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FrDavid96
Guest
OK. I can see how it might be.
The point is that there is a set of universal norms that apply to the whole world (for the Ordinary Form of the Latin Rite). Those are what we see in the “typical” edition–meaning the Roman Missal printed in Latin. This edition is the “standard” on which all the vernacular language missals are based.
Following the teachings of Vatican II, each country (or sometimes group of countries who share a language and have similar culture) has a conference of bishops (you know this, but it’s necessary to say it to setup the explanation); and the role of each bishops conference is to propose adaptations to the Roman Missal for use in its own territory. They aren’t required to consider changes, rather they are invited to do so. The idea is that because different cultures see things different ways, there may be legitimate reasons for why the Mass should be celebrated just-a-little-bit differently in any given country. The bishops decide on a change. They propose this change to Rome. If Rome approves, then the changes become liturgical law for that country.
Sometimes the changes are along-side what’s in the universal version (the typical edition). An example of this is vestments for a funeral. The universal color is black. In the US permission has been given that white may be used as an option. So either black or white is within the norms–both universal and particular.
Other times, the changes for a country are very different from what’s in the typical edition. In that case, only the changes apply. The universal norm (even though it is still “universal”) does not apply for that country. Only the adaptation can be done. Keep in mind, this has to have the prior approval of Rome. Unfortunately, I can’t think of a good example here, so let’s go with kneeling for Communion since that’s the topic at hand. The universal norm says “kneeling” but the norm for the US says “standing” and they meant (note the past tense) “standing only.” So in the US (again, past tense) the adapted-and-approved norm took precedence over the universal norm of kneeling.
The bottom line is that when one uses the phrase “universal norm” it doesn’t necessarily mean that “the norm is universal.” Most of the time it does, sometimes it doesn’t. The important point to keep in mind is that all of these national adaptations have been approved by the Holy See, so even if one might not “like” something, they’re legitimate and binding on everyone in that territory. It all depends upon how the adaptation was approved. Was it approved as an option? (like white vestments) or was it approved as a requirement? If Rome approved the adaptation in such a way that it is required, then that’s the liturgical law/norm for that territory, even if it does contradict the universal norm.