Documents and Introductory Materials
Part 1 Introduction
Chapter 16 Documents and Dates
Color Key
Documents and Dates that are important for the study of Liturgy
Documents and Dates every master's level student should
know
Documents and Dates everyone studying Initiation should
know
Documents and Dates everyone studying Eucharist should
know
Documents and Dates everyone studying Reconciliation
should know
Documents and Dates everyone studying the Liturgical
Year should know
1. Apostolic [0-399]
Late first /early second century The Didache Unknown to modern Christians until its discovery in 1873 and subsequent publication by the Greek Metropolitan of Nicomedia, Philotheos Bryennios, in 1883, the Didache, or "The Teaching of the Lord to the Gentiles through the Apostles," dates from either the late first or early second century in Syria. Compiled originally in Greek and based, undoubtedly, on a number of different sources, this document, the first of its kind in history, is a manual or "church order" of sixteen chapters designed to offer directions for the worship and life of an early Christian congregation. (Johnson, Initiation, p 35)
ca. 138-161 The Witness of Justin Martyr Born near the beginning of the second century in Flavia Neapolis (the ancient city of Sichem) within Syro-Palestine (Samaria), Justin, the great Christian philosopher and Apologist, lived and taught in the city of Rome during the reign of Emperor Antonius Pius (138-61 C.E.), where he and six of his students were ultimately martyred in ca. 165 C.E. (Johnson, Initiation, p 37)
Early Third Century Didascalia Apostolorum The type of baptismal theology articulated by Justin Martyr is even more clearly expressed in the early third-century Syrian church order known as the Didascalia Apostolorum, or "The Catholic Teaching of the Twelve Holy Apostles and Disciples of our Savior." Modeled on the Didache and originally composed in Greek by a Syrian bishop in the region of Antioch, presumably, the Didascalia is extant only in much later Syriac incomplete Latin translation. (Johnson, Initiation, p 41)
305 Council of Elvira A fourth century council. Specified a two year general
313 Peace of Constantine "The peace of Constantine, inaugurated in 313,marks an important turning point in the history of the Church. From an illegal religion, Christianity became legally tolerated, and this position was soon transformed into one of privileged liberty. The Christians rejoiced, and rightly so, in being able to profess their faith without being harassed. But this change brought with it grave new pastoral problems, especially when it became the official religion instead of being only a permitted religion." (Michel Dujarier, A History of the Catechumenate: The First Six Centuries [New York: Sadlier, 1959] 78.) See Maxwell Johnson, Initiation, page 89.
Second-Third Centuries Apocryphal Acts of the Apostles Coming probably from the city of Edessa in East Syria in the second and third centuries, and existing in both Syriac (originally) and Greek versions, is a collection of texts recounting the legendary missionary adventures of Acts of various apostles. This collection is generally referred to as the Apocryphal Acts of the Apostles and includes stories about Peter, Paul, and others. It is within the Acts of Judas Thomas, describing the work of the apostle Thomas in evangelizing India, and the Acts or History of John, the Son of Zebedee, recounting the apostle John's alleged missionary activity in Ephesus, where significant descriptions of initiation rites are provided. (Johnson, Initiation, p 43)
2. Patristic [400-799]
3. Early Medieval [800-1199]
4. Medieval [1200-1299]
1204 April An "army that departed to recover the Holy Land for Christianity, went to Constantinople to capture and sack it, shedding the blood of brothers in the faith." (quote from John Paul II, June 29, 2004) John Paul II suggested that such events be analyzed while both sides pray "together so that the Lord of history will purify our memories of every prejudice and resentment, and grant us to proceed freely on the path of unity."
1254 Pope Innocent IV officially formulated the doctrine of purgatory in a letter to his legate sent to make contact with some Greek Christians.
5. Late Medieval [1300-1499]
6. Reformation [1500-1699]
1546 -1563 The Canons and Decrees of the Sacred and Ecumenical Council of Trent (1546-1563) translated into English by J. Waterworth (London: Dolman, 1848) and scanned by Hanover College students in 1995 are available on the web at http://history.hanover.edu/texts/trent.html These texts are part of the Hanover Historical Texts Project
1568 Breviarium Romanum
1570 Missale Romanum
1596 Pontificale Romanum
1614 Rituale Romanum
7. After Trent [1700-1899]
1899 Pope Leo XIII, Testem Benevolentiae. This encyclical condemned "Americanism" the label for a vague amalgam of "heresies' that included separation of church and state, freedom of speech, ecumenism and the belief that democracy was universally applicable to all cultures. The primary target was Isaac Thomas Hecker (1819-1896), a Catholic intellectual who had promoted engagement between the nation and the church and suggested that each had much to learn from the other. He is remembered today as the founder of the Missionary Society of St. Paul the Apostle, the Paulists. (America Vol. 192 No. 19, Whole No. 4694, May 30, 2005, Page 2)
8. Before Vatican II [1900-1959]
1946 May 10 Pope Pius XII asks the Prefect of the CSR (Cardinal Salotti) to begin forming a project for a general reform of the liturgy.
1946 July 27 A special commission is established for the study of the general liturgical reform; however two years pass before the work is begun (See 1948 May 28).
1947 October 24 Cardinal Salotti dies. He is later succeeded by Cardinal Micara.
1947 November 20 Pius XII. Encyclical letter Mediator Dei. AAS 39 (1947) 521-600. [The references to this encyclical (abbreviated MD) are to page number as the AAS does not number the paragraphs. The English translation quoted in this study is the Vatican Library Translation published by the National Catholic Welfare Conference (NCWC), Washington. "Mediator Dei: Encyclical Letter of Pope Pius XII on the Sacred Liturgy." References are to page number.]
1948 May 28 The members for the commission to form a project for a general liturgical reform are appointed. Rev. Ferdinando Antonelli, O.F.M., is the general director (Relatore Generale), and Rev. Joseph Low, C. Ss. R., is his assistant. Rev. A. Bugnini, C.M. is appointed secretary. The commission holds its constitutive meeting on June 22, 1948.
1948 December 30 CSR. Sectio Historica. Memoria sulla Riforma Liturgica. S. Hist, N. 71. Tip. Pol. Vat. 1948. Notes on the Liturgical Reform. [I have been able to study this document and numbers 75, 76, 79, 90, and 97 of the Historical Section of the CSR through the courtesy of Msgr. Pierre Jounel.]
1949 June 25 The Memoria is printed and given to the members of the commission.
1949 July 22 The Memoria is presented to Pope Pius XII.
1949 November 3 The Memoria is given to three experts for their comments (Dom Capelle, Rev.. Junegmann, and Msgr. Righetti).
1950 March 25 CSR. Historical section. Memoria sulla reforma liturgica. Suppplemento I: Intorno alla graduazione liturgica. Tip. Pol. Vat. 1950. CSR Sec. His. 75.
1950 April 21 CSR. Historical section. Memoria sulla reforma liturgica. Suppplemento II: Annotazioni alla "Memoria" presente, su richiesta, dai Rev. mi Dom Capelle O.S.B., P. Junegmann S.J., Mons. Righetti. Tip. Pol. Vat. 1950. CSR S. Hist. n. 76.
1950 November 22 [Liturgical Year] Cardinal Lienart, president of the Cardinals and Archbishops of France, petitions the Holy Se to permit the celebration of the Easter Vigil in the evening or at night. The German bishops also petition the Holy See.
