Dear Catholic Exchange:
While serving as lecture for Sunday Mass not long ago, I was startled to see someone had changed all the pronouns in Wisdom 12:12-16 to read “she” instead of he, except for in one line in the middle of the text. I questioned the deacon about it, and I told him it didn’t make sense to change the pronouns, much less to change them in the entire text except for one line.
He replied condescendingly, “Read it just as it is; it doesn't need to make sense, just read it the way it is.” I asked him if the parish was using the proper Scriptures for Liturgy, explaining to him I was informed by EWTN only three translations are accepted. None of which contain sexist he/she, brother/sister language. The deacon told me EWTN should not be considered an accurate authority on the matter and our parish is using the New American version, which he claims is an approved translation. How do I found out what Scripture is approved for Liturgy by the Magisterium?
Thank you, and God bless you.
Nancy Boes
Dear Ms. Boes
Peace in Christ! Your question of which Bible translation is approved for Mass and liturgical use is addressed in our Faith Fact, Approved Biblical Translations for Mass Readings. The daily readings can also be accessed on the website of the U.S. Catholic Conference of Bishops.
The website also has a “Commentary on the Revision of the Lectionary for Mass and an introduction to the new Lectionary. These documents address, among other things, the use of inclusive language.
Please note, however, that the use of the feminine in the reading from Wisdom (6:12-16) is not an example of inclusive language. The “she” refers to wisdom. When wisdom is personified in Scripture, it is portrayed almost exclusively in the feminine. This can be seen throughout the books of Proverbs and Wisdom. The change to “he” indicates a change in the subject from wisdom to the one who seeks wisdom.
If you have further questions on this or would like more information about Catholics United for the Faith, please contact us at 1-800-MY-FAITH (693-2484). Please keep us in your prayers as we endeavor to “support, defend, and advance the efforts of the teaching Church.”
United in the Faith,
Amy Barragree
Information Specialist
Catholics United for the Faith
827 North Fourth Street
Steubenville, OH 43952
800-MY-FAITH (800-693-2484)
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