I was able to make it into DC on Saturday evening to attend the Mass of reparation offered by Fr. David Franco of the Priestly Fraternity of St. Peter (FSSP), who was ordained a year ago last month. The Mass was offered in reparation for abortion and the other sins of our nation. It marked the conclusion of the FSSP’s annual pilgrimage to the Shrine.

I have a particular love for the Crypt Chapel of the Basilica, and not only did the Mass of the Ages seem very fitting in those environs, but the acoustics for the schola were exceptional (as was the schola itself). Here are two samples I grabbed with my pocket digital recorder:

Schola Clip 1:

Schola Clip 2:

I also brought along a camera so that I could share some photos of the event with you. You’ll note that it was a very multi-cultural event, reminding us once again that the universality of liturgy bridges all divides. As is so often the case with the TLM, the majority of those in attendance appeared to be quite young, including families with small children (which is a considerable feat at 5:30PM on a Saturday). I never tire of being reminded that the liturgical future of the Church rests in the hands of those who have chosen the ancient Roman liturgy, rather than merely having inherited it.

Some curiosity-seekers who were exploring the Basilica came by during the Eucharistic Canon and stood in the back near where I was set up with my camera, and they seemed very taken with the sacred music and reverence that permeated the chapel.

Those who have attended the event before tell me this is the largest crowd they’ve had for it. It’s wonderful to see something like this growing. Hopefully one day soon, it’ll be large enough that it has to be held upstairs in the main church. What a glorious sight that’d be!