1951 February 9 Dominicae resurrectionis (Sacred Congregation of Rites) -- Canon Law Digest vol. 3, pp. 34-35
1951 February 09 CSR. [Liturgical Year] December ree. "De Solemni Vigilia Pashchali Linstauranda." (The restoration of the Solemn Paschal Vigil.) AAS 43 (1951) 128-137. These rites were approved experimentally for one year.
1951 June 19 CSR> [Liturgical Year] Historical section. Memoria sulla riforma liturgica. Supplemento III: Materiale storico, agiografio, liturgico per la riforma del calendario. Typ. Pol. Vat. 1951. S. Hist. n. 79.
1952 January 11 [Liturgical Year] The "Ordo Sabbati Sancti" is approved for three more years. AAS 44 (1953) 15-24
1953 January 6 Pius XII. [Eucharist] Apostolic constitution "Christus Cominus." Promulgation of the new discipline for the Eucharistic fast. AAS 45 (1953) 15-24
1953 September 14 to 18 [Liturgical Year] The liturgical congress meeting in Lugano, Switzerland takes as its theme: The reform of Holy Week and Pastoral Liturgy.
1953 December 07 Cardinal Cicognani becomes Prefect of the CSR.
1954 November 2 Pius XII, in an allocution (AAS 45, 1954, page 670) warns priests not to change anything in the liturgy on their own authority. Together with MD Page 538, this reference is give as the note to SC 22 ***3.
1955 March 23 CSR. Decemberree, "De rubricis ad simpliciorem formam redigendis." (on the simplification of the rubrics.) AAS 47(1955) 218-224.
1955 May 25 CSR. [Liturgical Year] Historical Section. De Instauratione liturgica Maioris Hebdomade: Positio. Typ. Pol. vat. 1955, 2. Hist. n. 90.
1955 March 23 Cum nostra hac aetate -- Canon Law Digest 4:35 ff.
1955 November 16 Maxima redemptionis nostrae mysteria (Sacred Congregation of Rites) -- Canon Law Digest 4:49 ff.
1955 November 16 CSR. [Liturgical Year] Decemberree, "Liturgicu Hebdomadae Sanctae Ordo instauratur." (The restoration of the liturgy of Holy Week). AAs 47 (1955) 838-847.
1955 December 25. Pius XII. Encyclical letter, "Musicae sacrae disciplina." AAS 48 (1956) 5-25.
1956 May 17 Letter from the Congregation of Rites to the Episcopate asking for their advice concerning a reform of the Breviary.
1956 September 18. to 22 teh International Congress of Pastoral Liturgy meets in Assisi with the theme: The renewal of the liturgy during the pontificate of Pius XII.
1957 July 29 SCR. Historical Section . Memoria sulla Riforma Liturgica. Supplemento IV. Consultazione dell' Episcopato intorno alla riforma del Breviario Romano (1956-1957). Risultati e Deduzioni. (Consultation of the Episcopate concerning a reform of the Roman Breviary: Results and COnclusions). Typ. Pol. Vat. 1957. S. Hist. N. 97.
1958 February 11. to July 16. The one hundredth anniversary of the apparitions of Lourdes. The question of teh possibility of concelebration for this jubilee arises.
1958 September 3. CSR. Instruction, "De musica sacra et sacra
liturgia ad memtem litterarum encyclicarum Pii Papae XI 'Musicae sacrae
disciplina' et 'Bediator Dei.'" AAS 50 (1958) 630-663.
The Sacred Music and the Sacred Liturgy according to the
norms of the encyclical letters of Pope Pius XII 'The Art of Sacred Music' and
'The Mediator between God and man.'
1958 October 9. Death of Pope Pius XII.
1958 October 28 Election of Pope John XXIII. AAS 50 (1958) 837.
1959 January 25 Pope John, at St. Paul's Outside the Walls, first announces his intention to call a council.
1959 May 17. Pope john names the General Preparatory Commission and asks them to consult the bishops of word to determine what topics should be discussed at the coming council. Cardinal Tardini is named president. Archbishop Felici, secretary.
1959June18. Cardinal Tardini sends a circular letter to the Cardinals, Bishops, and heads of religious orders and certain other communities to ask for their suggestions for the Council. These suggestions of the bishops, together with the letters of Pope John XXIII< the suggestions of the Sacred Congregations, and the rectors of the catholic universities, are printed in: Acta et Documenta Concilio Oecumenico Vaticano II Apparando. Series I (Antepraeparatoria). Typ. Pol. Vat. 19. I have consulted these documents at the Bibliotheque du Saulchoir. 267-B-121.
Beginning of the ante-preparatory phase of the Council.
9 Vatican II [1960-1975]
1960 June 5 Pope John. Motu proprio, "Superno Dei Nutu." Establishes the preparatory commissions and secretariats for the Council. One of these preparatory commissions is for the liturgy.
The acts and documents of these commissions are published in:
Acta et Documenta Concilio Oecumenico Vaticano II Apparando. Series II (Praeparatoria). Typ. Pol. Vat. 19.
1960 June 6 Cardinal Gaetano Cicognani, Prefect of the Congregation of Rites, is named president (relator) of the preparatory liturgical commission.
The prefects of the various congregations of the Curia were named presidents of the corresponding preparatory commissions. However, not other members of the Sacred Congregations were to be members of the preparatory commissions in order that the commissions could work freely in the preparation of the Council.
1960 July 9 Cardinal Tardini gives Cardinal Cicognani, president of the preparatory liturgical commission , the report listing the themes to be treated by the Council concerning the liturgy as suggested by the letters from the world's bishops. (See 1959 May 17)
The topics listed:
1. De calendario recognoscendo: Apta criteria hac de re proponantur.
2. De missa"Taiones edantur de textibus et rubricus recognioscendis.
3. De sacris ritibus: De reducendis ad simpliciorem formam Missa pontificali, ecclesiae consecretione, campanarum benectione, etc.
4. De sacrementis: Batismi, confirmationis, extremae uncitionis, matrimonii ritus ita recognoscrentur, ut magis significent ea quae efficiunt.
5. De lingue litugica: Diligenter perpendatur an expediat bulgarem in quibusdam missae et sacrementorum administrationis partibus permittere.
7. De vestibus liturgicis ad simpliciorem formam reducendis.
1960 July 11 Rev. A. Bugnini, C.M., is appointed secretary of the preparatory liturgical commission.
1960 July 25 John XXIII. Motu proprio, "Rubricarum instrctum." AAS 52 (1960) 593-595
1960 Aug 22 The members for the preparatory liturgical commission are announced. Originally there were 18 members and 29 consultants (periti); others are added until final membership is achieves September 2, 1961: 26 members and 27 consultants
1961 January 1 The Code of rubrics of 1960 July 25 goes into effect.
1961 February 14 CSR. INstruction "De calendariis particularibus et Officiorum ac Missarum Propriis ad norman et mentem CSR revisedis." AAS 56 (1961( 160-180.
1961 April 5 The CSR publishes a new typical edition (that is a model addition from which all other editions much be taken and to which they must conform) of the Roman Breviary.
1961 April 13 TO 22 The second general meeting of the preparatory liturgica commission during this meeting a first Schema for the liturgy is prepared from the recommendations of the bishops (see 1959 May 17 and 196- July 9)>
1961 April 16 CSR publishes a new, modified rite for the baptism of adults. AAS 54 (1962) 310-315
1961 May 15 Historical section Memoria sulla riforma liturgica. Supplemento IV: Consultaziona Dell'Episcopato intorno alla riforma de Breviario Romano (1956-1957). Risultati e Deduzioni. Typ. Pol. Vat> 1957> S. Hist> N. 97.
