Instruction of the Sacred Congregation of Rites, Sep. 26, 1964 : and Sacram Liturgiam, Motu proprio,


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SACRED CONGREGATION
OF RITES

FOR THE PROPER

IMPLEMENTATION

OF THE

CONSTITUTION ON THE

September i6, 1964

NATIONAL CATHOLIC WELFARE CONFERENCE



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OF RITES

September 26, 1964

Motu Proprio

POPE PAUL VI

National Catholic Welfare Conference
1312 Massachusetts Avenue, N. W. • Washington, D. C. 20005



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SACRED CONGREGATION OF RITES

INSTRUCTION

FOR THE PROPER IMPLEMENTATION

OF THE

CONSTITUTION ON THE SACRED LITURGY

INTRODUCTION

I. "Nature of this Instruction

1. The Constitution on the Sacred Liturgy is deserved-
ly counted among the first fruits of the Second Ecumenical
Vatican Council, since it governs the most excellent part of
the Church’s activity. It wiU bear more abundant fruit
the more profoundly the pastors and the faithful of Christ
perceive its genuine spirit and put it into practice with
good will.

2. The Commission for the Implementation of the Con-
stitution on the Sacred Liturgy, established by the Supreme
Pontiff, Paul VI, in the apostolic letter Sacram Liturgiam
has already speedily undertaken the task entrusted to it,
to bring the directives of the Constitution and of the apos-
tolic letter to a proper fulfillment £ind to provide for the
interpretation and execution of these documents.

3. It is of the greatest importance that the documents,
from the very beginning, should be properly applied every-
where, with doubts, if there are any, concerning their inter-
pretation being removed. Therefore, the Commission, by
mandate of the Supreme Pontiff, has prepared this Instruc-
tion, in which the functions of the boies of bishops in

3



liturgical matters are more clearly defined, some principles
given in general words in the above-mentioned documents
are explained more precisely, and finally some matters,
which can be put into practice now, before the restoration
of the liturgical books, are allowed or required.

I/. Some principles to he noted

4. What is now defined as to be put into practice has
the purpose of making the liturgy correspond Edways more
perfectly to the mind of the Council concerning the pro-
motion of active participation of the faithful.

The general reform of the sacred liturgy, moreover,
will be accepted more readily by the faithful if it proceeds
gradually and by stages and if the reform is proposed to
the faithful and explained to them by the pastors by mecins
of the required catechesis.

5. Nevertheless, it is necessary first that all be per-
suaded of the intention of the Constitution on the Sacred
Liturgy of the Second Vatican Council : not only to change
liturgical forms and texts, but rather to stir up that forma-
tion of the faithful and pastoral activity which has the
sacred liturgy as summit and fount (Cf. Constitution,
Article 10). The changes thus far introduced and to be
introduced into the sacred liturgy in the future are directed

toward this end.

6. The power of pastoral-liturgical activity rests in
this, that the Christian life may express the paschal mys-
tery in which the Son of God, incarnate and made obedient
even to the death of the cross, is so exalted in His resur-
rection and ascension that He may share His divine life
with the world. By this life men, dead to sin and con-
formed to Christ, “may live no longer for themselves but
for Him who died for them and rose again” (2 Cor. 5:15).

This is done through faith and through the sacraments
of faith, that is, chiefiy through baptism (Cf. Constitution,
Article 6) and the most sacred mystery of the Eucharist
((I)f. Constitution, Article 47). Around the Eucharist are
ranged the other sacraments and the sacramenteds (Cf.

4



Constitution, Article 61) and the cycle of celebrations by
which the paschal mystery of Christ is unfolded in the
Church during the course of the year (Cf. Constitution,
Articles 102-107).

7. Therefore, even if the liturgy does not exhaust the

entire action of the Church (Cf. Constitution, Article 9),
nevertheless the greatest attention must be paid to the
necessary connection between pastoral works and the sacred
liturgy, so that pastoral-liturgical action is not exercised

as if separate and abstract, but as intimately joined to
other pastoral activities.

It is especially necessary that there be a close union
between the liturgy and catechesis, religious formation, eind
preaching.

III. Fruits to be hoped for

8. Thus, the bishops and their assistants in the priest-
hood should relate their entire pastoral ministry ever more
closely to the liturgy. In this way the faithful may derive
the divine life in abundance from the perfect participation
in the sacred celebrations and, made the ferment of Christ
and the salt of the earth, will proclaim the divine life and
communicate it to others.

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CHAPTER I

Some General Norms

/. Application of these norms

9. The practical norms, found in the Constitution or
in this Instruction, and whatever is permitted or determined
now by this Instruction before the restoration of the litur-
gical books, even if they pertain to the Roman rite alone,
may nevertheless be applied to the other Latin rites, the
provisions of law being observed.

10. Those matters which are entrusted to the com-
petent territorial ecclesiastical authority in this Instruc-

tion may and should be put into effect by that authority
alone through legitimate decrees.

In individual cases, the time and the circumstances in
which these decrees will take effect shall be defined, always
with a reasonable interval of time for the faithful to be
instructed and prepared for their observance.

II. Liturgical formation of clerics (Constitution, Articles
15-16 and 18)

11. With regard to the liturgical formation of clerics:

a) In theological faculties there shall be a chair
of liturgy, so that all the students may receive the neces-
sary liturgical instruction; in seminaries and in the houses
of studies of religious, local ordinaries and major superiors
shall see to it that as soon as possible there be a special and
properly prepared teacher of liturgy.

b) Professors who are appointed to teach sacred
liturgy shall be prepared as soon as possible, in accordance
with the norm of Article 15 of the (Zlonstitution.

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c) For the further liturgical instruction of clerics,
particularly of those who are already working in the Lord’s
vineyard, pastoral-liturgical institutes shall be established
where possible.

12. The liturgy shall be taught for a suitable period
of time, to be indicated in the curriculum of studies by the
competent authority, and according to an appropriate meth-
od in accordance with the norm of Article 16 of the Con-
stitution.

13. Liturgical services shall be celebrated as perfectly
as possible. Therefore:

a) The directions shall be carefully observed and
the ceremonies performed with dignity, under the diligent
vigilance of the seminary directors, with the necessary prep-
arations beforehand.

b) Clerics shall frequently fulfill the liturgical

functions of their order, that is, of deacon, subdeacon,

acolyte, lector, and, in addition, of commentator and cantor.

c) The churches and oratories, the sacred fur-
nishings in general, and sacred vestments shall afford an
example of genuine Christian art, including contemporary
art.

Ill, Liturgical formation of the spiritual life of clerics
(Constitution, Article 17)

14.

