Bishop David Malloy, Ordinary of the Rockford Illinois diocese, in a January 11 letter to his priests, has set limits on both the practice of celebrating Mass ad orientem, and the celebration of liturgy according to the Extraordinary Form.<\/p>\n
Citing the need for “unity in the shared celebration of the sacraments, especially the Eucharist” he has asked that no priest celebrate either ad orientem or according to the Extraordinary Form without his permission — a move he presents as an act of governance within his diocese, “to underscore our unity” and limit “confusion.”<\/p>\n
Summorum Pontificum states, in article 2, that a priest may celebrate this form without a congregation, even without seeking permission. Bishop Malloy’s letter notes that his decision has been taken “with due regard” for article 2.<\/p>\n