Today’s post covers three sections, and again, not a stellar moment for theology. Let’s read:
38. It is often permissible that a variant reading of a verse be used, on the basis of critical editions and upon the recommendation of experts. However, this is not permissible in the case of a liturgical text where such a choice would affect those elements of the passage that are pertinent to its liturgical context, or whenever the principles found elsewhere in this Instruction would otherwise be neglected. For passages where a critical consensus is lacking, particular attention should be given to the choices reflected in the approved Latin text.[Cf. POPE PAUL VI, Address to the Cardinals and Prelates of the Roman Curia, 23 December 1966, n. 11: AAS 59 (1967) 53-54; cf. Address to the Cardinals and Prelates of the Roman Curia, 22 December 1977: AAS 70 (1978) 43; cf. POPE JOHN PAUL II, Apost. Const. Scripturarum thesaurus, 25 April 1979: AAS 71 (1979) 558; Nova Vulgata Bibliorum Sacrorum, editio typica altera 1986, Praefatio ad Lectorem.]
Let’s see if I get this right: the Scriptures mean what the liturgical interpretation demands. In other words, if a Biblical passage is addressed to men only or is about men only in the context of the times, then clearly the liturgical context of spirituality or religion for both sexes (and children too) must hold.
In all seriousness, I think we can have more faith in the inspiration role of the Holy Spirit and allow the liturgy to bear the weight of multiple possible interpretations–as the Bible has long been held by believers.
39. The delineation of the biblical pericopai is to conform entirely to the Ordo lectionum Missae or to the other approved and confirmed liturgical texts, as the case may be.
40. With due regard for the requirements of sound exegesis, all care is to be taken to ensure that the words of the biblical passages commonly used in catechesis and in popular devotional prayers be maintained. On the other hand, great caution is to be taken to avoid a wording or style that the Catholic faithful would confuse with the manner of speech of non-Catholic ecclesial communities or of other religions, so that such a factor will not cause them confusion or discomfort.
Few enough Catholics find discomfort with this. We know that Protestants, and even Evangelicals, use the Scriptures to even “disprove” Catholicism. By the way, is this an inn/place where travelers lodged moment?
Thoughts?
Catholic Sensibility 