Showing posts with label Romanitas Press. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Romanitas Press. Show all posts
Sunday, January 26, 2014
Serving Notes for Candlemas in the Traditional Mass

Image Source: AllSaints.net

For those of us praying the Divine Office and attending frequent Mass, we recognize the importance of the Feast of Candlemas.  The spiritual focus of the season of Epiphanytide through Candlemas is essentially a continuation of Christmas and contemplation of the Divine Childhood. After Candlemas (February 2nd), the celebration of events of His young life gives way to a focus on His adult life.

The Feast of Candlemas, exactly 40 days after Christmas, commemorates Mary's obedience to the Mosaic law by submitting herself to the Temple for the ritual purification, as commanded in Leviticus.

The Feast of the Purification, is called Candlemas for the traditional blessing and distribution of candles on that day.  It is customary to bring candles from home to be blessed -- at least 51% beeswax candles that one uses for devotional purposes (candles for the family altar, Advent candles, etc.) -- so they can be lit after dusk on All Saints' Day (1 November), during the Sacrament of Unction, and during storms and times of trouble.  Nowadays, though, for those few parishes continuing this ancient observance, the parish will provide the candles.

Mass on Candlemas is typically preceded by a procession with the lighted candles and the singing of anthems. The lighted candles are held during the reading of the Gospel and from the beginning of the Canon of the Mass to Communion.

Romanitas Press has put together these Ceremonial Guides for the Feast of Candlemas in PDFs. See here.
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Saturday, October 19, 2013
Ceremonial Notes: High Mass for Christ the King


The last Sunday of October is the traditional observance of the Feast of Christ the King, and provided here are some ceremonial notes and rubrics article related to the Eucharistic Procession commonly held to honor the Kingship of Our Lord Jesus Christ, per omnia saecula saeculorum.

Click here to read their ceremonial notes.
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Saturday, June 1, 2013
Corpus Christi Serving Notes

The Corpus Christi procession in the south-eastern town of Przemysl. Photo: PAP/Darek Delmanowicz

With the External Solemnity of Corpus Christi tomorrow, I'm pleased that our friends over at Romanitas Press have put together serving notes for those saying the Traditional Latin Mass for Corpus Christi.  Pass these documents along to any sacristans, servers, or priests that you think may benefit from this. Click here to read their ceremonial notes.

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Tuesday, February 19, 2013
How to Clean a Thurible


Note: This is the beginning of an article written by Louis Tofari of Romanitas Press.  Romanitas Press has published several fantastic items which I have recommended previously (see the reviews).  I wanted to again recommend this publisher.
An easy way to remove the gummy incense resin build-up from a thurible is to soak it in carburetor cleaner,[2] a degreasing solvent that can be obtained from any auto parts store. I recommend the 1-gallon can of carburetor cleaner that includes a submersible parts tray. The parts tray is handy for soaking the chains and other smaller parts (should you decide to take the thurible apart), while the height of the 1-gallon can allows for submerging most thuribles (should you prefer not to take it apart). For taller thuribles, a 5-gallon can is also available.

Carburetor cleaner is safe for thuribles made of solid brass, stainless steel, copper or silver. It is also safe for some plating finishes, such as nickel and silver - though I suggest testing an inconspicuous spot first on a gilded thurible (particularly of gold), before immersing the entire thurible or applying solvent on it. Mineral spirits and rubbing alcohol are also good degreasing alternatives.

Continue Reading...
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Tuesday, May 8, 2012
How to Altar Serve a Traditional Latin Mass: Comprehensive Resource List

As an altar server myself, I have long wanted to put together a Comprehensive List of Resources for young men wishing to serve the Tridentine Latin Mass.  And here is my attempt at such a list.  Please leave additional suggestions in the comment box.


This list, importantly, includes cards, DVDs, and books.  Thus, it is meant to provide a comprehensive list of resources for all learners.

1. How to Serve Low Mass and Benediction by Rev. William A. O'Brien

Personally, this is the resource I used to learn to serve.  It is inexpensive and easy to use.  In fact, I kept it with me to study when I had downtime.  Highly recommended.

Assist at the Sacred Mysteries with precision. Pictures of the sacristy, sanctuary, sacred vessels, and vestments. Teaches the necessary Latin (with pronunciation guide) and the movements and responses for serving Low Mass according to the 1962 Roman Missal, Requiem Mass, Mass in the presence of the Blessed Sacrament exposed, Low Mass with 2 servers, and Benediction.

