[mike182d]

One rationale I've heard for not defining specifically is that if you say no guitars the next Sunday a ukelele will appear in its place and so on.

Ugh. Very true.

It would probably be a whole lot easier if the Vatican just said "you can only use gregorian chant, piano, or pipe organ" instead of leaving an open-ended directive for liturgists. The would eliminate any inevitable ukelele wiggle-room.

[Diva]

"you can only use gregorian chant, piano, or pipe organ" instead of leaving an open-ended

But that would also put an end to some of the most beautiful music written for the Mass. Mozart's Requiem for instance. I would say the piano does not belong in church, but it is certainly more appropriate than say an electric guitar. The Vatican wants prudence and aesthetics to be observed. Lounge music shouldn't be a part of the liturgy, and certainly not rock and roll. But, there are many who have an affection for and an attachment to "Glory and Praise" music. Music is a very sticky subject. If you say no guitar (acoustical guitar) then you are eliminating lots of music from Spanish speaking countries. Remember "Silent Night" was written for guitar not organ as the organ was broken or the little parish church didn't have one, I forget which.