Pope Leo XIV Approves Traditional Latin Mass

Pope Leo XIV Allows Traditional Latin Mass in St. Peter's Basilica

In a significant move, Pope Leo XIV has granted permission for a traditional Latin Mass to be celebrated in St. Peter's Basilica, attended by thousands of pilgrims and presided over by Cardinal Raymond Burke. This event has sparked hope among traditionalist Catholics and raised questions about the future of liturgical practices in the Church.

The Mass, lasting 2 1/2 hours, was a rich display of hymns, incense, and traditional rituals, drawing a few thousand pilgrims, including many young families and women wearing lace veils. The presence of the Hungarian ambassador to the Holy See, Eduard Habsburg, and his family challenged stereotypes of traditionalists.

The event comes amidst the ongoing 'liturgy wars' that began with the Second Vatican Council in the 1960s. While Pope Benedict XVI relaxed restrictions on the old Latin Mass in 2007, Pope Francis reinstated them in 2021, further dividing the Church. Traditionalists felt rejected by these restrictions, but Pope Leo XIV's permission for the Mass is seen as a sign of sympathy towards their cause.

James Rodio, a psychiatrist and father of three, who has been attending the traditional Latin Mass for nearly three decades, expressed optimism about Pope Leo XIV's approach. The Pope, elected on May 8, 2025, with a broad consensus among cardinals, aims to bring unity and reconciliation in the Church.

Cardinal Burke's celebration of the traditional Latin Mass in St. Peter's Basilica, with Pope Leo XIV's blessing, has reignited discussions about liturgical practices and the future of traditionalism in the Church. As the first American pope, Leo XIV's actions will be closely watched as he seeks to unify and reconcile the Church amidst ongoing liturgical debates.