In order that clerics may be formed for the full
participation in liturgical celebrations and for the spiritual
life to be derived from these celebrations, while being pre-
pared to shaire this participation and life with others, the
Constitution on the Sacred Liturgy shall be put into full
effect in seminaries and houses of studies of religious, in
accordance with the norm of documents from the Apostolic
See, with the unanimous and harmonious co-operation of
all the directors and teachers to this end. A suitable forma-
tion in the sacred liturgy shall be provided for the clerics
together with the recommendation of books dealing with
the liturgy, especially under its theological and spiritual as-

7



pect, which should be available in the library in sufficient
numbers; as well as by meditations and conferences which
shall be drawn above all from the fount of sacred Scrip-
ture and the liturgy (Cf. Constitution, Article 35, 2) ; and
by common exercises, in accord with Christian custom and
usage, but suited to the various seasons of the liturgical
year.

15. The Eucharist, the center of the entire spiritual
life, shall be celebrated daily with the use of different and
appropriate forms which best correspond to the condition
of the participants (Cf. Constitution, Article 19).

On Sundays, however, and on other major feast days,
a sung Mass shall be celebrated with the participation of
all who are in the seminary or house of studies, with a
homily and, as far as possible, with the sacramental com-
munion of those who are not priests. The priests may
concelebrate, especially on the more solemn feast days, if
the needs of the faithful do not require that they cele-
brate individually, and after the new rite of concelebration
has been published.

It is desirable that, at least on major feast days, the
students should participate in the celebration of the Euch-
arist assembled around the bishop in the cathedral church
(Cf. Constitution, Article 41).

16. It is most fitting that the clerics, even if they are
not yet bound by the obligation of the divine office, should
each day recite or chant in common Lauds, in the morning
as morning prayer, and vespers, in the evening as evening
prayer, or compline, at the end of the day. The directors
themselves shall take part in this common recitation, as
far as possible. In addition, sufficient time shall be provided

in the order of the day for clerics in sacred orders to pray
the divine office.

It is desirable that, at least on major feast days, the
students should chant vespers in the cathedral church,

where possible.

17. Exercises of piety, arranged according to the laws

8



or customs of each place or institute, shall be held in due
esteem. Nevertheless, care should be taken, especially if

these exercises are celebrated in common, that they be in
harmony with the sacred liturgy, according to the purpose
of Article 13, of the Constitution, and that they be related
to the seasons of the liturgical year.

IF. Liturgical formation of members of institutes dedU
cated to acquiring perfection

18. What has been said in the preceding articles con-
cerning the liturgical formation of the spiritu£il life of

clerics must be applied also to the members, both men and
women, of institutes dedicated to acquiring perfection, with
the necessary adaptations.

F. Liturgical formation of the faithful (Constitution, Ar-
ticle 19)

19. Pastors of souls shall strive diligently and pa-
tiently to carry out the command of the Constitution con-
cerning the liturgical formation of the faithful and their
active participation, both internal and external, “according
to their age and condition, their way of life, and standard
of religious culture” (Constitution, Article 19). They should
be especially concerned about the liturgical formation and
the active participation of those who are engaged in re-
ligious associations of the laity, since it is the latter’s duty
to share more intimately in the life of the Church and also
to assist the pastors of souls in properly promoting the
liturgical life of the parish (Cf. Constitution, Article 42).

FI. Competent authority in liturgical matters (Constitu-
tion, Article 22)

20. Regulation of the sacred liturgy pertains to the
authority of the Church: therefore, no other person shall
proceed in this matter on his own authority to the detri-
ment, as may often happen, of the liturgy itself and of its
restoration by the competent authority.

21. It pertains to the Apostolic See to reform and to

9



approve the general liturgical books; to order the sacred
liturgy in those matters which affect the universal Church;
to approve, that is, confirm the acts and deliberations of
the territorial authority; and to receive the proposals and
petitions of the same territorial authority.

22. It pertains to the bishop to regulate the liturgy
within the limits of his diocese, in accordance with the
norms and spirit of the Constitution on the Sacred Liturgy
as well as the decrees of the Apostolic See and of the com-
petent territorial authority.

23. The various kinds of territorial bodies of bishops,
to which the regulation of the liturgy pertains in virtue
of Article 22, §2 of the Constitution, must be understood to
be, for the interim:

a) either the body of all the bishops of a nation,
in accordance with the norm of the apostolic letter Sacram
Liturgiam, n. X;

b) or a body already lawfully constituted which
consists of the bishops, or of the bishops and other local
ordinaries, of several nations;

c) or a body to be established, with the permis-
sion of the Apostolic See, consisting of the bishops or of
the bishops and the local ordinaries of several nations,
especially if in the individual nations the bishops are so few
that they may convene more profitably from various na-
tions of the same language or of the same culture.

If the particular local conditions suggest another solu-
tion, the matter should be proposed to the Apostolic See.

24. The following must be invited to the above-men-
tioned bodies:

a) residential bishops;

b) abbots and prelates nuUius;

c) vicars and prefects apostolic;

d) apostolic administrators of dioceses who have
been appointed permsinently;

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e) all other local ordinaries except vicars general.

Coadjutor and auxiliary bishops may be invited by the
president, with the consent of the majority of those who
take part in the body with deliberative vote.

25. Unless the law provides otherwise for certain
places in view of particular circumstances, the convocation

of the body must be made:

a) by the respective president, in the case of bodies
already lawfully established;

b) in other cases, by the archbishop or bishop who
has the right of precedence in accordance with the norm
of law.

26. The president, with the consent of the Fathers,
determines the order to be followed in the examination of
questions, and opens, transfers, prorogues, and closes the
conference.

27. A deliberative vote belongs to all who aire named
in n. 24, including coadjutor and auxiliary bishops, unless
a different provision is expressly made in the document
of convocation.

28. For the lawful enactment of decrees, two-thirds of
the votes, taken by secret ballot, are required.

29. The acts of the competent territorial authority
which are to be transmitted to the Apostolic See for ap-
proval, that is, confirmation, should contain the following:

a) the names of those who took part in the ses-
sion;

b) a report of matters taken up;

c) the result of voting for the individual decrees.

Two copies of these acts, signed by the president and
the secretary of the body, and with the proper seal, shall
be sent to the Commission for the Implementation of the
Constitution on the Sacred Liturgy.

30. When, however, it is a question of acts in which

U



there are decrees concerning the use and extent of the
vernacular language to be admitted in the liturgy, besides

what is enumerated in n. 29, in accordance with Article 36,
3, of the Constitution and the apostolic letter Sacram Lit-
urgiam, n. IX, the acts should also contain:

a) an indication of the individual parts of the lit-
urgy which are to be said in the vernacular;

b) two copies of the liturgical texts prepared in
the vernacular, one copy of which will be returned to the
body of bishops;

c) a brief report concerning the criteria upon
which the work of translation was based.

