Commentators and the new translation of the mass

[annalenore]

With Advent and the new translation for mass our priest has enlisted the help of a “commentator” basically, having “commercial breaks” during the sacred liturgy; these are very distracting. Where is this authorized by the Vatican?

 

[YoungTradCath]

It isn’t. However, technically a priest (I find it very disheartening when it happens) can stop in mass and explain things, but not a layperson, nor a deacon. I personally feel patronized when someone feels the need to do something like that.

 

[FLGreg]

With Advent and the new translation for mass our priest has enlisted the help of a “commentator” basically, having “commercial breaks” during the sacred liturgy; these are very distracting. Where is this authorized by the Vatican?

Contrary to what the previous poster wrote, it IS in the GIRM:

vatican.va/roman_curia/congregations/ccdds/documents/rc_con_ccdds_doc_20030317_ordinamento-messale_en.html#III._PARTICULAR_MINISTRIES

Scroll down to 105: The following also exercise a liturgical function:

b. The commentator, who provides the faithful, when appropriate, with brief explanations and commentaries with the purpose of introducing them to the celebration and preparing them to understand it better. The commentator’s remarks must be meticulously prepared and clear though brief. In performing this function the commentator stands in an appropriate place facing the faithful, but not at the ambo.