Why a new Roman Missal?

The Latin edition of the Roman Missal was published in 1970 and a second, slightly revised edition in 1985. The preparation for the 1985 edition involved world-wide consultation with bishops, diocesan personnel and local parishes in order that the work of revision might benefit from experience with the 1970 edition. In the end, the 1985 revision was much less extensive than originally planned, largely because it became clear that the revision required was more complex than originally anticipated and a great deal of work needed to be done on translation before a satisfactory comprehensive version could be completed. The preparation of the new Roman Missal has benefited both from the work done in preparation for the 1985 edition, and the experience of the almost twenty years since that edition was promulgated. Another reason which motivates the preparation of the new Roman Missal: Many new saints have been added to the liturgical calendar. While some of the prayers for the celebrations of these saints can be taken from the Commons, all have at least an Opening Prayer which is reflective of their life and call to holiness. The prayers for these saints, having been presented in Latin, must also be translated into the vernacular and those on the Universal Calendar incorporated into the new Roman Missal. This whole process enriches the Church with many new models in the faith, but it also takes time and effort, and is one of the reasons that the preparation of the Missal has taken so long.

The Roman Missal, Third Edition, the ritual text containing prayers and instructions for the celebration of the Mass, is in publication.
Click here to read more from the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops.

Also available are Pod Casts from the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, a series that has several episodes which can be downloaded.

Click here to link to the podcasts.

Click here to watch the YouTube video of Archbishop Dennis Schnurr as he reflects on the upcoming changes being made to the missal.

Click here for an introductory presentation (using Microsoft PowerPoint) about the Third Edition of The Roman Missal.