31. The decrees of the territorial authority which need
the approval, that is, the confirmation of the Apostolic See,

shall be promulgated and put into practice only when they
have been approved, that is, confirmed by the Apostolic See.

VU, The office of individuals in the liturgy (Constitution,
Article 28)

32. The parts which pertain to the schola or to the
people, if they are sung or recited by them, are not said
privately by the celebrant.

33. Likewise the celebrant does not say privately the
lessons which are recited or chanted by a competent min-
ister or by a server.

VIII, Avoiding distinctions of person (Constitution, Arti-
cle 32)

34. The individual bishops or, if it seems opportune,
the regional or national conferences of bishops shall see to
it that the prescription of the holy Council which forbids
any favor to private persons or any favor on the basis of
social distinctions, either in ceremonies or in external
pomp, shall be put into effect in their territories.

35. In addition, pastors of souls shall work with pru-
dence and charity so that, in the liturgical services and.

12



more especially, in the celebration of Mass and the admin-
istration of sacraments and sacramentals, the equality of
the faithful shall be evident even outwardly and that, fur-
ther, all appearance of money-seeking be avoided.

IX, Simplification of certain rites (Constitution, Article

34)

36. In order that the liturgical services may exhibit a
noble simplicity in harmony with the mentality of our
times:

a) The salutations to the choir on the part of the
celebrant and the ministers shall be made only at the be-
ginning and at the end of the sacred rite;

b) The incensation of the clergy, apart from those
who are bishops, shall be done once for each part of the
choir, with three swings of the thurible;

c) The incensation of the altar shall be done only
at that altar where the liturgical service is being celebrated;

d) The kisses of the hand and of objects which
are being presented or received shall be omitted.

X. Sacred celebrations of the word of God (Constitution,
Article 35, 4)

37. In places which lack a priest, if no priest is avail-
able for the celebration of Mass on Sundays and feast days
of precept, the sacred celebration of the word of God sh^l
be fostered, according to the judgment of the local ordinary,
with a deacon or even a layman, authorized for this pur-
pose, presiding over the service.

The pattern of this celebration shall be almost the same
as the liturgy of the word in Mass; ordinarily the epistle
and gospel of the Mass of the day shall be read in the
vernacular, with chants, especially from the psalms, before
the lessons and between them; the one who presides shall
give a homily, if he is a deacon; if not a deacon, he shall
read a homily indicated by the bishop or the pastor; and
the whole celebration shall be closed with the “common

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prayer’^ or ‘‘prayer of the faithful’' and with the hordes
Prayer.

38. It is also fitting that sacred celebrations of the

word of God, which are to be encouraged on the vigils of
the more solemn feasts, on some weekdays in Advent and
Lent, and on Sundays and feast days, should take into ac-
count the pattern of the liturgy of the word in Mass, al-
though there may be only a single reading.

In the arrangement of several readings, however, in
order that the history of salvation may be clearly discerned,
the reading from the Old Testament shall generally pre-
cede the reading from the New Testament, and the read-
ing of the holy gospel shall appear as the climax.

39. In order that these celebrations may be held with
dignity and piety, it shall be the task of the liturgical com-
missions in the individual dioceses to indicate and provide
appropriate aids.

XI. Vernacular translations of liturgical texts (Constitu-
tion, Article 36, 3)

40.

In vernacular trainslations of liturgical texts pre-
pared in accordance with the norm of Article 36, 3, it is
fitting that the following be observed:

a) The vernacular translations of liturgical texts
shall be made from the Latin liturgical text. The version
of the biblical pericopes, however, should conform to the
Latin liturgical text, but with the possibility of revising
this translation, if deemed advisable in accordance with the
origingd text or some other clearer translation.

b) The preparation of the translation of liturgical
texts should be entrusted, as a special concern, to the litur-
gical commission mentioned in Article 44 of the Constitu-
tion and in n. 44 of this Instruction. So far as possible, the
institute of pastoral liturgy should assist the commission.

But if there is no such commission, the supervision of the
translation should be entrusted to two or three bishops,
who will choose persons, including lay persons, expert in

14



scripture, liturgy, biblical languages, Latin, the vemaculeir

language, and music. For the perfect translation of the
liturgical text into the language of the people must neces-
sarily and properly fulfill many conditions at the same
time.

c) Whenever it is called for, there should be con-
sultation concerning translations with the bishops of neigh-

boring regions which have the same language.

d) In nations which have several languages, dif-
ferent vernacular translations should be prepared for these
languages and submitted to the special examination of the
bishops concerned.

e) Consideration should be given to the dignity
of the books from which the liturgical text is read to the
people in the vernacular language, so that the dignity of

the book itself may move the faithful to a greater reverence
for the word of Gk)d and for sacred things.

41. In liturgical services which are celebrated in some
places with people of another language, it is lawful with
the consent of the local ordinary to use the vernacular lan-

guage known to these faithful, especially in the case of
groups of immigrants, or of members of a personal parish,
or similar instances. This shall be done in accordance with
the extent of the use of the vernacular and its translation
as legitimately approved by a competent territorial eccles-
iastical authority of the respective language.

42. New melodies for parts to be sung in the vernac-
ular language by the celebrant and the ministers must be
approved by the competent territorial ecclesiastical auth-
ority.

43. Particulcir liturgical books which were lawfully
approved before the promulgation of the Constitution on
the Sacred Liturgy and indults conceded up to that day
retain their force, unless they are opposed to the Consti-
tution, until other provision is made in the liturgical res-
toration, as it will be completed in whole or in part.

15



XII, The liturgical commission of the body of bishops
(Constitution, Article 44)

44. The liturgical commission, which it is desirable
that the territorial authority establish, shall be chosen from
among the bishops themselves, as far as possible. At least
it shall consist of one or other bishop, with the addition
of some priests expert in liturgical and pastoral matters,
who are designated by name for this office.

It is desirable that the members of this Commission
be convened several times a year with the consultors of
the Commission that they may deal with questions together.

