The Traditional Latin Mass, also known as the Usus Antiquior or the Extraordinary Form of the Roman Rite, is the liturgy of the Catholic Church which was in widespread use before the New Order of Mass was introduced in 1969. This Liturgy includes the Mass, the Sacraments, various rites of blessing and more.
On July 7th 2007, His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI issued an apostolic letter called Summorum Pontificum. In this letter he declared that older form of the Roman rite was never abrogated, and that it “must be given due honor for its venerable and ancient usage.” (SP Art. 1)
This older form has been in use for many centuries. During this time, it was at the heart of the Church and Western culture, nourishing countless generations. Its Liturgical Calendar has influenced even secular societies with its many holy days and feast days, and its ceremonies and prayers nourished the spiritual lives of countless saints. This is the Mass that was carried by the missionaries to the Americas, Africa and Asia.
Our Fraternity holds the Traditional Latin Mass at the heart of our charism because we believe that it distinctly expresses the sacrificial nature of the priesthood and provides an unchanging and beautiful mode of prayer sanctified by time and usage. It serves to lift many heart and souls to God for His Greater Glory and the Salvation of Souls.
