29/05/2026
POPE TO PRIESTS: UPHOLD LITURGICAL TEXTS AND REGULATIONS
Pope Leo XIV on Wednesday reminded priests and liturgical ministers to faithfully uphold the Church’s liturgical texts and regulations, saying respect for the sacred liturgy reflects humility before God and fidelity to the Church.
Speaking during his General Audience at Saint Peter’s Square, the pope reflected on the Second Vatican Council’s Constitution Sacrosanctum Concilium, which focused on liturgical reform and renewal in the Catholic Church. Leo XIV emphasized that authentic reform must remain rooted in Catholic tradition while remaining open to legitimate development suited to the needs of the faithful.
“I therefore urge all those called to prepare the celebration of the divine mysteries, in particular priests who exercise the ministry of liturgical presidency, to always uphold that respect for the texts and regulations of the liturgy,” the pope said. He added that such respect should flow from “an inner attitude of openness and trust in God,” together with “sincere fidelity to ecclesial communion.”
The pontiff also cautioned against unauthorized changes in liturgical celebrations, citing the Council’s warning against anyone independently altering liturgical practices. He stressed that reforms within the Church should undergo careful theological, historical, and pastoral discernment in order to preserve unity among the faithful and deepen participation in the Paschal Mystery of Christ.