A new Motu Proprio reversing Traditiones Custodes would only serve to deepen the liturgical crisis. This is why the recent comments from Cardinal Roche that Pope Leo does not intend to repeal TC have not bothered me. Instead, Pope Leo could still affirm the essential core of both Summorum Pontificum and Traditiones Custodes by way of an Apostolic Constitution, marrying the two previous papal documents. The Vetus Ordo can remain under the guardianship of the Institutes of consecrated life and Societies of apostolic life that worship in the older forms. Under the headship of their respective superior generals, by order of the Holy See, the enriching elements of the Novus Ordo may be vetted, agreed upon, and prudently integrated toward a refreshed Vetus Ordo Missal. Adding Prefaces, recent saints, and establishing a weekday lectionary are among these enrichments. Some of this enrichment is already underway ad libitum.
Parochial churches, though still required to celebrate the Novus Ordo throughout the year, by order of the same Apostolic Constitution, could be allowed to celebrate the Vetus Ordo on Solemnities when the subject matter is fixed and the two calendars align: St. Joseph (March 19), Annunciation (March 25), Nativity of St John the Baptist (June 24), Sts. Peter and Paul (June 29), Assumption of Mary (August 15), All Saints (November 1), Immaculate Conception (December 8), and Christmas (December 25). Easter, though moveable, could also be included in the Solemnities where the Vetus Ordo may be celebrated in parochial churches.
This measured witness of the Vetus Ordo within the parochial setting would no doubt positively affect the overall disposition of worship throughout the rest of the year. This approach, too, works to graft the Novus Ordo back into the vine of organic liturgical development. Small, yet profound content integrations could be decided upon by the Holy See in the future. Re-introducing the Roman Offertory, certain Collects/Intercessions, and/or Prayers at the Foot of the Altar are among these enrichments.
This proposed settlement allows for a directed flourishing of the Vetus Ordo, alleviates Pope Francis’ concern for parochial unity, reinstates an environment for mutual enrichment, avoids an overhaul reform of the Novus Ordo or a full calendrical integration project, prevents stagnation and the ghettoizing of the Vetus Ordo, and better respects presbyterial rights.