From Rappler:
Cebu Archbishop Jose Palma has suspended the celebration of the Traditional Latin Mass (TLM) in the Archdiocese of Cebu, citing the need for clearer guidelines and regulations. This decision, communicated in a letter by Monsignor Renato Beltran Jr., affects the Latin Mass Community of Cebu and three priests authorized to perform the TLM: Monsignor Joseph Tan, Father Andrei Ventanilla, and Father Luigi Kerschbamer. The announcement shocked Pio Gerard Fulache Antiquina, the community’s director, who had previously received indications that the TLM would continue as usual.
The suspension comes amid broader tensions within the Catholic Church regarding the TLM. Traditionalists often resist the Vatican II reforms that replaced Latin with vernacular languages in Mass. Pope Francis’ 2021 apostolic letter, Traditiones Custodes, granted bishops authority over TLM practices and emphasized the legitimacy of the liturgical reforms.
Antiquina, representing the Latin Mass community, had earlier requested new chaplaincy arrangements and permissions for feast day Masses. These requests appeared to have received favorable responses, making the sudden suspension unexpected. The decision also led to changes in the community’s social media presence, with administrators being removed and the page renamed.
Currently, the TLM in Cebu is limited to the Chapel of the Holy Relics in Barangay San Jose, under strict regulations. While some community members are disheartened, Antiquina remains optimistic about the Archbishop’s handling of the situation. However, many attendees are left without access to the TLM, as alternatives like the Saint Pius V Chapel in Mandaue City, managed by the Society of Saint Pius X (SSPX), operate outside the Archdiocese’s jurisdiction and have a complex relationship with the Vatican.
The controversy reflects a global trend of young Catholics being drawn to the TLM for its perceived spiritual depth. In Cebu, the youth-led community sees the TLM as a cornerstone of their faith despite ongoing institutional challenges. This development highlights ongoing debates within the Catholic Church about tradition, reform, and modernity.
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