Basic Information

Mass Location: St. Mary Magdalen Chapel, 2532 Ventura Blvd., Camarillo, CA 93010
Mass Time: Sunday 10 a.m. (check parish website bulletin for special feastdays which may be different)
Confessions: 9:15-9:45 a.m. - see schedule below
Contact: latin.mass.smm@gmail.com

Tuesday, December 24, 2013

Puer Natus Est Nobis

Detail from one of the stained glass windows of Saint Mary Magdalen Chapel made by F.X. Zettler in Munich Germany.  See all here

Introit (Isaiah 9: 6)
Puer natus est nobis, et filius datus est nobis: cujus imperium super humerum ejus: et vocabitur nomen ejus magni consilii Angelus. Vs. (Ps. 97: 1) Cantate Domino canticum novum, quia mirabilia fecit. Vs. Gloria Patri, et Filio, et Spiritui Sancto. Sicut erat in principio, et nunc, et semper, et in saecula saeculorum. Amen. Puer natus est nobis, et filius datus est nobis: cujus imperium super humerum ejus: et vocabitur nomen ejus magni consilii Angelus.


A child is born to us, and a Son is given to us: Whose government is upon His shoulder: and His Name shall be called, the Angel of Great Counsel. Vs. (Ps. 97: 1) Sing ye to the Lord a new canticle: because He hath done wonderful things. Vs. Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen. A child is born to us, and a Son is given to us: Whose government is upon His shoulder: and His Name shall be called, the Angel of Great Counsel.

Friday, December 13, 2013

Grotto Dedication Photos

Photos from the Dedication of the Grotto of the Immaculate Conception and Memorial for the Unborn on 12/8/2013.  Click here for slideshow.  Photos by Emily Raab.

Tridentine Nuptial Mass

All are welcome to witness the wedding of and pray for blessings upon Anthony Joseph Mocny and Katherine Nicole Harris as they are joined in Holy Matrimony at a Tridentine Nuptial Mass said by Fr. Joseph Illo at Our Lady of Sorrows on January 4th, 2014 at 1:00 p.m.  Our Lady of Sorrows is located at 21 East Sola Street, Santa Barbara.  The reception is by invitation only.

New Movie by Catholic Author: "The Principle"

"The Principle" is a new movie with a planned release in theaters across the USA in Spring 2014.  Catholic author, Dr. Robert Sugenis says that it is a message of hope for the human race and that this movie will be one of the most astounding you will ever see.  Ultimate questions about our place in the universe are addressed by the leading cosmologists in the world.  View the movie trailer here:  http://www.theprinciplemovie.com

Tuesday, December 3, 2013

Mass, Confession & Benediction Schedule

Date Day Time     Calendar Intention
1-Dec SUN 10 am C   1st Sunday of Advent Nellie Urick (D)
8-Dec SUN 10 am C B Feast of the Immaculate Conception Henry Raab (D)
15-Dec SUN 10 am     3rd Sunday of Advent William Whelan (D)
22-Dec SUN 10 am C   4th Sunday of Advent Nancy Braunger (D)
25-Dec WED 10 am C   Nativity of Our Lord  
29-Dec SUN 10 am C   Sunday in the Octave of Christmas Dorothy Zak (D)
1-Jan WED 10 am C   Circumcision of Our Lord  
5-Jan SUN 10 am     Most Holy Name of Jesus Emily Raab (L)
"C" = Confessions available before Mass
"B" = Benediction immediately following Mass

Dedication of the Grotto of the Immaculate Conception and Memorial for the Unborn

The Grotto of the Immaculate Conception and Memorial for the Unborn will be dedicated and blessed by Fr. Preston Passos on Sunday December 8th (The Feast of the Immaculate Conception) at 12:30 pm at St. Mary Magdalen Chapel on Ventura Boulevard. The dedication and blessing will be followed by a reception. The Grotto is a gift from the Adolfo Camarillo Knights of Columbus Council #5272 with the assistance of a number of donors in honor of the Centenary of the Chapel. If you have any questions, please contact Grand Knight Brendan Purdy at 805-419-5766.

Latin Mass Community Sponsors a Pro-Life Epiphany Family Dance

The Extraordinary Form community of St. Mary Magdalen presents... a fundraiser for Life Centers of Ventura County:  An Epiphany Family Dance!  Sat. Jan 4th, at 7:30 pm. St. Mary Magdalen Parish Hall, corner of Las Posas and Crestview in Camarillo.  Suggested donation of $5/person or $15/family (donations can be made via paypal at www.vclifecenters.com/donate.html, or by cash or check at the door).  Bring a dessert to share, as well as a baby gift for Life Centers (newborn layettes, blankets, diapers, wipes, formula).  Children have the opportunity to participate in an Epiphany procession led by the 3 wisemen, bearing their gifts to the Christ child. Followed by dancing, led (with some instruction) by D.J. Leo Raab. Folk, country, swing, waltz, foxtrot and more!  Festive semi-formal dress encouraged! Kindly observe the norms of Christian modesty.  Space is limited, please RSVP to epiphanydance2014@gmail.com, or call 805-415-3795.  Click here for Info Flyer

New Weekday Traditional Latin Mass in Arroyo Grande

Daily Weekday (Mon-Fri) Traditional Latin Mass at Noon
Said by Fr. Christopher Dietz, OFM Conv.
Saint Joseph of Cupertino Friary
1350 Dale Avenue, Arroyo Grande, CA 93421
(805) 489-1012  


