Advantages of Rigidity

Abstract In recent years, there has been an increase in the number of Catholic masses celebrated regularly in the Tridentine rite in Poland. Based on material from qualitative interviews and observation of celebrations, I describe why Polish Catholics from large cities find this liturgical form valuable. The analysis employs Theodore Schatzki’s schema for the organization of practices, comprising rules, practical understandings, and teleoaffective structures. Four main motivations were identified: valuing of a proven formula over spontaneity and innovation; the Tridentine Mass as a liturgical form facilitating individual contemplation; emphasis on the experience of the sacred; and a sense of freedom accompanying the adoption of a rigorous religious technique.