Pope Leo XIV defends Vatican II liturgical reforms

During a General Audience at St. Peter's Basilica, Pope Leo XIV addressed the liturgical reforms introduced by the Second Vatican Council. He emphasized that the reform was not a rupture with the past but rather a continuation of a process matured throughout the 20th century, building upon the work of previous popes and the Liturgical Movement.

The Pope highlighted the distinction between the immutable divine elements of the liturgy and those aspects that can be adapted over time to meet the needs of the era. He called for active and conscious participation from the faithful, stating that believers should not be mere spectators but should engage deeply with the rites, words, and gestures of the celebration.

Furthermore, the Pontiff charged pastors, including bishops and priests, with the responsibility of safeguarding and promoting respect for liturgical norms. The goal is to ensure that celebrations reflect a ‘noble simplicity’ that manifests the Church's nature as one, holy, catholic, and apostolic.