This is in addition to the every Sunday TLM at 12:30 p.m.
Said by Fr. Michael Bell
St. Paul the Apostle Catholic Church
800 Bello St., Pismo Beach, CA 93449
(805) 773-2219  

New Video on the Norbertine Cloister in Tehachapi

KNXT-TV, the Fresno Diocese Catholic Television Station (Channels 38/49) recently completed a 25-minute video update on their community titled "A Blessing for the Sisters", produced by Colin Dougherty, General Manager, including footage from their house blessing mentioned above, which was officiated by Rev. Eugene J. Hayes, O. Praem., Abbot of St. Michael's Abbey. The program streamed on KNXT-TV, and is now posted on YouTube (click here) 

Tuesday, November 12, 2013

Cardinal assures Una Voce that Pope won't touch Traditional Mass status

The General Assembly of the International Una Voce Federation (FIUV) was held in Rome in the past few days - and they got an uplifting visit from Cardinal Castrillón:  The former prefect of the Congregation for the Clergy has told a traditionalist group that Pope Francis has no intention of restricting access to the Extraordinary Form of the Latin liturgy.  “I met Pope Francis very recently and he told me that he has no problem with the old rite, and neither does he have any problem with lay groups and associations like yours that promote it,” Cardinal Dario Castrillon Hoyos told members of Una Voce International (FIUV), who were in Rome for a general assembly.  (Read more at Rorate Caeli...) 

Parish Photo Directory

Family Participation
Don't forget to sign up for your portrait appointment for the new Parish Photo Directory!  (Sign up on-line here).  St. Mary Magdalen is working with Lifetouch Photography to produce a new Parish Directory and we are excited to offer you the opportunity to be part of it! We encourage all St. Mary Magdalen parishioners to participate!  Pictures will be taken in the Chapel Museum on Ventura Blvd. for two weeks in November, December and January.

Each family, couple, or single person having their portrait taken for the directory will receive a Complimentary 8x10 portrait plus a free copy of the new Parish Directory when it is published in the spring. You may purchase additional pictures at the time of your portrait sitting and Lifetouch has assured us that there will be NO pressure to buy anything unless you wish to. Since we are all concerned about our privacy, only your name is included in the directory NO personal information will be published.

Sunday, November 10, 2013

Ultrasound Machine Blessing by Fr. Preston Passos

Ventura County Life Centers invites you to celebrate the arrival of their brand new state-of-the-art Ultrasound machine! Come tour the new facility, view the new machine and visit with other pro-life supporters!  Help them thank the Knights of Columbus who so generously raised the funds to buy this machine. Fr. Preston from St. Mary Magdalen Catholic Church in Camarillo will come and perform the blessing of the machine. Light refreshments will be served.  Please come & invite your friends! Sunday, Nov. 17th at 1:30pm at Life Centers 60 North A Street, Oxnard.

Knights of Columbus Memorial Mass

Knights of Columbus Memorial Mass
The Latin Mass Choir of St. Mary Magdalen was invited to sing at the Adolfo Camarillo Council (#5272) Knights of Columbus Memorial Mass in honor of their deceased Council members. Each year in November, the month dedicated to All Souls, the Knights remember their brothers in a requiem Mass.  Father Preston Passos, using the original high altar, sung the Ordinary Form of the Mass, ad orientem in Latin. During Mass, the names of 156 members were solemnly read (view list).  Among them was Mathias A. Raab, Jr., founding member of Ventura County Life Centers.  So it was quite an honor for his son, granddaughter & grandson-in-law to be singing at this Mass!

Saturday, October 19, 2013

Prayers Answered for a Safe Birth

10-19-13  Nick and Lorena are very thankful for your prayers and have felt surrounded by the graces received from them.!  Baby Nicholas Raymond Joseph was born Wednesday morning 10/16/13 at 8lbs 1oz, 21in.  Nick Jr. is an expert breast feeder!  Mom and baby are doing fine and will come home from the hospital tomorrow.  Both sets of grandparents live nearby in Long Beach and are attending to their needs.  Deo Gratias!
-----------
10-15-13  Prayer Request for a Safe Birth
Nick & Lorena Towle ask for your prayers as they go in for a Cesarian section due to their baby not being in the correct position for a natural birth.  The surgery is scheduled for 7:30 a.m. Wednesday 10/16.

Tuesday, October 15, 2013

Oktoberfest Picnic - Sunday 10/27 Noon to 4pm

Camarillo Community Center Park picnic area is reserved!  Come and join us in the park after Mass from Noon until 4 p.m. on Sunday, October 27th.  Bring your own lunch, beverage (no alcohol) and folding chair.  There is a horse shoe pit so bring the hardware to share!  A volleyball net and ball would be great too!  This will be a great opportunity for all of us to get to know each other better!

Directions from the Chapel:  (Picnic tables are across from 1014 East Modesto Ave., Camarillo, CA 93010).  From the Chapel driveway, turn left onto Ventura Blvd (west).  At Carmen Drive, turn right (north) to Modesto Avenue, turn right (east).  The park is on the right and the picnic area is down a few houses at the bend in the road.  Note, there is plenty of parking in the Community Center Parking lot!  Click here for Map & Directions.