45. The territorial authority may, as circumstances
suggest, entrust the following to this Commission:

a) studies and experiments to be promoted in ac-
cordance with the norm of Article 40, 1 and 2 of the Con-
stitution;

b) practical initiatives to be undertaken for the
entire territory, by which the liturgy and the application
of the Constitution on the Liturgy may be encouraged;

c) studies and the preparation of aids which be-
come necessary in virtue of the decrees of the plenary body
of bishops;

d) the office of regulating the pastoral-liturgical

action in the entire nation, supervising the application of
the decrees of the plenary body, and reporting concerning
all these matters to the body;

e) consultations to be undertaken frequently and
common initiatives to be promoted with associations in the
same region which are concerned with scripture, cateche-
tics, pastoral care, music, and sacred art, and with every
kind of religious association of the laity.

46. The members of the institute of pastoral liturgy
as well as individual experts who are caUed to assist the
liturgical commission shall also freely offer their assistance
to individual bishops for the more effective promotion of
pastoral-liturgical action in their territory.

16



XIII, The diocesan liturgical commission (Constitution,
Article 45)

47. The following duties pertain to the diocesan litur-
gical commission, under the direction of the bishop:

a) to be informed about the state of pastoral-litur-

gical action in the diocese;

b) to implement carefully what is proposed in
liturgical matters by the competent authority, and to ob-
tain information concerning studies and programs which
are taking place elsewhere in this field;

c) to suggest and promote practical undertakings
of every kind which may help to promote the liturgy, espe-
cially those which will assist priests already working in the
Lord’s vineyard;

d) in individual cases, or also for the entire diocese,

to suggest opportune and progressive steps in the work of
pastoral liturgy; to indicate and also to call upon suitable
persons who on occasion may help priests in this matter;
and to propose suitable materials and aids;

e) to see to it that programs in the diocese to
promote the liturgy progress with a harmonious spirit and
with the assistance of other associations, in a way similar
to that indicated for the commission established within
the body of bishops (n. 45e).

17



CHAPTER II

The Most Holy Mystery of the

Eucharist

I. The rite of the Mass (Constitution, Article 50)

48. Until the entire rite of the Mass is restored, the
following shall be observed.

a) The parts of the Proper which are sung or
recited by the schola or by the people are not said privately
by the celebrant.

b) The celebrant may sing or recite the parts of
the Ordinary together with the people or the schola.

c) In the prayers to be said at the foot of the
altar at the beginning of Mass, psalm 42 is omitted. All
the prayers at the foot of the altar are omitted v/henever

another liturgical seiwice immediately precedes the Mass.

d) In solemn Masses the paten is not held by the
subdeacon, but is left upon the altar.

e) The secret prayer or prayer over the offerings
shall be chanted in sung Masses, and recited in a loud voice
in other Masses.

f) The doxology at the end of the Canon, from the
words Per ipsum up to Per omnia saecula saeculorum. R.
Amen, inclusively, shall be chanted or recited in a loud voice.
Throughout the entire doxology the celebrant lifts up the
chalice and the host for the little elevation, omitting the
signs of the cross, and at the end genuflects only after the
response Amen is given by the people.

18



g) In low Masses the Lord’s Prayer may be re-
cited by the people together with the celebrant in the ver-
nacular language; in sung Masses it may be chanted by
the people together with the celebrant in the Latin lan-

guage and, if the territorial ecclesiastical authority shall

so decree, also in the vernacular language, to melodies ap-

proved by the same authority.

h) The embolism after the Lord’s Prayer shall be
chanted or recited in a loud voice.

i) In distributing holy communion the formula.
Corpus Christi, shall be used. The celebrant, as he says
these words, lifts up the host a little above the cibonum
to show it to the communicant, who responds: Amen, and
afterward is communicated by the celebrant. The sign of
the cross with the host is omitted.

j) The last gospel is omitted; the Leonine prayers
are suppressed.

k) It is lawful to celebrate a sung Mass with a
deacon only.

l) It is lawful for bishops, if necessary, to cele-
brate a sung Mass according to the form used by priests.

U, Lessons and chants between the lessons (Constitution,
Article 51)

49. In Masses celebrated with the people, the lessons,
epistle, and gospel shall be read or chanted facing the peo-
ple:

a) in solemn Mass, at the ambo or at the edge of
the sanctuary area;

b) in high Mass or in low Mass, if they are read
or chanted by the celebrant, either at the altar or at the
ambo or at the edge of the sanctuary area, as may be more
convenient; if they are read or chanted by another, at the
ambo or at the edge of the sanctuary area.

50. In Masses celebrated with the people which are not
solemn Masses, the lessons and epistle, together with the

19



intervenient chants, may be read by a qualified lector or
server, while the celebrant sits and listens. The gospel,
however, may be read by a deacon or by a second priest,
who says Munda cor meum^ seeks the blessing, and at the
end presents the book of gospels for the celebrant to kiss.

51. In sung Masses, the lessons, epistle, and gospel,
if they are proclaimed in the vernacular, may be recited
without chant.

52. In reciting or chanting the lessons, epistle, the

chants which occur after them, and the gospel, the order
is as follows:

a) In solemn Mass, the celebrant sits and listens
to the lessons and epistle as well as to the intervenient
chants. After the epistle has been chanted or recited, the
subdeacon goes to the celebrant and is blessed by him. Then
the celebrant, seated, places incense in the thurible and
blesses it. While the Alleluia and its verse are being chant-
ed or toward the end of other cheints following the epistle,
the celebrant rises to bless the deacon. At his seat he
listens to the gospel, kisses the book of gospels, and, after
the homily, intones the creed, if the latter is to be said.
At the end of the creed he returns to the altar with the
ministers, unless he is to direct the prayer of the faithful.

b) In high or low Masses in which the lessons,
epistie, the chants following them, and the gospel are sung
or recited by the minister mentioned in n. 50, the celebrant
acts in the manner described above.

c) In high or low Masses in which the gospel is
chanted or read by the celebrant, while the Alleluia and
its verse are being chanted or recited or toward the end
of other chants following the epistle, he goes to the lowest
step of the altar and there bows deeply while saying Munda
cor meum. Then he goes to the ambo or to the edge of
the sanctuary area to chant or recite the gospel.

d) But if, in a high Mass or low Mass, all the les-
sons are chanted or recited by the celebrant at the ambo
or at the edge of the sanctuary area, then, standing in the

20



same place, he also recites the chants occurring after the
lessons and the epistle, if this is necessary; he says Munda
cor meum turned toward the altar.

III. The homily (Constitution, Article 52)

53. There shall be a homily on Sundays and fegist days
of precept in all Masses which are celebrated with the peo-
ple present. No exception may be made for conventual,
sung, or pontifical Masses.

On other days, a homily is recommended, especially
on some of the weekdays of Advent and Lent, as well as
in other circumstances when the people come to church
in larger numbers.

54. By a homily from the sacred text is understood
an explanation either of some aspect of the readings from
holy Scripture or of another text from the Ordinary or
Proper of the Mass of the day, taking into account the mys-
tery which is being celebrated and the particular needs of
the hearers.

