UNITED STATES
Questions from a Ewe

Our dear bishops in the U.S. concluded their semi-annual meeting two days ago and I’m sure we’re all elated that they had the courage to tackle some really challenging topics during that meeting.

Their first vote addressed that vexing problem plaguing so many American Catholics…what to do about the canticles used in the Liturgy of the Hours. Well, friends, sleep peacefully tonight. They voted to use a new English translation of those canticles – “in a style similar to the Revised Grail Psalms, with emphasis on sprung rhythms and faithful translation.” Whew! Glad they got that sorted out! It’s easy to see why they voted on this first, and quite frankly, a bit surprising that they didn’t handle this pressing issue at an earlier date by calling a special meeting or something.

Their second vote pertained to priest formation / seminary training. If…