History and Tradition

Solemnity, Feast, and Memorial: Understanding the Degrees of Celebration in the Church

Every day, the Church offers us spiritual richness through its liturgical calendar. However, not all celebrations hold the same degree of importance: some are marked with greater solemnity, while others are more discreet. In this article, we will explore in depth the three degrees of celebration in Catholic liturgy: Solemnity, …

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The Monitions at Mass: A Spiritual Guide to Proclaiming the Word with Reverence and Purpose

The Holy Mass is the center of Christian life, the moment when heaven and earth unite, and Christ becomes present on the altar. Every detail of the liturgy carries profound theological and spiritual significance, and the monitions are no exception. These brief interventions, though often overlooked, are a powerful tool …

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“Through My Fault, Through My Fault, Through My Most Grievous Fault”: The Deep Meaning of Beating the Breast in Mass

When we recite the Confíteor in the Holy Mass, that ancient prayer of the confession of sins, we accompany our words with a solemn gesture: striking our chest three times while saying: “Through my fault, through my fault, through my most grievous fault.” This act, which might seem like a …

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The Heavenly Chime: Discovering the Profound Meaning of the Bell During the Consecration at Mass

At the heart of Catholic liturgy, every gesture, every word, and every sound is imbued with profound meaning that transcends mere ritual. Among these elements, there is one that, though small in size, resonates with immense spiritual power: the bell that rings during the consecration at Mass. This seemingly simple …

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Holy Saturday: The Day of Great Silence—What Really Happened Between Christ’s Death and Resurrection?

Holy Saturday is perhaps the most mysterious day of the Paschal Triduum. It is a day of apparent inactivity, an interval of silence between the heartbreaking drama of Good Friday and the radiant joy of Easter Sunday. However, in this “great silence,” an event of tremendous significance took place: Christ …

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The Readers in the Liturgy: The Voice of God in the Assembly and the Discrepancy Between the Novus Ordo and the Vetus Ordo

Liturgy is the heart of Christian life, the sacred place where the Church meets God in prayer, sacrifice, and praise. Within this framework, the proclamation of the Word holds a central place, and readers have the responsibility of transmitting God’s voice to the assembly. However, the role of the reader …

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The Council of Vienne (1311-1312): The Dissolution of the Templars and the Reform of the Church in Turbulent Times

The history of the Church is marked by great councils that defined its course, strengthened its doctrine, and, in some cases, were the scene of controversial decisions. Among them, the Council of Vienne (1311-1312 AD) holds a special place. Convened during a period of deep political and ecclesiastical crisis, this …

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The Quinisext Council (692 AD): The Consolidation of Ecclesiastical Discipline and Its Relevance Today

Throughout Church history, certain councils have defined essential dogmas, such as Nicaea (325 AD) and Ephesus (431 AD). However, other councils, though less well-known, played a crucial role in organizing and disciplining the Church. One such council was the Quinisext Council, held in 692 in Constantinople. This council, whose name …

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