The Mass as Faithful Friend

Cardinal Roger M. Mahony wrote a meaningful reflection on the new English Missal translation that will be used starting this November in America Magazine:

For Catholics, the Mass is where our relationship with the Lord, who is much more than a true friend, is nurtured and strengthened. The Mass itself is a "faithful friend" because we know it well, and our participation draws us ever deeper into the grace of the Lord. Later this year we will be introduced to a new translation of the prayers of the Mass in the new Roman Missal.

Some are wary of this change - perhaps the most significant change in the liturgy was first introduced after the Second Vatican Council. Such change is never easy, but perhaps a better approach might be to welcome the new translation as a new friend about to lead us to a new moment of grace.