The Catholic Church has always been a place of rich diversity, and liturgy is one area where this diversity shines. In recent years, the debate over the Latin Mass (old rite) and the Novus Ordo (modern Mass) has raised questions among the faithful. Can both forms coexist? What does the Church say? In this article, we explore the vision of Benedictine Abbot Primate Jeremias Schröder, who offers a perspective of unity and mutual respect.
Peaceful Coexistence in the Benedictine Order
Abbot Primate Jeremias Schröder, a German Benedictine, shared in an interview that within the Benedictine order, the old Roman rite and the Novus Ordo coexist very peacefully. According to Schröder, about ten Benedictine abbeys celebrate the old rite, most in France, and they are integrated into the Solesmes Congregation. A notable example is Fontgombault Abbey, where both the old rite and the Novus Ordo are celebrated, showing that liturgical diversity need not be a cause for division.
“We all treat each other with respect. As abbot primate, I am also the abbot primate of these communities, even though I myself can only celebrate Mass using the new missal. That's what I did when I was invited to Fontgombault for conventual Mass, and it was accepted without any problem.” — Abbot Jeremias Schröder
This statement reflects a spirit of brotherhood that transcends ritual differences. The Benedictine order, known for its motto “Ora et labora” (Pray and work), has managed to maintain unity in diversity, prioritizing communion over personal preferences.
The Future of the Old Rite Under Pope Leo XIV
With the election of Pope Leo XIV in May 2025, many wonder what direction the Church will take regarding liturgy. Abbot Schröder expressed curiosity about how the new pontiff will address the issue of the old rite. Recall that Pope Benedict XVI, with his motu proprio “Summorum Pontificum,” expanded access to the Latin Mass, recognizing its value for those who have built their spiritual lives around it.
Schröder believes that the old form cannot be completely marginalized, as there are brothers and sisters who have based their religious lives on this form of prayer. “Now it has acquired a legitimate place in the Church and must be allowed, at least in certain areas,” he said. This stance is consistent with the apostle Paul's call for unity in diversity: “There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit” (1 Corinthians 12:4, NIV).
Lessons from History: From Lefebvre to Communion
An important chapter in this story is that of Le Barroux Abbey and its foundations, which were initially oriented toward the Lefebvrist movement. After the episcopal consecrations of 1988, which led to a break with Rome, the monastery sought reconciliation and returned to full communion with the Church. Today, under the authority of Abbot Schröder, Le Barroux is an example of how tradition and unity can walk together.
This healing process reminds us of Jesus' words: “That all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you” (John 17:21, NIV). The Church is called to be a sign of unity, even when there are differences in the ways of celebrating the faith.
Final Reflection: What Does Liturgical Diversity Mean to You?
Liturgical diversity in the Church is not a threat but a richness. Both the old rite and the Novus Ordo have the same goal: to lead the faithful to an encounter with Christ in the Eucharist. As Christians, we are called to respect different expressions of faith, as long as they are in communion with the Church.
We invite you to reflect: Have you ever had the opportunity to participate in a Mass in the old rite? How did it impact your faith? Share your thoughts with us.
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