Francis brings back Canonization rite reformed by Paul VI

Penitential Act now omitted.

The Canonization rite reformed by Pope Paul VI but set aside by Pope Benedict XVI has been returned by Pope Francis for the canonization of six saints on Sunday.

The return of the reformed rite is mourned by Rorate Caeli, a traditional Catholic blog, as a reversal of the "reform of the reform" instituted by Pope Benedict.

"Reform of the reform" was supported by those who did not like the liturgical reforms put in place after Vatican II.

"The Rite of Canonization introduced on October 21, 2012, by Pope Benedict XVI and which was largely based on the Rite of Canonization before Pius XII is now gone," states Rorate Caeli. It was last used in April for the canonization of Popes John XXIII and John Paul II.

Benedictine Fr Anthony Ruff, who is pleased with the return of the Pauline reform, also describes the changes in his liturgy blog, Pray Tell.

"The three-fold petitions are now gone, along with the formulae emphasizing the authority of canonizations."

Under Francis, the rite has been further simplified beyond what was done by Paul VI. "The Penitential Act is now omitted, as its place is taken by the rite of canonization," writes Father Ruff. "The Litany of Saints is shortened and the final petitions to the Lord are gone, which is also a further simplification of Paul VI."

Source: National Catholic Reporter