Thread by @RorateCaeli

#SummorumPontificum
We were asked by a prominent reporter to comment on the Francis document purportedly trying to do what a MUCH stronger pope in a MUCH stronger position (Paul VI) couldn't -- that is, abolish the Latin Mass. Here are our first thoughts.

Yes, it is huge.

It is the most stinging rebuke by a Pope against his predecessor in living memory -- there has never been anything like it. Remember that the document itself is just 14 years old, and that Benedict XVI is still alive.

Legally, it's a complete mess. Benedict had made clear in Summorum that it is basically impossible for an ancient rite to be simply abolished. Paul VI had never truly abolished it, it was implied, because he could not do it. And the commission of cardinals that advised John...

... Paul II had basically said the same. Now, in the article 1 of his document, Francis basically abolishes it.

You will forgive us if Traditional Catholics who withstood much more difficult times under Paul VI are skeptical. Basically, what we believe is that Francis IS NOT ENTITLED TO DO what he has just done. And our inexorable growth will eventually force a future pope to do to...

...Francis what Francis THINKS he has done to Benedict: the impossible abolition of something that has refused to die even under the direst of circumstances.

In practical terms, it will mean little in the beginning, but much more in the years ahead. It will probably lead to a considerable strengthening in the long term of the Society of Saint Pius X and its position.

And, to be very clear:

FRANCIS WILL DIE, THE LATIN MASS WILL LIVE FOREVER.