1961 Jun 23 CSR publishes a new typical edition of the Roman Missal.
1961 August 10 The secretariat for the preparatory liturgical commission (rev. A. Bugnini, secretary) publishes a revised schema for the liturgy.
1961 November 15 The secretariat for the preparatory liturgical commission publishes a third schema for the liturgy.
The former text had no mention of the sacrament of penance in the chapter on the sacraments; this text mentions penance in N. 59.
1961 November 26 Cardinal Cicognani, president of the Commission for the liturgy and prefect of the CSR celebrates his 80th birthday.
1961 December 15 John XXIII. Apostolic constitution, "Humanae Slutis." Convokes the twenty-first ecumenical council.
1961 January 11 The preparatory liturgical commission holds its third plenary session and revises the schema for the liturgy.
1962 February Cardinal Cicognani signs the schema of January 11 and sends it to the Secretary General. It is printed under the title: "Quaestiones de Sacra LIturgie. Schema Constitutionis de Sacra Liturgia a Commissione Litugica propositum Em.me ac Rev.mo Domino Cardinali Commissionis Praeside Relatore."
1962 February 2 John XXIII. Motu proprio, Concilium." Convokes for Council for October 11, 6962, in St. Peter's Basilica.
1962 February 5 Cardinal Cicognani dies.
1962 February 22 John XXIII. Apostolic Constitution, "Veterum Sapientia." On Latin as the Official Language of the Church. English translation: NCWC
The constitution has two parts.
1. The excellence and Merits of the Latin Language.
2. Precisions for the Rebirth of the Study and Use of Latin.
Bishops and religious superiors are to see to it that no one writes against the use of Latin in the sacred rites for the Liturgy. NCWC p. 7.
1962 February Rev. A. Bugnini, secretary of the preparatory liturgical commission and its actind head after the death of cardinal Cicognani, is removed from office schema for the liturgy, prepared under the direction of Fr. Bugnini, advocated a limited use of the vernacular in the liturgy.
1962 February 22 Cardinal Larrona succeeds Cardinal Cicognani as prefect of the CSR and president of the preparatory commission for the liturgy.
1962 March 23 The fifth General Session of the Central preparatory commission. The schema for the liturgy (1962 Jan 11, 1962 Feb 1) is studies. It is given to a subsommission to be prepared for distribution to the future Fathers of the Council.
1962 July 13 Sacrosanctum Oecumenicum Concilium Vaticanum Secundum.
1962 October 6 John XXIII. Motu proprio, "appropinquante Concilio Promulgates the tules governing the procedure for the Council.
1962 October 11 The solemn opening of the Second Vatican Council.
1962 October 12 The Council adjourns at its first meeting to prepare to elect its own commissions rather than those member suggested ont he prepared list.
1962 October 13 The first three general sessions of the Council are devoted to the election of the Conciliar Commissions.
1962 October 20 The Council issues "A message to humanity."
1962 October 22 The Council begins the discussion ont he schema on the liturgy. It is presented to the Council Fathers by Fr. Antonelli. He gives the principles which have guided the commission in writing the schema (As Vat II, Vol. I, Pars I, pages 307-308
1962 November 10 Sacrosanctum Oecumencicum Concilium Vaticanum Secundum.
1962 December 8 Solemn closing of the first session of the Council.
1963 January 6
1963 June 3 Death of Pope John XXIII. In virtue of Article 33 of the Constitution "Vacantis Apostolicae Sedis," the Council is suspended.
1963 June 21 Cardinal Montini is elected Pope Paul VI.
1963 June 22 Paul VI gives his first public address during which he says that "the pre-eminent part of Our pontificate will be the continuation of the Second Vatican Ecumenical Council."
1963 June 27 Rescript, "ex audientia." Fixes the date for the reopening of the Council: September 29, 1963.
1963 July 1 Paul Vi. Coronation address.
1963 September 1 Paul Vi. Letter to Cardinal Tisserant, stating the ends which the Council should achieve.
1963 September 14 Paul VI. The letter "Horum temporum" is sent to the Council Fathers convoking them to the second session.
1963 September 21 Paul VI. Address on the Roman Curia.
1963 September 29 Solemn opening of the second session of the Council.
1963 November 18 The final votes on the schema on the liturgy according to the changes printed in the Emandations (see above Oct )
1963 November 22 Approval, in principle, of the schema on the Liturgy. Of 2178 votes: 2158 for; 19 against; 1 null.
1963 December 4 Constitution on the Sacred Liturgy ("Sacrosanctum Concilium") calls for the Mass to be translated into local languages. The Commission on English in the Liturgy, ICEL, based in Washington DC, is charged with producing a single English translation of the Roman Rite. It submits translations to its 11 member bishops conferences, which amend them according to local requirements. Each conference then submits its Missal to the Vatican’s Congregation for the Divine Worship (CDW) and the Discipline of the Sacraments for a recognitio.
1964 January 4 Pope Paul VI makes an ecumenical journey to the Holy Land and meets with Patriarch Athenagoras.
1964 January 10 Holy Office. Decree, "In Apostolica constitutione," reducing the Communion fast for priests celebrating Mass. AAS 56 (1964) 212.
1964 January 25 Paul VI. Motu proprio, "Sacram Liturgiam." On the implementation of the Constitution on the Liturgy. Original text.
1964 February 16 First Sunday of Lent. Sacram Liturgiam (Jan 25) goes into effect.
1964 February 29 Cardinal Secretary of State. Letters to Cardinal Lercaro indicating the specific competence of the Consilium.
1964 April 25 CSR. Decree, "Quo actuosius." Changes the formula for Holy Communion to "Corpus Christi. Amen."
1964 May 17 The "Secretariat for Non-Christian Religions" is established.
1964 September 14 The solemn opening of the third session of the Council.
1964 September 26 The First Instruction on the Reform of the Liturgy, Inter Oecumenici, published on September 26, 1964. This contained initial principles for the orderly carrying out of the liturgical renewal. With this Instruction the use of vernacular languages went into effect.
1964 November 21 Dogmatic Constitution on the Church ("Lumen Gentium"),
1964 Pope Paul VI and Patriarch Athenagoras I embrace.
1964 December 14A CSR and Consilium. Cantus qui in Missali Romano desiderantur iuxta Insturcionem ad exsecutionem COnstitutionis de sacra Liturgia recte ordinandum et iuxta Ritum concelebrationis. Tup. Pol. Vat.
1964 December 14B CSR and Consilium. Kyriale simplex. Editio typica. Typ. Pol. Vat. 1965
1965 January 15 The first issue of Notitiae: the communication of the Consilium ad exsequendam Constitutionem de Sacra Liturgia. The first issue was not actually printed until April but he issues are numbered beginning with January.
1965 January 27 CSR and Consilium. Ordo Missae. Ritus servandus in celebratione Missae et De defectibus in celebratione Missae occurrentibus. Editio typica. Typ. Pol. Vat. 1965. pp. 69.
1965 March 4 CSR. Decree, "Pientissima Mater Ecclesia." Ordinaries can permit priests to carry the Oil of the Sick when on a journey. AAS 57 (1965) 409.
1965 March 7A CSR and Concilium. Ritus servandus in concelebratione Massae et Ritus Communionis sub utraque specie. Editio tupica. Typ. Pol. Vat. 1965. pp. 104.
