Changing words of the mass

[Jaberwocky]

Hello,

There was a visiting priest in our parish last Sunday and I noticed that he changed most of the words in the mass. I was wondering what parts of the mass constitute as fixed prayers and the priest cannot change.

To give you an example of what I am asking, the priest said during the Eucharistic prayer

“Be pleased to confirm in faith and charity your pilgrim Church on earth, with your servant …,the order of Bishops and all the men and women who work for the gospel…”

instead of the word “Clergy”.

I only remember this exactly because its what really bugged me. I apologize if this is being nit picky but the entire mass seemed different and most faithful did not even reply at the right moments because the wording was completely different.

 

[Avila123]

It seems odd to me. I thought that the Priests were supposed to stick to the words except if we are between Bishops or Popes. I suggest that if the opportunity arises, you could ask the Priest saying that you are a bit confused because you thought he said “…” instead of “all clergy”.

 

[Jaberwocky]

It seems odd to me. I thought that the Priests were supposed to stick to the words except if we are between Bishops or Popes. I suggest that if the opportunity arises, you could ask the Priest saying that you are a bit confused because you thought he said “…” instead of “all clergy”.

True. I will try that this Sunday

I wanted to do that last Sunday but was a bit afraid that I might come across as being fussy and I didn’t want to if there was no actual reason.

 

[Cavaille-Coll]

The Eucharistic Prayers cannot be changed in any way.

 

[m134e5]

“Be pleased to confirm in faith and charity your pilgrim Church on earth, with your servant …,the order of Bishops and all the men and women who work for the gospel…”

instead of the word “Clergy”.

He’s not supposed to do that, and that sort of anti-clerical attitude is a problem in some circles in the Church today. Let your pastor know about it.

I only remember this exactly because its what really bugged me. I apologize if this is being nit picky but the entire mass seemed different and most faithful did not even reply at the right moments because the wording was completely different.

You’re not being nit-picky at all. The Mass is our greatest treasure and it is no individual priest or bishop’s place to try and repackage it in their own way to suit their own personal “vision” for the Church.