Turned Around

More about the book

In this thought-provoking book, Dr. Kwasniewski addresses nine common objections to the traditional Latin Mass, skillfully flipping them to reveal deeper truths. For instance, when faced with the complaint that “the priest has his back to me,” he counters, “Yes, he does, and that’s exactly how it should be.” Similarly, he tackles the notion that “the priest does everything while I just watch,” explaining that this allows the faithful to engage in their own proper way. He also confronts the idea that the Mass feels too regal for a democratic society, asserting that it indeed reflects a royal court—the most royal of all. Dr. Kwasniewski continues to address objections related to the use of Latin, kneeling to receive Communion, repetitive prayers and gestures, the fixed lectionary, and the importance of not fully understanding everything. By reframing these challenges, he reveals the wisdom of the centuries-old rite and its significance in the lives of countless saints. This tradition, with its non-modern and even anti-modern characteristics, invites a deeper conversion towards God. Ultimately, Dr. Kwasniewski’s insights transform objections into opportunities for understanding, drawing both young and old to the profound mystery of the Latin Mass and its unique place in divine worship.