An Illinois bishop confirmed today (February 23, 2012) that a Roman Catholic priest was fired because he "simply would not and could not pray the prayers of the Mass" under a new translation that went into effect last year, according to the Religion News website.
Bishop Edward Braxton of Belleville, Illinois -- in a rare letter of explanation about an internal personnel dispute -- responded to the firing of the Rev. William Rowe, who has been pastor of St. Mary's Catholic Church in Carmel, Ill. for 18 years.
Braxton said several parishioners of St. Mary's had brought audio and video evidence to him, "which showed the many changes and omissions Fr. Rowe makes in the Mass."
According to Catholic liturgical practice, priests are required to use the prayers laid out in the Missal -- the book of prayers, chants, and responses used during the Mass.
