David Bisset
Skotlando, United Kingdom
Rigardu mian profilon. Look at my Profile
Wednesday, May 18, 2005
Latin appears once more
Most religious commentators are at present waiting to see how the new Pope acts. What he has said so far has been eirenic; but these are early days, and Benedict is still Cardinal Ratzinger!
An interesting phenomenon has been Benedict's use of Latin. Within a liturgical context this is fully justifiable, even although the majority of the laity (and most priests?) probably understand very little.
However, the use of Latin for important homilies to the Cardinals makes one speculate. Did everyone understand? Was there interpretation?
Esperanto does not crusade against any language; and Latin is worthy of honour and respect.
However, understanding is essential. After his election Benedict used Italian for his homily in front of St. Peter's. What proportion of his congregation did not understand even one word? The large contingent of Poles would certainly be challenged?
It is an interesting thought that Zamenhof was Polish!
An interesting phenomenon has been Benedict's use of Latin. Within a liturgical context this is fully justifiable, even although the majority of the laity (and most priests?) probably understand very little.
However, the use of Latin for important homilies to the Cardinals makes one speculate. Did everyone understand? Was there interpretation?
Esperanto does not crusade against any language; and Latin is worthy of honour and respect.
However, understanding is essential. After his election Benedict used Italian for his homily in front of St. Peter's. What proportion of his congregation did not understand even one word? The large contingent of Poles would certainly be challenged?
It is an interesting thought that Zamenhof was Polish!
