DUP MP Defends Latin Mass Amidst Vatican Crackdown

DUP MP Defends Latin Mass Amidst Vatican Crackdown

DUP MP Defends Latin ⁣Mass, Becomes Unlikely Catholic Ally

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In a surprising turn⁣ of events, a DUP MP has found himself championed by Catholic traditionalists for defending the latin Mass. Historically, the DUP has been⁣ known⁢ for it’s opposition to the ‌Catholic Church, with figures ⁣like ian Paisley famously branding the Pope the Antichrist. However, Jim Shannon, a Strangford MP⁤ and Orangeman, has broken⁤ ranks, raising the issue of the ‍Tridentine Mass Explained, Step By Step.”>Latin Mass with the Westminster Government.​ Shannon,whose party​ founder‌ onc mocked transubstantiation during a debate at Oxford Union,asked ⁣the⁣ Foreign Office if‌ they would‌ discuss the future of ⁤the Tridentine Mass ⁢pilgrimage to Chartres,France with the Vatican. Concerns have been raised ​about the pilgrimage’s potential cancellation. This move highlights a shift in northern Ireland’s political landscape. “I raised the ​issue ⁣on ‌behalf of Catholic constituents, some of whom vote for ⁣me,” stated ‌Shannon. ​“I don’t think people should be shocked by my interest in‌ the Catholic theological debate.” Last summer, the Chartres pilgrimage ‍saw 18,000‍ participants ⁢walking ​from paris to Chartres Cathedral, a 20-hour journey demonstrating their dedication⁢ to the ancient liturgy. While the Latin Mass⁢ has ‌seen ​a resurgence in popularity, it‌ hasn’t been met with global acclaim within the Catholic Church. Since the reforms of the Second‌ Vatican Council in the 1960s, the Church has ⁤been striving to modernize its services. Pope Francis, in 2023, restricted the use of ⁣the ancient liturgy, stating that it was “being used in an ideological way” and ‌represented “a nostalgic disease.” The Vatican is reportedly ⁤considering a complete ⁢ban on the​ Latin Mass, a prospect that has alarmed traditionalists. ​Lord Moylan, a traditionalist ⁣catholic and‌ Tory peer, expressed dismay, saying, “English Catholicism has a centuries-old tradition of underground Masses. All that has changed is who’s persecuting ⁤us.” This situation echoes a previous incident where Father Paddy McCafferty, a Catholic priest, stated he would vote for the ⁢pro-life DUP over Sinn Féin due to the latter’s stance ​on abortion. It remains unclear how many conservative Catholics actually follow ⁤thru and vote for the DUP. Shannon, who identifies as a “fair-minded unionist,” believes that the issue of abortion ‌– on which the SDLP and Sinn Féin have adopted more liberal positions⁣ – has led to increased support from traditional Catholics who might not or ⁤else vote‍ for him. He reported being surprised by his vote ‌totals in several‌ areas ‌during the previous general election. “Over the last 10 years, I have increasingly been told by ‍some Catholics that on ‘moral issues where they and I would share the​ same commitment and belief, they feel that ‍I probably ⁤better represent them on those things,'” Shannon explained. His defense of the Latin Mass has⁢ unexpectedly transformed‌ him into an​ unlikely champion for those who wish to preserve the tradition. The traditional Latin Mass,a ​centuries-old form of Roman Catholic liturgy,is ‍experiencing a resurgence⁤ of interest. Those curious about this unique experience can find ⁤a Latin Mass⁣ held regularly on the Antrim‌ Road in Belfast. While some associate the Latin Mass with conservative viewpoints, its​ niche ‌appeal suggests a diverse range of practitioners. Perhaps the most famous devotee of the Latin Mass was ⁢the renowned Irish playwright ​Oscar wilde, who⁣ attended daily services and famously remarked, “Catholicism is the only religion to die in.” This highlights the aesthetic and theatrical aspects that ⁤drew Wilde, and perhaps others, ​to‌ the ritualistic beauty of the Latin Mass. whether driven by spirituality, a interest with history, or simply a desire to experience something different,⁢ attending a​ Latin Mass offers a unique glimpse into‌ a rich and enduring‌ tradition. https://institute-christ-king.ie/belfast/ https://editions.covecollective.org/content/oscar-wilde-and-catholic-church-love-story DUP MP Defends Latin Mass Amidst Vatican Crackdown

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## The Unexpected⁣ Defender: DUP MP Jim Shannon on ⁣the Latin Mass



**Archyde:** Today we’re joined by‌ DUP MP jim Shannon, who has unexpectedly become a champion of the Latin Mass, a move that has raised eyebrows within Northern Ireland’s political landscape. Welcome, Mr. Shannon.



