We had our first of four evenings on the new translation of the Mass last night; 22 people attended. We watched a series of video clips from the resources provided by the bishops.
In particular we looked at the historical development of the Mass and the background to the first translation into English in the 'Sixties. It followed the technique devised by the scholar Eugene Nida and known as 'dynamic equivalence'. However, it seems he really intended this technique for Scriptual translation and since the whole process was rushed through in those heady days, we were left with a slightly dumbed-down version of the Mass.
Following the latest version of the Roman Missal, the Church was given clearer guidelines for translation in 2001. This has resulted in the more 'formal equivalence' version that we will begin using shortly. The language will be a little more formal - it will be more consciously addressed to God and therefore appear more sacral in tone; the scriptural allusions will be more pronounced and the theological significance of the prayers will be richer for being more clearly and accurately articulated.
It will be a challenge for all of us getting used to some of the texts (others have barely changed). Everyone in the parish will shortly be issued with a booklet and there will be Mass cards for all. However, as Pope Benedict told us last year, it is going to a real moment of grace for us all. If some older priests across the waters are unsure about it all, it has to be said that there are many priests in this country who are looking forward to it with great hope.
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