Unique Catholic Ritual Returns to Fresno

Pentecost Solemn High Mass to Involve Three Clergy, Incense, and Gregorian Chant

Even before Pope Paul VI approved a new form of the Catholic Mass in 1970, it was a rare privilege for Catholics to attend a Solemn High Mass. On Sunday, May 11 at 3:30 p.m., St. Anthony of Padua in Fresno, California will see the return of this ancient ceremony, which requires three clergy, incense, and Gregorian chant.

The Solemn High Mass is the full ceremonial form of the 1962 Missal, or extraordinary form of the Roman Rite. During the May 11 Mass, Fr. Matthew McNeely of the Priestly Fraternity of St. Peter will be assisted by Fr. Angel Sotelo of St. Columba's Church in Chowchilla, California, as well as a subdeacon and several altar servers.

"Although we have a Latin Mass every Sunday, the Solemn High Mass is an even more beautiful and reverent liturgy," says Keven Smith, president of the Fresno Traditional Mass Society. "Pentecost is an ideal time for this Mass. We very much appreciate the extra effort of our priests and pastor in making this possible."

Much of the Gregorian chant will be performed by the St. Blaise Schola Cantorum. Mass will begin at 3:30 p.m. in the main sanctuary, with printed English translations available.

The Fresno Traditional Mass Society is a chapter of Una Voce America. Its members work to promote the traditional Latin Mass and Gregorian chant.