2. Letters to an Altar Boy by Fr. David E. Rosage

This is a book of letters for all altar boys who, from the smallest one up, are the most important people in their parishes. God's Minutemen is what the author affectionately calls them, for he knows that they are always ready for duty as altar boys, no matter what the personal cost. The author writes this book with the hope that in these letters all acolytes may find encouragement to continue being loyal and faithful in their service of our Lord. Father Rosage shows them that while serving Mass is the greatest honor and the biggest job in the parish, it does demand sacrifice. He knows that being on call for duty isn't always easy, and he aims at convincing the boys who have to get up on cold winter mornings to serve early Mass of the great privilege that is theirs.

Written in an easy flowing style intelligible to even the very young boys, the book is full of helpful pointers about the correct manner of serving, the necessity of being on time, and many other details on which a boy may slip. It offers inspiration and high motivation for living up to the ideals that a Mass server is committed to follow. An extremely practical book, it leaves not one phase of the altar boy's life untouched. . .120 pp. Softcover. Color photographs.

3. How To Serve - In Simple, Solemn and Pontifical Functions by Dom Matthew Britt 

Every altar server of the Traditional Latin Mass needs a well-worn copy of HOW TO SERVE by Dom Matthew Britt. This classic handbook by a master teacher presents a wealth of practical instruction on what to do in the sanctuary and how to do it well. Dom Britt was probably the greatest authority on serving Mass, and this book, though originally published in 1934, is still the best book of its kind.

This edition has been re-typeset in a beautiful user-friendly format featuring new photos taken at St. John Cantius parish in Chicago. In 18 chapters the author walks the server step by step through Low Mass with one or two servers, Nuptial Low Mass, High Mass (Missa Cantata), Solemn High Mass, Requiem High Mass, Pontifical High Mass, Benediction and Vespers of varying levels of solemnity. He tells how many servers should be in the sanctuary, which servers (acolytes, thurifer, book-bearer, etc.), what those servers should do and when they should do it.

Dom Britt cover vesture, postures, positions, genuflections, bows, steps, bells, candles, cruets, books, the thurible, the censer and more, also explaining the details of assisting the various ministers of the altar priests, deacons, bishop. Photos illustrate specific actions, and diagrams show the sanctuary positions of acolytes, thurifer, master of ceremonies, etc. Also included are the Latin responses at Mass. Plus, the author shares the sources of his immense knowledge in extremely interesting footnotes.

HOW TO SERVE will become an indispensable resource for priests and for all Latin Mass servers as they carry out the sacred functions of the sanctuary.

4. Romanitas Press Altar Server Card

In the past, I have mentioned Romanitas Press, and I wish to again mention their products.  The company offers a highly practical SERVERS' MASS RESPONSE CARD which is explained below 

AN EASY-TO-USE training guide for teaching the proper liturgical pronunciation of the Latin responses made by the altar server at Mass.

The card's exterior partitions contain the Latin responses with their corresponding English phonetic renderings per the more romano (like the Romans) liturgical pronunciation as endorsed by Popes St. Pius X, Benedict XV, and Pius XI.

Also included are expanded rubrical instructions for the liturgical gestures and reverences made in connection with the responses, and the responses made when serving for a bishop. The layout of the exterior partitions was carefully arranged to allow card’s use at the altar if necessary.

The card’s inside partitions contain helpful explanations and basic rules about making the responses, more romano pronunciation, a list of common pronunciation mistakes made by English-speakers, and even several informative and authoritative footnotes.
Red and black text was printed on heavy matte paper stock (to keep the card stiff when being held), then coated with a matte varnish to increase the anti-glare property and protect the card from moisture and frequent use.

Measures folded at 11 14/16" x 4¼" (folds out completely to 17” wide).
Read more >>
Saturday, March 24, 2012
Ceremonial Notes for Holy Week Liturgies for Servers


Our friends over at Romanitas Press have again put together serving notes for those saying the Traditional Latin Mass for Holy Week.  Pass these documents along to any sacristans, servers, or priests that you think may benefit from this. Do note however these are for the 1962 Missal and are not for the pre-1955 Holy Week that is the more traditional Holy Week Liturgy.

Click here to read their ceremonial notes.
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Saturday, February 18, 2012
Ceremonial Notes for Ash Wednesday


Fasting of St. Charles Borromeo

With Ash Wednesday nearly here, I'm pleased that our friends over at Romanitas Press have put together serving notes for those saying the Traditional Latin Mass for Ash Wednesday.  Pass these documents along to any sacristans, servers, or priests that you think may benefit from this.