Tuesday, October 8, 2013

Oktoberfest Picnic

Stay tuned... for a possible picnic in the park after Mass!  Details to follow for one of the last two Sundays of October.  This would be a "bring your own" lunch, beverage & folding chair event at a local park nearby in Camarillo.  If you want to cast your vote for either or both Sundays (10/20 & 10/27) click here, enter your name and number attending in the same box then check off which dates you are available.  Voting for both days just let's me know you are available for either date... and no.... there won't be two Picnics!  This will be a great opportunity for all of us to get to know each other better!

Parish Photo Directory

It has been 15 years since the last St. Mary Magdalen Parish Directory was published. This year, St. Mary Magdalen is working with Lifetouch Photography to produce a new Parish Directory and we are excited to offer you the opportunity to be part of it! We encourage all St. Mary Magdalen parishioners to participate!  Learn more here

Sign-ups for photography appointments will continue after all the weekend masses during the month of October. Pictures will be taken in the Chapel Museum on Ventura Blvd. for two weeks in November, December and January. Please refer to the bulletin for the photography schedule. 

Each family, couple, or single person having their portrait taken for the directory will receive a Complimentary 8x10 portrait plus a free copy of the new Parish Directory when it is published in the spring. You may purchase additional pictures at the time of your portrait sitting and Lifetouch has assured us that there will be NO pressure to buy anything unless you wish to. Since we are all concerned about our privacy, only your name is included in the directory NO personal information will be published.

This is also a great opportunity for a Holiday family portrait or Christmas cards. November 23rd is the deadline to take pictures for Christmas cards and Christmas Portraits must be taken no later than Dec. 7th for delivery before Christmas, so schedule early!

We will be outside of church after Mass to schedule appointments, which will be scheduled on a fist come first serve basis. We sincerely hope you will be part of OUR new parish directory! We need YOU to make it complete!!

During the week, you may also choose to sign up for a photo appointment online

Gregorian Chant Workshop

Saturday Nov 16th at St. Victor with Geraldine Biggs McGrath.  10:30 AM- 12 Noon in the Church.  8634 Holloway Drive West Hollywood, CA 90069 Office: 310-652-6477.  Sponsored by Una Voce Los Angeles.   Suggested donation is $10 which will cover materials and refreshments.  Everyone is welcome, however, advanced singers and choir directors will benefit from Geraldines' treasure trove of musical experience and knowledge.  For more information and registration:  Click Here

Monday, September 16, 2013

Photos of Solemn High Mass - Exaltation of the Cross

View photos of the Solemn High Mass on the Feast of the Exaltation of the Cross celebrated at Thomas Aquinas College on Saturday, September 14th!

Friday, September 13, 2013

Solemn High Mass - Feast of the Exaltation of the Cross

Thomas Aquinas College (10,000 N. Ojai Road, Santa Paula) will celebrate a Traditional Solemn High Mass for the Feast of the Exaltation of the Cross on Saturday, September 14th at 7:15 a.m.

History of the Feast:

Early in the fourth century St. Helena, mother of the Roman Emperor Constantine, went to Jerusalem in search of the holy places of Christ's life. She razed the second-century Temple of Aphrodite, which tradition held was built over the Savior's tomb, and her son built the Basilica of the Holy Sepulcher over the tomb. During the excavation, workers found three crosses. Legend has it that the one on which Jesus died was identified when its touch healed a dying woman.

The cross immediately became an object of veneration. At a Good Friday celebration in Jerusalem toward the end of the fourth century, according to an eyewitness, the wood was taken out of its silver container and placed on a table together with the inscription Pilate ordered placed above Jesus' head: Then "all the people pass through one by one; all of them bow down, touching the cross and the inscription, first with their foreheads, then with their eyes; and, after kissing the cross, they move on."

To this day the Eastern Churches, Catholic and Orthodox alike, celebrate the Exaltation of the Holy Cross on the September anniversary of the basilica's dedication. The feast entered the Western calendar in the seventh century after Emperor Heraclius recovered the cross from the Persians, who had carried it off in 614, 15 years earlier. According to the story, the emperor intended to carry the cross back into Jerusalem himself, but was unable to move forward until he took off his imperial garb and became a barefoot pilgrim.

Monday, August 26, 2013

Confessions, Rosary, Choir

When Fr. Michael Carcerano is on the schedule, he will begin to hear confessions from 9:00 a.m. as soon as the Chapel is unlocked until 9:45 a.m.

The Rosary will be prayed before each Mass starting at approximately 9:35 a.m.

The Choir is looking for additional members, please contact info@unavoceventura.org if you are interested in more information or joining.

Parish Directory Informational Meeting for Volunteers

Volunteers needed!  (email info@unavoceventura.org if you can help)

The scheduling of family photographs will begin the first weekend in October after all the Masses. In order to make sure everyone knows what to do and to find out your availability, there will be 
an informational meeting on September 3, 2013 at 7:00 PM in classroom 8 of the St. Mary Magdalen School.  Items to be reviewed:

- Schedule for appointment sign-ups
- Dates for photography
- Assignments of duties (appointment sign-ups, host/hostess during photography shoots, etc.)
- Schedule dates and masses with each volunteer
- Procedures for making appointments
- Etc.

