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12 Nov

2021

Summorum Pontificum Pilgrimage I: Friday Evening Vespers

Posted by Stuart Chessman 

I wanted to share some reflections on the recent Pilgrimage to Rome (“Peligrinatio ad Petri Sedem”) by traditionalist Catholics. The liturgical celebrations of the pilgrimage took place from Friday, Ocober 29 to Sunday, October 31. I also add to this set the Mass of All Souls Day, November 2.

The pilgrimage began with Solemn Vespers in honor of the Blessed Virgin Mary in the august surroundings of the Basilica St. Maria ad Martyres – the Pantheon. This is appropriate, because, at least in the United States, the celebration of vespers has experienced a renaissance in traditionalist groups after having almost disappeared from parish life. And of course, All Saints Day, which we would celebrate on the following Monday, traces its origin to the consecration of the Pantheon to Our Lady and all the Martyrs in 609 or 610. (The date of this feast was moved to November 1 in the 8th century)

As was the case for all the events of this pilgrimage, attendance was impressive and row after row of chairs had to be added. This, despite travel restrictions still in effect in many places due to Covid. The organization of the weekend’s events was effective here and subsequently thoughout the pilgrimage.

The oculus of the Pantheon.
Eventually the congregation occupied about a third of the Pantheon.

The music was outstanding, reinforced by the wonderful acoustics of the Pantheon. The schola was the Cappella Musicale di Santa Maria in Campitelli of Rome, directed by Vincenzo Di Betta.

The celebration of Vespers was in the hands of the Institute of the Good Shepherd.

Continue to Part II

Published in Pilgrimage Summorum Pontificum 2021

Related Articles

  • Summorum Pontificum Pilgrimage VII: Concluding Reflections (November 22nd, 2021)
  • Summorum Pontificum Pilgrimage VI: All Souls Day (November 14th, 2021)
  • Summorum Pontificum Pilgrimage V: the Closing of the Pilgrimage (November 14th, 2021)
  • Summorum Pontificum Pilgrimage IV: Blessing of a Bell (November 13th, 2021)
  • Summorum Pontificum Pilgrimage III: Solemn Mass in St Peter’s (November 12th, 2021)

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