Rite to be observed in the Concelebration of mass and the Rite for Communion under both kinds with the Text fo the Canon of the Mass and Chants for Concelebration. trans: Frank Rodimer. New York: Joseph f. Wagner, 1965. pp. 71.
1965 March 7B CSR and Consilium. Variationes in Ordenem Hebdomadae Sactae inducendae. Editio typica. Typ. Pol. Vat. 1965. pp. 23.
The document treats 1, de Missa Christmas feriae v; 2. de simplification ritus consecrationis Oleorum. 3. dequibusdam orationibus sollemnibus feriae VI (for example for the Jews).
1965 March 7C The instruction "Inter Oecumenici" of 1964 SEP 26 into effect.
1965 March 25 CSR. Decree "Plures locorum Ordinarii." The Passion may be read by a non-deacon AAS 57 (1965) 413-414.
1965 June 15 COnsilium. Declaration, "Passim quandoque." On the permission necessary for liturcial experimentation. Not 6 (1965) 145.
1965 June 30 Lercaro. Cardinal F. president of of Consilium. Letter to the presidents of the Episcopal Conferences, "Le renouveau liturgique." The official text was given in the five principal languages. The text used here is that printed in Not 9-10 (1965) 257-264 in French.
1965 July 17 CSR. "Partes quae in collatione Ordinum lingua vernacula dici possunt." Not 9-10 (1965) 277-279. A list of those parts of the Rite of Ordination which may be said and in the window.
1965 September 3 Paul. VI. Encyclical Letter, "Mysterium fidei." AAS 57 (1965) 753-774. English translation: "On the Holy Eucharist NCWC.
1965 September 14 Opening of the fourth and final session of the Council.
1965 September 14 Missae in quarta perido Concilii Oecummici Vaticani II celebrandae. Typ. Pol. Vat. 1965. pp. 120.
1965 October 4 and 5. Pope Paul goes to New York to address the United Ntions General assembly.
1965 October 28 Promulgation of the following Council documents:
6) Decretum de Pastorali Ephiscoporum Munere in Ecclesia. (Chrisus Dominus), Decree on th ebishop's Pastor Office in teh Church. AAS 58 (1966) 673-701.
7) Decretum de Accommodata Renovatione Vitae Religiosae. (Perfectae Cartatis). Decree on the Appropriate Renewal of the Religious Life. AAS 58 (1966) 702-712.
8) Decretum de Institutione Sacerdotali. (Optatam Tatius.) Decree on Priestly Formation. AAS 58 (1966) 702-712.
9) Declaratio de Educatione Christiana. (Gravissimum Educationis). Declaration on Christian Education. AAS 58 (1966) 728-739.
10) Declaratio de Ecclesiae Habitudine ad Religioues non-Christianas. (Nostrae Aetate.) Declaration on the Relationship of the Church to Non-Christian Religions. AAS 58 (1966) 740-744.
1965 November 18 The promulgation of two Council documents. Pope Paul also announces the beginning of the reform of the Roman Curia, the introduction of the process for the beatification of Pope Pius XII and Pope John XXII, a Jubilee period, and the convocation of the Episcopal Synod not later than 1967.
11) Constitutio Dogmatica de Divina Revelatione. (Del Verbum>) Dogmatic Constitution on Divine Revelation. AAS 58 (1966) 817-835.
12) Decretum De Apostolatu Laicorum. (Apostolicam actuositatem.) Decree on the Apostolate of the Laity. AAS 58 (1966) 837-864.
1965 November 23 CSR and Consilium. Instruction, "De lingua in celebrandis Officio Divino et Missa 'conventuali" aut 'communitatis' apud religiosos adhibenda." AAS 57 (1965) 1010-1013.
"Instruction on the language to be used in the recitation of the Divine Office and the celebration of the 'Conventual' or 'community' Mass among Religious."
1965 December 7 The promulgation of the following Council documents:
13) Declaratio de Libertate Religiosa. (Dignitatis Humanae.) Declaration on Religious Freedom. AAS 58 (1966) 929-946.
14) Decretum de Activitate Missionali Ecclesia. (AD Gentes divinitus) Decree on the Church's Missionary Activity. AAS 58 (1966) 947-990.
15) Decretum de Presbyterorum Ministerio et Vita. (Presbyterorum Ordinis..) Decree on the Ministry and Life of Priests. AAS 58 (1966) 947-1024.
1967 May 4 The Second Instruction on the Reform of the Liturgy, Tres abhinc annos, published on May 4, 1967. This documents described further adaptations to the Order of Mass.
1968 August15 CSR and Consilium. De Ordinatione Diaconi, Presbyteri et Episcopi. Pontificale Romanum ex decreto Sacrosanti Oecumenici Concilii Vaticanii II Instauratum auctoriatate Pauli PP. VI promulgatum. Editio Typica. Typ. Pol. Vat. 1968 pp. 133.
Ordination of Deacons, Presbyters, and Bishops. ICEL. NCCB. 1973.
1968 October 14 Peul VI. Aloocution to the members of the Consilium. AAS 60 (1968) 732-737.
The control of the liturgy pertains to the Church and not to individuals.
1969 January 00 Consilium. Desriptio et specimina Officii Divini iuxta Concilii Vaticani II Decreta instaurati. In Civitate Vaticana. 1969. pp. 79.
A description and example of the divine office was sent to the bishops of the world. see Not 45 (1969) 74-85
1969 January 25 Consilium. Comme le Prévoit Instruction on Translation of Liturgical Texts urges that preference be given to cultural influence if there is a conflict between fidelity to Latin and the target language. "The Consilium issued an Instruction on the Translation of Liturgical Texts for Celebrations with a Congregation, Comme le Prévoit, to guide the process of translating Latin liturgical texts into vernacular languages. As well as outlining principles for liturgical translation, the Instruction also opened the door to the development of original liturgical prayer texts with its conclusion the 'Texts translated from another language are clearly not sufficient for the celebration of a fully renewed liturgy. The creation of new texts will be necessary. But translation of texts transmitted through the tradition of the Church is the best school and discipline for the creation of new texts...'(#43. This lead to the inclusion by various Bishops' Conferences of alternate, original vernacular prayer texts in the editions of the Roman Missal for their territories. (FDLC Newsletter 31:2 ,June 2004, p 10)
1969 February 14 Paul Vi. Apostolic letter, "Mysterii paschalis." Appriving the general norms for the liturgical year and the new Roman Calendar. AAS 61 (1969) 222-226.
English is printed in the Sacramentary; see below 1969 Apr 06.
1969 March 19 CSR and Consilium. Ordo celebrandi matrimonium. Rituale Romanum ex decreto Sacrosancti Oecumeneici COncilii Vaticani II instauratum auctoritate Pauli PP. VI promulgatum. Editio typica. Typ. Pol. Vat. 1969. pp. 40
Rite of Marriage. ICEL. USCC. 1969.
1969 March 21 CSR and Consilium. Calendarium Romanum ex Decreto Sacrosancti Oecumenici Concieii Vaticani II instauratum auctoritate Pauli PP. promulgatum. Editio Typica. Typ. Pol. Vat. 1969. pp. 179.
English is printed in the Sacramentary; see below 1969 Apr 06.
1969 April 03 Paul VI. Apostolic constitution, "Missale Romanum." Approving the new Roman Missal. AAS 61 (1969) 217-222.
English is printed in the Sacramentary; see below 1969 Apr 06.