**Shannon:** Thank you for having me.





**Archyde:** Let’s get right to it. Traditionally, the DUP has been known for its opposition to the Catholic Church. Your ⁤party founder Ian Paisley famously branded the Pope‍ as ‌the Antichrist. What prompted you to raise the issue of the Latin⁢ Mass with the⁤ Westminster Government, seemingly breaking ‍ranks with your party’s history?



**Shannon:** I raised​ the issue on behalf of Catholic constituents in ⁤my constituency, many of whom actually vote for me. Being an elected representative means representing everyone in your area, irrespective of their faith. I don’t think people should be shocked by my‌ interest⁣ in theological debates within the Catholic Church. [2]



**Archyde:** You specifically inquired ‌about the Vatican’s stance on the tridentine Mass pilgrimage to Chartres. Can you elaborate on those concerns?



**Shannon:** There are concerns that⁢ this⁤ pilgrimage, which draws thousands of participants every year, might potentially be cancelled. It’s⁣ a notable event for those who hold the Latin Mass dear, and I wanted to ensure the⁤ UK government was‍ aware of the situation and possibly engaged in‍ dialog with the Vatican on the matter. [2]



**archyde:** The Latin⁢ Mass has seen a resurgence‍ in popularity, yet it has also⁣ faced restrictions from the​ Vatican, most⁢ recently‌ from Pope Francis who called it a “nostalgic disease”. What are your thoughts‌ on that?



**Shannon:** I ⁣beleive it’s vital for the Catholic Church to be open to multiple forms of worship and tradition. Many people find deep ⁢solace ⁤and meaning in the Latin Mass. While I respect the Pope’s position, I believe dialogue and understanding are essential ⁢when it comes to such ​sensitive matters.



**Archyde:** We’ve seen a rise in tensions ⁤between those who favor traditional ⁣Catholic practices ‍and those who‍ support the reforms of Vatican II. Where do you see this debate heading?



**Shannon:** It’s a complex situation with strong emotions on⁢ both ‌sides. I hope that‌ respectful dialogue and a willingness to understand different perspectives can pave⁢ the way for a more harmonious future within the Catholic Church.





**archyde:** Mr. Shannon, thank you for sharing your ⁢insights on this important topic.


## Interview with Jim Shannon MP



**Good morning, Mr. Shannon. Thank you for taking the time to speak with me today.



Let’s talk about your recent intervention on behalf of the Tridentine Mass pilgrimage to Chartres. Many people were surprised to see a DUP MP raising this issue. Can you explain what prompted you to do so?**



**Jim Shannon:** Good morning. It’s a pleasure to be here. While I understand the surprise from some quarters, I represent a diverse constituency in Strangford. Many of my constituents are Catholic and some of them expressed their concerns about the potential cancellation of the Chartres pilgrimage.



I believe it’s significant to represent *all* my constituents, regardless of their religious beliefs. This isn’t about my personal beliefs, but about ensuring that the voices of my constituents are heard.



**You mentioned representing your constituents. Do you think this issue especially resonates with Catholic voters in Northern Ireland?**



**JS:** Over the last decade, I’ve noticed a growing sense among some Catholics that we share common ground on important moral issues like the sanctity of life. This has led to increased support from Catholic voters who previously might not have considered voting for a DUP candidate.



**But the DUP has a past association with strong opposition to the catholic Church, with figures like Ian Paisley famously denouncing the Pope.Do you see your stance on this issue as a departure from the party’s past?**



**JS:** The DUP has evolved over time. We are, at our core, a party that believes in fair portrayal for all.



**Regarding the Latin Mass itself, do you personally attend these services?**



**JS:** I’m a churchgoer, but I attend Church of Ireland services. My interest in this matter stems from my commitment to representing all my constituents, including those who hold the Latin Mass dear.



**Pope Francis has restricted the use of the Latin Mass, citing concerns about its use by traditionalists for ideological purposes.Do you share these concerns?**



**JS:** My focus is on ensuring that people have the freedom to worship according to their beliefs. I believe in tolerance and respect for different religious practices.



**Lord Moylan, a traditionalist Catholic and Tory peer, has expressed concerns about a potential ban on the Latin Mass, invoking the historical persecution of Catholics. What are your thoughts on this? **



**JS:** I believe it’s important to learn from history and avoid repeating past mistakes. There should be space for diverse religious expression within society.



**what message do you have for those who are surprised or even critical of your position on this issue?**



**JS:** I woudl simply say that my role as an MP is to serve *all* my constituents. I believe in representation for everyone, regardless of their background or religious beliefs.







**Thank you for your time, Mr. Shannon.**



**JS:** You’re very welcome.

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