PONTIFICAL HIGH MASS.

Manawatu Standard, Volume LVIII, Issue 77, 28 February 1938, Page 11

PONTIFICAL HIGH MASS.

A THREE-FOLD RITUAL. Per Press Association. AUCKLAND, Feb. 27. Impregnated with historic ritual that is centuries old and mystic symbolism that speaks eloquently to every devout Catholic, the celebration of Solemn Pontifical High Mass at St. Patrick’s Cathedral this morning was at once an affirmation of faith, a service of thanksgiving for the establishment of that faith by Bishop Pompallier in New Zealand 100 years ago, and a conferment of honour upon bis memory. There was the majesty and beauty of Palestrina’s “Missa Brevis” sung by the centenary choir of 70 voices under Professor Moor-Karoly, and because of its intricacy not often performed. There were the rich, colourful vestments of His Excellency the Apostolic Delegate (Most Rev. J. Panico), of the celebrant, Most Rev. T. O’Shea, Roman Catholic Archbishop of Wellington and Metropolitan of New Zealand, a.nd tile many members of the New Zealand and overseas hierarchies.

As many as 2000 Catholics were gathered outside the cathedral, and in the harsh white glare of the sun the bright lines of the prelates’ robes, the black and white habits of the Redemptorists, Passionists and Vincentians and _ the brown of the Franciscans blended in an arresting picture whose tones were subtly changed as the units in the procession passed. Every seat was filled. Although the heat of the day made the interior of the cathedral very oppressive, the dignity of the Mass, its pathos and exaltation, the unblemished white of- the alta.r candles, the golden tapestries and altar furnishings lent their support to the devotion of the congregation. The most solemn act in the ceremony was the elevation of the Host, which was signalled with the chiming of the warning hell used by Bishop Pompallier in the early missionary days. Into this act were concentrated adoration, repentance, petition for blessing and thanksgiving for blessings received- —a symbolic representation of Calvary performed while a deep hush enveloped the congregation. To those present —many had come from the farthermnst parts of the Dominion —it was the most dramatic moment of the Mass. _

The complex harmonies in the music developed toward a triumphant conclusion and. when the celebrant had given his triple blessing, the Apostolic Delegate was escorted from his throne in the sanctuary and the procession reformed and slowly passed through the church. His Excellency with raised hand silently blessing the people as he walked along the aisle.