iMass
It has been just over three years since the Pope issued his 2007 Motu Proprio, Summorum Pontificum, on the celebration of the Roman Rite according to the 1962 Missal, the Tridentine Mass, now more correctly referred to as Mass in the Extraordinary Form (EF).
This document, which has given unprecedented freedom for priests to celebrate the sacred liturgy of the Mass according to this form, is also likely to have great ramifications on liturgy and liturgical formation in the future.
And so, with interest in this ancient form of the Mass steadily growing, particularly among young people, this handy little application, together with its corresponding web site, does much to promote the ‘fully conscious and active participation’ of the lay faithful in the liturgy as envisioned by the Second Vatican Council (Sacrosanctum Concillium #14).
A relatively simple app, iMass contains the Latin text of the 1962 Missal, complete with rubrics and the daily readings as well as the corresponding English translations. The other feature of this app is the ability to watch a recording of the daily Mass being said in the EF by a priest of the Fraternal Society of Saint Peter (FSSP). This is updated daily and is a great way to experience the Mass when you are unable to attend.
Obviously, viewing Mass on your phone or over the internet does not count for your Sunday obligation, but it serves as a great way to unite yourself to the holy sacrifice of the Mass anywhere, any time and the homilies are a wonderful source of formation and encouragement in the spiritual life.
With resources like this being made available, along with the liturgical influence of Pope Benedict XVI, it is likely that awareness and appreciation of the ancient and beautiful liturgy of the Church will continue to grow in local parish communities around the world.
This app comes with a miniscule price tag of $2.49, which is a worthwhile investment for those wishing to learn about and participate fully in the EF Mass.
Ave Maria!