St. Paul, Minnesota has become a focal point for discussions about Catholic traditions and modern adaptations. At the Church of Saint Agnes, Rev. John Ubel recently addressed the congregation, blending historical Catholic practices with allegiance to the Vatican as Pope Leo XIV confronts a significant challenge posed by a traditionalist faction.
Rev. Ubel emphasized in his homilies that faith should be dynamic, allowing a distinction between being rooted in tradition and being immobilized by it. These homilies were delivered during Sunday services in both English and Latin, highlighting the church’s commitment to offering diverse forms of Mass.
“Our Catholic faith is a living tradition,” Rev. Ubel preached, “and there is a difference between being rooted and being stuck.”
This comes in the wake of Pope Leo’s decision to excommunicate the Society of St. Pius X (SSPX), a group opposed to the reforms from the Second Vatican Council. The SSPX’s insistence on the old Latin Mass led to their break with the Church after consecrating bishops without Vatican approval.
While the Latin Mass is not the primary cause of the rift, misconceptions persist about its supporters being overly conservative. Saint Agnes, which is distinct from SSPX, celebrates traditional Latin Mass with approval from the church. The Rev. Ubel urges those devoted to Tradition to remain united with Pope Leo XIV.
Founded for German-speaking immigrants, Saint Agnes remains a vital part of a diverse Minnesota community. The church holds one Latin Mass weekly and also offers a modern version alongside four English services. Rev. Ubel sees the coexistence of these different forms of Mass at Saint Agnes as a model of respect and charity within the Church.
Peter Draganowski, a sophomore at Saint Agnes, prefers serving at Latin services despite the intricate preparations. He finds the elaborate rituals rewarding, stating, “The sacred mysteries deserve that beauty.”
Archbishop Bernard Hebda encourages Catholics previously attending SSPX services to embrace approved Masses, noting that similar traditional liturgies occur at several locations throughout the Archdiocese. He remains optimistic about integrating those who appreciate traditional celebrations.
The Latin Mass presents unique elements: prayers differ, priests face the altar with their backs to the congregation, Communion is given on the tongue, and Roman-style vestments are worn. Stephen Cranney notes that supporters are vocal but few, with approximately 510 Masses celebrated on Sundays nationwide.
Most attendees value its aesthetics, reverence, and historical continuity rather than opposing Vatican reforms, Cranney explains. Yet, the tension persists between accommodating traditional preferences and preventing division.
Pope Benedict XVI supported the Latin Rite in 2007, suggesting its availability where desired. Conversely, Pope Francis imposed restrictions in 2021-23, requiring bishops’ approval for its practice and limiting church usage.
Despite Pope Francis’s concerns that the old Mass caused division, leaked Vatican documents suggest general bishop satisfaction. Pope Leo XIV has recently shown openness by permitting a cardinal to celebrate Latin Mass in St. Peter’s Basilica, seen as encouraging by traditionalists.
The parishioners of Saint Agnes hope to model unity amid the schism. Nell O’Leary Alt, a parish member, appreciates the Latin Mass for its historical connection, attending services with her family that range across liturgical styles.
Tom Graff, involved in choir, values both the ordinary and extraordinary liturgical forms. He stresses that worship should not be seen as hierarchical. “It’s about the holy sacrifice of Mass, regardless of the type of liturgy.”
Ultimately, Rev. Ubel advocates for embracing liturgical diversity as a means of inclusion, a sentiment he believes embodies true Catholic unity.