(ZENIT News / Guadalajara, 11.08.2024).- In a testament to their enduring impact on the preservation of traditional liturgy and sacred music, Cardinal Juan Sandoval Íñiguez, Archbishop Emeritus of Guadalajara, Mexico, and the renowned Scottish composer Sir James MacMillan have each been awarded the prestigious De Saventhem Medal. This honor, bestowed by the International Federation Una Voce, recognizes significant contributions to the promotion and safeguarding of the traditional Latin Mass and sacred music within the Catholic Church.
Cardinal Sandoval, whose efforts have centered on ensuring the accessibility of the Latin Mass for the faithful in Mexico, received the medal in a ceremony held at his residence on October 23. His recognition highlights decades of commitment to the traditional liturgy, dating back to the Roman Missal of 1962, as promulgated by Pope John XXIII. Cardinal Sandoval has continually supported those within the Church who cherish this form of worship, fostering both reverence for its spiritual depth and unity with the broader Catholic hierarchy and Pope Francis.
Sir James MacMillan, celebrated globally for his contributions to sacred music, received his De Saventhem Medal in London on September 18. His compositions, which blend traditional and modern sacred music, have enriched liturgical and concert settings alike, resonating deeply within both religious and artistic circles. His work underscores the spiritual and cultural significance of sacred music, linking ancient traditions with contemporary expression.
Named after its founder, Dr. Eric de Saventhem, the De Saventhem Medal is reserved for those who have provided exceptional service in safeguarding the heritage of the Roman Rite. Past recipients include Cardinal Darío Castrillón Hoyos and pianist Vladimir Ashkenazy, the latter of whom signed a historic petition in 1971 in defense of the traditional Latin Mass.
Founded on the principles of communion with the Church, obedience to its Magisterium, and respect for ecclesiastical authorities, Una Voce advocates for the preservation of the Latin Mass, as well as the use of Latin, Gregorian chant, and polyphonic sacred music. These elements, rich in cultural and religious significance, are seen by the federation as essential to the spiritual life of the Church.
The organization’s stance has long found sympathetic ears within the Vatican. In 1996, Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger, then Prefect of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith and later Pope Benedict XVI, commended Una Voce’s work, stating that it had been “instrumental in supporting the use of the 1962 edition of the Roman Missal in obedience to the directives of the Holy See,” and expressed his gratitude and blessing upon its members.
The recent recognition of Cardinal Sandoval and Sir James MacMillan by Una Voce, which operates in 40 countries, exemplifies the federation’s commitment to honoring individuals who have upheld the Church’s liturgical heritage with devotion. As President Dr. Joseph Shaw presented these awards, the organization reaffirmed its mission of preserving the unique beauty and spiritual depth of the traditional Mass, ensuring it remains a cherished treasure for generations to come.
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