55. If plans of preaching within Mass are proposed for
certain periods, the intimate connection with at least the
principal seasons and feasts of the liturgical year (Cf. Con-
stitution, Articles 102-104), that is, with the mystery of
the Redemption, is to be harmoniously preserved: for the
homily is part of the liturgy of the day.

IV. The common prayer or prayer of the faithful (Con-
stitution, Article 53)

56. In places where the custom is already in force of
having the common prayer or prayer of the faithful, for
the interim it shall take place before the offertory, after
the word Oremus, according to the formulas now in use in
the individual regions. The celebrant shall direct the prayer
either from his seat, from the altar, from the ambo, or from
the edge of the sanctuary area.

The intentions or invocations may be chanted by a dea-
con or a cantor or other qualified server, reserving to the

21



celebrant the words of introduction and the concluding
prayer. This latter will ordinarily be: Deus, refugium nos-
trum eit virtue (Cf. Missdle Romanum, Orationes diversae,
n. 20) or another prayer which corresponds better to a
particular need.

In places where the common prayer or prayer of the
faithful is not in use, the competent territorial authority
may decree that it be done in the manner indicated above,
with formulas approved for the interim by that authority.

V, The place which may be granted to the vernacular
language in the Mass (Constitution, Article 54)

57. In Masses, whether sung or low, which are cele-
brated with the people, the competent territorial ecclesi-
astical authority may admit the vernacular language, the
decrees having been approved, that is, confirmed, by the
Apostolic See:

a) especially in proclaiming the lessons, epistle,

and gospel, as well as in the common prayer or prayer of
the faitMul;

b) according to the circumstances of the place,
also in the chants of the Ordinary of the Mass, namely,
Kyrie, Gloria, Creed, Sanctus-Benedictus, and Agnus Dei,
and in the antiphons at the Introit, offertory, and commun-
ion, as well as in the chants that occur between the lessons.

c) moreover, in the acclamations, salutations, and
dialogue formulas, together with the formulas at the com-
munion of the faithful: Ecce Agnus Dei, Domine, non sum
dignus, and Corpus Christi, and in the hordes Prayer with
its introduction and embolism.

Missals for liturgical use, however, should contain the
Latin text in addition to the vernacular translation.

58. It pertains solely to the Apostolic See to concede
the vernacular language in other parts of the Mass which
are chanted or recited by the celebrant alone.

59. Pastors of souls shall carefully see to it that the

22



faithful, more particularly the members of lay religious as-
sociations, also know how to say or to sing together in the
Latin language those parts of the Ordinary of the Mass
which pertains to them, especially with the use of simpler
melodies.

VI. The faculty of repeating communion on the same day
(Constitution, Article 55)

60. The faithful who communicate in the Mass of the
Easter Vigil or in the midnight Mass of Christmas may also
receive communion again in the second Mass of Easter
and in one of the Masses which is celebrated on Christmas
in the daytime.

23



CHAPTER III

The Other Sacraments and. the

Sacramentals

I. The place which may be granted to the vernacular Ian-
guage (Constitution, Article 63)

61. The competent territorial authority may admit the
vernacular language, the decrees having been approved,
that is, confirmed, by the Apostolic See;

a) in the rites of baptism, confirmation, penance,

anointing of the sick, and matrimony, including the es-
sential forms, as well as in the distribution of Holy Com-
munion;

b) in the conferral of orders: in the allocutions at

the beginning of each ordination or consecration, as well
as in the examination of the bishop-elect in episcopal con-
secration, and in the instructions;

c) in the sacramentals;

d) in funeral rites.

Wherever a more extended use of the vernacular lan-
guage appears desirable, the regulation of article 40 of the
Constitution is to be observed.

II, Things to be suppressed in the rite for supplying omis-
sions in baptism (Constitution, Article 69)

62. In the rite for supplying omissions in the case of
a baptized infant, which is given in the Roman Ritual, tit.
n, cap. 5, those exorcisms shall be omitted which are
found under n. 6 (Exi ah eo), 10 (Exorcizo te, immunde

24



spiritus—Ergo mdledicte diabole)^ and 15 (Exorcizo te^
omnis spiritus).

63. In the rite for supplying omissions in the case of

a baptized adult, which is given in the Roman Ritual, tit.
n, cap. 6, those exorcisms shall be omitted which are found
under n. 5 (Exi ah eo), 15 {Ergo, mdledicte didbole), 17

{Audi mdledicte satana)^ 19 {Exorcizo te, Ergo, mdledicte

diahole)
,
21 {Ergo, mdledicte didbole) , 23 {Ergo, mdledicte

dmbole)
,
25 {Exorcizo te—Ergo mdledicte didbole) , 31 {Nec

te lateat) , and 35 {Exi, immunde spiritus)

.

til. Confirmation (Constitution, Article 71)

64. If confirmation is conferred within Mass, it is

fitting that the Mass be celebrated by the bishop himself.
In this case he confers confirmation while vested in the
Mass vestments.

The Mass within which confirmation is conferred may
be celebrated as a votive Mass of Class II, of the Holy Spirit.

65. After the gospel and homily, before the reception
of confirmation, it is praiseworthy that those to be con-
firmed should renew the promises of baptism, according
to the rite legitimately in use in the individual regions, un-
less this has already taken place before Mass.

66. If the Mass is celebrated by another, it is fitting
that the bishop assist at the Mass wearing the vestments
prescribed for the conferral of confirmation, which may be
either the color of the Mass or white. The bishop himself
shall give the homily, and the celebrant shall resume the
Mass only after confirmation.

67. Confirmation is conferred according to the rite
prescribed in the Roman Pontifical, but at the words In
nomine Patris, et Filii, et Spiritus Sancti which follow the
formula Signo Te, a single sign of the cross shall be made.

IF. Continuous rite for anointing of the sick and Viaticum
(Constitution, Article 74)

68. When anointing of the sick and Viaticum are ad-

25



ministered at the same time, unless a continuous rite is
already found in a particular ritual, the rite shall be ar-
ranged as follows : after the sprinkling with holy water and

the prayers of entrance which are given in the rite of
anointing, the priest shall hear the confession of the sick

person, if necessary, then administer anointing, and finally

give Viaticum, omitting the sprinkling with its formulas

and the Confiteor and absolution.

If, however, the apostolic blessing with a plenary in-

dulgence at the hour of death is to be imparted on the same
occasion, this shall be given immediately before anointing,

omitting the sprinkling with its formulas and the Confiteor
and absolution.