Click here to see their ceremonial notes.

You can see my post on the Rules of Abstinence & Fasting for Ash Wednesday as well as the Mass Propers by clicking here.
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Sunday, January 29, 2012
Ceremonial Notes for Candlemas

Image Source: AllSaints.net

For those of us praying the Divine Office and attending frequent Mass, we recognize the importance of the Feast of Candlemas.  The spiritual focus of the season of Epiphanytide through Candlemas is essentially a continuation of Christmas and contemplation of the Divine Childhood. After Candlemas (February 2nd), the celebration of events of His young life gives way to a focus on His adult life.

The Feast of Candlemas, exactly 40 days after Christmas, commemorates Mary's obedience to the Mosaic law by submitting herself to the Temple for the ritual purification, as commanded in Leviticus.

The Feast of the Purification, is called Candlemas for the traditional blessing and distribution of candles on that day.  It is customary to bring candles from home to be blessed -- at least 51% beeswax candles that one uses for devotional purposes (candles for the family altar, Advent candles, etc.) -- so they can be lit after dusk on All Saints' Day (1 November), during the Sacrament of Unction, and during storms and times of trouble.  Nowadays, though, for those few parishes continuing this ancient observance, the parish will provide the candles.

Mass on Candlemas is typically preceded by a procession with the lighted candles and the singing of anthems. The lighted candles are held during the reading of the Gospel and from the beginning of the Canon of the Mass to Communion.

Romanitas Press has put together these Ceremonial Guides for the Feast of Candlemas in PDFs. See here.
Read more >>
Tuesday, January 3, 2012
Book Review: The Liturgical Altar by Geoffrey Web


"For very many this book of Mr. Geoffrey Webb’s will be a Godsend.” So penned Fr. Bede Jarrett, OP in the foreword of this invaluable title.

This brief, but comprehensive work presents a supernatural approach to understanding the center of Catholic life, the altar.

Considered by many to be “the bible” on the subject of the altar, this book covers its historical development, form, symbolism, and vesting. It also addresses the appointments of the altar, such as the cross, candles, use of flowers and reliquaries.

Romanitas Press has again reproduced an outstanding and necessary aid for those seeking proper Liturgical worship.  Geoffrey Web's "The Liturgical Altar" is such a treasure that is is almost unfathomable that such a guide was out of print for so long.  This book is needed by all sacristans and should be on the Catholic bookshelves of all Catholics that want a deeper devotion and understanding of the Sacred Altar.  Since it is on the Altar that Heaven and Earth meet as bread and wine truly become the Body, Blood, Soul, and Divinity of Christ, there is no greater earthly object in existence than the altar.  Proper care - even the utmost care - must be given to ensure that the altar is treated, decorated, and cared for as it should.  Even lifelong Catholics will learn from this guide!

The forward has a powerful statement in it as it states, "I think it is important that the reader be made aware why the book's author, Mr. Webb, gives credence in his account of the development of the altar to a historical misconception, that Mass was once celebrated facing the people."  The foreword continues: "This erroneous conception innocently originated from some archaeologists who unaware of certain historical proofs to the contrary and seemingly with substantial proofs, promoted this misconception as fact...More recent research, however, has uncovered several unknown facts and crucial points of context, which have conclusively proven that the notion of "Mass facing the people" in the early centuries of the Church is a historical fallacy."

The Liturgical Altar is indeed an incredible book and much needed today for the restoration of Catholic Tradition.  You may purchase this text from Romanitas Press.
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Wednesday, September 22, 2010
THE GENERAL PRINCIPLES OF CEREMONIES OF THE ROMAN RITE

Romanitas Press has another great item in its inventory, this one concerning the General Principles of Ceremonies of the Roman Rite for inferior ministers.
This 92-page softcover book covers the general principles of the Roman Rite, the foundation of all rubrics. This abridged edition treats specifically of the principles that affect the inferior ministers (altar servers) when fulfilled by laymen. Though the serving of the ceremonies by laymen is done virtually the same as by clerics, there are some minor exceptions (e.g., wearing the biretta or receiving and giving the Pax) which were omitted from this edition.

To facilitate the explanations on the general principles, 18 pictures, 2 expository tables and 11 diagrams have been included, while 183 footnotes provide valuable sources of authority, further explanations and various tips. Other features include a table of contents and two glossaries of terms (sanctuary-related and rubrically-related) used within the book.
Printed in easy-to-read text, this 5½" x 8½" booklet is packed with essential knowledge for any Catholic interested in better understanding the ceremonial intricacies of the ancient Roman Rite, but especially for master of ceremonies, adult servers (ages 12 and up) and clerics (even priests).

