Question
Is it true that Canon Law says that you can have Latin Masses? Why don't priests follow the laws of the church with regard to having the celebration of the Holy Mass in Latin?
--Loving it in Lauflin
Answer
Canon 928 states:
The Eucharist should be celebrated in the Latin language or another language, provided the liturgical texts have been lawfully approved.
However, this must be kept in mind that there are a number of citations from the liturgical books and the Constitution on the Liturgy calling for the "full, conscious, and active participation of all the faithful" in the liturgy. If the majority of the congregation understands Latin, and can participate and respond to the prayers in Latin, there is no problem with celebrating the Eucharist in Latin. Latin can also be beneficial in a multi-lingual setting when Latin can be a unifying language factor among diverse peoples and languages.
As for the priest, he can always celebrate Mass in Latin, individually, with at least one member of the faithful (canon 906). However, when he celebrates with an assembly, the priest's preferences must yield to what is best for the congregation. The GIRM states, in no. 352 of the 2000 edition, not yet promulgated completely, (no. 313 in 1975 edition):
The pastoral effectiveness of a celebration will be heightened if the texts of the readings, the prayers, and the liturgical songs correspond as closely as possible to the needs, spiritual preparation, and aptitude of the participants.... In planning the celebration of Mass, then, the priest should pay attention to the common spiritual good of the people of God, rather than his own inclinations. He should remember that choices are to be made in consultation with those who perform some part in the celebration, including the faithful in regard to the parts that more directly belong to them."