V. Imposition of hands in episcopal consecration (Consti-
tution, Article 76)

69. All the bishops present at an episcopal consecra-
tion may impose hands; they vest in choir dress. The words
Accipe Spiritum Sanctum^ however, shall be said only by
the bishop consecrator and by the two co-consecrating
bishops.

VL Rite of matrimony (Constitution, Article 78)

70. Matrimony, unless a just cause excuses from the
celebration of Mass, shall be celebrated within Mass after
the gospel and the homily. The latter is never omitted.

71. Whenever matrimony is celebrated within Mass, the
votive Mass for the spouses shall always be celebrated or
a commemoration made of it, according to the rubrics,
even during the prohibited season.

72. As far as possible, the pastor or his delegate who
assists at the marriage shall celebrate the Mass; but if
another priest assists, the celebrant shall not continue the
Mass until the rite of matrimony has been completed.

The priest who assists at the marriage but does not
celebrate the Mass shall be vested in surplice and white
stole and, according to the local custom, also in cope, and

26



shall give the homily. The blessing after the Lord’s Prayer
and before the Placeat, however, is always to be imparted

by the priest who celebrates the Mass.

73. The nuptial blessing shall always be imparted
within the Mass, even in the prohibited season and even
if one or both of the spouses is entering a second marriage.

74. In the celebration of matrimony without Mass:

a) at the beginning of the rite, according to the

apostolic letter Sacram Liturgiam, n. V, a brief admoni-
tion shall be given. This is not a homily, but only a simple
instruction for the celebration of marriage (Cf. Constitu-
tion, Article 35, 3). There shall be, however, a sermon or
homily drawn from the sacred text (Cf. Constitution, Ar-
ticle 52), after the reading of the epistle and gospel from
the Mass for the spouses, so that the order of the whole
rite shall be: brief admonition, reading of the epistle and
gospel in the vernacular language, homily, celebration of

marriage, nuptial blessing.

b) For the reading of the epistle and gospel from
the Mass for the spouses, in the absence of a vernacular
text approved by the competent territorial ecclesiastical
authority, it is lawful for the interim to use a text approved
by the local ordinary.

c) A chant may be sung between the epistle and
the gospel. Likewise the prayer of the faithful is highly
recommended after the completion of the rite of matrimony,
according to a formula approved by the local ordinary, in
which petitions for the spouses are also to be included.

d) At the end of the rite the blessing shall always
be imparted to the spouses, even in the prohibited season
and even if one or both of the spouses is entering a sec-
ond marriage, according to the formula which is found in
the Roman Ritual, tit. VIII, cap. Ill, unless another bless-
ing is given in particular rituals.

75. If marriage is celebrated during the prohibited sea-
son, the pastor shall advise the spouses to take into account
the special character of this liturgical season.

27



VII• Sacramentals (Constitution, Article 79)

76. In the blessing of Ccindles on February 2 and in
the blessing of ashes at the beginning of Lent, a single
prayer from among the prayers which are found in the
Roman Missal for these blessings may be said.

77. Blessings which have been reserved up to the
present time and which are contained in the Roman Ritual,
tit. IX, cap. 9, 10, 11, may be given by any priest, with the
exception of the blessing of a bell for the use of a blessed
church or oratory (cap. 9, n. 11), the blessing of the first
stone for the building of a church (cap. 9, n. 16), the bless-
ing of a new church or public oratory (cap. 9, n. 17), the
blessing of an antimension (cap. 9, n. 21), the blessing of a
new cemetery (cap. 9, n. 22) , the papal blessings (cap. 10, n.
1-3), and the blessing and erection of the stations of the
Way of the Cross (cap. 11, n. 1) inasmuch as this is reserved
to the Bishop.

28



CHAPTER IV

The Divine Office

J. The celebration of the divine office by those bound to
the obligation of choir, (Constitution, Article 95)

78. Until the restoration of the divine office is com-
pleted:

a) Communities of canons, monks, nuns, and other
regulars or religious bound to choir by law or constitutions
must celebrate the entire divine office daily in choir, in
addition to the conventual Mass.

Individual members of these communities who are in
major orders or are solemnly professed, except for the
conversi, even if they are la\^ully dispensed from choir,
must recite individually each day the canonical hours which
they do not celebrate in choir.

b) Cathedral and collegiate chapters must cele-
brate those parts of the office in choir which are imposed
upon them by the common law or by particular law, in
addition to the conventual Mass.

Individual members of these chapters, in addition to
the canonical hours which all clerics in major orders are
bound to celebrate (Cf. Constitution, Article 96 and 89),
must recite individually those hours which are celebrated
by their chapter.

c) In mission lands, however, while preserving the
religious or capitular choral discipline established by law,
religious or members of chapters who are lawfully absent
from choir by reason of the pastoral ministry may enjoy
the concession made in the apostolic letter Sacram Litur-
giam, n. VI, with the permission of the loced ordinary, but
not of the vicar gener^ or delegate.

29



fJ. Faculty of dispensing from or commuting the divine
office (Constitution, Article 97)

79. The faculty conceded to all ordinaries of dispens-
ing their subjects, in individual cases and for a just cause,
from the obligation of the divine office in whole or in part or
of commuting it, is also extended to major superiors of
non-exempt clerical religious institutes and of societies of
clerics who live the common life without vows.

HI, Short offices (Constitution, Article 98)

80. No short office is considered as drawn up after
the pattern of the divine office which does not consist of
psalms, lessons, hymns, and prayers and which does not
take into some account the hours of the day and the re-
spective liturgical seasons.

81. In order to celebrate the public prayer of the
Church, for the interim those short offices may be used
which have been lawfully approved up to the present time,
provided that they have been drawn up according to the
requirements enumerated in No. 80.

New short offices, however, must be approved by the
Apostolic See in order to be used for the public prayer of
the Church.

82. The translation of the text of a short office into
the vernacular language for use as the public prayer of
the Church must be approved by the competent territorial
ecclesiastical authority, the decrees having been approved,
that is, confirmed by the Apostolic See.

83. The competent authority for conceding the ver-
nacular in the recitation of a short office to those who are
bound to this office by the constitutions, or for dispensing
from or commuting the obligation of recitation, is the or-
dinary or the major superior of the respective subject.

IF, Divine office or short offices celebrated in common
by members of institutes dedicated to acquiring per-
fection (Constitution, Article 99)

84. The obligation of celebrating in common the divine

30



office or a short office or parts of either imposed by their
constitutions on members of institutes dedicated to acquir-
ing perfection does not take away the faculty of omitting
the hour of prime and of selecting from among the other
minor hours one that best suits the time of day (Cf. Apos-
tolic Letter Sacram IMurgiam, n. VI)

.