1969 April 06 CSR and Consilium. Ordo Missae. Missale Romanum ex decreto Sacrosancti Oecumenici Concilii Vaticani II instauratum auctoritate Pauli PP. VI promulgatum. Editio typica. Typ. Pol. Vat. 1969. p. 173.
English quotations are from: The Sacramentary: The Roman Missal revised by decree of the Second Vatican Council and published by authority of Pope Paul VI. ICEL. NCCB. Catholic Book Publishing Co. New York. 1974.
1969 May 08 Paul VI. Apostolic constitution, "Sacra Rituum Congregatio." AAS 61 (1969) 296-305.
Divides the Congregation of Sacred Rites (CSR) into two congregations, one for the Causes of the Saints, and one for Divine Worship (CDW) The Consilium is intergrated into the CDW.
1969 May 15A CDW. Ordo Baptismi parvulorum. Rituale Romanum ex decreto Sacrosancti Oecumenici Councilii Vaticani Il intauratum auctoritate Pauli PP. VI promugatum. Editio typica. Typ. Pol. Vat. 1969. pp. 93.
1969 May 15B CDW. Instruction, (de Missis pro coetibus particularibus), "Actio pastoralis." Original text was distributed to the Episcopal Conferences. Emended and definitive text: AAS 61 (1969) 806-811.
"Instruction on Masses for Special Gatherings." USCC. 1969.
Published at the same time as the instruction in France:
Commission episcopale francaise de liturgie. "Les Messes de petits groupes." DC 15 mars 1970, numero 1559. 278-283.
1969 May 25 December Decree from Sacred Congregation for Divine Worship promulgating the first typical edition of the Roman Lectionary.
1970 Missale Romanum (Typical Addition) The Latin Missale Romanum, prepared according to the decrees of the Second Vatican Council, was issued as the typical edition upon which vernacular translations were to be based. (FDLC Newsletter 31:2 ,June 2004, p 10)
1970 February 11 Date on which the English text of revised Lectionary for Mass may be used. (The 1969 May 25 text was translated by ICEL, presented by the BCL for the approval of the USCCB and confirmed by the SCDC, all in less than a year!)
1970 March 26 Bugnini as secretary for the Sacred Congregation for Divine Cult approved the first edition of the General Instruction of the Roman Missal.
1970 September 5 The Third Instruction on the Reform of the Liturgy, Liturgicae instaurationes, published on September 5, 1970. This document provided directives on the central role of the Bishop in the renewal of the Liturgy throughout the diocese.
1970 November 09 CDW. Ordo
benedictionis abbatis et abbatissae. Pontificale Romanum ex Decemberreto
Sacrosancti Oeecumenici Concilii Vaticani 11 instauratum, auctoritate Pauli PP.
VI promulgatum. Editio typica. Typ. Pol. Vat. 1970. pp. 31.
English: see above 1970 MAY 31.
1970 November 01 Paul VI.
Apostolicconstitution, “LaudisCanticum.” Promulgating the new Liturgy of the
Hours. AAS 63 (1971) 527-535.
English: see below 1971 February 02.
1970 December 03 CDW. Ordo benedicendi
oleum catechumenorum et infirmorum el conficiendi chrisma. Pontificale Romanum
ex Decemberreto Sacrosancti Uecurnenici Concilii Vaticanii 11 instauratum,
auctoritate Pauli PP. VI promulgatum. Editio typica. Typ. Pol. Vat. 1971. pp.
17. English: see above 1970 MAY 31.
1971 February 02 CDW.
Institutio generalis de Llturgla florarum. Officium Divinum ex Decemberreto
Sacrosancti Oecutnenici Concilii Vaticani 11 instauratum, auctoritate Pauli PP.
VI promulgatum. Typis Pol. Vat. 1971. pp. 93.
“General Iiistruction of the Liturgy of the Hours.” The 1 liturgy of the Hours.
The Divine Office revised by Decemberrec of the Second Vatican Ecumenical
Council and published by authority of Pope Paul VI. ICEL. Catholic Book
Publishing Co. New York. 1975. 4 Vols.
1971 April 11 CDW. Liturgia Horarum iuxta
Ritunt Rornanurn. Officiumn Divinum ex Dccreto Sacrosancti Oecunienici Concilii
Vaticani 11 instauratum, auctoritate Pauli PP. VI prornulgaturn. Editio typ. Typ.
Pol. Vat. 1971-1972. 4 Vols.
1971 June 14 Cardiiial Tabera, Prefect CDW.
“Notification on the Roman Missal, the Liturgy of the Hours, and the
Calendar.” Notitiac 64 (1971) 215-217.
1971 August 15 Paul VI. Apostolic
Constitution, “Divinae consortium naturae.” On the Ritc of Confirrnation. AAS 63
(1971) 657-664.
English: see below 1971 August 22.
1971 August 22 CDW.
Ordo
Confirmationis. Pontificale Rornanum ex Decemberreto Sacrosancti
Oecumcnici Concilii Vaticani 11 instauratunl, auctoritatc Pauli PP. VI
promulgatum. Editio typica. Typ. Pol. Vat. 1971. pp. 51.
Rite of
Confirmation. ICEL. NCCB. 1972.
1972 Joseph Ratzinger and Jorge Medina Estévez complain to
Pope Paul VI that vernacular translations are not faithful to Latin.
1972 January 06 CDW. Ordo
initiationis christianae adultorum. Rituale Romanum ex Decreto Sacrosancti
Oecumenici Concilii Vaticani II instauratum, auctoritatc Pauli PP. VI
promulgatum. Editio typica. Typ. Pol. Vat. 1972. pp. 185.
Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults. Provisional
text. Study Book Addition. USCC. ICEL. 1974. Rite of Reception of Baptized
Christians into Full Communion with the Catholic Church. USCC. ICEL. 1973.
1972 June 01 Secretariat for Promoting Christian Unity.
“Instruction Concerning Cases When Other Christians May Be Admitted to
Eucharistic Communion in the Catholic Church.” AAS 64 (1972) 518-525.
English: USCC.
1972 June 16 Congregatian for the
DOctoberrine of the Faith. “Normae pastorales circa Absolutionem Sacramentalem
Generali modo inlpcrticndarn. AAS 64 (1972) 510-514. Pastoral norms concerning
General Sacranmental absolution.
1972 June 24 CDW. Ordo Missae. Missale
Romanum ex Dececeto ..
1972 June 24 CDW. Ordo Cantus
Missae.
Missale Romanum ex Decreto Sacrosancti Occu1Ylenici C;oncilii Vaticani 11
instauratunl, auctoritatc Pauli PP. VI promulgaturn. Editio typica. Tvp. Pol.
Vat. 1972. pp. 246.
1972 August 07 CDW. Decemberlaration, “In
ceiebratione Missae.” AAS 64 (1972) 561-563.
“Decemberlaration on Concclcbration.” USCC. 1974. Published togcther with the
“Conlmentary” found in Notitiae 77 (1972) 327-332.
1972 August 15 A Paul VI. Motu proprio,
“Ministcria quaedam.” AAS 64 (1972) 529-534.
“An Apostolic L.cttcr in Motu Proprio Forrn Laying Down Ccrtain Nornls Regarding
the Sacred
Order of the Diaconatc.” USCC. 1972.
1972 August 15B Paul VI. Motu proprio, “Ad
pascendum.” AAS 64 (1972) 534-540.
