I have just seen some of the changes made for the new translation of the Missal. My own comments are that in the everyday language, the older translation is much better. “fellowship of the Holy Spirit” becomes “communion of the Holy Spirit”, “offering” becomes “oblation”, “let us call to mind our sins” becomes “Let us acknowledge our sins.” Rather trivial stuff.
The saddest words of all though are the consecration of the Cup, where “for all” has been replaced by “for many.” I’d really like to know whether the discussion that went into the first translation was considered in preparing this new translation. The fact is that the words mean “for all”, and so the new translation is misleading.
“Lord we ask you to receive us, and be pleased with the sacrifice we offer with humble and contrite hearts” becomes “With humble spirit and contrite heart may we be accepted by you, O Lord, and may our sacrifice in your sight this day be pleasing to you, Lord God.” I find this to be tortured language.
In the second eucharistic prayer, the words, “In memory of his death and resurrection, we offer you, Father, this life-giving bread, this saving cup. We thank you for counting us worthy to stand in your presence and serve you,” becomes “Therefore, we celebrate the memorial of his Death and Resurrection, we offer you, Lord, the Bread of life and the Chalice of salvation, giving thanks that you have held us worthy to be in your presence and minister to you.” I knew they would have to remove “to stand in your presence”!
Pope Benedict in a spirit of accommodation has allowed priests the freedom to use the old latin Tridentine Rite which had been forbidden. When we objected we were told that we should have some compassion. I feel that if the Tridentine Mass can be celebrated, then the translation that we have been accustomed to, and its beautiful language should also be allowed – especially to those of us in advancing years who have learned it off by heart.
It is something to consider!