Sunday, August 4, 2013

Local Priest Training Workshop by FSSP

Please pray for the success of this wonderful opportunity!  On short notice, there is the possibility of a local priest training class in the Extraordinary Form of the Mass (Low Mass) provided by the Priestly Fraternity of Saint Peter (FSSP).  The Fraternity will send priest-trainers from their Guadalupe Seminary in Denton, Nebraska for a full five day workshop this Agust, Monday 26th through Friday 30th.  This training will provide the same course of instruction as that obtained at the workshops held at the Guadalupe seminary 

Low Mass Workshop:
• A comprehensive introduction to the Extraordinary Form of the Mass and its liturgical principles
• An overview of the 1962 Roman Missal and liturgical calendar
• A complete explanation and demonstration, with practical hands-on instruction, in the ceremony of Low Mass according to the 1962 Roman Missal
• Tips and strategies for gaining proficiency in Latin
• An introduction to Sung Mass and Gregorian Chant


The training will be hosted at the Carmelite Sacred Heart Retreat House in Alhambra, CA.  Full room & board will be provided for 5 days/4 nights.  All training & materials expenses will be covered by generous benefactors (excludes travel cost).

For further information or to RSVP, please contact Leo Raab, President, Una Voce Ventura at info@unavoceventura.org or at cellphone 805-760-4548 immediately.  We need a minimum of 4 and can accept a maximum of 8 priests for this session.

Sunday, July 14, 2013

Feast of Saint Mary Magdalen (External Solemnity)

Sunday, July 21st will be a Sung High Mass in honor of our Chapel's patron, Saint Mary Magdalen whose feast day is on Monday, July 22nd.  Please join us in thanksgiving for her intercessions for our move from Mission San Buenaventura to the Chapel dedicated to her.  Having now been in our new home 4 months, let us continue to implore her help for the spiritual growth of our community.

Monday, July 8, 2013

FREE - Introductory Workshop on Gregorian Chant

A Bond of Unity
Introductory Workshop on Gregorian Chant (
see attached flyer)
Saturday, July 13th, 2013
9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
O'Brien Hall, San Buenaventura Mission
  • The History of Gregorian Chant in Liturgy
  • The Differences between chant and modern notation
  • How to read and sing chant
This workshop is designed for all - particulary laity - to cultivate an understanding and appreciation of the prayerful beauty of Gregorian chant.

Thursday, June 27, 2013

Solemn High Requiem Mass

Solemn High Requiem Mass For the intentions of the repose of the soul of Guy J. C. Coulombe (died: 1 July 1996) and for the families and loved ones of all present.  Monday, August 26th, 2013 at 7PM, Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church, 6657 Sunset Boulevard, Hollywood, CA 90028.  Parking lot behind the church and school compound is accessible via Selma Ave.  Celebrant: Father Robert Bishop.  Tentative reception following Mass. For more information, please contact Charles Coulombe at 818-794-9461.  Sponsored by the Coulombe Family & Blessed Sacrament Church.

Centennial of St. Mary Magdalen Chapel Cornerstone Dedication

In honor of the 100th Anniversary of the dedication of the Cornerstone of St. Mary Magdalen Chapel on July 1, 1913, there will be a special Mass at the Chapel on Ventura Blvd. on Saturday July 6 at 10 am. This will be a bi-lingual Mass in English and Spanish. There will be a reception with Mariachi music after Mass in the Courtyard until 2 pm. For details, please see the Chapel Centenary website.

Ordinary Form Mass in Latin

The Adolfo Camarillo Knights of Columbus (Council #5272) are having their Installation Ceremony on Saturday 6/29 at St. Mary Magdalen Chapel on Ventura Blvd at 4:30 pm. This will be immediately followed by a special Ordinary Form Mass in Latin at 5:15. Fr. Cornelius Buckley, S.J. of Thomas Aquinas College will be the celebrant and the Traditional Latin Mass Choir of St. Mary Magdalen will be the Schola. This is the anticipated Mass for the 13th Sunday of Ordinary Time, and thus fulfills the Sunday Obligation. There will also be a dinner following the Mass in the School Hall: $10 RSVP or $12 at the door. If you have any questions, please contact Brendan Purdy at 949-331-7746 or brendan.purdy@gmail.com.

Monday, June 24, 2013

William V. Maddux - 1/31/28-6/21/13

William came into this world at the Old Soldiers Home in Leavenworth, Kansas, delivered by the hands of his grandfather, Dr. Frank G. Ellis.  He grew up in Monterey Park, California, and was a long time member of St. Stephen’s Parish, where he went to grammar school and served at Mass for several years.  William served in the Army from March 1946 until March 1947 at Fort Bliss, Texas, being discharged due to the end of the war. William met Catherine Cahill in St Stephen’s choir about 1955 and they were married March 1958 and had three sons.  William and the family moved up to Goleta in 1971, buying a house that he would live in until his death.  Many happy years followed the move, including participating in several community organizations as well as singing in the church choir at Our Lady of Sorrows church for a number of years, where his boys helped sing in the choir and serve at the Latin Novus Ordo Mass.  During the late 80’s, a monthly TLM was offered at the Poor Clare’s chapel in Santa Barbara which he regularly attended.  In his later years, he was occasionally able to attend the TLM in Ventura, and attended the last Mass there on March 17th.  He was very happy to be able to attend the Easter Mass at our new location at Saint Mary Magdalen Chapel, which turned out to be the last Mass he was healthy enough to attend.  William passed away in his sleep at home, June 21st, 2013.  He is survived by his sons William, Kevin (Laurie) and Brian (Paula), and grandchildren Christopher, Kaylie, Rebeca, and Sean.  He was preceded in death by his mother and father, Lyndall and Vincent, his sister, Betty and his wife, Catherine.  He will be greatly missed by all of us. 