“An Apostol ic Letter in M ot u Proprio Form by which the Discipline of Eirst
Tonsure, Minor Orders and Subdiaconate in the LatinChu~chisReforc»ed.” USCC.
1972.
1972 November 30 Paul V1. Apostolic
Constitution, “Sacram Unctionem infirmorum.” AAS 65 (1973) 5-9. English: see
below 1972 December 07.
1972 December 03 CDW. De institutione m
ectorum el acolvthorum. De adntissione inter candidatos ad dlacallatum et
presbvteratum. De sacro caelibatu antplectenda. Pontificale Romanirm ex
Decemberreto Sacrosancti Oecumenici Concilii Vaticani 11 instauratum,
auctoritate Pauli PP. VI promulgatuni. Editio typica. Typ. Po. Vat. 1972. pp.
38.
Rite of Instrtution of Readersand Acolytes. Admission to Candidacy for the
Diaconate and Presbyterate. Ordination of Deacons, Presbvters, and Bishops.
Provisional Text. ICEL. NCCB. 1973.
1972 December 07 CDW. Ordo unCllOillS
lirflrmorunz eorumque pastoralis curae. Rituale Romanum ex Decemberreto
Sacrosancti Oecumenici Concilii Vaticani 11 instauraturn, auctoritate Pauli PP.
VI promulgatum. Editio typica. Typ. Pol. Vat..1972. pp. 81.
Rite of Anointing and Pastoral Care of the Sick. Provisional text. ICEL. NCCB.
Catholic Book Publishing Co. New York. 1974.
1973 U.S. Sacramentary The English version of the Missale Romanum was approved for the United States by the National Conference of Catholic Bishops in 1973 and confirmed by the Holy See in 1974. Its English title, Sacramentary, revived the ancient term as a more appropriate designation for a book containing mainly the presidential prayers, rather then missal, a book containing the complete Mass texts including readings.
1973 January 29 Congregation for the
Discipline of the Sacraments. Instruction, “Immensae caritatis.” AAS 65 (1973)
264-271.
“Instruction on Facilitating Sacramental Communion in Particular Circumstances.”
USCC. 1973.
1973 April 27 CDW. Letter to the
presidents of the Episcopal Conferences, “Eucharistiae Participationem.” AAS 65
(1973) 340-347.
“Letter to the Presidents of the National Conferences of Bishops Concerning
Eucharistic Prayers." USCC. 1973.
1973 June 21 CDW . De
sacra commuirione et De culiu mvsterii eucharistici extra iirlssan'l. Ri(uale
Romanunl ex Decemberreto Sacrosancti Uecumenici Concilii Vaticani 11. Editio
typica. Typ. Pol. Vat. 1973. pp. 69.
Haly, Communroiz czirdF,ucharistic Worship Outside of Mcxss. ICEL. NCCB.
1973 June 22 Paul VI. A1locution to the
College of Cardinals on the 10th anniversary of his election. Italian text: OR
22-23 June 1973. French text: DC 15 juillet 1973. Nº 1936. pp. 651-652.
1973 August 29 CDW. Second typical edition
of the Rite of Baptism for Children. Notitiac 85 (1973) 269-272.
1973 October 25 CDW. Letter to the
presidents of the Episcopal Conferences concerning the translation of the
essential sacramental formulas.
The letter is not published in the AAS or Notitiae. I have examined the Latin
text through the courtesy of Rev. Pierre-Marie GY, O.P.
1973 November 01 CDW. Directorium de
missis cum pueris. Typ. Pol. Vat. 1973. pp. 20.
"Letter to the Presidents of the National Confercnces of' Bishops Concerning
Directory for Masses with Children." ICEL. USCC. 1974.
1973 December 02 CDW. Ordo Paenitentiae.
Rituale Romanum ex Decemberreto Sacrosancti Oeeumeniei Concilii Vaticani II.
Editio typica. Typ. Pol. Vat. 1974. pp. 121. Rite of Penance. Study Edition. ICEL. USCC. 1974 and 1975.
1974 June CDW. Jubilate Deo: Cantus
Gregoriani faciliores quos fideles discant oportet ad menternConstitutionis
Concilii Vaticani II de Sacra Liturgia. Typ. Pol. Vat. 1974.
1974 June 13 Paul VI. Apostolic letter "Firnma
in Traditione." AAS 66 1974.
"Faculties Conecrning Mass Stipends." USCC. 1974.
1974 November 01 CDW. Preces Eucharisticae pro missis cum pueris et de reconciliatione. Typ. Pol. Vat. 1974. Eucharistip Prayers for Masses with Children and for Masses of Reconciliation. Provisional Text. ICEL. NCCB. 1975.
1975 March 27 CDW. Publication of the second typical edition of the Roman Missal. (The changes in the General Instruction are listed in Notitiae 111-112 (1975) 297-337. The French Missal of 1974 contains the second edition of the Instruction. The ICEL Sacramentary of 1974 contains the first edition.)
1975 July 11 Paul VI. Apostolic Constitution, "Constans Nobis Studium." AAS 67 (1975) 418-420. The Congregation for the Discipline of the Sacraments and the Congregation for Divine Worship are suppressed and a new Congregation for the Sacraments and Divine Worship is formed. (CDW becomes CSDW.)
1975 March 27 Bugnini approves the editio typica altera [second typical edition] of the Roman Missal. This edition reflected the liturgical changes made in accordance with the documents that had appeared since the publication of the first typical edition. Texts not found in the first edition, for several ritual and votive masses, were added. (FDLC Newsletter 31:2 ,June 2004, p 10)
10. After Vatican II [1975-2050]
1977 May 29 (Pentecost) CSDW (Knox, Prefect). Roman Pontifical, Dedication of a Church and an Altar.
1978 September 25 CSDW approves the ICEL translation of Dedication of a Church and an Altar use in the USA.
1980s ICEL revises the Missal.
1981 January 21 December of the Sacred Congregation for the Sacraments and Divine Worship promulgating the third typical edition of the Roman Lectionary.
1981 March 25 Ordo Coronandi Imaginem Beatae Mariae Virginis
1982 ICEL translation of the second edition of the General instruction on the Roman Missal.
1982 - 1984 The BCL undertakes a nationwide survey of Catholic parishes regarding the GIRM and gathers the results of this study to serve as the basis for their revisions of the GIRM and the Roman Missal to be incorporated in their translation of the editio typica altera. The survey was entrusted to the FDLC, Rev. Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. executive secretary. ICEL began the first of two world-wide consultations on the revision of the 1973 Sacramentary (with the second taking place in 1986). In the United States part of this consultative effort was coordinated by the FDLC at the request of the Bishops' Committee on the Liturgy. The Mystery of Faith: A Study of the Structural Elements of the Order of Mass was a workbook produced by FDLC to facilitate the consultation. As a result of these consultations ICEL began work on the revised Sacramentary, based upon the 2nd Typical Edition of the Missale Romanum. Progress reports were issued in 1988, 1990, and 1992. (FDLC Newsletter 31:2 ,June 2004, p 10)
1983 Rites of Anointing and Pastoral Care of the Sick (USA)
1984 September Caeremoniale Episcoporum
May 31, 1984 De Benedictionibus
1985 to 2002 ICEL translates the editio typica altera and the BCL presents it in ten segments to the USCCB for approval. The text had all been approved when the USCCB learned that the third edition of the Missal had appeared. Question: should they push to get the second edition confirmed or simply skip it and move directly to the Third Edition? They choose the latter. And the ICEL translation of the second typical edition, approved by the USCCB but not yet confirmed by the CDWDS, is announced to be "dead in the water" [together with the particular missals whose translations used the same ICEL criteria.]
