Roman Missal

At this time we appreciate your concern for the dignity and reverence with which the Mass is celebrated. This is a central part of the life of every priest and bishop and we are committed to constant effort in this regard. In particular the new translations of the Roman Missal offer us an opportune moment to deepen our appreciation of the Mass. Through catechesis we can renew our reception of the richness of the Church’s faith through the ages which, in faithfulness, is now handed on to us in these texts.

Archbishop Vincent Nichols,
address to the His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI,
General Audience for the Bishops of England and Wales, Visit ‘ad limina apostolorum’ January 2010

Finally, I should like to speak to you about two specific matters that affect your episcopal ministry at this time. One is the imminent publication of the new translation of the Roman Missal. I want to take this opportunity to thank all of you for the contribution you have made, with such painstaking care, to the collegial exercise of reviewing and approving the texts. This has provided an immense service to Catholics throughout the English-speaking world. I encourage you now to seize the opportunity that the new translation offers for in-depth catechesis on the Eucharist and renewed devotion in the manner of its celebration. “The more lively the eucharistic faith of the people of God, the deeper is its sharing in ecclesial life in steadfast commitment to the mission entrusted by Christ to his disciples” (Sacramentum Caritatis, 6).

Pope Benedict XVI
address to the Bishops of England and Wales, and Scotland
Oscott College, Birmingham, 19 September 2010

Introduction

This page is a starting point for information about the new translation of the Roman Missal. It is divided into 5 areas:

• Information
• Publication
• Resources
• Text
• Music

The new translation of the Roman Missal provides an opportunity for parishes and communities across England and Wales to deepen their understanding of the Mass. For Catholics the Mass is at the heart of our faith and the words we use and how we celebrate express and shape what we believe.

From the beginning of September 2010 parishes in England and Wales began to use the new translation of the Order of Mass. The new Altar Missals will be published in readiness for the full use of the translation from Advent. This website offers dioceses, parishes and communities, and individuals information and resources to assist the introduction of the Missal.

• In Information you will find answers to some of the frequently asked questions about the Missal and the translation.
• In Resources there are materials for studying and downloading the texts and how we celebrate the liturgy.
• In Music there are resources to encourage the use of the chants in the Missal and information for composers wishing to set the texts of the Missal.
• In Publications are details of the Altar Missal and participation aids.
• In Texts you will find extracts from the Missal including sample Order of Service sheets.