Why is the Mass celebrated in Latin?
Latin was (and still is) the official language of the Western Church since at least the fourth century, if not earlier. It has the following benefits: • It avoids the constant need to revise the liturgy to keep pace with evolution of modern languages; • It has become associated with the exalted purpose of the worship of God; • Use of Latin in all countries and across the centuries is a powerful symbol of the Church’s unity; • The Latin liturgy has nourished thousands of Saints and countless members of the Faithful; • The use of Latin enables the continued use of the traditional music of the Church; • It has been praised and defended by many Popes throughout the ages; • As international travel becomes increasingly possible, all Catholics can take an active part in the Church’s liturgy, anywhere in the world.