1986 Liturgia Horarum, editio altera
1987 Order for the Crowning of an Image of the Blessed Virgin Mary (USA)
1987 Collectio Missarum de Beata Maria Virgine
1988 Apostolic Letter (Vicesimus Quitnus Annus) In this letter on the 25th anniversary of the promulgation of Sacrosanctum concilium, Pope John Paul ii, in the context of noting the responsibility of Bishops' Conferences to prepare translations liturgical books stated: (87) "Immediate need occasionally led to the use of provisional translations, approved ad interim. but now the time has come to reflect upon a certain difficulties that have subsequently emerged, to remedy certain defects of inaccuracies, to complete partial translations, to compose or approve chants to be used in the Liturgy, to ensure respect for the texts approved and lastly to publish liturgical books in a form that both testifies to the stability achieved and is worthy of the mysteries being celebrates." he also urged that it was time to evaluate the commissions established by Conferences to facilitate the process of translation and the wider task of liturgical renewal, "its past activity, both the positive and negative aspects, and the guidelines the help which is has received from the bishops' conference regarding its composition and activity." (#20) (FDLC Newsletter 31:2 ,June 2004, p 10)
1988 June 02 Congregation for Divine Worship Directory for Sunday Celebrations in the Absence of a Priest.
1988 Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults, second edition (USA)
1989 Books of Blessings (USA)
1989 Misal Romano, Ordinario della Missa (USA)
1989 Order of Christian Funerals, second edition (USA)
1989 Sunday Celebrations in the Absence of a Priest (USA)
1989 June 28 De Ordinatione Episcopi, Presbyterorum, et Diaconorum
1990 Collection of Masses of the Blessed Virgin Mary (USA)
1990 March 19 Ordo Celebrandi Matrimonium, editio altera
1992 June 20 After working on the text for ten years the ICEL translation of third typical edition of the Lectionary for Mass is approved by the USCCB.
1994 January 25 The Fourth Instruction on the Reform of the Liturgy, Varietates ligitimae, published on January 25, 1994. This document concerned itself with the difficult questions on the Roman Liturgy and inculturation. The instruction distinguished the sort of adaptation provided for the liturgical gooks, which it understood would mainly suffice in the majority of Western countries, from more radical adaptation that may be needed in areas where Christianity is a more recent arrival, and set out the procedures to be followed in these separate cases. (FDLC Newsletter 31:2 ,June 2004, p 10)
1996 January Third international consultation of the Lutheran World Federation's Study Team on Worship and Culture, held in Nairobi, Kenya. Nairobi Statement on Worship and Culture: Contemporary Challenges and Opportunities. (Gives principles for inculturation)
1997 NCCB Approval of Sacramentary The National Conference of Catholic Bishops approved the complete revised Sacramentary in 1997 by more than the necessary 2/3 vote and applied to the Holy See for recognitio. Other English speaking Bishops' conferences also approved the revised Sacramentary. (FDLC Newsletter 31:2 ,June 2004, p 10)
1997 USCCB approves the text of the Introduction to the Order of Mass: A Pastoral Resource of the Bishops' Committee on the Liturgy. (Because of the developments described below, the text will not be published until July 2003.)
1997 March Archbishop (later Cardinal) Jorge Medina Estévez becomes prefect of the CDWDS, which rejects ICEL’s translation, of the draft ordination rite. Fidelity to Latin is now “prime criterion” of translations.
1997 April Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger, prefect of the Congregation for the Docterine of the Faith, says in an autobiographical book that Pope Paul VI’s drastic reforms of Mass caused “extremely serious damage” to the Church.
1998-2002 ICEL Restructured At the urging of CDWDS, the ICEL Episcopal Board worked to revise the governing structure of ICEL. As the new ICEL structure came into effect, the long-term ICEL executive secretary, Dr. John Page, stepped down and was succeeded by Rev. Bruce Harbert, and English priest. (FDLC Newsletter 31:2 ,June 2004, p 10)
1998
Revision of
new English-language Missal, drawn up by ICEL and approved by the bishops’
conferences, is complete after 15 years.
1998-2000 Lectionary for Mass (USA)
1999 Appendix: Rites of Cremation (USA)
1999 October 31 German Lutheran Bishop Christian Krause, president of the Lutheran World Federation, and Catholic Cardinal Edward Cassidy, president of the Pontifical Council for Promoting Christian Unity, signed "The Joint Declaration on the Doctrine of Justification" in Augsburg, Germany. The text states that we both believe: "By grace alone, in faith in Christ's saving work and not because of any merit on our part, we are accepted by God and receive the Holy Spirit, who renews our hearts while equipping us and calling us to good works."
2000 January CDWDS accuses ICEL of procedural irregularities and faulty translations. Demands veto over staff and redrafting of statutes within six months. ICEL resists.
2000 April
CDWDS says ICEL’s translation of the
Psalter is “dOctoberrinally flawed” and should be withdrawn. ICEL no
longer welcome in the CDWDS
2000 May English-speaking bishops’
relations with CDWDS turn sour, after emergency meeting where they defend ICEL
and their own right in canon law to "prepare and approve translation of texts".
2000 June Corpus Christi. General Instruction on the Roman Missal is published in Latin and becomes law. (Note this is before it is translated into English, and before the Roman Missal III is published in Latin. GIRM 1969 appeared and was circulated, even in the vernaculars, before it went into effect so that people could prepare for the changes. The GIRM III came into effect before anyone saw it. This caused a lot of confusion among liturgists and canonists.)
2000 Book of the Gospels (USA)
2001 March 20 The Fifth Instruction on the Reform of the Liturgy, Liturgiam authenticam, approved by John Paul II and published by the CDWDS March 28, 2001. This fifth instruction deals with the issue of translations. Translations from the Latin be "as literal as possible." Inclusive language is rejected. Vatican approval must now be sought at every stage of translating and revising liturgical texts. Followed by the formation of Vox Clara to oversee ICEL. Regime change in personnel at ICEL, BCL, and CDWDS
2001 Spring CDWDS. Martyrologium Romanum, Editio Typica. (This is the last of the ritual books to be revised following the Second Vatican Council. This is a revision of the edition made under Cardinal Caesar Baronio in 1584). pp 776. €73,00.
2001 June 6 Letter from the Sacred Congregation for the Sacraments and Divine Worship to Bishop Fiorenza, president of the USCCB, confirming the English edition of the Lectionary to be used in the United States. (This text had been approved by the USCCB in 1992, but during the intervening nine years the 1992 English text is substantially revised by the CDWDS before giving their "confirmatio".)
2001 June 29 Decree from (Bishop Fiorenza, president of the) USCCB, authorizing the use of the English translation of the 1992 third typical edition of the Lectionary for Mass, and giving the dates when it can and must be used (Februaryruary13, and May 19, 2002 respectively).
2001 July 19 Vox Clara established. This Committee of 12 senior archbishops from nine English-speaking countries was established to give advice to the CDWDS regarding matters of liturgical translations of Latin liturgical texts into the English language, and to strengthen effective cooperation with the Conferences of Bishops in this regard. (see Notitiae, 439-440, March-April 2003) The Committee is chaired by Archbishop (later Cardinal) George Pell of Sydney, a longstanding critic of ICEL.
