5/3/2021
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| Duccio, "Madonna Rucellai" |
RS 121-128 concerns vestments at Mass. One function served by the distinct vestments worn by the priests is that it emphasizes his unique role among all of the faithful at the celebration. There are certain responsibilities entrusted only to him which others do not have.
RS 126 cautions against the abuse of the priest celebrating Mass without vestments or only a stole. It lists this among the “grave abuses” in the section on remedies at the end of the Instruction.
Chapter VI “Reservation of the Most Holy Eucharist and Eucharistic Worship Outside of Mass”
This Chapter (paragraphs 129-133) is clearly within our wheelhouse. It has three sections: Reservation; Certain Forms of Worship outside of Mass; Eucharistic Congresses & Processions.
The Chapter’s opening section on reservation begins in RS 129 by citing the purpose of Reserving the MBS as indicated in “Eucharistiae Sacramentum,” the 1973 Decree of the CDW. The MBS is kept safe outside of the Mass primarily for the purpose of uniting in Holy Communion those who cannot be present at the Mass. This safekeeping simultaneously allows for private and public forms of adoring the Real Presence of so great a mystery. The Church must greatly promote these forms of worship.
RS 130 regards the place where tabernacle is positioned in the church building. The description of the place contrasts with Nullo which indicated the center of the altar. This contrast may be worth a closer look later.
