During mass, I meditate the most on the Canon of the mass more than any other part of the mass, likely because of our present situation since John XXIII took office. My thoughts come to the three reasons stated for this holy and unspotted sacrifice which we offer, why three reasons? To me, it must mean that "Thy holy Catholic Church" does not always include the pope and our bishop, or all who are orthodox in belief, because they are not holy, they may not in a state of grace at that moment, therefore are not part of the holy Catholic Church. Notice that the sacrifice is holy and unspotted. I believe that the holy Catholic Church is likewise holy and spotted. A holy and unspotted sacrifice (Our Lord Jesus Christ) is offered up for the likewise holy and unspotted Catholic Church, and for the not unspotted pope, local bishop, and orthodox believers.
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Canon of the Mass
Therefore, we humbly pray and beseech Thee, most merciful Father, through Jesus Christ Thy Son, Our Lord, to receive and to bless these gifts, these presents, these holy unspotted sacrifices, which we offer up to Thee, in the first place, for Thy holy Catholic Church, that it may please Thee to grant her peace, to guard, unite, and guide her, throughout the world: as also for Thy servant N., our Pope, and N., our Bishop, and for all who are orthodox in belief and who profess the Catholic and apostolic faith.
Topic: The Holy Catholic in the Canon may not include the Pope (Read 574 times)