It is true the era of colonization and imperialism during the 1500’s, 1600’s and 1700’s was one that much destruction was done to the oppressed peoples and nations. But that did not negate the many great strides the Church made in terms of evangelization and conversion. Millions upon millions throughout the world were received into the Church. The EF was there to receive them and nurtured them for the next 400-500 years. Many declared saints and martyrs (and countless of souls in Heaven) benefitted from the EF— a Mass offered to them in a language that was not their own. Keep in mind that most of these people were likely poor peasants and formal schooling was not an option for them. But yet, they somehow managed to learn and to follow the EF.
Speaking from my own experience as I myself came from one of the nations that was victimized during the era of colonization and imperialism, my grandmother and other elders often spoke fondly and lovingly of the EF. There was no sense, or sentiments, of disliking or resenting the EF—for it not being offered in our native tongue. In fact, they often spoke of the richness and beauty of the EF. The idea of linking the EF to Western imperial agression is unfounded and false. People were not fools, and they could and did separate imperialism from the evangelization efforts of the Church. Other than the EF, the Church did respect local customs and spoke to the people in ways that they could understand and therefore practice the faith. Keep in mind that after the missionaries left or passed away in the new lands, it was the task of the newly ordained priests, bishops and nuns to carry on the torch. These people were in fact local natives themselves, and taught the faith with respect to local customs which they knew so well.
As time went by many years later, I myself had an opportunity to attend the EF for the first time in my 20’s. I have since learned that my beloved grandmother and the elders were absolutely correct about the EF. It is full of beauty and richness. My soul has truly benefited from it as it had benefited many saints and souls in Heaven.
Human will and belief often surprise us, and move us to achieve things that amaze us. It is a mistake to “dumb” down the Mass (or the Magisterium for that matter) in the hope that, by making things easier for people, it would attract more people. History, however, has taught us otherwise.
