Paper short abstract:

This paper examines issues of essentialism and authenticity in the assertion of what is considered ‘pure’ and ‘original’ worship in a group of ‘Old Rite’ Catholics in present-day Lewisham, Sydney. It discusses musical choices made to consolidate a distinct transcultural religious identity.

Paper long abstract:

Since the late 1980s, a group of ‘Old Rite’ Catholics have gathered in the Inner West Sydney suburb of Lewisham. What distinguishes them from mainstream Catholicism is their observance of liturgical rubrics dating from the 1500s with links to the modalities of early Christianity. Ecclesiastical Latin, along with many of the ancient rituals, music and general proceedings were ‘edited out’ during the reforms of Vatican Council II (1962-1965), which modernised the religion in favour of vernacular languages, contemporary culture and interdenominational dialogue. However, several ‘renegade’ communities have adhered to these early practices, condoned by Pope John Paul II's establishment of the Fraternity of St Peter, an order of Old Rite priests. This conservative movement flourished internationally with the 2007 Moto Proprio of Pope Benedict encouraging mainstream appreciation of the old ways. Raised in this conservative hub as a chorister, I examine issues of essentialism and authenticity in the assertion of what is considered ‘pure’ and ‘original’ worship through various musical choices. How has increased visibility through Facebook live-streaming due to COVID-19 affected the community's public image? What measures have been taken since Pope Francis’ July 2021 decree to restrict the Old Rite in favour of the Novus Ordo ('New Order')? I draw attention to the multi-ethnic nature of this community, led by its Chinese-Malaysian Parish Priest, Fr Duncan Wong FSSP, and discuss how community members, through a marginalised Latin-speaking faith from Renaissance Europe, have come together to consolidate a religious identity that transcends cultural origins and political boundaries.