I’ve been meaning to write about this for some time, and better late than never. I encourage NLM readers to check out the initiative called the “Latin Mass Project,” which has a website as beautiful as its subject deserves. Their flagship publication, the first of many to come, is Ad Altare Dei: Pew Edition.
This book contains the full texts of the Mass in Latin and English, explanations of those parts of the Mass which vary throughout the year, and clearly-marked rubrics. There are also boxes containing commentary on the gestures, prayers, and objects found within the Mass.
The first edition having sold out, a second edition was prepared with several improvements: gold foil cover detail, gilded edges, sturdier hardcover binding, and a ribbon, among other touches.
Each page features full-color photos taken at Old St. Patrick Oratory, the Institute’s apostolate in Kansas City, MO. Acclaimed by children and adults alike, this book is intended to be a beautiful, durable, and practical resource for everyday use by faithful of all ages.
The preface reads:
“Under the patronage of St. Francis de Sales, St. Veronica, and St. Joseph, Protector of the Universal Church, Latin Mass Project seeks to introduce the Extraordinary Form of the Roman Rite in a clear and beautiful way. With the belief that beauty is a powerful evangelist and the Mass is a brilliant catechist, it aims to be a showcase and primer of the birthright that belongs to all baptized Catholics.
It is my sincerest hope that this book, any future books in this series, and all of the work of Latin Mass Project presents the truth of Tradition in an attractive and approachable way, inviting fellow Catholics from all backgrounds to know and love the heritage that belongs to each and every one of us. Christ established His Church and her Tradition for you and your salvation. This is your inheritance, a gift from Him to you; come to the altar of God and see what is yours!”
I reached out to the head of the project, Trini Crocker, and asked for some further information. She replied:
"The Pew Guide has been very well received by both children and adults. The pictures help children who cannot yet read follow the book for the duration of the Mass, and help adults connect the prayers of the Mass to the actions of the priest at the altar. The rubrical commentary is intended to answer some of the immediate in-pew questions one may have. There is no age range on this book!"
I asked her about the future of her endeavors:
"What other work will the Project do? A new guide for Tenebrae will be released in Spring 2026. At the time of this writing, the long-term goal of the Project is a four-volume visual encyclopedia of the Extraordinary Form covering everything from the Mass to the Ceremonies of Baptism to the Epiphany house blessing. Divine Providence will be the driving force in the development of the Project, so the possibilities are endless."
She also clarified how the Project is connected with the Institute of Christ the King Sovereign Priest (ICKSP):
"The Project is not produced, funded, or owned by the ICKSP in any way. The Project is a venture entirely separate from the ICKSP. However, due to its clear visible association with the Project, the local and provincial superiors granted approval prior to the publication of the Pew Guide. Shortly after its launch, it received formal approval from Monsignor Giles Wach, founder of the Institute."
For more information about the Project, its background, its current and upcoming projects, and more, please visit www.latinmassproject.com. The Project can be contacted via email at salve.latinmassproject@gmail.com.
Each page features full-color photos taken at Old St. Patrick Oratory, the Institute’s apostolate in Kansas City, MO. Acclaimed by children and adults alike, this book is intended to be a beautiful, durable, and practical resource for everyday use by faithful of all ages.
The preface reads:
“Under the patronage of St. Francis de Sales, St. Veronica, and St. Joseph, Protector of the Universal Church, Latin Mass Project seeks to introduce the Extraordinary Form of the Roman Rite in a clear and beautiful way. With the belief that beauty is a powerful evangelist and the Mass is a brilliant catechist, it aims to be a showcase and primer of the birthright that belongs to all baptized Catholics.
It is my sincerest hope that this book, any future books in this series, and all of the work of Latin Mass Project presents the truth of Tradition in an attractive and approachable way, inviting fellow Catholics from all backgrounds to know and love the heritage that belongs to each and every one of us. Christ established His Church and her Tradition for you and your salvation. This is your inheritance, a gift from Him to you; come to the altar of God and see what is yours!”
I reached out to the head of the project, Trini Crocker, and asked for some further information. She replied:
"The Pew Guide has been very well received by both children and adults. The pictures help children who cannot yet read follow the book for the duration of the Mass, and help adults connect the prayers of the Mass to the actions of the priest at the altar. The rubrical commentary is intended to answer some of the immediate in-pew questions one may have. There is no age range on this book!"
I asked her about the future of her endeavors:
"What other work will the Project do? A new guide for Tenebrae will be released in Spring 2026. At the time of this writing, the long-term goal of the Project is a four-volume visual encyclopedia of the Extraordinary Form covering everything from the Mass to the Ceremonies of Baptism to the Epiphany house blessing. Divine Providence will be the driving force in the development of the Project, so the possibilities are endless."
She also clarified how the Project is connected with the Institute of Christ the King Sovereign Priest (ICKSP):
"The Project is not produced, funded, or owned by the ICKSP in any way. The Project is a venture entirely separate from the ICKSP. However, due to its clear visible association with the Project, the local and provincial superiors granted approval prior to the publication of the Pew Guide. Shortly after its launch, it received formal approval from Monsignor Giles Wach, founder of the Institute."
For more information about the Project, its background, its current and upcoming projects, and more, please visit www.latinmassproject.com. The Project can be contacted via email at salve.latinmassproject@gmail.com.