Visitation and Rosary will be held on Thursday, June 27th at 4 PM at the Welch-Ryce-Haider Funeral Chapel, 450 Ward Dr  Santa Barbara, CA 93111. 

Funeral Mass will be held on Friday, June 28th at 10 AM at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church, 1300 East Valley Road, Santa Barbara, CA 93108, followed by burial at Calvary Cemetery, 199 N Hope Ave, Santa Barbara, CA 93110.

An Invitation: Barnyard Folk Festival

An invitation from members of our Latin Mass Community:
Please join us for an evening of music and friendship!  
Hope and Justin’s CD  Release Party And Barnyard Folk Festival

Friday, June 28 from 6-10pm
at the Schneir Residence:  210 avocado place, Camarillo, CA

Featuring Local Folk and Celtic musicians and The Hope and Justin Band
Hollywood bowl style!  Bring your own  picnic dinners, lawn chair, or blanket. 
Carpooling encouraged!  Limited street parking on Avocado place. 
Overflow parking will be at Mary Magdalene’s Church parking lot (corner of Las Posas & Crestview) with shuttle service provided-call or text 805-279-4373 for pick up
Admission (Suggested Donation): Adults $5.00 Children $2.00
Invite your friends, neighbors, and family...all are welcome! 
for more info contact
hopemaryschneir@gmail.com

News Special report: Sisters of the Mountain

The Norbertine order whose priests have supported our TLM community have recently completed a new monastery.  News Special report: Sisters of the mountain:  Nestled in the mountains just outside Tehachapi, there is a community of cloistered Catholic nuns, doing the Lord's work in seclusion, separated from the outside world.  The Sisters of the Norbertine Order recently moved into their brand new monastery.  It's a new home for these women of remarkable faith for the rest of their lives.  KGET channel 17 News takes you to on an exclusive peek inside the cloistered life of the Sisters of the mountain.  They represent the first community of Norbertine cannonesses in the United States.

Saturday, June 15, 2013

Silent Retreat by Fr. Buckley. FSSP

Fr. Buckley FSSP will be hosting a silent retreat from August 19-23, 2013 using the Spiritual Exercises of St Ignatius of Loyola at Prince of Peace Abbey; 650 Benet Hill Rd., Oceanside, CA 92058. There will be a Tridentine Latin Mass daily.  Fr. Buckley, FSSP is a retreat master, spiritual director, and professor at our Lady of Guadalupe (FSSP) Seminary. Fr. Buckley has also had articles published in FSSP's monthly newsletter and was the retreat master for the parish retreat at St. Anne's in San Diego two years ago.

The cost for the retreat is $380.  Mail a check or money order made out to St. Anne Church.  There is a $100 non-refundable deductible to reserve your room due by July 16. The complete payment for the retreat is due by August.  Those interested may call Briana Majas at 619-81-2607 or email her at brianamajasjmj@gmail.com (include your name and contact information).

Tuesday, June 4, 2013

Pope Francis re-affirms Summorum Pontificum

Pope Francis shoots down bishops who want Summorum Pontificum overturned
The following comes from a May 29 posting on Father Z’s (Fr. John Zuhlsdorf) blog.

Recently there was a news item about some Italian bishops griping (that’s not news) to Pope Francis (ditto) about Summorum Pontificum (as before). They think it should be extirpated (more of the same). Francis shot them down. That’s news.

I am having days filled with museums at the moment, and therefore living on my computer is low on my list. However, my friend Fr. Tim Finigan, His Hermeneuticalness, has the low down. Let’s see what clever analysis he offers (my emphases and comments):

The Bishops of the region of Tavoliere met recently with Pope Francis on an ad limina visit. On their return home, one has given a fascinating glimpse of the attitude of Pope Francis to those who are seeking to use the opportunity of his papacy to attack the traditional Mass. This is reported in the Italian paper Il Foglio, in the article: La messa antica non si tocca, il Papa gesuita spiazza ancora tutti (The old mass is not to be touched, the Jesuit Pope wrong-foots everyone [spiazza... floors, shocks])

Here is [Fr Finigan's] translation of the relevant part of the article which tells of other bishops raising concerns with the Holy Father and goes on to speak of the intervention concerning the old Mass:

Then it was the turn of the bishop of Conversano and Monopoli, Domenico Padovano, who recounted to the clergy of his diocese how the priority [what a sad group of men] of the bishops of the region of Tavoliere had been that of explaining to the Pope that the mass in the old rite was creating great divisions within the Church. The underlying message: Summorum Pontificum should be cancelled, or at least strongly limited. But Francis said no.

Mgr Padovano explained that Francis replied to them saying that they should be vigilant over the extremism of certain traditionalist groups but also suggesting that they should treasure tradition and create the necessary conditions so that tradition might be able to live alongside innovation.  [Right.  And we could even have a document that says that!  It could be called... how 'bout... Ecclesia Dei adflicta?  In it the Pope could command by his Apostolic authority that bishops do that.] This is not really a surprise (did anyone expect that Pope Francis would somehow repeal Summorum Pontificum? [Apparently those bishops did.]) but it is a welcome confirmation of what we would all expect.

