Father Roberto Spataro's Insights on Liturgical Tradition

Welcome to Cantus, the podcast hosted by Aurelio Porfiri, dedicated to the beauty of liturgy and sacred music. This series delves into the rich traditions, profound meanings, and heavenly harmonies that elevate the spirit and deepen the connection to the divine. This episode features a dialogue with Father Roberto Spataro, a distinguished Salesian priest and renowned Latinist. Father Spataro's expertise is rooted in his affiliation with the Pontifical Academy for Latin and the Academy Latinitati Fovendae. He is also an accomplished author, with numerous books primarily in Italian, including Latino, una lingua immortale (Latin, an Immortal Language), which commemorates the 60th anniversary of John XXIII's Veterum Sapientia.
In this episode, Father Spataro shares his perspectives on the Latin Mass, particularly in the context of recent discussions about potential restrictions. He contends that opposition to the Latin Mass often reflects a broader rejection of Church tradition. He highlights that this resistance is frequently driven by emotional reactions rather than reason. According to Father Spataro, many older priests resist the traditional Mass due to their long-standing commitment to the liturgical reforms of the 1960s. In contrast, younger priests and faithful increasingly appreciate the spiritual depth and richness of the Latin liturgy.
Despite rumors of impending restrictions, Father Spataro remains optimistic. He believes the divine nature of the Latin Mass will overcome any obstacles. Drawing on historical examples, he compares this resilience to the enduring faith seen in countries that have faced severe persecution. Father Spataro also addresses the critical importance of proper priestly formation, emphasizing the need for a strong spiritual foundation in seminary education and the role of tradition in nurturing an authentic and profound faith.
To conclude the episode, Father Spataro addresses the listeners in Latin, wishing them well and expressing his hope that they will continue to appreciate the rich heritage of the Latin language. This episode of Cantus promises to be a compelling exploration of tradition, faith, and the timeless beauty of the Latin liturgy.
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