2001 November CDWDS Editio typica tertia [third typical edition] of the Missale Romanum (Roman Missal) with a revised and expanded GIRM. This third editio typica since the Council must now be the base text used in all translations. pp 1318. €180,00.
2002 February 13 (Ash Wednesday) the weekday Lectionary (third typical edition) for the USA can be used in English.
2002 March 18 Missale Romanum, editio typica tertia
2002 March ICEL translation of the Roman Missal (second edition) which had been approved by 11 English-speaking bishops' conferences is denied the approbatio by the CDWDS
2002 April (Vox Clara Commission) The Holy See announced the creation of a commission made up of senior Bishops from English-speaking countries to assist the CDWDS with English language translations of the liturgical texts. The Committee's responsibilities included helping the Congregation develop a draft ratio translationis (translation principles) to guide the preparation of future English language liturgical translations and reviewing translations of select portions of the Missale Romanum, intended to serve as exemplars of English language liturgical translations which meet the requirements of the Fifth Instruction, Liturgiam Authenticam, fro precision and proclaim ability. (FDLC Newsletter 31:2 June 2004, p 10)
2002 May 2 Pope John Paul II. Apostolic Letter Misericordia Dei "On certain aspects of the celebration of the Sacrament of Penance" The text in English is available on the Vatican website.
2002 May 19 (Pentecost) the entire Lectionary (Sundays and Weekdays) for the USA is mandatory.
2002 August The American
executive secretary of ICEL, Dr John Page, stands down after 22 years, along
with its Scottish chairman, Bishop Maurice Taylor of Galloway. They are replaced
by two Englishmen: the new executive secretary is Fr Bruce Harbert, the new
chairman Arthur Roche, coadjutor Bishop of Leeds.
2002 October Cardinal
Francis Arinze is appointed Prefect of the
Congregation of Divine Worship and the Discipline of the Sacraments.
2003 Ordination of a Bishop, Priests and Deacons, second edition (USA)
2003 March 17 Cardinal Francis Arinze, prefect of the Congregation of Divine Worship and the Discipline of the Sacraments, approves the ICEL translation of the third edition of the GIRM with [some of] the adaptations asked for by the USCCB.
2003 April 17 (Holy Thursday) Pope John Paul II Litterae Encyclicae Ecclesia de Eucharistia. Text is given in Latin and French in Notitiae 443-444 (July August 2003). The text in English is available on the Vatican website.
July 2003 BCL and USCCB publish Introduction to the Order of Mass: A Pastoral Resource of the Bishops Committee on the Liturgy. (The text had approved by the NCCB in 1997 to be introduced with the revised translation of the second edition of the Roman Missal. The text was revised in 2000 by the CDWDS in the light of the third edition of the Roman Missal.)
2003 October Unprecedented meeting of all the presidents of the English-speaking bishops’ conferences with Cardinal Arinze, Fr Harbert and Bishop Roche. Participants afterwards express their relief that dialogue has replaced stand-off and that translation can now proceed.
2003 October 17 Congregation of Divine Worship and the Discipline of the Sacraments approves new Statutes for the International Commission on English in the Liturgy. The new statutes give the CDWDS veto power over ICEL staff and translators.
2003 November 24 New cardinals Justin Rigali, Josip Bozanic, Jean-Baptiste Pham Minh Mân, Philippe Barbarin and Marchc Ouellet were appointed to the Congregation for Divine Worship and the Sacraments.
2003 November 18-20 Vox Clara Committee, chaired by Cardinal George Pell of Sydney, Australia, met for the fourth time. They discussed the English-language edition of the Missale Romanum editio typica tertia and said that work on the English translation is off to an “excellent start” and that new translations are in an English style which conforms to guidelines.
2003 November 22 Pope John Paul II. Reflections on Tra le sollecitudine. English translation can be found on the NPM website. Click on John Paul reflects on "Tra le sollecitudine.
2003 December The Congregation for Divine Worship and Discipline of the Sacraments sent to the Episcopal conferences of English speaking countries a draft of the ration translitionis, translation principles, for the authentic translation of the Romans Rite into the vernacular and with specific reference to translation into English. This procedure was in accordance with Liturgiam Authenticam #9: "When it may be deemed appropriate by the Congregation for Divine Worship and Discipline of the Sacraments, a text will be prepared after consultation with Bishops, called a "ration translationis', to be set fourth by the authority of the same Dicastery, in which the principles of translation found in this Instruction will be applied in closer detain to a given language. This document may be composed of various elements as the situation may require, sue as, for example, a list of vernacular words to be equated with their Latin counterparts, the setting forth of principles applicable specifically to a given language, and so forth." (FDLC Newsletter 31:2 ,June 2004, p 10)
2003 December 4 Pope John Paul II. Apostolic Letter on the 40th anniversary of the Constitution "Sacrosanctum Concilium" on the Sacred Liturgy. Original Italian text can be read at the Vatican web site. For an English translation click here.
2004 January Draft of the ICEL translation of the Roman Missal (third edition) sent to English-speaking bishops’ conferences. You can see article by Austen Ivereigh in The Tablet 17/01/2004.
2004 February 25
Lineamenta for the Synod of Bishops’ XI Ordinary General Assembly,
The Eucharist: Source and Summit of the Life and Mission of the Church.
The text is available on the
Vatican Website.
2004 March 25 Instruction of the Congregation for Divine Worship and the Discipline of the Sacraments, Redemptionis Sacramentum, On Certain Matters To Be Observed Or To Be Avoided Regarding The Most Holy Eucharist. The text is available on the Vatican Website. An excellent commentary on this document has by published by John M. Huels, “Canonical Observations on Redemptionis Sacramentum,” Worship 78:5, September 2004, pp 404-420.
2004 May 31 Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, Joseph Card. Ratzinger Prefect, “Letter To The Bishops Of The Catholic Church On The Collaboration Of Men and Women In The Church And In The World.” Text available on the Vatican Website.
2004 October 7 John Paul II Apostolic Letter (for the Year of the Eucharist) Mane Nobiscum Domine Text available on the Vatican Website.
2005 Sunday Celebrations in the Absence of a Priest, second edition (USA)
October 2-23, 2005 11th Ordinary General Assembly of the Synod of Bishops on the theme: "The Eucharist: Source and Summit of the Life and Mission of the Church," in the Vatican. – The presidents delegate are: Cardinals Francis Arinze, prefect of the Congregation for Divine Worship and the Discipline of Sacraments, Juan Sandoval Iniguez, archbishop of Guadalajara, Mexico and Telesphore Placidus Toppo, archbishop of Ranchi, India. The relator general is Cardinal Angelo Scola, patriarch of Venice, Italy and the special secretary is Archbishop Roland Minnerath of Dijon, France.
May, 2006 Amendments to the ICEL translation submitted by bishops of the USA through the USCCB Committee on the Liturgy (BCL)
June 15, 2006 Latin Rite bishops of USCCB amend/approve ICEL translation of the Order of Mass and adaptations to the Order of Mass. Both await confirmation by the Holy See.
© Copyright: Tom Richstatter, Franciscan Province of St. John the Baptist, Cincinnati Ohio, Order of Friars Minor. All Rights Reserved. This page was created by Fr. Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. Every effort has been, and is being made, to acknowledge sources when the ideas are not my own. Any failure to comply with the United States Copyright Act (Title 17, United States Code) will be corrected immediately should I become aware of it. This site was updated on 06/05/07 . Your comments on this site are welcome at webmaster2@tomrichstatter.org.