This booklet is a prelude to an upcoming comprehensive edition that will include even more information regarding incensations, matters that affect clerics who fulfill the various offices of inferior ministers, general principles for sacred ministers and some general items about pontifical ceremonies.
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Wednesday, September 15, 2010
Server's Mass Response Card: A Guide for the Proper Pronunciation of the Latin Responses

In the past I have mentioned Romanitas Press, and I wish to again mention their products.  The company offers a highly practical SERVERS' MASS RESPONSE CARD which is explained below 

AN EASY-TO-USE training guide for teaching the proper liturgical pronunciation of the Latin responses made by the altar server at Mass.

The card's exterior partitions contain the Latin responses with their corresponding English phonetic renderings per the more romano (like the Romans) liturgical pronunciation as endorsed by Popes St. Pius X, Benedict XV, and Pius XI.

Also included are expanded rubrical instructions for the liturgical gestures and reverences made in connection with the responses, and the responses made when serving for a bishop. The layout of the exterior partitions was carefully arranged to allow card’s use at the altar if necessary.

The card’s inside partitions contain helpful explanations and basic rules about making the responses, more romano pronunciation, a list of common pronunciation mistakes made by English-speakers, and even several informative and authoritative footnotes.
Red and black text was printed on heavy matte paper stock (to keep the card stiff when being held), then coated with a matte varnish to increase the anti-glare property and protect the card from moisture and frequent use.

Measures folded at 11 14/16" x 4¼" (folds out completely to 17” wide).
Read more >>
Saturday, September 4, 2010
Candles in the Roman Rite by Rev. Edwin Ryan, D.D., Reprinted by Romanitas Press

Romanitas Press has successfully republished this classic text of Reverend Edwin Ryan on Candles in the Roman Rite. Description and Photos of this product follow.
CANDLES IN THE ROMAN RITE
Rev. Edwin Ryan, D.D.
3rd edition; 1937

IN the Catholic Faith, candles not only represent “the True Light Which enlightens every man who comes into the world” but much more besides! Discover the rich symbolism and ancient history surrounding the use of church candles in this fascinating, illustrated book. Educate yourself about the rules and practices concerning candles in the Roman Rite through chapters that cover Masses offered by a priest or bishop, a sick call, the Divine Office and even when administering the other Sacraments or for other solemn occasions.

Last published in 1937 and simply written by noted American professor of liturgy, Fr. Edwin Ryan, this large format 36-page book (originally intended as an advertising medium for the now defunct Gross Candle Co.) is also unique and interesting for its wonderful illustrations.

Created especially for this book by artists, Terence J. Hughes and James R. Howard, the illustrations are a combination of vivid watercolors and striking black and white line drawings of altars decorated with candles according to rules of the Roman Church. The illustrations are even more interesting for showing properly constructed altars decorated with a full array of flowers (in the Roman fashion), antependiums, conopaeums, pavement candles, candelabra, and even riddel post curtains and candles.

Perfect for any Catholic (cleric or laic) who wishes to learn more about the traditional Latin Mass. Especially appropriate for sacristans, altar servers, church artisans, ladies’ altar guilds and parish florists. Also a great reference for seminaries, catechism classes, and Catholic libraries.

BOOK REVIEW

Yet another fine reprint from Romanitas Press, this book does not fail either in quality of content or quality of stock. It was originally published by the advertising department of the A. Gross Candle Co., Inc. of Baltimore, Maryland. Romanitas Press has done it again by finding this rare but important work and making it available.

Upon reading the book, one finds out how much they do not know about the use of candles in the Roman Rite. So many of us have been to Mass how many thousands times, always noticing the lit candles on the altar but never putting much thought into why the candles are there and what they symbolize.

Candles gives you the "how" (the rubrics) and the "why" (this history and symbolism) of the use of candles. A nugget of teaching from the book: "The custom of making church candles from beeswax was suggested from the then supposed virginity of bees, their wax being taken as a symbol of the Body of the Redeemer derived from His Virgin Mother, an interpretation which retains its beauty even though the biological concept underlying it has been long since rejected."
Anyone with an interest in the rituals of the Catholic Church will find Candles in the Roman Rite to be a fine addition to their liturgical library. Review by www.churchlatin.com
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