One thing that jumps out of the story is that the bishops of this region judged that their main pastoral priority to be communicated to the Pope on a five-yearly visit was to attack Summorum Pontificum. ["priority"] Forget abortion, embryo experimentation, the push for same-sex marriage throughout Europe, the loss of faith of many Catholics and our failure in catechesis and evangelisation. No, the really big problem is a small number of priests legitimately saying the old Mass. [small but growing, especially as the Biological Solution kicks into gear] Given what Pope Francis has said about the danger of being a self-referential Church, I can well imagine he gave them short shrift.  [Good insight.]  To read original blog, click here.

Saturday, June 1, 2013

Should people make responses during the Traditional Latin Mass?

From Fr. John Zuhlsdorf's blog

QUAERITUR: Should people make responses during the Traditional Latin Mass?
Posted on 30 May 2013 by Fr. John Zuhlsdorf

From a reader:  "I have been attending the TLM almost exclusively for four years now. Where I used to live the responses were always given by the servers and we were expected to unite ourselves silently. However I’ve just moved and here there is a bit of tension around whether the congregation should say the responses or not. Is there any reason they should or shouldn’t?"

I think people should make the responses.  Popes of the 20th century were speaking about active participation before the Second Vatican Council. They advocated making responses. The Holy See then clarified the different ways or levels of vocally active participation, depending on the sort of Mass being celebrated and the occasion.  In a nutshell, before the Council, it was strongly encouraged that people make responses, especially at Solemn and Sung Masses. This applied often to Low Masses as well, the so-called dialogue Mass.

Is there a good reason why not to respond? Why not to respond Et cum spirit tuo, for example?  It is hard for me to think of one.  As a matter of fact, it would be great for congregations who are capable of doing so to sing the Ordinary chants (Kyrie, Gloria, etc.), though that takes a while to learn.  I don’t think people should be bludgeoned into responding by someone with a microphone waving her hand around, as often happens with affliction liturgy in the Novus Ordo.

The argument is sometimes made that since all the responses are texts of Mass they should therefore be spoken by clerics or those who substitute for clerics (such as a choir).  That said, if no one else at the place you are going makes responses at all then I don’t recommend making them loudly all by yourself.
I think it would be good for congregations to make responses. People don’t have to shout, but they should not just sit there when they have been addressed by the priest.  The bottom line is, however, that the first and foremost way of active participation, which should give rise to any exteriorly active participation, is the interiorly active receptivity we should foster during every Mass. Active participation begins within and then gives rise to outward expression.

Wednesday, May 22, 2013

Pro-Life Fundraiser - Filipino Fiesta

Hello from Brendan Purdy, Deputy Grand Knight

Click here for the flyer for our Filipino Fiesta on Saturday June 8 at the Serra Center at 6 pm. But in addition to the flyer, we'd also like to say a little about the Knights and what it is that we do.
 
The Knights of Columbus is a 129 year old fraternal organization of Catholics founded by Father Michael J. McGivney in New Haven Connecticut. Since then the organization has grown from one small council to more than 14000 councils and 1.8 million members all over the world.  From the time it was founded, charity has been the first principle of the Knights of Columbus. It raises funds and uses these funds to support various charitable needs and projects doing what Pope Benedict XVI calls the “practice of love…. as a community.

The Adolfo Camarillo Council 5272 provides support services to  both the St. Mary Magdalen and Padre Serra Communities. The Knights of Council 5272 are fixtures of the barbecues, dinners, pancake breakfasts and soup nights of both churches.  Any funds that we manage to raise from activities such as these sustain our projects, many of which address the youth of the community such as essay writing contests, sports competitions, local boy scout and cub scout troops and the like.

In June, we are mounting our International Night, this year called FIESTA FILIPINA, which will highlight the food and culture of the Philippines and its people. It will be on Saturday, June 8th 2013, at 6:00 in the evening.  We are cordially inviting you to participate in this worthwhile event. Tickets are reasonably priced at $16.00 and we guarantee that the evening will reward you with much more than you paid for.  We will feature a six course dinner, during which you will be entertained by a local talent singing Original Pilipino Music. and while you are enjoying your dessert you will witness and be part of a presentation of Pilipino dances. Throughout the evening you will be informed about Philippine culture and you will discover why this small country in South East Asia, is home to one of the happiest cultures in the world.

Proceeds will support the St Mary Magdalen Chapel Grotto of the Immaculate Conception & Memorial for the Unborn and the VC Life Centers Ultrasound Fund.

We certainly hope that you will be able to join us and support a worthwhile case while participating what promises to be a truly enjoyable experience.

Tuesday, May 14, 2013

Priest Training in the Extraordinary Form

Please offer your prayers for Fr. Michael Carcerano as he studies this week with the Fraternity of St. Peter at their Guadalupe seminary.  Una Voce Ventura is supporting Fr. Michael with expenses as he learns the rubrics of the Missa Cantata (sung High Mass) in the Extraordinary Form of the Roman Rite.  If you know of a priest here in Ventura county who may be interested in saying the Traditional Latin Mass and would like assistance, please have them contact Una Voce.

