October 11, 2003
Question on the homily
I have a question for a priest on the homily. I am the lay leader of a Catholic group on a university campus. Our priest would like to have mass said with us sitting in a circle, refocusing the attention on all of us instead of on him. He would also like to do this to facilitate discussion during the homily. Vatican II says that the homily is the task of the priest and the faithful should refrain from comments, dialogue, etc. How grave is this action, and what should I do as the lay leader of this group? I need to also mention that this is not the only unorthodox action done by this priest.
Thank you in advance.
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I think that the first act should be gently showing the priest that he is incorrect. Arm yourself with the appropriate rubics.
Give him the benefit of the doubt. Is he working under the guidance or direction of another priest?
If your priest still does not understand the problems or refuses to comply, the next step may involve going to the bishop. I've complained to our bishop about incidents of liturgical abuse but never received a reply.
Of course, all of this must be done with Christian love and sensitivity (something that I find hard to do when it comes to something like this). Please assume that your priest isn't acting maliciously but simply out of ignorance.
Posted by: Amanda at October 12, 2003 10:35 AMSorry. I just went back and reread your question.
You DO have a responsibility as a lay leader. God didn't put you in this position by accident.
While I'm assuming the mass does not become invalid by your priest's actions, he is incorrect and is committing a venial sin by not following canonical law.
Posted by: Amanda at October 12, 2003 10:41 AMI agree with Amanda. You may also bring to his attention that the Mass should not be said in a circle for the reasons he stated. The focus of the Mass never was on him, but rather Christ - The Liturgy of the Word and the Liturgy of the Eucharist. He is God's chosen servant obligated to bring Christ to others so the focus should never turn in the opposite direction lest we forget that we come to Mass to adore and worship Christ not to socialize with our friends.
Posted by: Maria at October 16, 2003 10:24 PM
