Supporters of the traditional Latin Mass say they’re cautiously hopeful after signs the Vatican may ease restrictions.
Latin Mass Society chairman Joseph Shaw told OSV News that bishops in England and Wales were recently informed they could receive renewable two-year permissions to celebrate the older liturgy – a notable shift in practice, even though Pope Francis’ 2021 limits technically remain in place.
Shaw said tensions around the issue have been milder in Britain than in the US, but noted many young Catholics continue traveling long distances for traditional liturgies, music events, and catechesis.
Society trustee Sarah Ward said that growth should prompt church leaders to listen: “It seems crazy not to.”
The Vatican later expressed regret that news of the possible permissions leaked, but Shaw reported a “better atmosphere” in Rome, and supporters say Pope Leo XIV’s recent openness to dialogue could help rebuild trust after several difficult years.
He said he was counting on Pope Leo to assess Latin Mass was “not just a necessary evil, but a positive part of the church’s life.”
