The Vatican website has published a "provisional, off-the-record and unofficial English version" of the 44 Propositions hammered out by the Special Assembly for the Middle East of the Synod of Bishops. As has been the practice for past assemblies of the Synod of Bishops, these propositions are expected to form the basis of a post-synodal Apostolic Exhortation.
The proposition for the liturgy reads as follows:
Propositio 39
Liturgy
The biblical and theological wealth of the Eastern liturgies is at the spiritual service of the universal Church. Nonetheless, it would be useful and important to renew the liturgical texts and celebrations, where necessary, so as to answer better the needs and expectations of the faithful. This renewal must be based on an ever deeper knowledge of tradition and be adapted to contemporary language and categories.
Propositio 39
Liturgy
The biblical and theological wealth of the Eastern liturgies is at the spiritual service of the universal Church. Nonetheless, it would be useful and important to renew the liturgical texts and celebrations, where necessary, so as to answer better the needs and expectations of the faithful. This renewal must be based on an ever deeper knowledge of tradition and be adapted to contemporary language and categories.
A mere statement of intent that will soon be forgotten, or seed of major reforms? Will the Pope's Apostolic Exhortation adopt this, or quietly ignore this? In peace let us pray to the Lord...
