Monday, October 31, 2011

Latin Mass makes popular return

The Latin Mass - which was largely abandoned by Catholics during the 1960s - is back by popular demand in Londonderry, it has emerged. 

Bishop of Derry Seamus Hegarty has sanctioned a monthly Tridentine Mass in Latin at the Bogside's Long Tower Church.

The Mass will be reintroduced after Pope Benedict XVI announced churches would now have the option to bring it back.

The first Latin Mass will take place next month.

Rev Roland Colhoun from the Glendermott Parish said St Columba's Church, Long Tower, was chosen for the ancient rite as it has retained its original altars and all of its ornate features.

"The Mass will take place on the first Sunday of the month, every month, at 2pm," he said.