VATICAN CITY, AUG 4, 2000 (VIS) - This autumn, the Congregation for Divine Worship and the Discipline of Sacraments is to publish the Latin text of the new updated Roman Missal.
The difference between the present Missal, which dates from 1970, and the new edition lies above all in the addition of various saint's days throughout the year and the enrichment of traditional prayers, especially during Lent. Certain modifications have also been made to the 'Institutio Generalis' or introductory text which gives precise indications on how Mass must be celebrated.
The 'Institutio Generalis' is an ample text that gives a theological-pastoral perspective of the celebration of Mass and specifies the different types of celebration. Bishops naturally still enjoy a certain liberty, in agreement with the Holy See, in cultural adaptation to local circumstances and customs. For example, according to the traditions of a particular people, singing and the form of the sign of peace prior to communion may vary.
A ninth chapter on the theme of inculturation has been added to the new edition of the Missal and there have also been changes regarding communion under the species of bread and wine. A number of procedures laid out in the 1970 Missal have been simplified because they are no longer in current use in the various countries of the world.
The text of the new Missal has been sent to episcopal conferences and nuncios in order for them to become aware of the changes and to prepare translations. These, once approved by the episcopal conferences, will be examined by the Holy See in order to receive the necessary 'recognitio', in other words, the confirmation of their juridical value.
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