The idea that someone as subtle and theologically erudite as Benedict XVI would write Summorum Pontificum for such a boring reason as to placate traditionalists is just disrespectful and insulting to his intelligence, to which David Gordon can’t even hold a candle
The fact is, Pope Benedict XVI issued that motu proprio primarily for a reason that was thoroughly theological, that is, to display outwardly the inner continuity of the Church’s current liturgical life with that of Her long-standing past
What this would have done is ensure that liturgical reform (which should be an ongoing enterprise, not a static product of 1970) would be adequately enriched and continuously informed by a constant witness to the Church’s perennial liturgical patrimony living side by side with it.
THIS is the only way to bring about an optimal unification of the Roman rite, which Pope Francis rightly desires but is unable to prudently execute
The fact is, Pope Benedict XVI issued that motu proprio primarily for a reason that was thoroughly theological, that is, to display outwardly the inner continuity of the Church’s current liturgical life with that of Her long-standing past
What this would have done is ensure that liturgical reform (which should be an ongoing enterprise, not a static product of 1970) would be adequately enriched and continuously informed by a constant witness to the Church’s perennial liturgical patrimony living side by side with it.
THIS is the only way to bring about an optimal unification of the Roman rite, which Pope Francis rightly desires but is unable to prudently execute