1962 Missal Sales Rise as Motu Proprio Expected Soon

4-April-2007 -- Catholic World News Brief

1962 Missal Sales Rise as Motu Proprio Expected Soon
Rome, Apr. 4, 2007 (CWNews.com) - Italian media outlets are once again reporting that a papal document liberalizing the use of the Mass of St. Pius V could be released during the Easter season.

Reports of the imminent release of a motu proprio allowing all Catholic priests to use the Tridentine rite have been circulating in Rome for a full year. The rumors have intensified recently, however, and this week saw the Vatican Secretary of State confirm that the document is close to publication. Cardinal Tarcisio Bertone told the French publication Le Figaro that the Pope is prepared to take action soon-- although he did not give a date.

In expectation of the motu proprio, Catholic bookstores in Rome have begun selling copies of the 1962 Missal. Expecting brisk sales, publishing houses in Italy are reprinting the old Missal.