It is fitting that the use of pontificals be reserved to those ecclesiastical persons who have episcopal rank or some particular jurisdiction.
Okay.
Liam may be able to provide some background of substance on this one. This small section also brings us to the end of Sacrosanctum Concilium, save an appendix which I’ll post later today. Consider this an open thread for general commentary on the constitution. In the new year (or perhaps sooner) we’ll look to the East.
The granting of indults for non-jurisdictional persons to use pontificals was one of a myriad of personal honors that got simplified after the council. For an explanation of the preconciliar situation, read:
http://www.newadvent.org/cathen/12231b.htm