From Catholic World Report:
The Vatican has sanctioned specific liturgical adaptations for Indigenous communities in Chiapas, Mexico, a significant move aimed at integrating local customs into Catholic practices. Cardinal Felipe Arizmendi Esquivel, bishop emeritus of San Cristóbal de las Casas, highlighted this approval as a step towards transforming Indigenous cultural expressions into recognised Church liturgy, erasing the perception of these practices as mere customs. The adaptations, confirmed by the Vatican Dicastery for Divine Worship, include ritual dances during the offertory and prayers, which are described as solemn, contemplative movements paired with traditional music. This change maintains the integrity of the Roman rite while incorporating cultural elements.
Women are now allowed to act as thurifers, using culturally distinct incense holders, signifying a practice rooted in Indigenous traditions where women typically incense during prayers. This adaptation is emphasised not as a progressive demand but as a reflection of local customs. Additionally, respected laypersons may lead certain parts of the Mass, such as initiating community prayers and thanksgiving after Communion. However, these roles do not diminish the priest’s central function as the leader of the celebration.
Cardinal Arizmendi, who spearheaded these efforts, expressed hope that this development would inspire similar adaptations for other Indigenous groups. He encouraged bishops and pastoral workers to view Indigenous Catholic expressions as valuable liturgical contributions rather than mere folklore. This inclusive approach aligns with the Vatican’s commitment to cultural representation within the Church’s universal framework, emphasising that the substance of the Mass remains unchanged, only its cultural expression.
Although this shift reflects the Church’s intention to embrace cultural diversity and promote faith practices that resonate deeply within Indigenous communities, it may encounter opposition from some Catholic groups. The adaptation of established liturgical norms raises concerns about preserving the uniformity and sanctity of the Roman rite, a subject that continues to be a point of debate within the Catholic community.
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