CCBI Releases the Altar Edition of the Roman Missal
Bhubaneswar (CCBI): The Conference of Catholic Bishops of India (CCBI) has released the Altar Edition of the third edition of the Roman Missal (Missale Romanum, editio typica tertia) in English for India. The much-anticipated edition was unveiled by His Eminence Cardinal Filipe Neri Ferrão, President of the CCBI and Archbishop of Goa and Daman, during the 36th Plenary Assembly at XIM University, Bhubaneswar.
The CCBI had previously published the Altar Edition of the Roman Missal in 2010. In 2015, the Holy See approved the Indian Liturgical Calendar, prompting the need for an updated edition. The newly released Altar Edition has been meticulously prepared in accordance with this calendar, incorporating the feasts of recently canonized saints and blesseds.
This latest edition features a larger font size, fewer pages for easy navigation, and well-organized Masses, ensuring clarity and ease of use. Designed for durability, it includes seven ribbons, red gilding, and a striking red cover with gold foiling. Printed on high-quality imported paper from Finland, the Missal offers exceptional opacity and readability, ensuring it withstands daily liturgical use. The layout remains faithful to a proven format that respects functional page-turns, enhancing the experience for the celebrants.
Alongside the Roman Missal, other publications were also released. These include “Chanting the Responsorial Psalms” by Mr. Michael Peria, “Synodality in the Law and Life of the Church” by Bishop Arulselvam Rayappan of Salem, a collection of 8 Synodal Documents presented in a slipcase and the Bishops’ Diary.
On the fifth day of the CCBI Plenary Assembly, Archbishop John Barwa, S.V.D., of Cuttack-Bhubaneswar presided over the Holy Mass as the main celebrant. Joining him as principal concelebrants were the Bishops of Odisha: Bishop Varghese Thottamkara of Balasore, Bishop Sarat Chandra Nayak of Berhampur, Bishop Kishore Kumar Kujur of Rourkela, Bishop Niranjan Sualsingh of Sambalpur and Bishop Aplinar Senapati of Rayagada.
In his homily, Archbishop Barwa reflected on the deep-rooted faith of the Catholic community in Odisha, particularly in Kandhamal, where believers have remained steadfast despite the challenges of persecution. He praised their unwavering commitment and the vibrancy of the Church in the region.
The day’s proceedings continued with the presentation of biennial reports from the 14 Regional Bishops’ Councils. The session was moderated by Archbishop Thomas D’Souza of Calcutta, who guided the discussions as the assembly reviewed key matters.
Among the significant decisions, the request by Bishop Anthonisamy Neethinathan of Chingleput to elevate the St. Thomas Mount National Shrine of Our Lady of Expectation in Chennai to the status of a Minor Basilica was approved.
The bishops also gave their consent to the Gujarati translation of the Roman Missal, a request presented by Archbishop Thomas Macwan of Gandhinagar. Additionally, the Tamil translation of the Ritual for Confirmation and Marriage, submitted by Bishop Savarimuthu Arokiaraj of Tiruchirappalli, received approval. The business sessions were presided over by Cardinal Filipe Neri Ferrão, President of the CCBI, who oversaw the deliberations and approvals.
As the day drew to a close, the assembly gathered in prayer for Eucharistic Adoration and Benediction, led by Archbishop Elias Gonsalves of Nagpur.
Rev. Dr. Stephen Alathara, Deputy Secretary General, CCBI