Traditionis custodes Altering the Tridentine Mass

Traditionis custodes is a motu proprio issued by Pope Francis that altered the landscape of the Traditional Latin Mass, also known as the Tridentine Mass. This document reversed the earlier provisions established by Pope Benedict XVI in Summorum Pontificum, which had facilitated broader access to the Latin Mass. Under Traditionis custodes, the authority to permit or restrict the Latin Mass was returned to individual bishops, allowing them to decide its availability within their dioceses. Additionally, newly ordained priests are now required to seek permission before celebrating the Traditional Latin Mass, a shift that has raised concerns among some clergy and laity who view it as a limitation on liturgical freedom. The changes were implemented rapidly, leading to significant debate within the Church regarding the balance between tradition and contemporary practice.