23 hours 32 min (25 CDs / MP3)

“The Mass of All Ages” — this is the expression the Catechism of the Catholic Church uses to teach that though the Mass has changed in many ways, the fundamental elements have “stayed the same” from ancient times “until our own day” (CCC 1345).

But what about the changes that happened after Vatican II (1962-65)? What about the “new order” (Latin Novus Ordo) of Mass promulgated in 1970 by Pope Saint Paul VI in the new Roman Missal? Why did the Church change "the Latin Mass"? In this in-depth study, Dr. Brant Pitre will answer common questions about Vatican II and the Novus Ordo by going back to Scripture, tradition, and the Magisterium. In particular, the class will explore topics such as:


• How We Got the Novus Ordo
• The Popes Who Changed the Mass
• The Popes Who Changed the Mass
• The Jewish Roots of Church Architecture
• Latin and Vernacular Languages
• Facing East and Facing the People
• The New Lectionary
• The New Offertory
• Eucharistic Prayers I, II, III, and IV
• The Sign of Peace
• Communion in the Hand and on the Tongue
• Gregorian Chant and Instrumental Music
• The Future of the Roman Rite


In addition, the course will show how parts of the Order of Mass — the Introductory Rites, Liturgy of the Word, Liturgy of the Eucharist, and Concluding Rites — are rooted in Scripture, tradition, and the writings of Popes, Saints, and Doctors of the Church. Particular emphasis will be placed on unveiling the mystical meaning of the rites and prayers.  So, if you’ve ever wondered — Why did the Church change the Mass after Vatican II? And is it still the same Mass? — then this study is for you. As we will see, when the new Roman Missal is explained in light of Scripture and tradition, we will understand what Pope Benedict XVI meant when he referred to “the spiritual richness and theological depth” of this Missal. We will also see how the Novus Ordo is rooted in the living tradition of “all ages” — ancient, medieval, and modern — right up to our own day.