Sunday, May 5, 2013

Life Centers of Ventura County - "We Need a Few Good Women"

I am writing this to you at the most crucial and exciting time since I started working with the Life Centers 28 years ago.  We are about to fulfill a long held dream, providing ultrasounds in our own free medical clinic.  A window to the womb reaches a mother's heart and soul in ways only those who have seen their own child through this incredible technology can appreciate. We have already seen the effectiveness of ultrasound with the Thursdays we have had the Mobile Unit from Simi coming to our Center.  On a recent Thursday there were three turn arounds, just in that one day!  Imagine how much of God's work can be done when we can offer ultrasounds throughout the week.  Our beautiful, brand new Center is located across the street from a place that advertises (perhaps you have seen those big signs) as a family planning surgical clinic.  We will be a loving voice for the unborn and their mothers right where they are most threatened. 
One of the very special aspects of our Center is that we not only provide counseling in defense of life and healing for those suffering from a past abortion, but are able to talk to the young women coming to us about the hope, happiness and health that living with sexual integrity can bring to them.  
We are in great need of counselors to go through our training, shadow one of our current counselors and then directly work with our clients.  If that is not where you feel called, perhaps training to be on our 24-hour hotline would be of interest.  I was on the hotline, and still am, for many years when I had young children because the calls are sent directly to your home. This is the frontline in our defense of life.  We also need receptionists, office workers, fund raising help.  Since we are expanding our services and moving to where we expect far more foot traffic from those most in need, we have to build up our volunteer base to meet the demand. 
Please see the Counselor Training Flyer for details and feel free to call me if you should have any questions.
Mary, Seat of Wisdom, pray for us!
Yours in Christ, Beth Schuberg 805-217-8092

Laudamus Te - A Brand-New Traditional Catholic Publication

Laudamus te is The magazine of the Extraordinary Form of the Latin Liturgy of the Roman Rite which contains the Prayers and Propers of the Ordinary of the Mass following the 1962 Liturgical calendar. It has many features which enhance the beauty and usefulness of this conveniently sized publication that are especially designed to help pray the ancient Mass every day without navigating a conventional missal. It is endorsed with the highest praise and greatest enthusiasm by Keep the Faith and The Latin Mass magazine.  Read More...

Tuesday, April 30, 2013

New CD from Benedictines of Mary Queen of Apostles

The Benedictines of Mary Queen of Apostles release new CD called:  Angels and Saints at Ephesus  View YouTube Press clip here

Having spent six weeks at #1 on Billboard’s Classical Traditional Music Chart with their debut release Advent at Ephesus, the Benedictines of Mary unite their voices once more in Angels and Saints at Ephesus. Featured on NPR, USA Today, EWTN, Vatican Radio, People Magazine and The Washington Times as well as countless other critically acclaimed press outlets, The Benedictines of Mary have created another beautiful collection of music designed to inspire.  Angels and Saints at Ephesus features 17 English and Latin pieces sung a cappella on the feasts of the holy Saints and angels throughout the year at their Priory in the heart of America. In the pure fusion of their now well established bell-like choir sound, the Sisters once again radiate peace with their hymns of Praise of God in the company of all of His angels and Saints.
Producer: Christopher Alder (International 9x Grammy Award Winner)
Engineer: Mark Donahue (2x Grammy Award Winner)

Order directly from the Sisters at: www.benedictinesofmary.org

Nota Bene:  A graduate of Thomas Aquinas College, class of 2007,  Kathleen Holcomb has just taken her first vows as a member of this religious community.

Wednesday, April 24, 2013

How to Use the St. Edmund Campion Missal-Hymnal

Here is a short video clip on how to use our new Saint Edmund Campion Sunday Missal and Hymnal so that you can follow the full Mass, whether a Low Mass or a sung High Mass.

Propers (Introit, Gradual, Offertory, Communion) vary each day.  You can tell which Sunday to turn to in the hymnal by looking at the Event Schedule at top of this web page. 

Hymns will be posted on the sign-board in the left side of the sanctuary (Processional, Post Communion, Recessional). 

Ordinaries (Kyrie, Gloria, Credo, Sanctus, Agnus Dei) will be Mass VIII (De Angelis) and Credo III.

Tuesday, April 23, 2013

The Power of Holy Water

Holy water is a sacramental that remits venial sin. Because of the blessing attached to it, Holy Mother Church strongly urges its use upon her children, especially when dangers threaten, such as fire, storms, sickness and other calamities. Every Catholic home always should have in it a supply of holy water.

We do NOT take advantage of the benefits derived from holy water. Let us cultivate its use.  Untold spiritual wealth is concentrated in a tiny drop of blessed water. And we give it so little thought!

Did we realize now, as we shall realize after death, the many benefits which may be derived from Holy Water, we would use it far more frequently, and with greater faith and reverence. Holy water has its great power and efficacy from the prayers of the Church, which its Divine Founder always accepts with complacency.

Following are some of the petitions the priest makes to God when He blesses water:

“Oh God…..grant that this creature of Thine (water) may be endowed with divine grace to drive away devils and to cast out diseases, that whatever in the houses or possessions of the faithful may be sprinkled by this water may be freed from everything unclean, and delivered from what is hurtful…..  Let everything that threatens the safety or peace of the dwellers therein be banished by the sprinkling of this water, so that the health which they seek by calling upon Thy Holy Name may be guarded from all assault.”


