
Question
Customs and Traditions of Our Church We Ask You to Respect as an Attendee:
Answer
As Catholics, we believe that the Eucharist is the true presence of Our Lord Jesus Christ. We hold the Mass and the Churches where the True Presence abides as Sacred. Because of this, we approach the Mass and Churches with great reverence.
Question
1. Who can Receive Communion:
Answer
Everyone is welcome to attend, participate, and pray in the Mass. However, the reception of Holy Communion is reserved for Catholics who are baptized, practicing, and in a state of grace.
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2. How to Receive Communion:
Answer
At our Mass at the Our Lady of Hope Chapel, we will receive Holy Communion on the kneelers provided (unless you are physically unable) and on the tongue. If you cannot kneel, you may stand. You do not need to look at the priest, and you do not say "Amen."
Question
3. Silence:
Answer
Holding the Church as a place that is Holy and sacred, silence is to be maintained within the chapel. We know you haven't seen many friends and/or family in a while, but please reframe from talking in the Church, and save conversations for when we exit the chapel, a sacred space.
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4. Applause:
Answer
Please no applauding during the ceremony or within the chapel. We are just as excited as you! But there will be plenty of time to show your excitement through clapping and cheering at the reception. This is to maintain an environment of reverence -- the Mass is not a show to be applauded, but rather a Holy Sacrament and sacrifice to be pondered.
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5. Attire:
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We ask you to be mindful of your attire and consider modesty when choosing a formal outfit for our wedding mass. Modest dress is requested at Camp Vista and by many religious institutions throughout the world - its a customary and a cultural norm to show respect for a building that is held sacred.
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6. Veiling:
Answer
Within the Catholic Church, there is a tradition of veiling what is sacred. This is why chalices, tabernacles, and altars are often veiled. For this reason, for hundreds of years, it was also custom that women would veil their heads when entering Catholic churches. This is where the tradition of bridal veils can be traced back to! At the Latin Mass, it is common for women to still practice this custom and you may notice multiple women veiling at the Mass. We are not asking women to veil, but wanted to offer an explanation for this tradition you will encounter at our ceremony.