V, The language to he used in the recitation of the divine
office (Constitution, Article 101)

85. In the celebration of the divine office in choir,
clerics are bound to retain the Latin language.

86. The faculty granted to the ordinary of conceding
the use of the vernacular language, in individual cases, to
those clerics for whom the use of Latin constitutes a grave
impediment to their praying the office properly, is extended
also to the major superiors of nonexempt clerical religious
institutes and of societies of clerics who live the common
life without vows.

87. The grave obstacle which is required for the grant
of the preceding concession must be weighed by taking in-
to consideration the physical, moral, intellectual and spir-
itual condition of the petitioner.

Nevertheless, tliis faculty, which is granted solely to
make the recitation of the divine office easier and more
devout, is in no way intended to detract from the obligation
incumbent upon priests of the Latin rite to learn the Latin
language.

88. The vernacular translation of the divine office ac-
cording to a rite other ihan the Roman rite shall be pre-
pared and approved hy the respective ordinaries of that
language, employing for elements common to both rites
those translations approved by the territoricd authority,
and then proposed for the confirmation of the Apostolic See.

89. Breviaries to be used by clerics to whom the use
of the vernacular language in the celebration of the di-
vine office U conceded in accordance with Article 101, No.
1, of the Constitution, should contain the Latin text in ad-
dition to the vernacular translation.

31



CHAPTER V

The Proper Construction of
Churches and Altars

In Order To Facilitate
The Active Participation Of The

Faithful

I. The arrangement of churches

90. In the new construction, repair, or adaptation of
churches great care shall be taken that they are suitable

for the celebration of divine services according to the true

nature of the services and for the active participation of the
faithful (Cf. Constitution, Article 124).

II. The main altar

91. It is proper that the main altar be constructed
separately from the wall, so that one may go around it
with ease and so that celebration may take place facing
the people; it shall occupy a place in the sacred building
which is truly central, so that the attention of the whole
congregation of the faithful is spontaneously turned to it.

In choosing the material for the construction or orna-
mentation of the altar, the prescriptions cf law shall be
observed.

Moreover, the presbyterium or sanctuary area around
the altar shall be of sufficient size that the sacred rites may
be conveniently celebrated.

32



in. The seat of the celebrant and ministers

92. The seat for the celebrant and ministers, accord-
ing to the structure of individual churches, shall be so
placed that it may be easily seen by the faithful and that
the celebrant may truly appear to preside over the entire
community of the faithful.

Nevertheless, if the seat is placed behind the altar, the

form of a throne is to be avoided, as this belongs to the
bishop alone.

IV. Minor altars

93. The minor altars shall be few in number. In fact,
to the extent permitted by the structure of the building,
it is highly suitable that they be placed in chapels in some
way separated from the principal part of the church.

V. Ornamentation of altars

94. The cross and candlesticks, which are required on
the altar for the individual liturgical services, may also, in
accordance with the judgment of the local ordinary, be
placed next to it.

VI. The reservation of the most holy Eucharist

95. The most holy Eucharist shall be reserved in a
solid and inviolable tabernacle placed in the middle of the
main altar or of a minor, but truly outstanding, altar, or,
according to lawful customs and in particular cases to be
approved by the local ordinary, also in some other noble
and properly adorned part of liie church.

It is lawful to celebrate Mass facing the people even
if there is a tabernacle, small but suitable, on the dtar.

VII. The ambo

96. It is fitting that there be an ambo or ambos for the
proclamation of the sacred readings, so arranged that the
ministers can be easily seen and heard by the faithful.

33



VIH. The place of the schola and organ

97. The places for the schola and the organ shall be

so arranged that it will be clearly evident that the
singers

and the organist form a part of the united community
of

the faithful and so that they may fulfill their liturgical

function more suitably.

IX. The places of the faithful

98. The piaf’pg for the faithful shall be arranged with

particular care, so that they may participate in the sacred

ceiebrations visually and with proper spirit. It is desirable

that ordinarily benches or seats be provided for their
use.

Nevertheless, the custom of reserving seats for certain pri-

vate persons is to be reprobated, in accordance with
article

32 of the Constitution.

Care shall also be taken that the faithful may not only

see the celebrant and the other ministers but may also

hear them easily, with the use of present-day technical

means.

X. Baptistry

99. In the construction and ornamentation of the bap-

tistry, care shall be taken that the dignity of the sacra-

ment of baptism is clearly apparent and that the place is

suitable for the community celebration of the sacrament

(Cf. Constitution, Article 27).

# • • #

The present Instruction, prepared at the command of

Pope Paul VI, by the Commission for the Implementation

of the Constitution on the Sacred Liturgy, was presented

to His Holiness by James Cardinal Lercaro, president of

the Commission.

The Holy Father, after having given due considera-

tion to this Instruction, with the help of the above-men-

tioned Commission and of this Sacred Congregation of

34



Rites, in an audience granted to Arcadio Maria Cardinal

Larraona, prefect of the Congregation, on September 26,

1964, approved it in a special way as a whole and in its
parts, confirmed it by his authority, and ordered it to be

published, and to be diligently observed by all concerned,

beginning the First Simday of Lent, March 7, 1905.

All things to the contrary notwithstanding.

Rome, September 26, 1964.

Arcadio M. Cardinal Larraona
Perfect of Sacred Congregation

of Rites

^ Henry Dante
Titular Archbishop of Carpasia
Secretary Sacred Congregation
of Rites

James Cardinal Lercaro
Archbishop of Bologna
President of the Commission

for the Implementation of
the Constitution on the
Sacred Liturgy.

35





Motu Proprio of Pope Paul VI
on implementing the Ecumenical CounciVs

Constitution on the Liturgy

The many documents on liturgical questions that have
been published and are well known to all demonstrate how
it was the ceaseless concern of our predecessors in the
supreme pontificate, of ourselves, and of the holy shepherds
to preserve diligently, to cultivate and to renew the sacred
liturgy according to need. Another proof of this solicitude is
given by the Liturgical Constitution which the Second Vati-
can Ecumenical Council has approved by general consent
and which we in the solemn public session of December 4,
1963, ordered to be promulgated.

This lively interest stems from the fact that “in the
earthly liturgy we take part in a foretaste of that heavenly
liturgy which is celebrated in the holy city of Jerusalem
toward which we journey as pilgrims, where Christ is sit-
ting at the right hand of God, a minister of the holy rites
and of the true tabernacle. We sing a hymn to the Lord’s
glory with all the warriors of the heavenly army. Venerat-
ing the memory of the saints, we hope for some part and
fellowship with them. We eagerly await the Savior, our

37



Lord Jesus Christ, until He, our life, shall appear and we
too will appear with Him in glory” (Article 8, Liturgy Con-
stitution) .

