We Catholics have such a rich Liturgical Tradition. The Roman Catholic Rite with its simplicity and beauty allows us to worship the Father, through the Son and in the Holy Spirit! As you may know, to further enhance our celebration of the beauty and spirituality of the Mass at St. Joseph’s, we have incorporated in the last several years some appropriate Latin sacred music/chant into the liturgical life of the parish, most especially during the Sundays of Lent. The 2nd Vatican Council’s Constitution on the Sacred Liturgy- “Sacrosanctum Concilium” which deals with the liturgical reform of the Catholic Church today states the following: “Use of the Latin language is to be preserved in the Latin Rites” “Care must be taken to ensure that the faithful may be also be able to say or sing together in Latin those parts of the Ordinary of the Mass which pertain to them. “The Church recognizes Gregorian Chant as being especially suited to the Roman Liturgy...it should be given pride of place in the liturgical services”. Please note that these quotes are not pre-Vatican II directives but current Vatican II statements. I believe, as many of you, that preserving some of the rich sacred music while keeping faithful to the liturgical reforms of the 2nd Vatican Council has been a positive reform in the life of the Church. Since Holy Mother Church allows Mass celebration options, our individual preferences should not be a reflection of one’s own personal preferences or style but exhibit an openness and respect for all permitted forms. Hopefully, we can all pray together and fully recognize the richness of some of our liturgical traditions and practices along with our current options which are included in the current Sacrosanctum Concilium document of Vatican II. You may recall several months ago a “Healing Mass” in October and a “Latin Requiem Mass” in November. Two very different styles of worship. However, both permitted by the Church. As Pastor, I am charged with leading the liturgical life of the parish here at St. Joseph’s. A charge that I take very seriously by virtue of my Ordination and as your Pastor. Further, the decisions which I always make, liturgical or otherwise, are done with much prayer and deliberation with the best interests of the People of God in mind. I believe that the few but significant Latin language/music modifications which we have instituted are not a “return to the past”, as a few may suggest, but rather worship changes in the best interest of all of us to grow spiritually and closer to our Savior. It is a blessing and privilege to serve this wonderful community of St. Joseph’s. I look forward to many more years of service to you God’s people. Please pray for me as I pray for you. In Christ, Fr. Lagiovane