Doesn't the new Mass reject Pius V's mandate in Quo Primum?
The short answer
No. Quo Primum concerned discipline, not an infallible teaching on faith or morals — it even allowed exceptions for other approved uses and customs. Discipline can always be changed by equal or greater authority, so "in perpetuity" means "until changed." Paul VI had the same authority as Pius V.
Discipline, not doctrine
Quo Primum dealt with a disciplinary matter, not an infallible teaching. An infallible teaching on faith or morals could not allow exceptions such as other approved ways of saying Mass or long-standing customs, yet Quo Primum did, saying it in no way rescinded those prerogatives or customs.
"In perpetuity"
Disciplinary matters always remain subject to change by equal or greater authority, so "in perpetuity" means "from now on, until this or an equal or greater authority decides otherwise."
Equal authority
Paul VI held authority equal to Pius V's, so the changes made under him were licit and valid.
Continue exploring
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- Can a lay pastoral coordinator give a homily?Q&A
- Can non-Catholics participate in the gestures at Mass?Q&A
- Did the Church change the Mass to make it more acceptable to Protestants?Q&A
- Is it illicit for a priest to sing the words of consecration?Q&A
- Is music allowed during the Eucharistic Prayer?Q&A