Do we hate our own rites? Perhaps not. But we are most certainly embarrassed by them. Embarrassed to breathe on a child and command the devil to depart. Embarrassed to put blessed salt upon the tongue as a defense against corruption. Embarrassed to admit aloud that Satan is real.

The older rite of Baptism proclaimed salvation as a rescue from the powers of darkness. The new rite whispers it as a polite welcome. Small wonder, then, that belief in the devil, the Real Presence, and the very need for sacramental life has collapsed in our time. When our rites no longer fight, neither do our people.

The world does not need “wishes.” It needs deliverance. It needs the Church to pray with power and glory again — as if she believes Christ has conquered death and hell.