PRAYERS EFFECTIVE - These prayers ascend to Heaven each time you take holy water and sprinkle a drop either for yourself or for another, whether he be present or absent; and God’s blessings descend on soul and body.

DISPEL THE DEVIL - The devil hates holy water because of its power over him. He cannot long abide in a place or near a person that is often sprinkled with this blessed water.

DO YOUR DEAR ONES LIVE AT A DISTANCE? - Holy water, sprinkled with faith and piety, can move the Sacred Heart to bless your loved ones and protect them from all harm of soul and body.  When worry and fear take possession of your heart, hasten to your holy water font, and give your dear ones the benefit of the Church’s prayers.

THE HOLY SOULS LONG FOR IT! - Only in Purgatory can one understand how ardently a poor soul longs for holy water. If we desire to make a host of intercessors for ourselves, let us try to realize now some of their yearnings, and never forget them at the holy water font. The holy souls nearest to Heaven may need the sprinkling of only one drop to relieve their pining souls.

REMITS VENIAL SINS - Because holy water is one of the Church’s sacramentals, it remits venial sin. Keep your soul beautifully pure in God’s sight by making the Sign of the Cross carefully while saying: “By this holy water and by Thy Precious Blood wash away all my sins, O Lord.”

Imprimatur: Albert G. Meyer, Archbishop of Milwaukee, Jan. 13, 1958

Monday, April 22, 2013

Second Annual KofC Baby Shower in support of VC Life Centers

The Knights of Council 5272 is sponsoring their Second Annual Baby Shower to benefit the Ventura County Life Centers. The Life Centers supports pregnant women to make the choice of life when facing a crisis pregnancy.

You may drop-off the items at one of the cribs located at St Mary Magdalen Church or Padre Serra Parish before or after Mass on Saturday 4/27 or Sunday 4/28. You can come by St Mary Magdalen School Hall on Ventura Boulevard for the Baby Shower on Sunday 4/28 between 11:00 am and 1 pm, where you can drop-off your donations and stay for some free food and fellowship.

While most new and (slighly) used items for children and their mothers are welcome, the VC Life Centers is in most need of the following: Diapers (sizes 3, 4, 5); baby wipes; boys and girls clothers (0 - 12 months); formula and pre-packaged baby food; strollers, pak n plays (portable cribs), walkers, and bouncers. The Center is unable to take car seats or cribs. Also, the mothers love handmade items like blankets.

Further, please consider donating to the Life Centers Ultrasound Fund. Local KofC Councils need to raise $13,225 to pay for half-of the cost of an ultrasound machine that is the final step for the VC Life Centers to become a fully-operational medical clinic. (The Supreme Council will cover the other half.) If you are writing a check, please make it out to “Knights of Columbus” with “VC Life Centers” on the memo line. Lastly, don’t forget to buy your orchid corsages Mother’s Day weekeend to support the VC Life Centers! For more information,
see flyer or contact:

Brendan P Purdy, PhD, Deputy Grand Knight
Program Director/Culture of Life Chair
Adolfo Camarillo Council #5272, Knights of Columbus
949-331-7746
brendan.purdy@kofc5272.org

Saturday, April 20, 2013

For Greater Glory!

If you are interested in being more involved...we have the opportunity for you!  Experience is not necessary as training will be provided.  The bonus is... extra graces!

Altar Servers or Ushers
Contact:  Brian Maddux

Choir or Hospitality
Contact:  Leo Raab

Friday, April 19, 2013

In Memoriam: John Wesley Blewett

June 1, 1928 – February 8, 2013
Nearly 500 people arrived on the campus of Thomas Aquinas College Saturday, filling the pews of Our Lady of the Most Holy Trinity Chapel to remember and to pray for the soul of John W. Blewett. A former vice president of the College who, for 18 years, oversaw the development of the campus, Mr. Blewett played a key role in the history of the College.  Subsequently, he served for several years as the president and CEO of the Wanderer Forum, and then as the managing editor of The Latin Mass magazine. 
Read more...
John Blewett Requiem Mass Audio  (138 MB)  Download
John Blewett Eulogies Audio  (158 MB)  Download

Father Joseph Illo's Blog

Father Joseph Illo is a chaplain at nearby Thomas Aquinas College and who generously supports our community by singing Missa Cantata for us regularly.  He writes actively on his blog (Fr. Joseph Illo's Blog), which includes some great inspirational topics!  Take some time and explore!

St. Edmund Campion Missal & Hymnal for the Traditional Latin Mass

Due to the generosity of the Neimeyer family, we now have one hundred copies of the first new Missal designed for the Traditional Latin Mass since Summorum Pontificum.  It has many features which makes it a wonderful way to pray the Mass, including:
  • A slightly larger size (6” x 9”) which allows for larger type
  • Separate sections for both the High and Low Mass showing the Latin text with the English  translation, and color photographs on each page showing what the priest, deacon, subdeacon,  and acolytes are doing at the point in the Mass
  • A complete set of Propers for each Sunday and Feast
  • A complete Kyriale, showing the Ordinary parts of the Mass (Kyrie, Gloria,  Santcus, and Agnus Dei) for all 18 Gregorian chant settings of the Mass, plus  the six settings of the Credo
  • A hymnal of 150 high quality hymns
Read More...