Here's a breakdown:
1. The Liturgy:
* The official language of the Roman Rite Mass, the most common form of the Catholic Mass, is Latin. However, the readings, prayers, and homily are often done in the vernacular language of the congregation.
* Other Catholic rites, like the Byzantine Rite, use Church Slavonic or other liturgical languages.
2. The Content:
* The Mass itself is rooted in Aramaic, the language spoken by Jesus and his disciples. While the Mass isn't directly translated from Aramaic, the foundational prayers and elements (like the words of consecration) are deeply influenced by this language.
3. The Celebration:
* The vernacular language of the congregation is most often used during the celebration of Mass, particularly for readings, homilies, and announcements. This allows for greater accessibility and participation for the people present.
So, to answer your question concisely:
* Latin is the official language of the Roman Rite Mass, but the vernacular language is most commonly used during the celebration.
It's important to note that the Church encourages the use of both Latin and the vernacular language in the Mass, recognizing their importance in preserving tradition and promoting understanding.