Discovering the Latin Mass: A Travel Guide for the Curious

By Eduard Habsburg

Published by Sophia Institute Press

Also available as an ebook and audiobook on the Saintifi App

I still remember going to my first Latin Mass 5 years ago on the feast of Sts. Peter and Paul. I wrapped a black scarf over my head because I had heard that it is traditional for women to veil in the TLM (to this day, I have continued to veil when I go to our Novus Ordo parish).

It was late at night, and the sanctuary, althoug full, was completely silent. The next hour and a half was filled with bells, incense, Gregorian Chant, Latin prayers, and beautiful vestements. I received the Eucharist kneeling and at the altar rails. It was familiar yet unlike anything I had ever experienced, and I loved it. We do not frequent the Latin Mass as often these days, but we always enjoy the peace, quiet, and beauty when we do.

Maybe you have never been to the Latin Mass. Or, maybe you have been and did not enjoy your experience like I did. I think a reason that I enjoyed it was that I had friends who regularly attended the Latin Mass to help me know what to expect. I also later went on a women’s retreat where the priest lovingly and patiently explained how to follow the Latin Mass, how to receive on the tongue, and how to follow along in the missal.

If you don’t have a good friend or priest to guide you through the Latin Mass (also known as the TLM – or Traditional Latin Mass), and you are curious about this form of the Roman Rite, Discovering the Latin Mass: A Travel Guide for the Curious by Eduard Habsburg is the perfect guide to read so that you can, hopefully, love it as much as I did.

A Helpful Guide to the Latin Mass

This short little guide is only 56 pages and can be read in an afternoon. Even though it is short, it includes all of the necessary information for someone who is new to the Latin Mass. It explains why the author started attending and why he continues to attend often. The book gives a history of both the Latin Mass and the Novus Ordo Mass and how they are similar and different, and how both forms can help a person grow in holiness and deepen his or her faith.

The author gives helpful advice about how to follow along during the Mass if you wish, and he suggests different missals and resources you can find for free and for purchase to guide you through the Mass.

The author’s writing style is friendly, casual, thorough, and helpful – making this little guide an enjoyable and informative read. Even though I have been to the Latin Mass many times, I learned even more about the significance of the gestures and movements of the priest during Mass. I found the parts about why TLM priests do not concelebrate fascinating, as well as the purpose of side altars that can be seen in older churches.

Who Would Enjoy This Book

As the subtitle implies, this book is perfect for anyone who is curious about the TLM. The author especially explains how the TLM and the New Mass (which all Catholics are familiar with) are similar and different. He does not try to sway or convince you to attend one or the other. His own experiences that he shares are also very helpful.

I think this guide would also be helpful if you attend the TLM and you have family or friends who may be skeptical or critical about you attending. It’s a laid back and approachable explanation to all of the facets and reasons why people may attend, and what it’s all about. It may help with any tough conversations you may have with family members who do not agree with your choice to attend.

Attending the Latin Mass helped me actually understand the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass better, and I get even more out of Mass now – no matter what form I attend. I highly recommend giving the Latin Mass a try if you ever have the chance to attend. This guide will help you get the most out of it when you do.

Discovering the Latin Mass: A Travel Guide for the Curious is an informative, practical, and enjoyable book, and I recommend it to anyone who wants to learn about this important part of the Catholic Church’s history and tradition.