For this reason the souls of the faitliful worship God,
the principle and model of all holiness, in such a way as
to be, in this eairthly pilgrimage, “imitators of the heavenly
Zion” (from hymn of Lauds of the Feast of the Dedication
of a CJiurch).

For these reasons it is apparent to all that it is our
uppemiost concern that all C!hristians, and especially all
priests, should consecrate themselves first of all to the
study of the already mentioned constitution and from now
on, resolve to implement its individual prescriptions in good
faith as soon as they enter into force. And since it is nec-
essary by the very nature of things that the prescriptions
concerning the knowledge and spread of the liturgical laws
should take place immediately, we earnestly exhort shep-
herds of dioceses that with the help of the sacred ministers,
“dispensers of God's mysteries” (Constitution, Article 19),
they should hasten to act in order that the faithful entrusted
to their care may understand, to the degree permitted by
age, by the conditions of their own life and by their mental
formation, the strength and inner value of the liturgy and
at the same time participate very devoutly, internally and
externally, in the rites of the C!hurch (Constitution, Article

19).

Meanwhile, it seems evident that many prescriptions
of the constitution cannot be applied in a short period of
time, especially since some rites must first be reused and
new liturgical books prepared. In order that this work may
be carried out with the necessciry wisdom and prudence, we
are establishing a special commission whose principal task
will be to implement in the best possible way the prescrip-
tions of the Constitution on Sacred Liturgy itself.

However, since among the norms of the constitution
there are some which can be made effective now, we de-

38



sire that they enter immediately into force, so that the
souls of the faithful may not be further deprived of the
fruits of the grace which are hoped for from them.

Therefore, with our apostolic authority and on our
own initiative, we order and decree that from the coming
first Sunday of Lent, that is, from February 16, 1964, the
statutory interval for a law to go into force being Wcdved,
the following norms enter into force:

l. We desire that the norms contained in Articles 15,
16 and 17 concerning teaching of the liturgy in seminaries,
in schools of religious communities and in theological fac-
ulties immediately should be worked into the programs in
such a way that beginning in the next school year stu-
dents may devote themselves to such study in an orderly
and diligent way.

n. We also decree that, according to the norms of
Articles 45 and 46, there be established as soon as pos-
sible in the various dioceses a commission whose task is,
under direction of the bishop, to foster knowledge of the
liturgy and advance the liturgical apostolate.

It will also be opportune that in certain cases, several
dioceses should have a single commission.

Furthermore, in all dioceses let two other commissions
be established: one for sacred music and the other for
sacred art.

These three diocesan commissions may also be merged
into one if necessary.

m. From the date established above, we desire that
the norms of Article 52 should enter into force, prescrib-
ing the homily during holy Mass on Sundays and holy days.

IV. In the same way, we also put into immediate effect
the norms contained in Article 71, which permits, when

39



convenient, administration of the sacrament of Confirma-
tion during holy Mass after the reading of the gospel and
the preaching of the homily.

V. Concerning Article 78, we admonish all concerned
that the sacrament of Matrimony must normally be cele-
brated during holy Mass, after the reading of the Gospel
and the sermon.

If Matrimony is administered outside the Mass, we
order that the following rules be observed until a new ritual
is established: At the beginning of this sacred rite (Con-
stitution, Article 35, paragraph 3), after a brief exhorta-
tion, the Gospel and Epistle of the Nuptial Mass must be
read; and then let spouses receive the blessing which is
contEiined in the Roman Ritual in Section 8, Chapter III.

VI. Although the Divine OflSce has not yet been re-
vised and renewed according to the norms of article 89, we
nevertheless grant immediately the following permission
to ail who are obliged to recite the Divine OflSce. From
February 16, in recitation of the office outside of choir, they
may omit the hour of Prime and choose from among the
three other little hours one that best suits the time of day,
always without prejudice to the dispositions of Articles 95
and 96 of the Constitution.

We meike this concession with strong confidence this
will not detract in any way from the piety of the clergy,
but rather that in diligently carrying out the duties of
their priestly office for the love of God, they may feel more
closely united to God throughout the day.

Vn. Still regarding the Divine Office, we ordain that
Ordinaries may for just and well-considered reasons dis-
pense their own subjects wholly or in part from the obliga-
tion of reciting it, or commute it to something else. (Con-
stitution, Article 97).

Vm. Still regarding the Divine Office, we desire that
those members of institutes of perfection who, according

40



to their constitutions, recite some part of the Divine Office,
or some **little office,” provided this is drawn up on the pat-
tern of the Divine Office and regularly approved, are to be
considered as taking part in the public prayer of the Church.

(Constitution, Article 98.)

IX. Since according to Article 101 of the Constitution

those who are obliged to recite the Divine Office may in
various ways be permitted to use the vernacular instead of
Latin, we deem it proper to specify that the various ver-
sions proposed by the competent territorial bishops’ con-
ference, according to Article 36, paragraphs 3 and 4, must
always be reviewed and approved by the Holy See, accord-
ing to the norm of the same article, paragraph 3. We order
that this practice always be observ^ whenever a liturgical
Latin text is translated into the vernacular on behalf of the
territorial authority.

X. Since in accord with Article 22, paragraph 2, the
direction of the liturgy within geographical limits comes
within the competence of the legitimately constituted ter-
ritorial episcopal conference of various kinds, we establish
that the term “territorial” be understood as meaning na-
tional.

In addition to residential bishops, all who are men-
tioned in Canon 292 of the Code of Canon Law may partici-
pate in these national conferences, with the right to vote.

In addition, coadjutor and auxiliary bishops may also
be called to these conferences. In these conferences, legiti-
mate approval of decrees requires a two-thirds majority,
with the voting secret.

XI. Finally we wish to emphasize that—^beyond what
we in this apostolic letter on liturgical matters have either
changed or have ordered carried out at the established
time—regulation of the liturgy comes solely within the
authority of the Church: that is, of this Apostolic See and.

41



in accordance with the law, of the bishop. Consequently,
absolutely no one else, not even a priest, can on his own
initiative add or subtract or change anything in liturgical
matters. (Constitution, Article 22, paragraphs 1 and 3).

We ordain that all we have established with this motu
proprio should remain valid, and in force, everjd:hing to the
contrary notwithstanding.

Given in Rome, at St. Peter’s, January 25, 1964, the
feast of the Conversion of St. Paul the Apostle, in the first
year of our pontificate.

PAUL PP. VI







I